Japan Tour

Two weeks ago, my fellow Japanese-studying classmates and I embarked on a two-week journey in the hopes of exploring the transcendent beauty and rich traditions of Japan. 

This unforgettable trip not only allowed us to broaden and consolidate our Japanese speaking skills through regular interaction with native locals, but also gave us an opportunity to take a break from the bustling high school-student lifestyle and take a moment to admire a culture so remarkable and so distinct from our own. 

Starting at Narita, we visited many of Japan’s most famous tourist attractions and cities, travelling to cities including but not limited to Tokyo, Osaka, Himeji, Hiroshima, and Kyoto. With both suitcases packed and itineraries full, we hopped on a plane, looking forward to having the time of our lives! 

After a long flight and a night’s rest, we headed to Osaka, to visit the renowned Cup Noodles Museum, a fun, colourful and interactive museum which allowed us to take a glimpse of the history of cup noodles and ramen, and where it all began. I was astonished to see that this now universally cherished meal once started out in a small shed with very simple ingredients. 

Following this remarkable visit, we took our first ever bullet train to Himeji. The ride was beautiful and scenic, and the speed was unmatched to any form of transport I have ever experienced. Arriving in Himeji at night, we engaged in the beautiful tradition of cherry blossom and Himeji Castle light-up viewing, an activity that both locals and tourists enjoyed during the Spring Sakura season. As I absorbed my surroundings, I couldn’t help feeling as if I was part of some magical Japanese fairytale. The brightly blossoming white cherry blossoms in the starry night were one of the many captivating natural beauties we would witness on this tour.

The next two days were spent in Hiroshima, where we humbly observed the aftermath of the 1945 bombings and paid tribute to the many innocent lives lost to this destructive weapon. My friend and I received the valuable opportunity to collect and connect paper cranes made by many members of the Nossal society and present them at the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park. It was a truly moving and sentimental experience. We continued to explore this historic city, taking a ferry to Miyajima Island, a very traditional place home to beautiful shrines and market streets. A main tourist attraction we were able to witness was the Miyajima Torii Gate, a beautiful structure built on the outskirts of the Itsukushima shrine. 

Four busy days were spent in Kyoto, where we visited many beautiful temples and shrines, including the world-renowned Fushimi Inari Shrine. It was a beautiful place to be and worth the thousand steps that led to the top of the shrine. Another highlight for me in Kyoto was being part of a traditional tea ceremony, where we were taught the etiquettes and customs of tea-making and the roles of a host and guest. Making matcha tea for the first time, with the help of experienced and kind tea hosts was certainly a memorable experience. While saying goodbye to Kyoto, one of my favourite cities on the tour, was difficult, little did I know the next part of the tour would allow me to make even stronger bonds and memories that I know will stay with me: the Homestay experience.

The next part of the journey was truly wonderful, as I was warmly welcomed into a fellow Japanese student’s home, arranged by our Japanese Sister School, Chosei High School. Through living with my host family, I was able to develop my Japanese speaking skills. Visiting the sister school, was an equally valuable experience, as I was able to observe the distinct nature between our two schools and see good in both of them. Departing the homestay family on the fourth day brought on many tears and nostalgia, as we exchanged gifts and promised to stay in touch with our beloved hosts.

The final stretch of the journey was back in Tokyo, where we took a step forward from the traditional Japan we had seen throughout the journey, in exploring the busy, modern, and innovative streets of Tokyo. Some absolutely enjoyable experiences were visiting the famous Shibuya Crossing, Akihabara, the anime, and cosplay central, and the famous modern Miraikan Science Museum. This is not to mention the magical and much anticipated visit to Disneyland!

This trip was absolutely everything I had hoped for, as it allowed me to witness the many layers of culture and beauty in Japan. I really got to experience a bit of everything from shrines to some of the most modern places I have ever stepped foot in. I cannot express just how much I appreciate the time and effort Ms Kamimura, our Japanese Domain Leader put into the planning of this remarkable tour, as well as the pivotal roles that Ms Vanstan and Mr Pegram played in ensuring a smooth and enjoyable journey. I know that this trip will stay with me for many years to come, along with the lessons, knowledge, and skills I have gained from it!

Methasa Lokubatagodage