You can always learn something new from Kyoto every day
Kyoto Pastry and Bakery Art College
Dorian MAUREL (From France)
* Wawancara tahun 2021
How did you decide where to study abroad? Please tell us why you chose Kyoto in the end.
Upon deciding to study in Japan, I looked for a place where I could enjoy the country’s history, traditions, and nature as much as possible. At that time, it felt like Kyoto was the one place meeting those criteria.
What are you currently studying? If you’ve already graduated, what did you study before?
I am currently studying Japanese traditional confectionery, called Wagashi, at a vocational school. I am also learning Japanese traditional culture on my own and through an internship.
Before studying abroad, what kind of image did you have of Kyoto?
I used to picture Kyoto as the thousand and more years old former capital where Japan’s culture and history gathered. In a way, it was a vision of “THE traditional Japan”.
How did your image of Kyoto change when you actually studied abroad here?
The real Kyoto that I discovered corresponded roughly to what I had imagined. However, I would later understand that it’s also a lively city where people come up with new cultures and ideas.
What were you nervous about before studying abroad? Please tell us in detail.
Needless to say, the lack of Japanese proficiency and the difficulty to exchange with the local people due to it was my biggest concern.
What about Kyoto makes you glad to have come here? What has made an impression on you?
May it be its traditions, history, food culture or people, the fact that you can always learn something new from this city every day still amazes me.
Was there anything especially difficult about studying abroad?
Getting used to local traditions and etiquette was the biggest challenge, especially as Kyoto is known for being deeply attached to it. Even now I’m still not completely used to it.
What do you think is most appealing about studying in Kyoto?
I’d say that the quality of life and learning environment are Kyoto’s biggest appeals. It’s a city where you can enjoy the charm of the changing nature and cityscape through the year, and have many opportunities to learn from its culture and the different people living here.
How do you want to utilize your study abroad experience in the future?
I would like to help diffuse Japanese culture and traditions to the rest of the world, especially Japanese confectionery and food culture.
What is your post-graduation dream?
I would like to open my own café and confectionery shop, where people from all over the world can enjoy a relaxing atmosphere, exchange, and taste both Japanese and French delicacies.
Lastly, please give a message to students considering studying abroad in Kyoto.
Despite all the wonderful places that Japan has to offer to foreign students, I would always recommend Kyoto. If you’re looking for traditions, history, nature, food, and cultural exchange, then Kyoto is the perfect place for you.
