Loïc Adrien Rouillé
École nationale supérieure des Beaux-Arts Accepted: Department of Sculpture September 2024 to January 2025
During the first hours of my arrival, I had to jump the last barrier of the metro with my luggages. I made a mistake with my ticket and nobody was in Tachikawa station for help me, without guy from the intercom, who told me «pass through» or something like this.
Reaching the dormitory a little bit late, I was welcomed by the dorm manager and the resident advisor. They helped me during all the semester. The first learnt me how to use correctely chopsticks, holding my hand tightely. For the second she became a big friend!
The rooms are really well done, and you don’t feel alone because you have in your close neighbourood international and japanese students. The tatami room was also a good place for chill and meeting.
Is possible to cook inside, and I recommend specially to try daikon, a cheap and enormous green and white radish. Is it possible to boiled, fried it with oil or eat raw.
In my department I really liked the studio, their efficiency, the equipments, the size. It was an incredible luck to have acces at it. And the ambiance!
I spend many time in metal and metal casting then couple of weeks in stone studio, but I could say the same about the wood workshop and the others.
But for to be honest these are the students and people in general who have left the biggest impression on me.
Discuss and live with persons born from such differents contexts but who nevertheless have objectives so close to mine will have been more than enriching.
Too, they was so helpful to me. I tried to do the same, but maybe it was impossible, so much has been done for me.
An ideal context to fraternize and create lasting friendships despite the borders!!
For people who are going to study in mau, my best advice would be something like « try to talk and be helpful with everybody, visit everything you can and learn for start how to say hello, please, tanks and goodbye in japanese ». It will already be good. Begin to learn japanese before to go is also a good idea, even if the professor of japanese we had and his lessons was very nice and useful.
To finish, maybe studying in sculpture was a little bit a different experience than to be in another departement.
I m not 100% sure of this because MUSABI is a big school, with so many interesting individuals, but people in sculpture for me seems very crazy and free, in a good way.
The only really damaging thing I noticed was the lack of interaction between students from different years and departments. Something that the different clubs in the school must have been throwing out. Unfortunately, I didn’t get involved enough, except for the fruit club, the aim of which was to meet people around fruits that everyone brought. I highly recommend it to anyone looking to meet people! I met a lot of lovely people there.
Big thanks to my friends, for kind people I haven’t met enough, the professors, the cooks of the university restaurant and the international advisor, it was a real pleasure to talk to him.
My last recommendation will be a special kind of sake, the Doburoku ! Not so easy to find, but similar at the corean Makgeolli. すこしあまい !
Seoyeon Yun
Hongik University Accepted: Department of Visual Communication Design September 2024 to January 2025
I was initially nervous since it was my first time living and studying in Japan. Still, with the help of supportive classmates and teachers at MAU, I was able to learn and experience a lot of aspects of Japan that I didn’t know before, make new friends, and open my boundaries.
I love how Japan approaches things, even if something seems minor and trivial, by treating it with respect and patience. Unlike Korea, appreciating and respecting the tranquility of slow-paced life makes the whole culture unique and meticulous. This uniqueness is present in every media or premise, including art. It was an opportunity to experience it by myself by attending all the art classes.
It was great to experience the differences between my home uni and MAU. Talking with the professors in class felt more casual and friendly. I felt less pressure to share my ideas during class. I felt encouraged to talk and speak out more with the professor and fellow classmates. Even though I’m majoring in the Painting department in Korea, I went part of the VCD department here at MAU, which was a whole new experience for me to engage with the people associated with design- such as editorial, bookmaking, and so forth. Since I was deeply interested in creating or binding books - I have been looking forward to learning about bookbinding to learn the details of making books.
The campus was large and pretty. I especially thought the library was stunning; it had a great architectural structure built into it. The library has an art book section with an eye-catching array of art books organized immaculately. Great for studying or even stopping by to grab books of your interest!
During breaks and after the semester, I was able to visit other places in Japan. I especially adored all the aquariums- the beautiful sea creatures and Japan’s local fishes were astonishing with the vividness of vibrant colors. It was a delectable experience to be surrounded by the ambiance that the fish made. I also visited Kyoto and Sapporo for the first time – a whole new experience apart from Tokyo’s, still astounding.
There are still more things I wish I had done. Six months went by quickly, but I dare to say they were the most dense and meaningful six months I have spent yet. I wish I knew more Japanese, but despite the flaws in my language skills, I want to show gratitude to every person who reached out and was so supportive. I will cherish these encounters always.
Yutong Wu
Pratt Institute Accepted: Department of Visual Communication Design September 2024 to January 2025
Studying in Japan has always been a goal of mine—I even wrote about it in my exchange program application. Looking back, this past semester feels almost unreal, as if it were a fleeting moment. But the memories and photographs serve as proof that I was truly there.
