Edutainment Trip
Japan 2024
IACG Multimedia College Students Embark on Transformative Educational Tour to Japan.
Hyderabad: In a landmark initiative to provide global exposure to young talents, IACG Multimedia College organized an extraordinary educational tour to Japan for Intermediate, Bachelors & Master’s students. These students, aspiring for bachelor’s programs abroad, were given Japanese language training at IACG, enabling them to fully immerse themselves in the cultural and academic experiences during their visit.
The itinerary included visits to prestigious institutions such as HAL Tokyo, Tokyo School of Anime, and Kyoto Seika University, alongside participation in the highly acclaimed SIGGRAPH Asia 2024, held this year in Tokyo, Japan.
Japan
Trip Highlights
Day 1 : An Unexpected Adventure Before Japan!
What started as a trip to Japan took an exciting turn! A flight delay landed our students in Kuala Lumpur, giving them an unexpected adventure before even reaching Japan.
Instead of waiting at the airport, they enjoyed a comfortable hotel stay, delicious meals, Shibuya Crossing, every moment turned into a story.
Sometimes, unexpected changes make the best memories!
Day 2 : Exploring Akihabara – The Ultimate Anime & Gaming Hub!
Day 2 in Japan was a dream come true for our students as they stepped into Akihabara – the heart of anime, gaming, and tech! From bright neon streets to stores filled with the latest gadgets, figures, and collectibles, every corner was full of excitement.
But this wasn’t just about fun – it was a chance to experience Japanese pop culture up close, see cutting-edge innovations, and get inspired by the creativity
.Learning happens beyond classrooms, and this experience is shaping the future of our students in ways they never imagined!
Day 3 : Tokyo’s Must-See Wonders
The adventure continues as our students dive deeper into Tokyo’s most iconic spots, where history, innovation, and creativity come together!
Hikifuno Station – A lively stop filled with culture, modern design, and scenic views, making every moment feel like a Tokyo dream!
Shopping at Hikifuno Station – From trendy Japanese fashion to anime collectibles, our students explored unique stores, grabbing souvenirs and creative inspiration along the way.
Mode Gakuen Cocoon Tower – A true architectural masterpiece! This futuristic building represents Japan’s cutting-edge design and left our students in awe of its innovation. The design school which makes games for nintendo was so good, it’s a 50 storied building, on the 50th floor we can whole of tokyo from all the sides, be it the godzilla on a building, huge shopping complexes and lot more. As we go down the floors the excitement raised in us admiring the art and infrastructure of it.
Tokyo Samurai & Ninja Museum – A step back in time! Students experienced the world of legendary warriors, learning about Samurai and Ninja arts, discipline, and strategy. Every place is a new learning experience!
Hikifuno Station – A lively stop filled with culture, modern design, and scenic views, making every moment feel like a Tokyo dream!
Shopping at Hikifuno Station – From trendy Japanese fashion to anime collectibles, our students explored unique stores, grabbing souvenirs and creative inspiration along the way.
Mode Gakuen Cocoon Tower – A true architectural masterpiece! This futuristic building represents Japan’s cutting-edge design and left our students in awe of its innovation. The design school which makes games for nintendo was so good, it’s a 50 storied building, on the 50th floor we can whole of tokyo from all the sides, be it the godzilla on a building, huge shopping complexes and lot more. As we go down the floors the excitement raised in us admiring the art and infrastructure of it.
Tokyo Samurai & Ninja Museum – A step back in time! Students experienced the world of legendary warriors, learning about Samurai and Ninja arts, discipline, and strategy. Every place is a new learning experience!
Day 4 : A Day of Nature, Culture, and Exploration
Day 4 was an unforgettable experience as our students explored Japan’s breathtaking landscapes, rich heritage, and vibrant city life. Every moment was a perfect mix of learning, adventure, and inspiration.
The journey began at Nikko National Park, where students walked through lush greenery, taking in the calm and beauty of nature. This peaceful escape set the tone for the day.
At Rinnoji Temple, they witnessed Japan’s deep spiritual traditions, experiencing the tranquility of one of the region’s most historic sites.
The next stop was Lake Chuzenji, a stunning lakeside surrounded by misty mountains. This natural wonder left everyone in awe of its beauty.
