Experience and Reflections

This study tour is both educational and enjoyable.

Visiting renowned universities and engaging with Japanese students and researchers provided me with valuable cultural and technological insights. The highlight was Kyoto University researcher Akihiro Kubota's presentation on using generative models for strategic trajectory in table tennis. It was inspiring to see the application of computer vision and deep learning in such an innovative way!

Another memorable moment was our visit to Kanadevia A.I/TEC, where we appreciated the application of AI technology in machinery and environmental solutions. The guiding robot and real-time translating subtitles were both fun and practical solutions.

- ⁠LONG Tsz Ying Mavis

The Japan Study Tour was an enriching experience. Academically, the visits to institutions such as Kansai University, The University of Osaka, Kyoto University and the company Kanadevia A.I/TEC offered insightful explorations of Japan's IT industry and AI research. Meeting local students and learning about their projects was a deeply rewarding experience.

Culturally, discovering Japan's scenery while enjoying the many delicious local cuisines provided a profound cultural immersion. This journey has solidified my passion for my field of study and offered cherished memories that will undoubtedly influence my academic and personal growth.

Finally, I would like to sincerely thank the department and our professors for making this incredible journey possible.

- YAN Tung (Maya)

This trip to Japan was truly memorable. I had the chance to explore several universities and experience the vibrant campus life and the students' enthusiasm. It gave me a deeper insight into Japanese culture and society.

During my free time, I noticed many interesting differences from Hong Kong. For example, Japanese buses have passengers board from the back and exit at the front, paying when getting off—the opposite of Hong Kong. Small details like this made me appreciate how different cultures approach everyday life in unique ways. It was both eye-opening and inspiring.

- CHAN Wa Wai (Harry)

Our study tour to Japan was an unforgettable experience that blended academic learning with cultural exploration. In addition to visiting Kyoto University’s cutting-edge research labs, we toured the University of Osaka, Kansai University, and the Kanadevia robotics company, gaining valuable insights into Japan’s innovation ecosystem.

Outside of the academic visits, we explored the vibrant cities of Osaka and Kyoto experiencing their rich traditions, food, and technology. A highlight was my visit to Universal Studios Japan, which added a fun and memorable touch to the trip.

Overall, it was an inspiring journey that broadened our perspective academically, professionally, and culturally.

- SARBULAND Muhammad (Sarbuland)

This study tour provided a wonderful blend of cultural immersion and personal growth.

Exploring Kuromon Market, engaging in spontaneous activities like archery, and sharing an authentic Tokyo dining experience all deepened my appreciation for Japan’s diversity and hospitality. These moments, both planned and unexpected, became lasting memories that highlighted the importance of curiosity and openness while traveling.

The journey not only broadened my understanding of Japanese culture but also strengthened my connections with friends, making this trip an unforgettable chapter in my academic and personal life.

- CHENG Qianyu (Charlie)

The study tour to Japan proved to be an invaluable experience. I not only learned about cutting-edge technology but also built numerous relationships.

My favorite event was visiting Kansai University, where we explored the research of local students. Each of us had an opportunity to experience and discuss the topic with them. I thoroughly enjoyed discussing Japanese culture with them and we have kept in touch.

- NG Cheuk Yiu (Sky)

This study tour was an incredible experience! Visiting Kyoto University, Osaka University, and Kansai University allowed me to admire their beautiful campuses and engage in fascinating workshops on computing and robotics. The lab on computer vision and 3D image generation particularly impressed me.

Touring local tech companies provided valuable industry insights. Beyond academics, I enjoyed exploring Japanese culture—tasting delicious food, visiting Osaka Castle, and appreciating the scenic views at Shinsaibashi and Kamogawa River.

This trip was both educational and enjoyable, deepening my knowledge of computer science while creating unforgettable memories with friends. Truly a meaningful journey!

- Gao Yuan (Ivy)

The study tour was unforgettable. At Kansai University, connecting with undergrads and sharing experiences was enlightening.the University of Osaka impressed me with a professor’s robotics talk on omni-directional wheels and his innovative solutions.

Kyoto University was the highlight - PhD students showcased inspiring computer vision projects, like 3D reconstruction using SPIDER and generative models for trajectory table tennis, which resonated with my graduate study aspirations. Exploring the city’s architecture, like the serene temples, savoring local cuisine such as soba and okonomyiaki, and immersing in cultural experiences, enriched the trip further.

Each university visit and city exploration deepened my appreciation for Japan’s academic and cultural landscape.

