Ready. Set. Explore.
Tigers embrace learning in Vietnam and Japan

At Trinity, education isn’t confined to classrooms—it’s a passport to the world. This summer, two groups of Tigers embarked on journeys far beyond campus, diving into immersive experiences in Vietnam and in Japan. In Ho Chi Minh City, 18 students lived the city’s vibrant rhythms, building friendships with local university students and gaining hands-on experience through internships. 

Trinity students by the Saigon River, with the iconic Ho Chi Minh City skyline in the background.
Trinity students by the Saigon River, with the iconic Ho Chi Minh City skyline in the background.

A visit to the ancient streets of Hội An added layers of history to their journey, bringing Vietnam’s rich heritage to life. Meanwhile, 2,400 miles away, 15 Tigers traveled by bullet train through Japan, from the bright lights of Tokyo to the reflective peace of Hiroshima’s historical landmarks.

Trinity students in front of Kaminarimon Gate at Sensoji Temple
Trinity students in front of Kaminarimon Gate at Sensoji Temple

These are just two of the 15+ programs that take Trinity students around the world to explore, connect, and grow. Follow Trinity Tigers through the bustling streets of Hanoi and the peaceful temples of Kyoto, and you’ll see how Trinity’s education extends beyond campus, preparing students not just for successful careers but also for a lifetime of global exploration and personal growth.

Vietnam

In Vietnam, Trinity students spent their summer living in Ho Chi Minh City, surrounded by the aroma of street food and the hum of scooters. They explored the historic landmarks, including Independence Palace and the War Remnants Museum, and bridged cultures with local students through shared experiences.

A weekend in Hội An led Tigers through lantern-lit streets and riverside markets, where locals shared layers of history and tradition. These images show highlights from their journey, a mix of cultural immersion, classroom learning, and real-world internships.

  See more photos from the program, and watch the video below to see how Ify Ikenga '24 and Nelson Rose '25 made the most of their experience.

 

Japan

Trinity students journeyed through Japan, visiting Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Okayama, and Hiroshima—where tradition and modernity seamlessly intertwine. In Hiroshima, they listened to the powerful testimony of an atomic bomb survivor, and in Okayama, they visited the secluded Nagashima Aiseien Sanatorium, a sanctuary for people with Hansen’s disease, also known as leprosy. In Kyoto, they honed their skills in traditional Japanese wood carving. Their experiences in each city deepened their understanding of Japan’s rich history and cultural resilience.

Trinity faculty and students visited historic temples and shrines across Japan, including in Kyoto and Miyajima Island, exploring sites such as Fushimi Inari Shrine and Itsukushima Shrine to learn more about Japan’s heritage.

Trinity students practice the art of miyadaiku at Shokodo in Kyoto, Japan.
Trinity students practice the art of miyadaiku at Shokodo in Kyoto, Japan.

Trinity students embraced Japanese culture through hands-on experiences such as learning traditional woodcraft from miyadaiku carpenters in Kyoto and making momiji manju sweets on Miyajima Island. They also listened to an atomic bomb survivor’s testimony in Hiroshima and connected with locals across cities, including Ikuno Korea Town in Osaka, deepening their appreciation for Japan’s history and many communities.

  From Tokyo to Hiroshima, explore more photos of Trinity students on their journey across Japan.

Photos by Anh-Viet Dinh ’15

Anh-Viet Dinh '15 helped tell Trinity's story as a member of Trinity University Strategic Communications and Marketing.

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