Japanese Study Tour

While walking to Sakuya Konohana Middle and High School, we were all nervous and excited to meet our hosts, with whom we were going to spend about a week. Once we got there, the hosts started coming into the classroom, and we met and greeted them. Even though it was awkward at the start, all of us started warming up to our hosts. On the first night with my host family, I was really awkward, but my host family did everything to make me comfortable. The most memorable moments for me were spending quality time with my host family, having a takoyaki party with friends, and going on day trips, including Nara Park and Osaka Castle. Being in Japan made me more motivated to continue working hard on my VCE Japanese studies and helped me so much with learning the language. Time passed so fast, and before we knew it, it was time for us to say goodbye. By the end of the week, we had all become good friends, and it was an emotional goodbye, with most students in tears. We are all grateful for this opportunity that was given to us to experience this unforgettable trip.

Sana B

Year 11 

Grevillea

I was really nervous and scared at the same time going to Japan especially about the homestay but eventually it was one of the best memories of my life. The first week of Japan didn't feel real. It felt like a school trip even though it was but it didn’t feel like I was in a whole new country as I was surrounded by teachers and students from school. When we were on our way to the school it was the most nerve wrecking and exciting feeling. We were greeted by the principal and some of the staff. I was so scared to live with a new family in a new country where I barely spoke the language. My host was Mana, she and her family were very welcoming. The mother tried her best to teach me Japanese and make me feel a part of the family. The Family was really caring and considerate making sure that my food or cutleries wasn't contaminated, as my dietary requirements were halal. My host mother would wake up early in the morning to make me school lunch and made sure that we were on track with the busy schedule of my host. I’m very grateful and glad that Dandenong High School had given me the chance to visit Japan and that Sakuyakonohana High School allowed me to experience the Japanese school lifestyle. I am so thankful for this amazing unforgettable experience and I recommend this trip to anyone reading this.

Nazaneen R

Year 11 

Banksia