KCP Winter 2015 Students Go on an Exciting Excursion to Asakusa

This mid-February, the Winter 2015 students had fun visiting the sights in Asakusa district in Taitō, Tokyo. Asakusa is known for Sensō-ji Temple, a Buddhist temple dedicated to the bodhitsattva Kannon, and for Nakamise-dōri, one of the oldest shopping streets in Japan. The shops along Nakamise-dōri sell a range of items—traditional Japanese wooden dolls, hair accessories, post cards, and other ideal souvenirs to remind you of your adventures in Japan. And if you get hungry, you can always munch on delicious Japanese street food. The famous street has all the signs of old world Japan: strolling down it is a great way to experience the Japanese culture and way of life.

 KCP students beside food stalls in Asakusa. | KCP Flickr

The National Diet is Japan’s bicameral legislature: the House of Representatives (lower house) and the House of Councillors (upper house). Japan’s first modern legislature convened for the first time in 1189, established by the Meiji Constitution.  It took its current form in 1947. The National Diet is responsible for passing laws and selecting the Prime Minister.  The National Diet Building is where both houses meet.

KCP students in front of the National Diet Building. | KCP Flickr

During the trip, KCP students had the opportunity to observe the fine techniques of a Kumihimo craftsman. Kumihimo, a traditional Japanese braiding craft, can be translated as “gathering of threads.” The intricate braids with their patterns and colors make beautiful jewelry pieces that can be worn or given as gifts to family and friends.

KCP students watch as a craftsman creates kumihimo pieces. | KCP Flickr