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The 33rd Cross Cultural Event was held.
On February 16, iCONM held a Cross-Cultural Event for its staff members, facility users, and representatives from Kawasaki City and the Kawasaki Institute of Industrial Promotion. In this session, Kaede Takahashi, an intern at the Support Center of the Kawasaki Institute of Industrial Promotion from Globiz Professional University, introduced his hometown, Kamakura. He chose this topic because he was surprised that no one knew the name “Kamakura” when he studied abroad and wanted to share it with others.
During his presentation, he introduced recommended spots in Kamakura while touching on its history. Kamakura became the site of Japan’s first samurai government when Minamoto no Yoritomo established the Kamakura Shogunate in 1185, and it flourished as a political center for about 150 years. Surrounded by mountains on three sides and facing the sea on the other, the city’s geography made it easier to defend against enemies. The spots introduced included Dankazura, a walkway designed with visual tricks to make the path appear longer and confuse attackers; Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, which attracts about 2.5 million visitors annually and is known for blessings related to business prosperity and success; Kuzuharaoka Shrine, famous for matchmaking and academic achievement; and Zeni-Arai Benten Shrine, where visitors can purify coins and bills in spring water. In addition, he gave a wide-ranging introduction to local souvenirs and restaurants.
Participants commented, “It was great to learn about not only famous tourist spots but also charming local shops,” and “I want to visit Kamakura myself.” During the discussion about souvenirs for foreigners, Pigeon Sabre and Kurumikko were mentioned, which led to further questions such as “Why a pigeon?” and sparked a lively conversation.
The second time an intern from the Kawasaki Institute of Industrial Promotion was invited to give a presentation. Hoping to continue inviting speakers from a wide range of fields in the future and further expand the circle of diversity.