Musashino Art University is a remarkable place. I arrived in the fall and watched as the leaves gradually turned red and gold before carpeting the ground. On clear days, I could see Mt. Fuji from the classroom windows. In October, the road near the main gate was lined with blooming kinmokusei (osmanthus flowers), their deep orange petals giving the air a distinctive fragrance. Though their blossoms lasted only two weeks, the scent remains vivid in my memory.
The teaching style at Musabi was quite different from what I had experienced in the U.S. Classes there emphasized one-on-one guidance and focused instruction, whereas Pratt encourages group discussions and peer critiques. Both approaches have their merits, but as someone who tends to be reserved and finds public speaking challenging, I felt more at ease with Musabi’s structure. I appreciated the opportunity to collaborate with classmates from diverse backgrounds and gain insight into different perspectives. Japanese students demonstrated a strong sense of aesthetics, solid technical skills, and a remarkable level of discipline and self-motivation. Whether it was the university’s art festival or the final exhibitions, everything was thoughtfully planned and executed with great attention to detail.
Beyond academics, Tokyo itself was a constant source of inspiration. I spent time with friends exploring bookstores and galleries, enjoying yakiniku and sukiyaki, browsing specialty shops, and visiting game arcades. I experienced the winter illuminations in Roppongi, went thrift shopping in Shimokitazawa, visited Disneyland, watched the sunset from Shibuya Sky, and attended a concert by a band I have admired for years. Many people describe Tokyo as a city that feels distant and isolating, where individuals maintain a certain level of detachment. However, I found the atmosphere to be exactly what I was looking for. Perhaps I was fortunate to have friends with whom I could share these experiences, which made the city feel far more welcoming.
Jolyon Sylvester Jones
University of Arts Berlin Accepted: Department of Sculpture September 2024 to January 2025
I arrived in Tokyo on a warm night, grabbing a convenience store fried chicken and an Asahi Super Dry before sitting in a park, feeling relieved to be away from Berlin. That moment alone made everything in Japan seem wonderful and off to a good start.
During my first days, I explored various neighbourhoods before settling into a small apartment in the Kokubunji area, a short train ride from campus. I joined the sculpture department and was introduced to students, teachers, and professors. The multi-levelled building where I would spend three months became a space for thinking, working, and connecting with others.
I prioritised familiarising myself with the campus —the library, student clubs, trash sorting areas, and, most importantly, the workshops. The metal workshop, in particular, was a dream come true. Its scale, machinery, and freedom to work, often independently, allowed me to experiment in new ways. I worked with steel, explored casting processes in aluminium and bronze, and used massive kilns and smelting furnaces. Additionally, I took courses in materials like glass and Urushi, the traditional Japanese lacquer.
Although I had expected to explore more of Tokyo, I was content using most of my energy on campus. University exhibitions and critique sessions provided opportunities to engage with other students and discuss work with various professors. Unlike the structure of European schools, Musabi’s flexible approach to mentorship allowed me to seek diverse perspectives, which broadened the frameworks of my projects.
The university also hosted events, including small exhibitions and panel discussions, often given by invited professional artists, as well as occasional on-campus performances. One memorable night featured Butoh dancers performing in the library.
I chose an apartment near the university to save on commuting costs. Many other students lived nearby, creating a strong sense of community. Our post-class routine often included stopping by an izakaya, which became an integral part of my time in Japan, as well as embracing the convenience store lifestyle.
I participated in a group exhibition, receiving valuable feedback from invited artists. One artist’s whiteboard diagram explaining the distinction between Mono-ha and post-Mono-ha movements was particularly enlightening. These insights, along with informal discussions, expanded my understanding of art in the Japanese context.
Looking back, my semester at Musabi was the most enriching art school experience I’ve had. While I love my school in Berlin —its studios, 24-hour access, and central location —Musabi offered something different. The people I met, my peers, the teachers and staff, were incredibly welcoming and generous, making it easy to form friendships. My advice to future exchange students: explore different departments, seek out professors, be open, and engage with those around you.
There are things I still wish I had done, like visiting the medicinal-botanical garden and sewerage museum in Kodaira, but that gives me a reason to return. To everyone I met at Musabi, thank you for the memories, lessons, and inspiration. I hope to be back soon to see you all again!
Emilie Pesch
Köln International School of Design Accepted: Department of Industrial, Interior and Craft Design September 2024 to January 2025
Spending the winter semester of 2024/25 at Musashino Art University (MAU) in Tokyo was an experience I will always cherish. Japan is a country that is both completely different from and at the same time surprisingly similar to my home in Germany. The structured and bureaucratic approach to many aspects of life felt familiar, yet the deep-rooted cultural traditions and aesthetics offered a fresh perspective that I truly appreciated.
