Exchange with Students from California State University, Bakersfield (CSUB)

On Monday, June 8, 2026, nine students from California State University, Bakersfield (CSUB) visited Japan and engaged in an exchange session with 21 students from the Seminar in Comparative Religion, Faculty of Letters at Kansai University.During the session, Kansai University students delivered interim presentations of their graduation research plans in English. This was followed by a lively Q&A session with CSUB students and faculty members, where diverse perspectives were shared and discussions extended beyond the classroom into an international academic dialogue.

In the latter half of the class, participants were divided into small groups to discuss differences in religious perspectives. Topics included the cultural practice in Japan of visiting shrines and temples regardless of one’s level of religious belief, which is less common in the United States, as well as differences in how holidays such as Christmas and the New Year are celebrated. Students actively exchanged their views based on their respective cultural backgrounds.This exchange provided a valuable opportunity for participants to deepen their understanding of religion and culture, while fostering meaningful cross-cultural communication among students from different backgrounds.

 

 

 

Cultural Exchange through Japanese Calligraphy Experience

On the afternoon of Monday, June 8, 2026, a Japanese calligraphy experience session was held with eight members of Kansai University’s calligraphy club and students from California State University, Bakersfield (CSUB).

During the session, Kansai University students provided careful, hands-on instruction while CSUB students practiced writing kanji characters of their choice. Although many participants had no prior experience with calligraphy, their strong interest in the Japanese language was evident, and they quickly produced well-balanced and refined characters in a short time.Through learning brush techniques and the meanings behind the characters, the session offered a meaningful opportunity to deepen understanding of Japanese language and culture, while also fostering natural interaction among participants.

 

 

 

Cross-cultural Learning Activity Featuring Japanese Pop Culture

During the 4th period on Monday, June 8, 2026, a cross-cultural learning session was held between 33 students enrolled in the course “English Skills for Study Abroad” and students from CSUB.

In this session, Kansai University students delivered presentations in English on Japanese pop culture. Although both groups appeared somewhat nervous during the presentations, they became more relaxed and actively engaged in communication after the class.The activity provided a valuable opportunity not only to enhance English communication skills but also to deepen intercultural understanding and dialogue.

 

 

 

Cross-cultural Session on U.S.–Japan Pop Culture

On Wednesday, June 10, 2026 (2nd period), a cross-cultural learning activity was held between 33 students in the course “English Skills for Study Abroad” and students from CSUB.

In addition to presentations by Kansai University students, CSUB students introduced aspects of pop culture in California, creating an opportunity to compare cultural perspectives between Japan and the United States.One of the most engaging topics was hamburger culture. Alongside discussions of the well-known In-N-Out Burger, students also shared recommendations for other popular burger spots, which generated strong interest among participants. Students scheduled to study abroad at CSUB in September listened with great enthusiasm, gaining practical insights into campus life.This session provided a lively platform for students to connect through shared interests while gaining real-world cultural knowledge.