During a two-week Go Learn trip to Japan, a group of travelers explored Japanese architecture and gardens.
The U’s Go Learn Program offers noncredit opportunities for community members to participate in academic trips similar to a study abroad. While education played a considerable role, there were no quizzes, and the academic appeal did not come from the promise of credit hours. Instead, the group was made up of individuals interested in Japanese design who wanted to learn for the sake of learning.
Starting in Kyoto, the tour explored the city’s main architecture and visited Ryoanji Temple’s rock garden, which is designed to create optical illusions.
After Kyoto, travelers visited Himeji castle, a white fortress with an elaborate system of defense. Laura Chukanov of the Go Learn program said the structure looked like it came out of a fairytale.
The group also explored the Hiroshima bombing site and museum, as well as the island Miyajima to see the”floating” torii gate at the Itsukushima.
In preparation for the trip, Mira Locher, associate professor in the school of architecture, held a series of lectures. Chukanov saw this as a way to give the trip “a little bit more comfort.”
The architecture ranged from ancient to contemporary and held significant historical repute. To help the travelers better understand and appreciate the importance of each location, Locher also discussed the history and design before entering each location.
While the frequency of the Japan trip depends on Locher’s schedule, she plans to do another trip in two or three years.
@sarahnlegg