- Yerbolat Uzakbay (Yerbolat)

This is my first time go to japan. This tour offers me a good opportunity to explore more about Japan - not only about the cultural exploration , but also the academic visits which had tailor-made activities to CityU students like the school tour, we will not have a chance to have such an amazing guide to walk around the universities if we go to those universities independently

Also, as I mentioned, this was a good chance for me to have cultural exploration. On the fourth day, I went to Suzuka circuit with my friends which was a memorable experience for me since this was my first time to spot many real race cars on the race track! Moreover, I could experience as a "race car driver" by joining unique games in the circuit

I hope that CityU will have more study tours - not only Japan, but also for other districts!

- Wong Hei Leong (Ken)

A takeaway from the tour was seeing how different school culture is there. At Kansai University, there are many buildings and facilities specialized for school clubs and societies, like an extra football penalty area, an archery court, a symphony hall, etc. This kind of dedication is rarely seen in Hong Kong.

Another big difference is that classes in Japan are often in Japanese, so they might not be as familiar with speaking English in class as we are, since many of our classes in Hong Kong are in English.

It showed me how culture impacts education and student life.

- Pang Yu Hing (Tracy)

This Japanese study tour was a wonderful and valuable experience! Visiting Kyoto University and the University of Osaka allowed me to learn more about innovative applications of technologies while visiting Kansai University provided an unforgettable experience for me to communicate with Japanese students. The visit to Kanadevia was inspiring and helped me to keep up with the working environment of the IT industry too.

Apart from the academic activities, cultural exploration was fascinating. We visited the Katsuoji temple and different places in Kyoto, experiencing Japanese natural beauty, history, and culture.

Lastly, I would like to express my deepest gratitude to our department for offering this study tour. This trip is meaningful and memorable for my university life.

- NG Wing Hei (Oscar)

The study tour to Osaka brought me a precious opportunity to visit schools and company, which I usually do not have a chance to visit. Not only did this trip bring me experiences of overseas learning, but it also allowed me to explore Osaka and Kyoto, followed by a schedule to universities and my own plans. 

Visiting Kansai University, Kyoto University, and the University of Osaka has broadened my horizons on the ongoing innovative projects and given me a chance to communicate with the local students in English and Japanese. The visit to Kanadevia brought me to a new understanding of the technologies and their applications. 

Words cannot express my gratitude to our department for allowing me to participate in this study tour. I will always cherish those memories made in this study tour.

- CHAN Wing Ki Quincy

This study tour has been extremely rewarding. I've gained a great deal of knowledge, not only about local Japanese culture but also about related universities, companies, and their respective technologies. The technologies and research achievements demonstrated by various universities and companies are highly innovative, which have significantly broadened my thinking and inspired new ideas.

Exploring the physical environments of different schools has further deepened my understanding of Japanese culture. Moreover, working in groups with fellow students and teachers to complete tasks has enhanced my awareness of division of labor within a collective, and strengthened my teamwork abilities and sense of cooperation.

All in all, it has been a truly meaningful and valuable experience.

- ZHAO Jingshi (Rita)

This study tour has been an enlightening experience. Each university and company visit provided valuable insight, such as the local culture, new innovations and current IT projects.

Things that particularly fascinated me include the HRI lab of Kyoto University, which demonstrated how desired human interactions with robots can be cultivated by integrating recognizable human reactions in android programming; and the projects of Kanadevia A.I/TEC, which showed the broad applications of advanced information systems, from industrial system monitoring to medical diagnosis. The presentations by the students, staff and professors at our visit locations demonstrated how a broad range of problems can be solved by computational means, and how high the demand for innovations in IT is across many settings.

My horizons have been broadened to the future of the IT industry and its integration into all aspects of life, industry and commerce.

- FAN Wai Tsun (Alfred)

The Japan tour was wonderful for giving a remarkable experience of learning and sharing thoughts in renowned Japanese universities and delving into japanese culture..

The importance of communication is required throughout the whole trip. Everyone from the team should know the situation and whereabouts of their teammate so everyone needs to be active else you would implicate their teammate. Also it is a precious opportunity to learn from Kanadevia since it is not allow to take photos with advanced yet complicated theories of machine engineering nor jot notes but we still manage to make a newsletter with our own memories.

Visiting Kansei university is nice since we can share the lifestyle between Hong Kong and Japan university in the workshop while Osaka and Kyoto university is more about listening to their research especially computer vision and 3D images but they are truly fantastic with such equipment and knowledge that i would have never seen in my university.

Lastly, I would like to give a big thanks to Prof Leung and Lee because they have taken care of us a lot during the tour and offer us such a memorable opportunity to explore the culture in Japan.

