Japan Study Tour

During the September School holidays (19-28 September), 12 students from Years 10 to 12, accompanied by Mrs Kendall and Mrs Skerman, landed in Narita, Tokyo, and were immediately immersed in the fast-paced Japanese transport system. The trains were very busy, but students quickly learnt how to order tickets and board the trains. The group was delighted to be greeted by Miss Miyoshi at their accommodation in Kamata, and were thrilled that she was able to spend time with them over the next couple of days.

On day two the group visited Tokyo Disneyland which was a highlight for students as they enjoyed rides, collected many souvenirs and enjoyed spending time together. It was amazing to see the costumes visitors had created for their Disneyland experience.

Other points of interest throughout the trip included the National Museum of Emerging Science & Innovation, where students experienced futuristic technology; Tokyo Character Street, the home of anime characters; and Sensoji Temple in Asakusa, one of the most popular tourist areas in Tokyo that still carries an historical and nostalgic atmosphere reminiscent of ‘old-time Tokyo’.

Throughout the year, students from St Patrick’s College have been in communication with students from Fujimi High School. They were thrilled to be able to meet their pen-pals in person and experience Japanese schooling for a day. The College is very grateful to Miss Koike and Principal Mr Sato, for their hospitality and generosity in hosting us.

In contrast to the crowds of Tokyo, students were also able to experience the picturesque and peaceful Kyoto, including the Golden Pavilion House, and the serene Arashiyama Bamboo Forest.

In Hiroshima, Year 11 student Kayla Rogers delivered 1000 Paper Cranes she made to the Children’s Peace Monument with some assistance from Year 7s and Year 11s. Our students also experienced the historical and moving Hiroshima Atomic Bomb Museum and spent time reflecting on peace and humanity as they saw firsthand the impact of war and terror.

After a day in Nara Deer Park some of the girls chose to dress up in traditional kimonos in the afternoon and enjoyed seeing the sights such Kyoto Tower and Higashi Hongashi Temple, while the others went exploring the Nishiki Market, Gion Geisha District and Yasaka Shrine.

On our final day in Japan, students visited the important Shinto Shrine the Fushimi Inari Shrine. It was a visually stunning experience with thousands of vermilion torii gates, which connect a network of trails leading into the forest of Mount Inari.

Students had a wonderful time in Japan and many spoke of returning to Japan as their experience was so memorable. The girls grew in maturity, independence and practising their Japanese language skills and making new friends. Mrs Kendall and Ms Skerman were very impressed with how they embraced new experiences and challenges.