Ichi, Ni, San, Shi!

This summer, we embarked on an unforgettable design workshop trip to Tokyo with our fashion design students. It was an action-packed journey full of learning, inspiration, and cultural exploration!

One of the key highlights was our collaboration with BFGU, where students actively participated in product planning sessions. Special thanks to Professor Yoshida for guiding the students through real-world exercises, and to our alumni, who graciously stepped in as translators. It was wonderful to see the students praised by the Japanese professors for their dedication and creativity.

We also had the opportunity to visit some of the most iconic fashion and art spaces in Tokyo. From the Madeleine Vionnet exhibit to Takada Kenzo’s "Dreams in Motion" at the Fashion Resource Center, the experience was enriching on multiple levels. We even had a special behind-the-scenes tour of a fashion house thanks to designer Kunihiko Morinaga of *Anrealage*. Morinaga-san squeezed us into his tight schedule to give us a glimpse of his newly relocated office—such a treat!

Another unique aspect of the trip was our visit to Japan's renowned *21_21 Design Sight*, where students explored the "Future Fragments" exhibit. This hands-on exhibition, curated by design engineer Shunji Yamanaka, offered a fresh perspective on merging science and design. The students were captivated by the futuristic designs and creative solutions showcased through prototypes and sketches.

We wrapped up the week with visits to Bunkafashion Gakuen’s Fashion Festival, exhibitions at Mori Art Museum, and insightful discussions on textile innovation. Along the way, we even managed to meet some of our alumni for a dinner gathering, reconnecting and sharing memories of our university days.

This immersive experience allowed our students to see the intersections of fashion, technology, and culture, preparing them for their own creative futures. We’ve come back with a wealth of inspiration—and plenty of assignments to keep us busy. We look forward to the next chapter of this exciting journey!