~TP-IIT students came to Japan!~
Day Tour on 20 March 2012 (Day 7)
The day after the day we bid farewell to the KNCT students, we prepared ourselves to learn more about the Japanese customs, traditions and technologies while moving on to our next destination in Kyushu, Fukuoka.
The group boarding and packing their luggage into the tour coach. Preparing to leave Kamenoi Hotel and Kumamoto ~(T.T)~
A. Daizaifu Tenmangu Shrine
Our first visit in Fukuoka was the Daizaifu Tenmangu Shrine. It was built in memory of, and also well known as the habitat to the god of learning – Michizane Sugawara. As we approached the shrine, we were greeted by a huge lineup of shops that decorated its walkway.
Most of the shops there specialized in a diverse variety of mochi (e.g. Umegaemochi, Usonomochi, Onigawara Monaka) as it was said that they were Mr Sugawara’s favourite prior to his death. We tried the mochi from some of the stores and without doubt, we had one of the best treats in our lifetime.
Walking further down, we came across the Ox statue of Mr Sugawara. The statue was a symbol of reincarnation of Mr Sugawara as he died in the year of Ox. As a result, it is believe that stroking the statue is akin to receiving the blessing of Mr Sugawara.
Some of us hoping to receive the blessing and intellect of Mr Sugawara, the god of learning, proceeded to stroke the head of the ox statue while others stroked its stomach in the belief that it cures problems related to the stomach.
Our exchange students hoping to pray for academic achievements then proceeded to the main hall of the shrine.
~But before that, a simple cleansing ceremony to bring peace of mind and good fortune.
~Exchange students heading towards the shrine’s hall.
After praying for academic success, in which we tossed a coin, clapped twice and then earnestly prayed, we shopped for good luck charms around the shrine’s hall before further exploring other souvenir shops and local specialties stores.
~The group proceeding to souvenirs shops around the main hall.
~The group exploring side stalls that were selling delicious treats.
Finally after an enthusiastic exploratory effort of shops from the shrine back to the shrine walkway and to our tour coach, we began heading to our next learning stop.
B. Toyota motor factory
Our next learning stop was the Toyota motor factory. There, we were surprised at the tremendous extent of technology used by Toyota to manufacture and assemble its cars.
We were first welcomed with a 10 minutes video presentation about the process of car manufacturing. We were also given the opportunity to witness this process with our own eyes, through a tour around the Toyota factory plant.
This was a phenomenal experience for all of us as we witnessed the power of robotics engineering and programming in car manufacturing right in front of us!
We were also elated to have the chance to witness staff creativity put into use in the factory plant. Apparently, Toyota’s employees came up with the idea of ‘Raku Raku seat’ which eliminates unnecessary strains on the back when employees enter and exit the cars to conduct checks. We were deeply impressed with the Japanese’s creativity and how Toyota has given its employees the chance to promote their creativity.
Our only regret here was that we could not take photographs of the tour in the factory plant. However, we were still delighted that we could have some photographs at Toyota Visitor Centre instead.
~Car with its car plates taken apart to unveil underlying mechanics
We were glad that we learnt how to create robotics with KNCT students as they help us in the understanding of engine, gears and other parts of a car.
~Interior of Toyota branded car
~Exhibition of Toyota cars
~Concept of future mode of transportation by Toyota
~And lastly, a group photo at Toyota Visitor Centre before retreating back to our new hotel in Fukuoka, the Hakata Green Hotel.
Posted by Jun Jie
