Chiba University: Field Study on Thailand Social and Economy (Bangkok & West) Aug 2024

  • Post category:study tour

15-25 August, 2024. Sophia GED conducted a field study program on Thailand under the topic of “Society and Economy” with Prof. Hikari Ishido and 30 Japanese students.

After a welcome dinner with Thai-style dishes at the restaurant, We went directly to Ayutthaya, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its historical significance. Here, we explored iconic temples such as “Wat Putthaisawan” and “Wat Mahathat”, where we learned about Thailand’s ancient history, Buddhism, and cultural heritage.

Then we had a chance to visit “Kong Khong” Market, one of the Thai-style local markets which also has a long history here since the Ayutthaya period as the old customs checkpoint in the past. The leader of this market and their members come to welcome our group with Thai-style music and dancing, they welcome us with warm welcome! 

We moved back to Bangkok city, the capital city of Thailand. Students had a chance to explore around and learn a variety and Thai culture along the city area with Thai university friends and by themself during Bangkok fieldwork days.

Next, our group got an opportunity from SMBC Bangkok, one of the longest history Japanese banks in Thailand to welcome us with a briefing lecture and workshop presentation on the topic of “What would be the idea if you want to do business in Thailand”. The students also got the opportunity to learn the different ways of life in Bangkok city by visiting the “Sikkha Asia Foundation” which is organized in the KlongToey area, the largest slum area of Thailand.

Coming to the next station, we routed to Nakhon Pathom province to visit Mahidol University International College(MUIC). Dr. Orrathip Geerativudhipong, an advisor from MUIC, along with the students, welcomed us with a lecture on Thai culture and traditions. This session provided an opportunity for students to learn from and exchange knowledge, experiences, and cultural insights with their Thai friends.

Then we went directly to Kanchanaburi province, the province that connects Myanmar and is full of World War II history where students could learn about this from a Thai perspective. Starting on the day we arrived, we were welcomed by a local Thai community at Kanchanaburi “PuOngKa”, the community near the “Railway of Death” which contains many stories related to World War II.

People in the community taught us not only Thai culture but also related to the culture of “Karen”, one of the minority groups in Thailand. Students got a chance to experience many kinds of local traditions, food, and lifestyle from them.

We visited many tourist spots like “Sai Yok Noi” waterfall for students to relax, the Hellfire Pass interpretive center for students to explore and learn more about the story and the real place of Railway of Death, and River Kwai Bridge for students to see nowadays trains that are still used in the present.

Students had the unique opportunity to interact closely with elephants, Thailand’s national animal at the Sai Yok Elephant Camp. They enjoyed hands-on experiences, cooking food for the elephants, feeding them, and even bathing them. This immersive encounter allowed students to learn about these magnificent creatures and the importance of conservation efforts in Thailand.

This unforgettable journey through Thailand has enriched our understanding of its society and economy while fostering meaningful connections. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who made this trip possible, especially our dedicated guide, Prof. Hikari Ishido, and the local communities who warmly welcomed us.

Thank you for joining us on this adventure. We look forward to more enriching experiences in the future!

— The Sophia GED Team