MBA Chula Global Business Experience | Young Executive MBA 32/1 | Kyoto 2026 |
Day 1
Our MBA students began their learning journey in Kyoto with a special lecture by Professor Emeritus and GSM Distinguished Professor Kiyoshi Kobayashi on “People Centricity in an AI-Driven World.”

The session explored how AI is transforming human intelligence, learning motivation, and the way we live and work. Drawing inspiration from Klara and the Sun by Kazuo Ishiguro, Professor Kobayashi challenged students to reflect on whether human emotions, relationships, and understanding can truly be replicated through data and observation.

Students also examined the implications of living simultaneously in physical and virtual worlds, and how technological change continues to reshape culture, consumption, and society. The discussion highlighted the importance of preserving human interaction, critical thinking, and lifelong learning in an increasingly AI-driven future.

In the afternoon, students visited Fukujuen, one of Japan’s most renowned matcha producers, where they had the privilege of learning directly from Mr. Masaoki Fukui, President of Fukujuen.

The visit offered valuable insights into the management of a multi-generational family business, covering topics such as brand building, production innovation, marketing, and value creation amid changing consumer behavior and economic conditions.

Students also experienced traditional matcha-making firsthand, from grinding tea leaves into fine matcha powder to learning the customs and culture behind authentic Japanese tea. The visit demonstrated how a traditional business can preserve its heritage while continuously creating new value and memorable customer experiences.
Day 2

Today, MBA students attended a lecture by Professor Yoshikazu Maegawa from the Graduate School of Management, Kyoto University, on the cultural and business identity of Kyoto.

The session explored how Kyoto’s business philosophy differs from those of Osaka and Tokyo, emphasizing sustainability, craftsmanship, long-term relationships, and gradual growth. Students learned about the concept of Sanpo Yoshi—a traditional Japanese philosophy that business should create value for the seller, the buyer, and society simultaneously.

Professor Maegawa also introduced the concept of Shinise, companies that have survived for more than 100 years, and discussed how long-term thinking and strong family relationships contribute to business continuity across generations.

In the afternoon, students participated in a lecture and workshop on Overtourism, one of the most pressing social and economic challenges facing Japan today.

The session examined how rapid tourism growth can affect infrastructure, communities, and residents’ quality of life. Students discussed how similar challenges may emerge in Thailand and explored ways to balance economic benefits with sustainability and community well-being.

Working in groups, students developed practical ideas under the theme of the “5 Touristship Promises for Travelers to Thailand,” encouraging responsible tourism and sustainable travel behavior.

The day provided valuable insights into sustainable business practices, tourism management, and the importance of balancing growth with long-term societal impact.
Day 3

MBA students visited Kawashima Selkon Textiles, one of Japan’s leading traditional textile companies and a renowned producer of Obi, the decorative belts worn with kimono.

The visit provided valuable insights into how a traditional company sustains its competitiveness in a modern market by combining craftsmanship, design expertise, quality management, and continuous innovation. Students toured the factory and observed the intricate weaving process, gaining a deeper appreciation for the technical precision and specialized knowledge embedded in each product.

One of the key lessons from the visit was the importance of process management and quality control. Students saw firsthand how quality must be maintained at every stage of production, as weaknesses in one process can affect the entire value chain and ultimately impact the final product.

The session also demonstrated that traditional knowledge remains highly relevant in today’s business environment. When combined with innovation and contemporary applications, craftsmanship can become a powerful source of differentiation, premium positioning, and long-term sustainability.

The visit left students with a strong appreciation for the value of human creativity, patience, and attention to detail—qualities that remain difficult to replace, even in an era increasingly shaped by AI and automation.

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