Living in the dormitory was a great opportunity. With a cafeteria providing great meals and a friendly, supportive resident advisor and dorm manager, I felt very supported and well taken care of. The international advisor at MAU was also incredibly helpful, always ready to assist with any challenges that came up.
The university itself was breathtaking. The campus was large and beautiful, with an amazing library, and even some unexpected residents —fish, chickens, and campus cats. There were also a variety of sports and creative clubs, even though I did not join any. A highlight was the big art festival, featuring exhibitions, performances, and delicious food. Seeing the different disciplines —fashion, architecture, graphic design, craft, painting and many more —all come together under one roof was truly inspiring.
Academically, I was part of the Department of Industrial, Interior, and Craft Design. Compared to my home university, the courses at MAU were very specialized, allowing me to dive deep into specific areas. The freedom to explore my ideas within structured tasks was something I really enjoyed. However, one challenge I faced was the language barrier. While I took a Japanese class, which was very useful, following along in my courses was very difficult without any language support. More assistance in class would have helped, as proper feedback and discussions about ideas and challenges were hard to navigate. That said, this challenge pushed me to become more independent and creative in problem-solving and learning from my mistakes.
Beyond academics, I found community in unexpected places. One of my favorite weekly activities was the Fruit Club —a casual gathering where students shared fruit, exchanged words in different languages, and connected in a relaxed setting. It was a simple yet meaningful way to build friendships with both Japanese and international students.
Tokyo itself is a city beyond words. Its size and diversity are overwhelming in the best way —you can find almost anything in its different neighborhoods. The level of organization is astonishing, from the efficiency of the trains to the seamless way daily life functions in such a massive metropolis. My sense of distance has definitely changed; what I used to consider "far away" now feels like just a short train ride.
Traveling beyond Tokyo was another unforgettable part of my semester. During breaks and after classes ended, I explored various regions of Japan, experiencing different landscapes, cuisines, and local cultures. From stunning nature to vibrant cities, every place had something unique to offer. Coming from the gray German winters, I especially enjoyed Japan’s autumn and winter, which were both beautiful and refreshing.
What I take home with me is not only an appreciation for Japan’s aesthetics —its minimalism, nature-inspired design, and attention to detail —but also for its people and their strong sense of consideration for others that is embedded in daily life. Despite the language and cultural barriers, I was met with kindness and patience many times, making even the most challenging moments manageable.
I wholeheartedly recommend studying in Japan to anyone considering it. However, I would advise future students to prepare as much as possible —learning Japanese beforehand and familiarizing themselves with cultural differences can make a big difference in navigating both university life and daily interactions. My semester at MAU was a truly special time, filled with learning, growth, and unforgettable experiences. I am incredibly grateful for this opportunity and the friendships I made along the way.
Bianca BAUER
Politecnico di Milano, Scuola del Design Accepted: Department of Visual Communication Design April 2024 to July 2024
During my bachelor's degree in Milan a few years ago, my fascination with Japanese design began and I soon developed a strong urge to visit the country and to experience its design firsthand. For this reason, being admitted to MAU for the international exchange programme was truly a dream come true.
After months of waiting, filled with bureaucratic paperwork and mental preparation, my journey to Tokyo finally began. I was lucky to have a very guided system that helped me and the other internationals to get settled and to move into the dormitory. The first days did not feel real somehow. They were filled with new impressions, cycling around Tachikawa, exploring different departments at MAU, trying out new restaurants etc. It wasn't until a few weeks later that everything began to feel real since I had finally established a routine.
Most of my classes at MAU had a very practical approach, which I enjoyed as I wanted to acquire more pragmatic skills. Beyond the courses, I also joined the ceramics club in which I was able to learn the craft, and create a series of small potteries. Perhaps one of the best things about MAU in fact is the variety of club activities - there is truly something for everyone’s taste.
My “Design for SDGs” class was probably the most stimulating one, as it encouraged every student to step outside the academic sphere. In my case, I wanted to get in touch with places and people that work in multidisciplinary environments both in and around Tokyo. Thanks to Julia Chuo sensee, I was able to arrange numerous meetings, including those with the DLX Design Lab Tokyo and the 21_21 Design Sight Museum. I also had the special opportunity to meet with Kenya Hara, renowned Japanese designer and current art director of Muji.
Thanks to such experiences, I was able to get a better grasp of Japanese culture and design. But it was not always easy - sometimes language barriers would get in the way. Google Translate was a rescue for literal translations, but not for the unspoken rules and habits of Japanese culture that cannot be fully grasped right away. However, at MAU I was assigned to two tutors, Moe and Nagisa and they have been extremely sweet and helpful throughout my journey because they did a wonderful job at translating and guiding me into Japanese life.
