(Aditya, an Indonesian student from Kobe University, and Minh, a Vietnamese student from University of Marketing and Distribution Sciences)
On October 27, 2024, Multicultural Festival Fukae 2024 was held in Kobe, where international students played a key role in fostering cultural exchange.
At the “Café Tabunka Glocal Talk Session,” students and foreign residents from countries such as China, Indonesia, Vietnam, and Paraguay introduced their cultures, creating a space for deeper intercultural understanding and connection with the local community.
(Minh presenting on “Modern Youth Culture in Vietnam”)
In the Vietnam booth, Minh, a Vietnamese student from the University of Marketing and Distribution Sciences, gave a presentation on “Modern Youth Culture in Vietnam.” Minh shared insights into contemporary Vietnamese lifestyles and some of the challenges living in Kobe, as well as proposed ways for local communities to support international residents in Kobe.
One of the key points highlighted was the use of “simple Japanese” to help foreigners better understand Japan’s complex waste separation rules. Minh admitted feeling nervous about presenting for the first time but was encouraged by the warm response from attendees. This initiative proved to be an effective way to help foreign residents adapt while strengthening mutual understanding in the community.
Multicultural Food Stalls & Global Cuisine
The festival featured multicultural food stalls where attendees could enjoy authentic dishes from Korea, Thailand, Paraguay, Brazil, Nepal, China, and more. Minh also helped at the Paraguayan food stall, learning about different cultures while engaging with the local community. Local residents and international participants experienced different cultures through food and enjoyed a time of mutual respect.
(Minh assisting at the Paraguayan food stall)
Food has a unique ability to bridge cultural and language barriers, bringing people together. The festival offered participants a chance to experience global cultures firsthand through cuisine, fostering mutual respect and appreciation.
Various Hands-On Activities!
Beyond food, the festival featured a variety of interactive activities, including traditional ethnic costume experiences, Zumba dance sessions, and the Finnish Mölkky game.
Additionally, Kobe’s Environmental Bureau hosted the “Eco Fishing Pond” game, an initiative that raised local understanding and awareness about sustainability through play.
(Trying out the Eco Fishing Pond game!)
Minh participated in the game and found it to be a fun yet educational way to learn about local environmental issues. Events like this demonstrate how festivals can serve as valuable learning experiences for both international and local residents.
Kobe: A City of Cultural Harmony
Multicultural Festival Fukae 2024 provided a meaningful opportunity for foreign and Japanese residents to connect through food, activities, and dialogue. As a city where diverse cultures coexist, Kobe offers international students countless opportunities for growth and learning. Through cultural exchange, they can build friendships and receive warm community support while enjoying a fulfilling life abroad, making Kobe the perfect place to make your study abroad dreams come true!