From Kyoto with Gratitude: How JUEMUN 2025 and Japan Shifted My Perception on Tourism and Culture

 

By: Mary Enyonam Kpetsigo 

I never imagined that going to a Model United Nations conference would affect how I saw the world and myself. I was able to represent Stockton University at JUEMUN 2025 in Kyoto, Japan, because of  the wonderful sponsorship of the Lloyd D. Levenson Institute of Gaming, Hospitality, and Tourism (LIGHT). What begun off as a chance to learn rapidly turned into a very personal trip.

Students from all over the world came together for JUEMUN 2025 to talk about important global concerns. As a delegate representing the Republic of Fiji in Committee D, I worked on issues connected to sustainable tourism and cultural preservation. These are topics that are closely relevant to my joint degree in Hospitality, Tourism, and Event Management and my MBA studies. I talked about how important it is to conserve local traditions, give communities more power, and create methods to welcome visitors without losing the spirit of a place.

What I remembered most wasn't simply what we talked about in the conference rooms; it was what I saw and did outside of them.

We lived in Kyoto, a city where old ways of life still exist alongside new ones. It was like going back in time to walk through the peaceful, well-kept streets. One of the best things I did was take part in a traditional Japanese tea ceremony. There was a reason and grace behind every action, from folding the napkin to serving the tea. It was more than just a drink. It was a cultural rite that had been passed down through the years, and it made me think about how important hospitality can be when it comes to tradition.

We also went to shrines and temples, where signs politely told people to be courteous. I learned that Japan doesn't simply welcome tourists; it also teaches them. That kind of proactive attitude to tourism was different. A lot of places in the globe have popular tourist spots that get too many visitors, which makes the local culture less strong. In Japan, though, culture is not acted out; it is kept alive.

We walked through quiet parks in Nara where holy deer lived and bowed politely for treats. That moment of peace between people and nature was lovely. It made me think about how tourism might work with nature when done right.

Osaka was a lot of fun. The colorful lights, crowded food shops, and laughter booming around the canal at Dotonbori had me spellbound. But even in this busy place, things seemed to be in order. No garbage. Don't yell. Just happiness and pride in where you are.

Japan's attention to detail may be seen in the hotels. Every room was tidy, peaceful, and well-planned. In many instances, the hotel business there not only met expectations, but also went above and above in ways that were small but strong. It made me remember that real hospitality isn't just service; it's compassion.

I was really impressed by how clean Japan was. There was no litter on the streets, even though there were no trash cans. People carried their own trash because they cared about public spaces. It was a tiny thing that meant a lot. I hope that other countries fighting the impacts of mass tourism will also have a sense of collective responsibility like this.

JUEMUN 2025 provided me a chance to speak for a country and think hard about the future of tourism. But Japan was like a living classroom for me. It showed me what tourism that lasts looks like when communities are in charge, culture is safeguarded, and pride is everywhere.

I came home with a different voice. One that is stronger. One that knows both people and policy. I want to use this experience to teach other travelers, students, and future leaders how tourism can heal, empower, and protect.

Thank you to the Lloyd D. Levenson Institute of Gaming, Hospitality and Tourism and Stockton University for believing in me. You offered me more than just a ticket to fly. You provided me a chance to get better.

This was more than just a journey. It changed everything.