Languages

Japanese Culture Activity

Unfortunately, due to the lockdown in June, our Languages Week could not take place. However, in my Year 7 and Year 8 Japanese class, students decorated a Japanese folded fan, which is called a 'Sensu'.

You may have seen an image of a woman in a kimono holding a 'Sensu' before. Japanese 'Sensu' has a long history and the design on these fans vary, and typically picture Japanese scenery like Mt Fuji or flowers. Modern 'Sensu' designs have popular Japanese anime characters like 'Totoro' from Studio Ghibli.

When I showed the 'Sensu' in class, students were amazed how the thin folding fan opened widely. I think because it is cool and it is something different from the Australian culture. At first some students were struggling to open their 'Sensu' as there is a knack to opening the folding fan. You need to hold each side and twist them with your hand. 

Students enjoyed decorating their 'Sensus' with original designs. Some were simple designs and colours, like a Japanese flag, lines, letters (Japanese and/or English), others were unique and colourful designs, like a watermelon or flowers. Some students chose to use water paints, whilst others used coloured markers or pencils.

I hope the students continue their interest in the Japanese culture and increase their awareness and understanding of other cultures, realising just how much fun it is learning about another languages and culture.

Hideaki Sakurai

Japanese Teacher