This year's Welcome Party for International Students, hosted by President Juichi Yamagiwa, took place on Wednesday 17 June in the Clock Tower Centennial Hall.
Held annually since 1961, the party was attended this year by 364 newly enrolled international students and 85 representatives of Kyoto University and related organizations -- including the University's President, Executive Vice-Presidents, Deans, and teaching staff members -- all of whom enjoyed this valuable opportunity to get to know one another in a friendly setting.
Following the welcome address by President Yamagiwa, who had many questions to ask the students, Mr Martin Bachernegg, a Japanese Studies student from Austria, thanked the University on behalf of his fellow international students, in fluent Japanese and English. Executive Vice-President Masao Kitano then opened the party with a toast to all present.
As in the previous year, the welcome entertainment, a staple of these events, featured dance and juggling acts. First, Saikyozensen, a dance team comprising Japanese and international students dressed in kimono style costumes, delivered a powerful performance of an act entitled "Kyoen! Sodefure" to warm up the crowd.
Next, the Juggling Doughnuts took the stage with a masterful and dynamic performance, mesmerizing the whole audience.
Afterwards, some of the attendees came on-stage to present their own songs and dances, further enlivening the party, which came to a close amid great merriment as everyone enjoyed each other's company.
Welcome address by President Yamagiwa
Student representative Mr Martin Bachernegg thanking the University on behalf of fellow international students
Executive Vice-President Kitano proposing the toast
Dance performance by student dance team Saikyozensen
One of the "Juggling Doughnuts" performing on stage
International students enjoying the party
