Hello, everyone. This is Wang Zhongxu, a second-year student in the Department of Global Tourism.　I visited Professor Daisuke Ebina with Ayumu Hirota, a fourth-year student. We interviewed him together, but I played the major role during the interview.

1. Reasons for Pursuing Graduate Studies

I was thinking about pursuing graduate studies since high school. Also, I didn’t have a clear image of working in companies after graduation. I chose to advance to graduate school to acquire more specialized knowledge and have ample time to deeply reflect on my career path. Graduate school provided me with an excellent opportunity to not only delve into the depths of academia but also thoroughly contemplate my future.

2. Hometown

I was born and raised in Fukushima City. I completed my education up to high school in Fukushima before moving to Tokyo for my undergraduate studies. Fukushima City is blessed with abundant nature and warm-hearted people, which significantly influenced my character development. My university life unfolded in Tokyo, where I gained numerous new experiences and encounters. Tokyo's diverse culture and vibrant lifestyle played a pivotal role in broadening my horizons.

3. Hobbies

I enjoy watching martial arts such as boxing, though I refrain from participating in the sport myself. Watching matches allows me to feel the athletes’ dedication and passion, which serves as a source of inspiration. I also enjoy playing "go". Unfortunately, these days I hardly find spare time and/or someone to play with.

4. Ways to Refresh

I find solace in sauna sessions. The post-sauna beer is truly exceptional. Saunas serve as crucial moments for me to unwind and rejuvenate my mind and body. Every year I do my investigation in South America for about a month. They usually don’t have bathtubs and I find it difficult to relax during bath time. Therefore, upon my return, I eagerly anticipate revisiting saunas to relax and de-stress.

5. Impressions of Domestic and Overseas Travel

Domestic and overseas travel offer distinct pleasures. Domestic travel is ideal for leisurely relaxation. Japan boasts an abundance of breathtaking natural landscapes, hot springs, and historical sites, providing an escape from the daily hustle and bustle to revitalize both body and mind. On the other hand, overseas travel is perfect for seeking new experiences. Immersing oneself in foreign cultures allows for the reevaluation of one's values and perspectives, expanding one's worldview. Novel experiences in foreign lands contribute to personal growth.

6. Recent Travel Destination

In February I embarked on a seminar trip to Shikoku, visiting Kagawa, Ehime, and Kochi prefectures with my former students. Unfortunately, my time in Kochi was limited. Nevertheless, the landscapes, cuisine, and interactions with people I encountered throughout Shikoku left me with cherished memories. Particularly unforgettable were the udon noodles in Kagawa and the Dogo Onsen in Ehime. Living in Kobe as a university student made Shikoku feel accessible, enabling me to easily visit.

7. Things You Should Do During Student Years

I recommend exploring local attractions and tourist destinations near your current residence. There are hidden gems waiting to be discovered nearby. For instance, venturing slightly off your usual commute path could lead to unexpected finds. Visiting local tourist spots, historical sites, and natural attractions can add new perspectives to your daily life, enriching your experiences.

8. Person Who Has Influenced Ebina Sensei

Antonio Inoki's words resonate deeply with me, a legendary figure who revitalized Japanese professional wrestling. His quote, "If you have spirit, you can do anything" has inspired and encouraged countless individuals. I, too, have been touched by his words, gaining the strength to face challenges with a positive attitude. His passing further amplified the weight of his words.