Students then explored Chuzenji Temple, appreciating its rich history and intricate architecture, adding to their understanding of Japan’s cultural heritage.
A visit to the Kegon Falls Viewpoint offered a breathtaking panoramic view of one of Japan’s tallest waterfalls. The sight of Kegon Waterfalls, with its powerful cascades, was a truly mesmerizing experience.
Later, at Tokyo Sky Tower, students got a dazzling view of Tokyo’s skyline, witnessing the city from a whole new perspective.
To wrap up the day, they visited Akihabara Street, diving into the world of anime, electronics, and unique souvenirs—an exciting way to end the adventure.
Day 5 : A Day of Innovation and Inspiration
Day 5 was a big day for our students as they explored the future of creativity and technology at SIGGRAPH Asia 2024, one of the world’s top events for computer graphics, animation, VFX, gaming, and immersive tech.
At SIGGRAPH Asia 2024, students saw groundbreaking innovations, interacted with top industry experts, and experienced futuristic demos in VFX, AR, VR, and AI-driven art. This was a unique chance to learn from the best and get inspired by the latest trends in the creative industry.
Later, the students visited Tokyo Tower, where they enjoyed stunning panoramic views of the Tokyo skyline. The breathtaking city lights made for a perfect end to an inspiring day.
This day was all about learning, exploring, and dreaming big. The experience at SIGGRAPH Asia 2024 gave our students new ideas, fresh motivation, and a vision for the future in animation, VFX, and multimedia design.
The journey continues with more exciting experiences ahead.
At SIGGRAPH Asia 2024, students saw groundbreaking innovations, interacted with top industry experts, and experienced futuristic demos in VFX, AR, VR, and AI-driven art. This was a unique chance to learn from the best and get inspired by the latest trends in the creative industry.
Later, the students visited Tokyo Tower, where they enjoyed stunning panoramic views of the Tokyo skyline. The breathtaking city lights made for a perfect end to an inspiring day.
This day was all about learning, exploring, and dreaming big. The experience at SIGGRAPH Asia 2024 gave our students new ideas, fresh motivation, and a vision for the future in animation, VFX, and multimedia design.
The journey continues with more exciting experiences ahead.
Day 6 : A Magical Experience at Tokyo Disneyland
It was all about fun, creativity, and inspiration as our students stepped into the magical world of Tokyo Disneyland. From the moment they entered, they were surrounded by breathtaking designs, immersive storytelling, and larger-than-life characters.
They experienced thrilling rides, dazzling parades, and stunning visual effects, gaining a deeper understanding of thematic design, animation techniques, and entertainment innovation. Every corner of Disneyland showed how creativity can bring stories to life in the most magical way.
This visit was more than just a day of excitement—it was an eye-opening experience that fueled their passion for animation, VFX, gaming, and design. Seeing imagination turned into reality gave them new ideas and inspiration for their own creative journeys.
The magic of Tokyo Disneyland inspired our students to dream big and create even bigger!
They experienced thrilling rides, dazzling parades, and stunning visual effects, gaining a deeper understanding of thematic design, animation techniques, and entertainment innovation. Every corner of Disneyland showed how creativity can bring stories to life in the most magical way.
This visit was more than just a day of excitement—it was an eye-opening experience that fueled their passion for animation, VFX, gaming, and design. Seeing imagination turned into reality gave them new ideas and inspiration for their own creative journeys.
The magic of Tokyo Disneyland inspired our students to dream big and create even bigger!
Day 7 : Exploring Japan’s Creativity, Technology, and Culture
It was a day full of exploration, inspiration, and unforgettable experiences as our students visited some of Japan’s most famous spots.
The journey began at Anime Street in Akihabara, where students saw how creativity comes to life through anime, gaming, and pop culture. The excitement continued, one of the busiest and most iconic intersections in the world, giving them a taste of Tokyo’s fast-paced energy.
At the Nissan Showroom, students got a glimpse of cutting-edge automotive technology, while the Sony Showroom’s AI Dog gave them a peek into the future of robotics and artificial intelligence.
To end the day on a relaxing note, students visited a Cat Café, where they enjoyed some peaceful moments with friendly furry companions.
This day was more than just sightseeing—it was a deep dive into Japan’s blend of tradition, technology, and culture, inspiring our students to think big, create freely, and explore beyond limits.
