Tokoname Sister School

This week has been one of the most fun and memorable weeks of my year, and definitely one of my biggest highlights of 2026! 

My host sister, Misora, is so kind and cute. This experience gave me the chance to learn more about Japanese culture while practising my Japanese speaking skills. As a Year 12 student, I have a lot of studying to do, so it was really nice to take a break, go out, and enjoy new experiences. 

Misora and I went shopping almost every day because we both love shopping! By the end of each day, our feet were swollen, but it was always worth it. We also went go-karting, where she drove for the first time, and explored Melbourne at night. 

Having Misora stay with my family was especially meaningful because I have never had a sister before. My family also enjoyed learning about Japanese culture and traditions. 

Although saying goodbye was sad, we promised to meet again next year in Japan. Overall, this programme was such a wholesome and unforgettable experience, and I’m so grateful for the memories we made together! 

Alice, year 12 

I highly recommend the hosting program to any future Japanese class students. I hosted 2 students which was great for me in vce because it meant when I had to study, the 2 students could hang out with each other. The experience really pushed and developed my Japanese speaking skills as I was forced to use the language every day. Additionally, I learnt about how a native Japanese person speaks which can’t be taught from a textbook. Initially It was a bit awkward but we soon became quite good friends and I think we will always be friends. 

Tokoa, year 12 

Being able to host a student from Tokoname, Japan, was an amazing and once-in-a-lifetime experience that I will always remember. My homestay student, Rino, was kind, respectful, and friendly, and my family quickly welcomed her as one of our own. Having her stay with us for a week made our home feel more lively, happy, and full of energy. 

During her stay, I was able to show Rino what my everyday school life is like, including catching different forms of public transport, attending classes, and introducing her to my friends. We all connected really well and discovered that we shared many of the same interests and hobbies. Through this experience, I was also able to make lots of new friends from Japan, which made the whole experience even more special. I hope to keep in contact with these new friends for a long time. 

We also explored Melbourne together, tried many different Australian foods, watched beautiful sunsets, and enjoyed the scenery around the city. One of the fun things we did together was watch Haikyuu!!, which we both enjoyed and were able to talk about together. One of the highlights was seeing many Australian animals and going on safari, where we were able to see the animals up close. These experiences gave Rino the opportunity to learn more about Australian culture while allowing me to learn more about Japan. 

On her last day, we went into the city with my Japanese friend Emi. We took photos in a photobooth, went on the Ferris wheel, explored the city, and ate delicious food together. It was a fun way to finish her stay and create one final special memory. 

I also had the beautiful opportunity to speak with Rino’s family. They were so loving and welcoming towards me and made me feel like part of their family. They even said that if I ever visit Japan, they would take care of me, which made our connection feel even more special. 

Overall, hosting Rino was an unforgettable experience. I am so grateful for all the memories, new friendships, and cultural experiences I gained. I hope to stay in contact with Rino, her family, and all the new friends I made, and I would love to visit Japan one day and see them again. 

Kalahni, year 10