Overall, I can say that my exchange experience offered me much more than just academic growth. Travelling around Japan, visiting nature onsens and towns around the country allowed me to immerse myself into its rich culture. I also loved exploring Tokyo's art museums, galleries, and events. Any part of the city, from historic Asakusa to modern Shibuya has been a constant source of inspiration. A culture that once felt distant and extraordinary has become my daily reality in just a few months. It's hard to put into words the depth of this transformative experience, but I am extremely grateful.
Noemi GIUSSANI
Politecnico di Milano, Scuola del Design Accepted: Department of Scenography, Display and Fashion Design April 2024 to July 2024
When I was evaluating options for my exchange abroad, I came across a photograph of the MAU library. It immediately struck me, bringing back memories of my first year of studying interior design in Venice. I was 19 years old and had no experience in the artistic field; design fascinated me as much as it terrified me. One of the first courses I attended was a drawing class, and one of the first assignments was to reproduce an assigned photograph. Ironically, I was assigned the MAU library.
Years have passed, my fears have disappeared, and my confidence have increased. I graduated and started a new path at another university in Milan, but after all this time, seeing that library again didn’t seem like a coincidence. My decision to come to Japan and study at MAU was not the result of rational analysis, but of a deep instinct and an immediate connection that I felt.
Now, at the end of this experience that has profoundly changed me, I am immensely grateful. The university is magical, a place where every art and design student can find inspiration. The spaces are extraordinary, and the courses are stimulating. Before the semester began, we had the opportunity to discuss with the professors in our department, choosing the courses we would attend and thus building a personalized study path based on our passions and interests.
I was assigned to the Department of Scenography, Display, and Fashion Design. During the interview with the professors, I expressed my desire to experiment and challenge my abilities, and so it was. The courses at MAU were very different from those I had taken up to that point, making them a challenge, but the help and support from the professors, tutors, classmates, and Yuma allowed me to face everything with ease.
One of the most significant aspects of this experience was the freedom in developing concepts. Before then, I had mainly worked on projects with very rigid briefs, stimulating my creativity and increasing my problem-solving skills. At MAU, the educational approach favors individual work and freedom in project development, providing an initial brief with some guidelines but leaving much room for our creativity and intuition.
Outside of university, Japan has proven to be wonderful, making the experience even more unique and special. I also want to thank Bianca, my companion on this journey from Italy, for sharing this adventure with me.
For me, this is not a goodbye but a see you later. Thank you, Japan.
Jaana Anniina PIPPOLA
Aalto University Accepted: Department of Industrial, Interior and Craft Design April 2024 to July 2024
For many years, my main bucket list goal was to travel solo to Japan, to break my boundaries and gain independence, but also to experience the culture and learn the language. During my university studies, I also developed a keen interest in woodworking. Therefore, it was a natural choice for me to apply for a student exchange at MAU to achieve these personal aims but also to learn more about woodworking in a place, where its practice is most established and highly skilled.
Studying at MAU was tough, but fun. Staying late in the workshops with classmates, each of us working on our projects will have me look back at it as living my life to the fullest – learning and working hard while having a laugh with friends. Biking back to the dorms when it was already dark, having my back hurting from working, and ears filled with the noise of cicadas, will all be something that I will nostalgize about.
As I was far from my life and its responsibilities at home, I now had the time to truly dwell on my own interests, which is practical as it also keeps you from getting too homesick! While my advisors and I first experienced some difficulties in building a study plan that would truly benefit me in achieving my academic/professional goals, we were eventually able to do it. I learned so much about wood and crafting from it, both with traditional, Japanese hand tools but also workshop machines. I used to be a little scared of even approaching a table saw, and now I can come up with a product design, all the process steps related to it, and even make it, all by myself! All in all, I feel my exchange made me capable of completing my designer portfolio in a way that truly looks like me.
Besides professional growth, I also went through a more mental evolution. While I definitely am a person who loves to stay safely at home and would not have even considered going to study abroad before, I am so happy that I encouraged myself to do it – you can do it too! While it can be scary for some of us, doing things alone can do wonders for you. It clears your mind and so it is easier to figure out what you want to achieve and how you want to choose to spend the rest of your days.
Some things that I would like to recommend to future exchange students would be to travel in Japan by bus. It is an easy and inexpensive way to see outside Tokyo, even just for a Sunday day trip, if your schedule is very busy. I also consider myself very lucky to have been able to stay at the dormitory, it took a lot of stress from arranging accommodation and many other daily necessities. You can also have your own bicycle for free of charge, which is definitely a convenient way to commute. Visit museums, exhibitions, temples, shrines, and gardens. The university library is also a real treasure chest, remember to explore that too!
I want to thank my professors, especially Kumano-sensei, for all the guidance you gave me. I will cherish it all for the rest of my life. Great thanks also to Koga-san, the international team, and the dormitory staff for making my stay possible and so pleasant. Thanks to all my coursemates, exchange buddies, and new, dear friends. Let’s stay in touch, and let me know if you ever happen to come to Finland. また会いましょう！