The journey began at Anime Street in Akihabara, where students saw how creativity comes to life through anime, gaming, and pop culture. The excitement continued, one of the busiest and most iconic intersections in the world, giving them a taste of Tokyo’s fast-paced energy.
At the Nissan Showroom, students got a glimpse of cutting-edge automotive technology, while the Sony Showroom’s AI Dog gave them a peek into the future of robotics and artificial intelligence.
To end the day on a relaxing note, students visited a Cat Café, where they enjoyed some peaceful moments with friendly furry companions.
This day was more than just sightseeing—it was a deep dive into Japan’s blend of tradition, technology, and culture, inspiring our students to think big, create freely, and explore beyond limits.
Day 8 : A Journey Through Nature and Tranquility
Day 8 was all about breathtaking landscapes, peaceful retreats, and cultural discoveries as our students explored some of Japan’s most stunning natural wonders.
The day began with a visit to Mount Fuji, where students marveled at its majestic beauty and took in the awe-inspiring views. The journey continued to Oishi Park, a serene spot known for its vibrant flowers and scenic views of the iconic mountain.
Next, they explored the Karisaka Tunnel, a fascinating route connecting regions through Japan’s mountainous terrain. At Waku-ike Pond, they admired the crystal-clear waters, reflecting the untouched beauty of nature.
The spiritual journey led them to Kitaguchi Temple, where students experienced the peaceful atmosphere and learned about Japan’s rich cultural heritage. The day ended at the Mount Fuji Water Pond,a place of calm and reflection, surrounded by nature’s purest elements.
Speed boat at The Mount Fuji gave us chills and left us with a cold warmth Went to Osaka on a bullet train, the first time getting on a bullet train was so fun. That train is just not very fast but was beautiful to the eye. It travelled at 300km/h. we were amazed. Osaka welcomed us a long walk with huge luggages we got from tokyo but we’re still excited to get more from osaka as well.
Every stop on this journey was a reminder of Japan’s deep connection to nature, tradition, and beauty, leaving our students inspired and refreshed.
The day began with a visit to Mount Fuji, where students marveled at its majestic beauty and took in the awe-inspiring views. The journey continued to Oishi Park, a serene spot known for its vibrant flowers and scenic views of the iconic mountain.
Next, they explored the Karisaka Tunnel, a fascinating route connecting regions through Japan’s mountainous terrain. At Waku-ike Pond, they admired the crystal-clear waters, reflecting the untouched beauty of nature.
The spiritual journey led them to Kitaguchi Temple, where students experienced the peaceful atmosphere and learned about Japan’s rich cultural heritage. The day ended at the Mount Fuji Water Pond,a place of calm and reflection, surrounded by nature’s purest elements.
Speed boat at The Mount Fuji gave us chills and left us with a cold warmth Went to Osaka on a bullet train, the first time getting on a bullet train was so fun. That train is just not very fast but was beautiful to the eye. It travelled at 300km/h. we were amazed. Osaka welcomed us a long walk with huge luggages we got from tokyo but we’re still excited to get more from osaka as well.
Every stop on this journey was a reminder of Japan’s deep connection to nature, tradition, and beauty, leaving our students inspired and refreshed.
Day 9 : Exploring Japan’s Traditions, Flavors, and Modern Wonders
It was a journey through Japan’s rich heritage and modern wonders, offering students a deeper understanding of its unique culture.
The day started with an exploration of ancient traditions, where students witnessed the beauty of Japan’s customs and rituals. From historic temples to cultural landmarks, every place told a story of the past.
Next, they indulged in authentic Japanese cuisine, tasting flavors that have been passed down for generations. This hands-on experience gave them a true sense of Japan’s culinary artistry.
As they wandered through bustling streets and hidden gems, they discovered modern innovations, blending seamlessly with tradition. The mix of old and new made every moment exciting and full of inspiration.
This day was not just about sightseeing—it was about learning, experiencing, and immersing in a world where history and future exist together.
Day 10 : A Thrilling Adventure at Universal Studios Japan
IDay 10 was all about action, excitement, and behind-the-scenes magic as our students explored Universal Studios Japan.
