Dutch students travel to Japan

Recently, Dutch students from Lentiz Horti Technics & Management programme travelled to Kochi, Japan, for an unforgettable study trip.

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Advanced Techniques
Twelve of Lentiz’ Horti Technics & Management students took part in a special international experience. During their stay in the Kochi region, they immersed themselves in Japanese culture, visited horticultural sites showcasing cutting-edge technologies, and built valuable international connections.

The trip was part of our internationalisation programme and offered students a unique opportunity to explore Japan’s agricultural and horticultural sectors. They experienced first-hand how tradition and technology go hand in hand in Japanese farming. Highlights included visits to the Kochi Agricultural Research Center, the KAC Agricultural School, and several state-of-the-art nurseries—including a tomato and bell pepper grower with its own biomass installation.

Culture and Connection
Alongside the technical visits, there was plenty of focus on cultural exchange. Students used translation apps to communicate, cooked traditional Japanese dishes like yakisoba and okonomiyaki with Japanese students, and introduced them to classic Dutch pancakes. “After eating rice three times a day for a week, the pancakes were a big hit,” one student joked.

Of course, there was also time to relax. The group played volleyball matches with local students and went on cultural excursions to temples, botanical gardens, and the famous Katsurahama beach. The highlight for many? A weekend stay with Japanese host families—a special way to experience everyday life up close.

On TV!
A real bonus: the trip caught the attention of the local media. Several students were interviewed by Japanese TV and even appeared in the evening news—great practice for their presentation and communication skills.

Teachers Roel and Caroline, who accompanied the group, were proud: “Our students adapted brilliantly, learned a lot, and showed that Westland horticultural expertise is truly world-class. It was a trip full of inspiration, collaboration, and cultural exchange.”

The group returned to the Netherlands on 20 May—bringing home new knowledge, lasting experiences, and friendships that will stay with them for life.