M2 student Matsuo, M1 students Kotani and Shu Kai participated in the IAHR conference held in Vienna, Austria, from August 21st to August 25th, 2023.
As students of hydraulic engineering, the prospect of attending the 40th International Association for Hydro-Environment Engineering and Research (IAHR) symposium in Vienna, Austria, was nothing short of exhilarating. Little did we know that this journey would not only be an academic experience but a cultural adventure that we would cherish for a lifetime.
Setting Off from Hiroshima: The Excitement Builds
Our journey began on the 19th of August when we departed from Hiroshima Airport, bound for the vibrant city of Vienna. For Matsuo, Kotani, Uchida-sensei, and myself, this marked our first venture into the European continent, heightening our anticipation.
Dubai Layover: Pranks and Airport Marvels
A layover at Dubai Airport presented both the beauty of the world-class facility and an unexpected twist. Matsuo, in high spirits after spotting an ‘Itou-Ya’ shop, shared the news with a junior only to discover it was an elaborate prank. As for Kotani and me, the sheer scale and luxury of the airport, from Rolex clocks to a golden palm tree, left us in awe.
Arrival in Vienna: Swans, Scenic Walks, and Hotel Surprises
Touching down at Vienna International Airport, we were greeted by summer heat reminiscent of Japan. Navigating the public transportation system proved challenging, but a scenic train ride along the Danube River led us to our hotel. Swans gracefully gliding in the river accompanied our arrival. Notably, the public transport lacked air conditioning, making our journeys under the blazing sun quite the experience.
Our hotel room, boasting a riverfront view, provided a comfortable haven. The following mornings were filled with delight as we indulged in a sumptuous buffet breakfast, savouring an array of cheeses, cured meats, and local delicacies. Matsuo’s newfound love for blue cheese added a touch of culinary discovery to our mornings.
IAHR Symposium: Presentations, Insights, and Global Connections
The 21st of August marked the official start of the IAHR symposium at the Austria Center Vienna. Presenting our research findings, Kotani discussed “Variations of Groundwater-Levels in Bedrock and Surface-Layer on Mountain Slopes,” I explored “Investigation of Flow through Small-Hydropower by Numerical and Experimental Methods,” and Matsuo presented “Effects of Three-Dimensional Flow on Sediment Transport and Riverbed Topography.” Engaging sessions with researchers worldwide provided valuable insights and sparked discussions that transcended cultural boundaries.
Exploring Vienna: From Palaces to Pastries
In between conference sessions, we explored the rich cultural tapestry of Vienna. St. Stephen’s Cathedral and the Schönbrunn Palace showcased the city’s history and grandeur. An evening at the Wiener Staatsoper, watching an orchestra performance, added a touch of classical elegance. Culinary adventures included indulging in local delicacies such as Schnitzel and braving the long queue for the renowned Sacher-Torte at a local café.
Homeward Bound: Reflecting on a Journey of Growth
As the symposium drew to a close, we boarded our flight back to Japan on the 26th of August. A stopover in Dubai marked the midpoint of our return journey. Exhausted but grateful, we reflected on the invaluable experiences gained and the meaningful connections forged during our time in Vienna. A night in Tokyo before our final flight to Hiroshima allowed us to savour the last moments of this transformative journey.
A Grateful Farewell: Looking Towards the Future
The IAHR symposium in Vienna not only expanded our academic horizons but also enriched our lives culturally. From academic discourse to exploring the streets of Vienna, we embraced the opportunity to learn, grow, and connect with peers from around the globe. As we look towards the future, we are eager to participate in more conferences, share our knowledge, and continue our journey of self-improvement, inspired by the memories created during this extraordinary trip.
