In early 2026, the “Hokkaido University of Education: Thailand Field Work Study Tour” returned once again, bringing 16 students to Thailand from 16th–24th February under the guidance of Associate Professor Haruka Arii. The program was organized by the Sophia GED team.
The fieldwork was designed to deepen participants’ understanding of Thailand’s diverse cultures, lifestyles, and traditions. As part of the program, students visited the central region, including Bangkok, and later traveled to northern Thailand, where further activities were conducted in Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai.
The program began in Bangkok, where students started their journey by exploring the city alongside newly met Thai friends. Beyond visiting various attractions, this experience allowed them to gain a deeper understanding of Thai daily life through meaningful conversations, cultural exchange, and the opportunity to build new friendships.
After exploring many meaningful sites in Bangkok, the journey continued to northern Thailand, with the group flying to Chiang Mai. On their first day there, students had the opportunity to observe the contrasting atmosphere between regions, including geographical and cultural differences within Thailand.
The group also visited Waroros Market, locally known as “Kad Luang,” one of the largest and most well-known markets in northern Thailand!
The journey then continued to Chiang Rai Province, where the group was hosted by the Rung Arun Project organization. During their stay, students engaged in hands-on experiences related to sustainable living, including organic farming and coffee production.
As part of the program, students also visited ethnic minority villages in Chiang Rai Province through the support and connections of the Rung Arun Project, where they experienced homestays within local communities. They stayed in Sangklang Village, home to the Lue people, and Baan Pa Kia, a Lahu village. During their stay, students gained deeper insights into the daily life, language, and cultural traditions of these communities.
Continuing this cultural engagement, students later joined a cultural exchange session with the Rung Arun Project community and students from a nearby local school.
Upon completing these meaningful activities, the group returned to Chiang Rai city to visit the White Temple and explore the city once more, including the night market.
On the final day, the group visited the Golden Triangle and the Mae Sai border area, where students explored the unique setting where Thailand, Myanmar, and Laos meet. This experience offered insight into the region’s geographical and cultural connections. The program then concluded with a wrap-up reflection session before the group departed Thailand and returned to Japan in the evening.
Overall, the program offered valuable opportunities for students to broaden their perspectives through immersive, real-world experiences. Each activity contributed to a deeper understanding of Thailand and its diverse society, and it is hoped that these experiences will continue to inspire them in the future.
— The Sophia GED Team
