A unique excursion

Year 12 Society and Culture explore!

Year 12 Society and Culture students had the opportunity to be part of Cecil Hills High School’s first international excursion by visiting four major cities of Japan in eight days. The tour commenced in Tokyo with an eventful first day exploring Asakusa, Sensoji Temple, Tokyo Skytree and Meiji Jingu Shrine.

One of the highlights of Tokyo was exploring the Japanese adaptation of Disney media at the happiest place on earth - DISNEYLAND! This was followed by an adventure filled day visiting Anime Central – Akihabara and crossing the busiest intersection in the world at Shibuya. The evening was spent experiencing Kawaii culture and Japanese adolescent interests at Harajuku.

After a memorable time at Tokyo, students spent three days in bustling Hiroshima. They caught a ferry to beautiful Itsukushima, also known as Miyajima Island which is famous for its forests and ancient temples. Students expressed a sense of peacefulness as they visited Itsukushima Shrine, which was first built in the 12th century. The following day was an insightful and emotional one as the group spent time at Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum and Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park which commemorates the 1945 event when the city was largely destroyed by an atomic bomb during World War II.

After leaving Hiroshima with a deeper understanding and appreciation of Japanese culture and history, students arrived at Kyoto. They explored Gion and were excited to spot a Geisha. They also visited the stunning Golden Pavillion - Kinkakuji Temple to experience the glory of the old capital. The guided tour then stopped at Nijo-jo Castle which enhanced their understanding of Shogunate rule prior to the Meiji Restoration. Last stop was Kiyomizu-dera Temple where students continued their food experience with traditional Japanese food and dessert. We definitely recommend the ice cream here!

Making the most of Japan’s efficient transport system, students spent their last day in Japan in Osaka. They experienced a full range of transport facilities including the bullet train, subway, tram and buses. The morning was spent at another famous landmark, Osaka Castle with breath taking views of the entire city. Students spotted a Samurai and then headed to Shinsaibashi-suji, one of Osaka’s famous shotengai (covered shopping arcades).

Student feedback:

“Travelling to Japan was a unique, exciting and rewarding experience. Immersed in a society and culture so different from my own, I have been able to witness how the key elements of my society and culture course transition from being words on paper to real life interactions between cultures and peoples.” – Milena

“Japan was one of the most rewarding and exciting   adventures I’ve ever been on. Visiting historical temples, experiencing the traditional culture, going to Disneyland (the happiest place on earth) and exploring beautiful places was something I will never forgot. I was so lucky to go on this trip with such an amazing group of people who made every single second funny, exciting, memorable and enjoyable. It was such a great opportunity that I am so grateful for and will never forget.” – Olivia

“This trip has made me a more culturally and literate person. I have made many great memories on this trip. Some of my favourite parts of this trip were the times we spent in temples and eating all the Japanese food.” – Jordan N.

I take this opportunity to extend my sincere thanks to Ms Foo, Head Teacher Social Sciences and Ms Occiuto, SRC teacher, who accompanied us on this trip and for their amazing support throughout and to the school executive staff for their support of this wonderful experience!

Miss A Sahid, organising teacher