Japan Trip 2019

On the 9 of December 2019 a group of 11 John Forrest students boarded the direct flight to Tokyo, buzzing with the anticipation of experiencing Japan. From the very first moment we stepped off the plane we were enthralled with the different technology and customs that we were able to experience. In the airport alone we were bombarded with toilets that possessed a thousand different buttons and functions, to vending machines that you could purchase a sim card from and mini marts that you could drop in and buy a variety of onigiri or boba.

Our days in Japan were filled with sightseeing and learning about the amazing culture that the country and its people possess. From the thunder shrine in Asakusa to the Edo museum on the first day we experienced the modern culture and learnt of the old. Studio Ghibli took us to the wonderful artistic side found in Japan and then to Harajuku and Shibuya where busy is an understatement for the bustling environment. Hakone brought with it a more traditional experience that was eye opening to the beauty of Japan and the chance to stay in traditional style rooms with delicately prepared meals at Hotel Musashiya.

Next came the homestay experience where everyone was close to a nervous wreck as we met our homestay families. However, for most of us this was the most amazing experience of all as we got to experience the life of a Japanese student and made lifelong friends in the process. At Sanda Shounkan we were met with amazing hospitality as they fit us into their busy schedule, and we saw the large differences present between Australian and Japanese schooling. Many tears were shed on our last day with our host families and as we had to say goodbye to our buddies who we had become so to close within a matter of days.

Overall, the general consensus was that the trip was extraordinary. We got to experience so much of Japanese culture and learn more of the language and also got to make wonderful, new friends. It was an experience that will not be forgotten for a long time to come.

- Emma Pearce (Year 9 Student 2019)

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