International Exchange in Sapporo Strengthened Eeli’s Professional Dreams

Published 3/27/2026

Culinary student Eeli spent an international exchange period in Sapporo, where he became familiar with Japanese study culture and strengthened his professional skills. His first independent trip abroad brought new experiences and increased confidence in his abilities within the field.

When Eeli Körkkö was offered the opportunity to take part in an exchange programme in Sapporo, Japan, the decision came quickly.

“I’ve always wanted to experience studying abroad. When my tutor asked if I’d like to go to Sapporo, I immediately seized the opportunity,” Eeli says.

Another student from Lappia joined the exchange, which made the departure easier and provided a sense of security so far from home.

Learning from Sensei – How Chefs Are Trained in Japan

At the culinary school in Sapporo, Eeli encountered a very different daily routine — and above all, a deep respect for the profession of a chef.

- The teachers were called sensei, and each teacher had their own assistant. What surprised me most was how precisely the students followed the teacher’s demonstrations. Everything was done exactly the way the sensei showed, Eeli explains.

The school was almost the same size as REDU’s Jokiväylä campus and featured as many as fifteen specialised kitchens, including Japanese, Chinese and Western kitchens, among others. During the days, students prepared everything from pastries to dishes from different countries.

- One day we made a Finnish lunch — meatballs, mashed potatoes, salmon soup and blueberry pie. Finnish food was very well received by the local teachers and students, Eeli says.

Students gather around a table to present the dishes they have prepared.

Everyday Life Filled with Friendliness and New Flavours

Accommodation was arranged in a hotel right next to the school, only a few dozen metres away. The exchange was funded through Erasmus, and REDU supported the students with applications and accommodation arrangements.

- Communication was sometimes challenging, as English was difficult for many. Gestures and translation apps helped a lot. Still, everyone was really friendly, Eeli notes.

After long school days, Eeli and the other students often headed out to local restaurants for dinner.

- We went out almost every evening for sushi, ramen or something else local. A planned weekend trip to Tokyo was cancelled due to a flight cancellation, but Sapporo itself offered plenty to see and experience.

Japanese food photographed from above on a table.

First Independent Trip Abroad Brought Confidence and New Friendships

The international exchange period was Eeli’s first independent trip abroad, bringing with it new friendships and increased confidence.

Although the initial paperwork felt extensive, it ultimately turned out to be surprisingly manageable. The exchange also strengthened Eeli’s professional skills and courage.

- The trip increased my confidence and gave me a lot of new skills. I believe I’ll go abroad again in the future. You gain an incredible amount of experience from an international exchange and learn about your field in a completely new way. I would absolutely recommend it to everyone if the opportunity comes, Eeli says.