From heart-pounding rides to immersive attractions, they experienced the world of movies, animation, and storytelling like never before. Each ride brought beloved characters to life, showing how creativity and technology come together to create unforgettable experiences.
Beyond the thrills, students got a closer look at cinematic artistry, discovering the techniques behind some of their favorite films. This wasn’t just a theme park visit—it was a lesson in entertainment, design, and imagination.
Every moment was a mix of learning and fun, making Universal Studios Japan one of the most exciting stops on the trip.
Day 11 : Exploring Creativity at Kyoto Seika University
Day 11 was an inspiring journey into the world of art, design, and innovation as our students visited Kyoto Seika University—a leading institution for creative education.
From interactive campus tours to engaging discussions with faculty and students, they got a firsthand look at how Japan nurtures artistic talent through cutting-edge education.
They explored advanced studios, digital labs, and traditional art spaces, witnessing a unique blend of technology, creativity, and culture that defines Kyoto Seika’s learning approach.
This visit wasn’t just about seeing a university—it was about understanding how passion and education come together to shape future artists, designers, and storytellers. Left to tokyo airport on a bullet train again
From interactive campus tours to engaging discussions with faculty and students, they got a firsthand look at how Japan nurtures artistic talent through cutting-edge education.
They explored advanced studios, digital labs, and traditional art spaces, witnessing a unique blend of technology, creativity, and culture that defines Kyoto Seika’s learning approach.
This visit wasn’t just about seeing a university—it was about understanding how passion and education come together to shape future artists, designers, and storytellers. Left to tokyo airport on a bullet train again
Highlights of the
Academic Visits
- HAL Tokyo: Established in 1994, HAL Tokyo is a premier institution offering programs in gaming, animation, and IT. Renowned for its cutting-edge technology and strong industry partnerships, it equips students with skills directly relevant to global markets.
- Tokyo School of Anime: Founded in 2010, this institution is a hub for animation enthusiasts, offering hands-on training with industry-standard tools and access to some of Japan’s leading animators and creators.
- Kyoto Seika University: Established in 1968, Kyoto Seika University is a pioneer in manga and creative arts education. Its unique focus on integrating traditional Japanese art forms with modern multimedia sets it apart as a global leader in innovation
A Gateway to Global Innovation
SIGGRAPH Asia 2024
Students also attended SIGGRAPH Asia 2024, the premier conference on computer graphics and interactive techniques, held this year in Tokyo, Japan. Since its inception in 2008, the conference has been a hub for technological advancements, bringing together innovators, academicians, and industry leaders. It provided the students with unparalleled exposure to groundbreaking developments in Art & Design, Film-Making, Animation, VFX, and Gaming, offering networking opportunities with global experts.
Cultural Exploration
Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto
Beyond academics, the students embarked on an enriching cultural journey across three iconic Japanese cities:
- Tokyo: Known for its fusion of tradition and modernity, students explored landmarks like the Meiji Shrine, Shibuya Crossing, and Akihabara, the hub for anime and gaming culture.
- Osaka: Renowned for its culinary delights and vibrant city life, Osaka offered the students a glimpse into Japan’s rich food heritage and historic sites such as Osaka Castle.
- Kyoto: The heart of Japan’s traditional culture, Kyoto captivated the students with its serene temples, ancient tea houses, and the iconic Arashiyama Bamboo Grove.
The students had the opportunity to explore Japan’s vibrant culture, renowned for its harmonious blend of tradition and modernity. From bustling streets to serene temples, the students immersed themselves in the day-to-day life of Japan. They tried iconic Japanese cuisines like sushi, ramen, and tempura, gaining a taste of the culinary artistry the country is famous for.
Japan, being a global leader in manga and animation, offered the students a unique cultural interaction. The visit included engaging discussions with faculty and students at Kyoto Seika University, renowned for its expertise in manga and creative arts. A key highlight was a discussion about potential exchange programs, providing valuable insights into life as an international student in Japan. These interactions boosted the students’ confidence, preparing them for a smoother transition when pursuing higher education abroad.
Adding to their memorable journey, the students visited Tokyo Disneyland, an iconic destination offering a magical blend of Japanese culture with Disney’s storytelling. This visit served as a perfect balance to their academically focused itinerary, showcasing Japan’s entertainment industry at its finest.
