This 19 to 22 May 2018, MA students from the Strategic Communication Management program raveled t Tokyo,Japan to learn about new customer-centric approaches in Japanese marketing research as well as current social and cultural trends. The trip was led by Ajarn Jessada Salathong, PhD, who has much experience in Japan as a student and communication practitioner working in Japan,
Soon after landing, the group attended a lecture on perspectives of Asia-Pacific studies conducted by Professor Kazuo Kuroda, the Dean of International Affairs at Waseda University – one of Japan’s most prestigious universities. After this, they visited one of the biggest marketing research companies in the world – INTAGE Holdings Inc., headquartered in Akihabara, Tokyo. During this visit, INTAGE research professionals provided the students with a in-depth understanding of consumer insight research and the use of cutting-edge Japanese technological trends.
In addition, the students toured several of Tokyo’s districts, which showcase their unique subcultures. They also visited the NHK Studio in Shibuya, one of Japan’s major broadcasting stations, , saw the towering Shinjuku skyscrapers, viewed the anime and manga culture of Akihabara, indulged in the pop culture of Harajuku. tasted different fresh sasime at the Tsukijishijo market and traveled to pay their respects at the famous ancient Buddhist shrine in Asakusa.
While the trip was only four days, all felt it had been an invaluable experience as the students gained greater insight and understanding of the integration of the old and new of Japan, which undeniably sets it apart from other cultures.