Sophia GED was honored to welcome Prof. Hikari Ishido and 29 Japanese students from Chiba University to participate in the Field Study on Thailand’s Society and Economy, conducted from 15 to 25 August 2025.
Throughout the 10-day program, the group explored various regions of Thailand, with a focus on the western and central areas, including Bangkok, Ayutthaya, Samut Songkhram, and Hua Hin, gaining a multi-dimensional understanding of Thai society, culture, and the economy.
The program began in Ayutthaya, the historic former capital of Thailand, where students visited ancient temples and experienced elephant riding. This was followed by a day of free exploration in Bangkok, accompanied by Thai university students. This cultural exchange allowed students from both countries to share perspectives and build cross-cultural friendships.
Then visited Thammasat University, where they experienced what it is like to be an exchange student for a day. Students attended a lecture by Asst. Prof. Suwannarat Meesomboonpoonsuk on “An Overview of Socioeconomic Situations in ASEAN, with Reference to the ASEAN Economic Community and Thailand”. The session was engaging and informative, followed by an interactive campus tour guided by Thammasat student representatives.
Beyond cultural and academic activities, the program also focused on contemporary social issues in Thailand. Students visited the Sikkha Asia Foundation, where they learned about poverty challenges and the foundation’s initiatives to support vulnerable communities. A guided walk through the nearby slum community and heartwarming interactions with local children provided students with meaningful, real-world insights.
The program also included a corporate learning experience at Panasonic Manufacturing (Thailand) Co., Ltd. in Pathumthani. Students received guidance from company specialists on Japanese business operations in Thailand and joined a fascinating factory tour.
Moving to Samut Songkhram, students visited Baan Bang Plub, a local community known for its sustainable lifestyle and cultural heritage. Participants engaged in hands-on activities such as kite-making, crafting khanom krok (traditional coconut dessert), weaving with coconut leaves, and mushroom planting.
And visit to the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market further deepened their understanding of Thai tourism and local commerce.
The program concluded with a trip to Hua Hin in Prachuap Khiri Khan province, where students observed tourism and urban development through visits to Hua Hin Beach, the night market, and other economic activity areas.
We believe that the experiences and knowledge gained throughout these 10 days have provided the students with a deeper and more meaningful understanding of Thailand’s culture, society, and economy. Thank you for creating wonderful and memorable moments with us.
— The Sophia GED Team