- SHU Tsz Hin (Gavan)

The CityU CS department study tour provided me a memorable experience in Osaka. The tour gave me an opportunity to learn about the culture in Japan, and to see the latest technology and innovations in the field. We visited Kansai University, University of Osaka and Kyoto University. We also visited an innovation company as well. This can broaden our horizon and inspire us to learn more about the field. Also, this tour also gave me a chance to meet new people and enjoy our time together. I am grateful for the trip and the wonderful experience.

- CHAN Pak Yuen (Nero)

During the five-day Osaka study tour, I experienced a rich blend of culture, history, and technology. Visiting universities and companies such as Kansai University, Osaka University, Kyoto University, and Kanadevia A.I/TEC deepened my appreciation for Japan’s campus and working culture. Apart from the academic activities, I enjoyed engaging with the local culture and cuisine in Kansai, which broadened my horizons. This made the journey both educational and personally enriching and it was truly unforgettable.

- TSAI Hsin Chien (Daphne)

The study tour in Japan was so impressive. Visiting three different universities deepened my understanding of diverse computer science. I have enriched my practical skills by engaging with professional industry. I also exploring different temples to immersing myself in Japanese culture, highlighting the importance of culture in innovation.

- CHOW Hiu Chong (Crystal)

The Japan study tour was a truly transformative experience that combined learning, discovery, and personal growth. Academically, visiting renowned institutions like Kyoto University, Osaka University, and Kansai University allowed me to witness firsthand the impressive level of research and innovation in Japan, especially in fields such as robotics, computer vision, and artificial intelligence. The presentations on generative models, 3D image reconstruction, and smart systems broadened my understanding of how these technologies are shaping the future.

- SANIYAZOV Dias

During this study tour, I gained valuable insights into Japanese culture and the current state of scientific research in Japan. I was especially impressed by the robotics projects. Previously, I had only seen SoftBank’s Pepper robot in the news, but this time I saw it in person, which was fascinating.

- ZHONG Chenghao (Nathan)

My study tour in Japan was an exhilarating experience that added to my understanding of culture and technology of Japan. Moving through the busy city streets and peaceful countryside, I was always eager to find out how the innovative culture of Japan shapes everyday life.

The highlight of the experience of the visit was Kaedevia, where I was introduced to the impressive integration of infrastructure with artificial intelligence technology. It was fascinating to see the way that smart systems helps human lives. Innovative technique was seen in Japan's commitment to leveraging technology for the greater good.

Additionally, my experience at the University of Kyoto exposed their innovative IoT undertakings. I was fascinated with research in connectivity and smart devices, and how the world might be further connected. My experience enhanced my understanding of Japan's technology advancements and encouraged me to look for similar innovation in my Homg Kong. Overall, the experience was life-changing and gave me an eye-opener about the status-quo of technology in our world.

- Wong Yiu Man (Mason)

During the five-day Japan Study Tour, I had an unforgettable experience about the three universities, AI/TEC Kanadevia Corporation, and the Osaka Expo. Each university showed their own unique technology, giving me insights into Japanese education. Especially Kansai University, the group activities were a wonderful experience, our interaction with Kansai University students was unforgettable. Visiting AI/TEC was enlightening, the technology produced by Kanadevia Corporation is amazing and meaningful to society.

The highlight was the Osaka Expo, which exhibited different cultures from different countries. I discovered new cultures that I had not known about before. Overall, this tour deepened my understanding for Japan culture and technology, it was a wonderful experience.

- Lee Kwan Shing (Toby)

My study tour to Osaka was a transformative experience. Visiting Kansai University, the University of Osaka, and Kyoto University highlighted Japan's commitment to research and innovation. A standout moment was at Kanadevia A.I/TEC, where I learned about their advanced Waste to Energy plants, desalination systems, and water treatment technologies. Their work in manufacturing precision machinery and disaster mitigation equipment showcased a holistic approach to sustainability and resilience. The integration of cutting-edge technology in environmental solutions inspired me deeply. This tour not only enhanced my academic perspective but also ignited a passion for sustainable engineering and its impact on global challenges.

- CHOI Kui Wang (Joshua)

Our Kansai trip was a dynamic blend of thrilling experiences and insightful learning. Driving the F1 circuit at Suzuka was an unforgettable rush, as was mastering mini motorbikes and achieving S grades in karting. Our visit to Kanadevia offered a fascinating glimpse into cutting-edge AI and Japanese work culture, highlighted by the incredible remote-controlled crane. Exploring Osaka, Kansai, and Kyoto Universities provided valuable academic exposure and the chance to make new friends, particularly enjoying the Sphero mini-games at Kansai U. This trip truly enriched our understanding and provided lasting memories.

- Law Yuk Man (Anna)