Homestay and Home Visit Experience in Nisshin City

The Nisshin International Association organized a homestay and home visit program for NUCB GBBA and Exchange students during the first weekend of November. Nine students from nine countries spent a wonderful weekend with Japanese host families and enjoyed meaningful cultural exchanges.
Four students shared their homestay experiences with us, and we are excited to share their stories here:

Student from Malaysia — A First Yakitori, Family Game Night, and a Trip to Toyokawa Inari

During my homestay with my host family, I learned a lot about Japanese culture and we talked about the culture difference between Malaysia and Japan. Well most of the conversation was held in English as I’m still learning Japanese. The host family was very welcoming and took great care of me during my stay at their house. I experienced traditional Japanese breakfast and also had my first yakitori experience in Japan. On Day 2, we went to Toyokawa Inari by car and I took many wonderful pictures. After that, we went home and I played Mario Kart with the family before heading home.

Student from Bangladesh — Experiencing Gagaku, Washi, and Family Fun

The homestay program by Nisshin International Association (NIA) will probably be one of the memorable programs I have ever attended. I spent time with my host family, and they were extremely kind and friendly towards me. I felt like I was part of their family while visiting their house, especially the younger sister reminded me of my younger brother so much. Even though I am not that much Japanese, they were kind enough to talk to me in English as well. They also helped me with improving my Japanese speaking as well. And the food was really delicious. I told them as a muslim, I can't eat anything made out of pork, and every member of the host family ensured there was no pork in the food. And their house was not only extremely beautiful but also neat and clean.
On the first day of my visit, we went to see traditional Japanese music called Gagaku. I never heard Gagaku before so it was my first time hearing it. On the second day, we went to Toyota City to make traditional Japanese paper called Washi. I also never knew about Washi before. So it was really interesting for me. I also played Uno with them which was really fun. I also talked about my country Bangladesh and its culture to them. They were really astonished to see me eating so much spices, because of my Bangladeshi genes.
Overall, it was really a memorable event for me. I learned a lot about Japanese culture from them. I am really grateful towards the host family for their kindness and friendliness.

Student from Macau — Footbath, Autumn Leaves, and Family Sushi Night

During my homestay, I went to a footbath lunch with my host family, where we enjoyed beautiful scenery while soaking our feet. After that, we visited Oidaira Park to see the autumn leaves, which were absolutely stunning. Even though it was only early November, many of the maple trees had already turned bright red. We also went to a Japanese sweets shop for dessert, and later returned to my host family’s home. I played board games with host family’s daughters, and in the evening we made hand-rolled sushi together for dinner, which was so delicious.
My host family was very kind and welcoming. They really took good care of me and always paid attention to my needs and preferences, which made me feel so comfortable and happy. It was such a wonderful experience, and I truly felt like a member of their family. Not only did I get to practice my Japanese, but I also learned about their lifestyle, something that exchange students do not always get to experience. I highly recommend this program, it has become one of my favorite memories from my exchange in Japan.

Student from Hong Kong — Experiencing Sushi, First Visits, and Being Part of a Big Family

My host family was very responsive over text and organized the plan according to my preferences and interests. I was welcomed by their warmth and hospitality. We went grocery shopping together at Lalaport — a big mall that I have never been to before — and made Temakizushi for dinner that night. On the other day, we made Onigiri as the bento in the morning and visited Gozaisho Ropeway, which I had tried to visit once before on my own before but only found closed, and Atsuta Shrine, which was also new to me.
I am truly happy to have had the chance to experience so many things for the first time with this family. As an only child, being part of a big family is a brand-new experience for me — especially in a Japanese household, which makes it even more special. The bond between the family members is incredibly close and heartwarming. I feel so grateful for the opportunity to be part of them, even if for just a short while.  

Thanks to the Nisshin International Association and the host families in Nisshin, NUCB students were able to experience Japanese family life, lifestyle, and culture firsthand. We sincerely appreciate their kindness and warm hospitality.