Interview with International Students!
Love for Home Country Part 4 (Japan, Vietnam)
In this blog, I interviewed international students and asked them to tell us what they like about their home countries. Since we, international students, come from many countries and it is difficult to introduce the best of all countries at once, we interviewed international students from Asian countries! I would be happy if I could share with you the love of their home countries!
Rinna (from Saitama, Japan)
Asakusa is a really good place to visit. It’s an old town in Tokyo, and we can wear a kimono and walk around the town.
When you go to Japan, you should try the home-style food or a home-cooked meal. There is so much good food that is not popular in the world, like sushi, but if you get a chance to try it, I highly recommend Nikujaga, you would love it!!!
You should get stationery. Japanese stationery is high-quality and cute! There are lots of shops in Japan.
I would say the food culture in Japan is interesting. We eat raw egg, natto, which is basically fermented soybeans, but it has a very strong smell and more!!!
Han (From Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam)
If you want to learn about the history of Vietnam, you should visit Hội An Ancient Town. It is known for its charming old houses, glowing lanterns, and delicious Central Vietnamese cuisine. If you love the ocean, I recommend Nha Trang, renowned as one of the most beautiful bays in the world.
I recommend Hue Spicy Beef Noodle Soup (Bún Bò Huế), A bold, spicy broth with beef, lemongrass, and thick round noodles. Originally from the imperial city of Hue. The best Vietnamese sweet is Fried Banana Fritters (Bánh Chuối Chiên), ripe banana slices are dipped in batter and deep-fried until golden.
Conical Hat (Nón Lá) is a beloved symbol of Vietnam and a practical, charming keepsake. Hand-embroidered paintings, carved wooden items, silk fabrics, woven ethnic-pattern rugs, and traditional silver jewelry from regions like Chau Moc and Sa Pa are also good souvenirs!
We have the traditional Boat Racing Festivals (Lễ hội đua thuyền). It is held in river regions such as the Central Highlands, the Mekong Delta, and coastal provinces. These festivals feature colorful dragon boats, cheering crowds, and reflect Vietnam’s deep connection to water. Often part of larger celebrations like Tết or regional harvest festivals, they showcase teamwork, community spirit, and age-old traditions.
