International Studies

Japan Trip 2026

During the April school holidays, a group of 17 students had the incredible opportunity to take part in the 2026 Japan Trip. Over the course of the trip, they explored some of Japan’s most iconic destinations, experienced rich cultural traditions, immersed themselves in the language and built lasting friendships.

The journey began in Tokyo, where students were immersed in the energy of Japan’s bustling capital. From visiting famous landmarks such as Shibuya Crossing to spending a day at Komatshgawa High School practicing their Japanese language skills, students quickly adapted to life in a vibrant and fast-paced city. 

The group then travelled by Shinkasen to Kyoto, where they stepped back in time to explore traditional temples and shrines. A highlight was a visit to a charming fishing village on the rural coast of the Sea of Japan, which offered a striking contrast to the busy cityscapes and a chance to appreciate the Japan’s natural beauty. 

The tour continued on to Osaka, where students became confident navigating the world-renowned train system using the Japan Rail Pass, which provided unlimited travel. While based in Osaka, the group travelled to several cities including Nara, Okayama, and Hiroshima. In Nara, students enjoyed encountering the friendly deer in Nara Park. 

In Okayama, they explored Okayama castle, a beautiful traditional Japanese garden and the historic quarter. In Hiroshima, students engaged in a deeply meaningful visit to the Peace Memorial Park and Museum. This experience provided valuable insight into Japan’s history and encouraged thoughtful reflection. The group also visited the famous floating torii gate on Miyajima Island.

Before returning to Adelaide, students enjoyed the lively atmosphere of Osaka, sampling delicious local cuisine, and exploring popular shopping districts. A special highlight was spending time with students from Kandai Hokuyo High school, and the group looks forward to reconnecting with them when they visit APHS for a study tour this August. 

Throughout the trip, students demonstrated outstanding behaviour, resilience, and independence. They embraced new experiences, supported one another, and represented the school with pride. This unforgettable experience will undoubtedly remain a highlight of their school journey for years to come. 

Article by Kayoko Mino | Languages Coordinator and ISP Manager

Glenelg Excursion

In term 1, our year 8 Japanese and Spanish classes enjoyed an exciting excursion to Glenelg, where language learning came to life beyond the classroom. Each group was made up of a mix of Japanese and Spanish students, creating a unique opportunity for collaboration and language exchange. 

Throughout the day, students worked together to complete a complex scavenger hunt, using both languages to solve clues and support one another’s learning. 

This hands-on experience encouraged communication, problem-solving, and confidence in using their target language. Students also had the chance to enjoy Japanese and Spanish foods and participate in culturally inspired games, adding to the immersive experience.

It was a fantastic day filled with energy, relationship building, and language learning, and students came away not only with great memories, but also a deeper appreciation for the Japanese and Spanish language and cultural diversity! Here is some feedback from one of the students:

“It was a fun day with nice weather. I liked walking around with my friends and getting ice-cream. The activities were challenging but we worked together as a group and finished it very quickly. It was really interesting to find out that some words in Japanese worked in similar ways to Spanish.” – Year 8 Spanish student

Article by Cecelia Liu | Japanese language teacher 7 to 12

2026 Mishima Scholarship recipient - Lucy S

The following article has been written by Lucy S, a year 11 IGNITE student and recent recipient of the Mishima Scholarship. 

Lucy provides a personal insight into her trip to Japan, sharing experiences and highlights from this unique cultural and educational journey.

Being the 2026 Mishima Scholarship recipient for APHS has been an incredible honour, and I’m eternally grateful for all of the wonderful opportunities it has provided me. 

One of the most memorable aspects of the exchange was living with a Japanese host family. I was able to experience most, if not all aspects of Japanese home life. Whether it was eating homecooked meals or going on family outings.

While in Japan, I was able to attend Nihon University Mishima Senior High School, and experience student life in a learning environment vastly different from our own school system. I was able to participate in classes, attend after school clubs and make lots of new friends along the way.

The scholarship has significantly assisted my language learning journey. Immersion in the language strengthened my vocabulary and confidence in speaking, while also motivating me to study even harder. Beyond language learning, the experience has inspired my future aspirations, including continuing Japanese studies past year 12. 

Upon graduating from Aberfoyle Park High School in 2027, I hope to pursue a pathway in either the Japanese Exchange and Teaching (JET) Programme or working at the Australian Embassy in Tokyo. 

While it was sad to say goodbye to my Japanese family and friends, I know I will see them again one day. The connections and memories I’ve made with my teachers, classmates and family members, will always have a place in my heart.

For students considering applying for the Mishima Scholarship in the future, my advice would be to step outside your comfort zone and embrace every opportunity. Don’t worry about being perfect at Japanese, your enthusiasm, curiosity, and willingness to learn are just as important.

Article by Lucy S | Year 11 IGNITE Student

Year 10 Japanese movie excursion

Our year 10 Japanese students recentlyparticipated in an exciting Movie-Making Day excursion with students from several local schools. 

The event provided students with a fun and creative opportunity to use Japanese in a practical and collaborative setting.

Students started the day with getting-to-know-you activities, then watched a selection of Japanese commercials to explore persuasive techniques and commercial language commonly used in advertising. 

They were then challenged to create their own 1–2-minute commercial for randomly assigned Japanese product in small groups. Over two hours, students worked together to script, film, and edit high-quality commercials, demonstrating both their Japanese language skills and digital technology skills! This excursion was a fantastic opportunity for students to collaborate with peers from different schools while building confidence and creativity through authentic language use - not to mention the sushi lunch provided.

Article by Kayoko Mino | Languages Coordinator and ISP Manager

Interested in hosting an international student?

Aberfoyle Park High School hosts 1 to 2 study tours per year. If you are interested in hosting a study tour student from Japan, please contact Ms Kim Wade by email at Kim.Wade540@schools.sa.edu.au for a host family application pack.