Cultural Enrichment Activities - Fall 2024 Tajimi Tour

On Saturday, October 26, NUCB Undergraduate School's International Affairs hosted a cultural event in Tajimi City, located in Gifu Prefecture. Tajimi, a city known for its rich pottery heritage, has been a center for ceramics production since the 16th century. Renowned for its high-quality Mino ware, Tajimi’s artisans have mastered techniques passed down for generations, producing unique pieces. This event offered students a unique experience, with a a chance to visit the famous Oribe Street and try their hand at pottery painting at Kobei Kiln.

Oribe Street and Lunch

The day commenced from 9:30 AM, with students gathering at NUCB's Nisshin Campus. After making a brief stop at Meito Dormitory, we set off to Gifu Prefecture. Our first stop for the day was Oribe Street in Tajimi City. Once a prominent pottery district, this area preserves several traditional merchant houses from its historical peak in the Edo period. Today, Oribe Street combines its heritage with modern attractions, featuring galleries, cafes, and specialty shops within beautifully restored buildings. The students explored the area, visiting local shops and galleries to experience the region’s unique ceramics and crafts.

To follow-up, students were also provided with lunch, which was hosted in one of the local cafe's. It was an excellent time for the students to relax and interact with the other attendees of the tour.

Kobei Kiln

Our next stop was Kobei Kiln (幸兵衛窯). It was founded in 1804 as a designated kiln for Edo Castle. Kobei Kiln has been passed down through generations, with each adding unique artistry to the craft. The kiln is famous for its delicate blue-and-white porcelain, and it continues to blend tradition with innovation. As part of the experience, students decorated bisque-fired ceramics featuring Kobei Kiln’s iconic Persian blue glaze. Their pieces will be completed by artisans, resulting in a one-of-a-kind artwork for each participant. We expect to receive the completed pieces by December 2024!

Afterwards, students explored the displays of antique pottery and discovered the traditional Japanese buildings on-site. It was a serene atmosphere, which everyone enjoyed. The tour overall proved to be a success, and provided the participants with a meaningful way to experience Japanese traditions and culture.

Global BBA Program

The Global BBA program at NUCB is designed for students looking to gain a strong foundation in business with a global perspective. Taught entirely in English, the program combines rigorous academic training with hands-on experiences, focusing on case studies, leadership skills, and cross-cultural understanding. Students work closely with international faculty and peers from diverse backgrounds, preparing them for careers in today’s interconnected business world. Through this unique program, NUCB aims to cultivate forward-thinking leaders ready to excel in global settings.