– Emma Remsangpuii Kharkongor, Class 11, Pine Mount School, Shillong
I was one of four students from Meghalaya selected for the Sakura Science High School Exchange Program 2024, nominated by my school. My companions from Meghalaya were Raymanroy Amse,Tengsuang Marak and Hamebanshan Borchugrey. We were among the 47 from India to visit Japan for a week in November. At the time of our visit, there were also other student delegations from Indonesia, the Marshall Islands, Micronesia, Peru, and Palau. The Sakura Science Exchange Program started in 2014 as an international youth science exchange program that invites the world’s talented young people to Japan for a short period of time. The goal is to allow them to come into contact with Japan’s leading-edge science and technology and to promote interaction with young people in Japan.
This program provides an opportunity for young science and technology from Japan and abroad to build strong and lasting relationships. Over the past decade, about 40,000 young people from 83 countries have participated in this program. Networks have been formed between domestic and foreign universities, research institutions, local governments, private companies, and other relevant parties.
We left on November 8, taking a flight to New Delhi for an orientation at the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) campus. There, we met 43 other students from India. We travelled together with two teacher escorts to Tokyo, arriving on November 10. We stayed at the guest house of the Association for Overseas Technical Cooperation and Sustainable Partnerships (AOTS) in the Tokyo Kenshu Centre.
My first impressions of Japan, from the time we landed at Tokyo airport were the immaculate cleanliness and the quietness, even in public places.
Day 1
Our day began with an orientation at the Japan Science and Technology Agency, where we joined groups of students from other countries.
Team India then visited the Kazusa DNA Research Institute, exploring DNA structures and extracting DNA from globefish, asparagus, and bamboo shoots. We used $200 micropipettes and made DNA-inspired keychains as souvenirs.
The tour included advanced labs and DNA sequencing machines, including a 30-year-old model still in use. In the evening, we dined at an Indian restaurant and took our first walk through Tokyo’s vibrant, illuminated streets.
Day 2
At Saitama University, we teamed up with Indonesian students and guides for a day of learning and exploration. The morning began with a lecture by Rahul Bharti and Fadilah Kabul, who shared their experiences studying in Japan, followed by Prof. Takeshi Fujino’s engaging talk on Japan’s water sustainability efforts. Prof. Takashi Komuro later discussed the future of AI and VR integration.
After a biryani lunch with the Indonesian delegation, we visited the Mint Museum to see rare coins and learn about coin production. The day ended at Marui Mall, where we enjoyed shopping and exploring local stores.
Day 3
Our third day in Japan was unforgettable—a visit to Koshigayakita High School in Saitama Prefecture. Dressed in our school uniforms, we switched to indoor shoes upon arrival, maintaining the school’s cleanliness. Split into groups, we paired with Japanese students for three sessions, where ice-breaker activities helped us connect despite language barriers.
Lunch paired each of us with a Japanese student; I bonded with Koto, a second-grade student (Class 10), over music, anime, and food. Afternoon presentations showcased fascinating student presentations. My favourite one was about the differences in molluscan shell phosphors depending on their habitat. This was followed by an engaging lecture by Prof. Kurumizaka Hitoshi on “How Genes Work as a Blueprint for Life.”
The day ended with shopping at Lalaport Mall—it was a perfect blend of learning, culture, and relaxation, marking a trip highlight.
Day 4
Our fourth day began at Asakusa Kannon Senso-ji Temple, where we admired its stunning architecture, including the Kaminari-mon gate, and explored vibrant souvenir shops. Next, we visited Yasukuni Shrine, a peaceful and serene spot, though our visit was brief.
At the Indian Embassy, we listened to an inspiring speech by Ambassador Sibi George on India-Japan relations. The highlight of the day was visiting the University of Tokyo, where we enjoyed lunch in a massive canteen and explored Koshiba Hall, showcasing Nobel Prizes won by the alumni. The day ended with shopping and dinner at Family Mart.
Day 5
Our last day was a mix of emotions and excitement. We started at Miraikan, Tokyo’s science museum, exploring futuristic exhibits like the Geo-Cosmos, a robot dog, and an AI suitcase which could help blind travellers to navigate. The souvenir shop offered quirky finds like space ice cream and dried tarantulas.
Next, we attended a farewell ceremony at JST headquarters, reuniting with international delegates and learning about scholarships in Japan. I was selected on behalf of Team India to sum up our experiences and express our appreciation. I spoke in English and a little Japanese. After the speeches the various country delegations performed cultural dances. They were captivating performances from Marshall Islands, Indonesia, Palau, and Micronesia, which shared insights about their region.
As the day ended, we exchanged souvenirs and said emotional goodbyes, having become friends with the other students. With a sentimental feeling, we headed back to the hotel. It was a bittersweet farewell.
This trip was hands down the best experience of my life, and I truly hope other students get the chance to do something like this. Exposure to the world is priceless, and this program gave me so much to carry forward. Thank you for reading my report! ありがとう(‘Arigato’ meaning, thank you). My trip was an unforgettable academic and personal experience.