Fall 2024 Cultural Enrichment Activity: Ena Kayaking and Noren Painting

On October 7, NUCB organized a special cultural and outdoor event for students, featuring kayaking, noren painting, and a taiko drumming experience. A total of 21 students participated, making the most of the opportunity to explore new activities and immerse themselves .

Kayaking Event

The day began with a kayaking session in Ena, where students paddled through calm waters. Ena is a city located in Gifu Prefecture, Japan. Nestled in the mountainous region, it offers beautiful natural scenery and outdoor activities. Known for its rich history, Ena is home to several historical sites and traditional crafts, making it a popular destination for both locals and visitors.

Despite heavy rain in the morning, the weather cleared up to excellent scenery for our participants. For some, it was their first time kayaking, which made the experience more memorable. After kayaking, a few students decided to swim. Lunch was then provided, giving everyone time to rest before the afternoon activities.

Noren and Taiko Experience

Following lunch, students were introduced to the art of noren painting. Noren are traditional Japanese fabric dividers, often hung in doorways of shops or homes, and typically feature designs that reflect the identity or purpose of the space. Each student had the chance to create their own custom design.

To round off the event, there was a live taiko drumming demonstration. After the demonstration, students were invited to try drumming themselves, adding a fun and interactive element to the day. Taiko refers to traditional Japanese drums that are used in festivals and performances across Japan.

NUCB Cultural Activities

NUCB regularly organizes cultural enrichment activities, offering students the chance to engage with Japanese traditions and explore the local environment. These events help foster a deeper understanding of the culture while building connections among the student community.