Tradition-Stuffed Enjoyable in Japan – CET Tutorial Packages

Written by Lin Han Lu (Brandeis University), Student Correspondent for CET Japan, Summer 2026

Throughout these weeks, I used to be fortunate to take part in numerous Japanese tradition associated actions. Going to those adventures, I captured particular moments in motion: from brewing matcha to watching an skilled kendo struggle. I hope you get pleasure from the next images!

Enjoying a Cup of Tea

For one of many CET actions, college students not solely realized the best way to make matcha, but additionally realized the right etiquette behind brewing and consuming matcha. Unlike common inexperienced tea, matcha is produced from finely floor tea leaves, that are whisked instantly into sizzling water as a substitute of being steeped and eliminated.

We watched an indication of measuring the tea powder, including sizzling water, and whisking the matcha till it grew to become easy and foamy. We additionally practiced the well mannered methods to obtain the tea bowl, flip it earlier than consuming, and present appreciation after ending. This was undoubtedly one of the best exercise to wind down after a day of courses!

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The Martial Arts of Kendo

One of my items in Japanese class is Japanese sports activities and the significance of respect and mindfulness. While studying the textbook, there was a point out of a sport I wasn’t fairly conversant in known as Kendo, a martial artwork that’s derived from samurai swordsmanship. I used to be fascinated by how Kendo isn’t solely about bodily energy or method, but additionally about psychological focus, correct etiquette, and respect for one’s opponent.

To my shock that week, my class and I have been in a position to take part in a Kendo exercise with the members of the college’s Kendo membership! We had the prospect to attempt primary actions ourselves, together with the best way to maintain the shinai, the best way to stand, and the best way to apply easy assaults. At the top of the exercise, it ended off with a contest of whoever might shout the loudest whereas doing one of many assaults (I undoubtedly didn’t win lol).

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Trip to Tokushima

After a month being at CET, we had a big tour to Tokushima with the whole program. Our journey to Tokushima began on a wet day, however the climate didn’t cease us from having fun with the expertise. We watched a standard Japanese puppet present known as Bunraku, the place the detailed actions of the puppets and the storytelling/narration made the efficiency actually attention-grabbing to see in particular person.

After the puppet present, we went on a ship trip to see the Tokushima whirlpools. The rain made the journey really feel a little bit extra adventurous, nevertheless it was nonetheless thrilling to be out on the water and see the whirlpools up shut. It was a enjoyable change of tempo from our common days within the huge metropolis of Osaka!

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Enjoying the Rescue Cat Café

One of my more moderen experiences was the cat café, the place I interacted with cute rescue cats! It was a refreshing expertise after not with the ability to see my very own cats for a month (I hope they gained’t get jealous!). Had a good time capturing some foolish cat poses and petting these cats.