Unforgettable Adventures: Our Japanese Immersion Tour
During the September/October holidays, a group of enthusiastic language and HASS students from Years 9-12 embarked on an exciting journey to Japan for a Japanese Immersion Tour. This incredible experience offered our students a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in Japanese language and culture, bringing their classroom learning to life in the most vibrant way possible.
Tokyo: Navigating the Urban Jungle
Our adventure began in the bustling metropolis of Tokyo. For the first three days, our students put their language skills to the test as they navigated the city’s intricate network of streets and subways. From ordering at local restaurants to deciphering train schedules, every moment became a practical lesson in Japanese. The energy of Tokyo, with its blend of ultra-modern technology and traditional culture, left our students in awe and eager for more, particularly the shopping!
Nagasaki: A Deep Dive into Japanese School Life
The heart of our tour was the time spent at our sister school, Narzan College in Nagasaki. For two days, our students were fully immersed in Japanese school life. They attended classes alongside their Japanese peers, getting a first-hand experience of the education system and forming bonds that transcended language barriers.
A poignant moment of the trip was our visit to the Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum and Peace Park. This somber experience provided our students with a profound understanding of history and the importance of peace.
The cultural exchange continued with participation in cocurricular activities and an introduction to traditional Japanese sports. Our students tried their hand at kendo and judo, gaining a deeper appreciation for Japanese traditions.
Osaka and Beyond: Exploring Japan’s Kansai Region
The final leg of our journey took us to Osaka, the culinary capital of Japan. From here, we took a captivating day trip to the ancient city of Kyoto, where students wandered through serene temples and bamboo forests, experiencing the Japan of centuries past.
The trip wasn’t all history and tradition, though. A visit to Universal Studios Japan in Osaka and DisneySea in Tokyo brought excitement and modern entertainment, allowing our students to see how Western and Japanese cultures blend in the world of theme parks.
Our Osaka adventure concluded with a visit to the magnificent Osaka Castle, where students learned about Japan’s feudal history while marvelling at the architectural beauty of this iconic landmark.
Bringing Japan Home
As we returned home, it was clear that this wasn’t just a trip—it was a transformative experience. Our students came back with improved language skills, a deeper understanding of Japanese culture, and memories that will last a lifetime.
Kylie Rose-
Head of HASS faculty