In Japan, eight students and their teacher chaperones from Morgan and Lawrence County High Schools are having the adventure of a lifetime. As they explore the culture and traditions of Japan, they’re having life-changing experiences and creating lasting friendships with their host families and each other.
It’s all a part of the Daikin Cultural Experience Japan 2024.
On Monday, Aniya Ortiz and her host family started the day by visiting the Toji Temple in Kyoto and having lunch at a traditional Japanese tempura restaurant.
Aniya then visited her host family’s home and learned how to make origami and iron bead art. Aniya enjoyed a traditional Japanese meal of Takoyaki with her host family that evening.
Zain Gilchrist and his host family visited Nara Park, which happens to be famous for their deer, and where visitors can feed and pet the tame deer. They also visited the Todaji Temple, a vast and ancient building, recognized as one of the largest wooden structures in the world.
After lunch, Zain and his hosts visited Nipponbashi, a shopping district famous for its amazing anime culture. Next, Zain and his family visited a cat café: a place where guests can cuddle and play with friendly cats. They ended what Zain described as “the best day” with delicious Japanese barbeque.
Daniel Taberes and his host family also visited Nara Park, one of Japan’s top attractions. Next, they visited one of Kyoto’s many temples and ate lunch at the Zenzen Café.
Daniel’s host family treated him to fresh mochi, along with a visit to the tallest building in Japan, and a delicious dinner. He enjoyed playing games and getting to know his host family.
In downtown Osaka, Ellie Blackwood and her host family shopped, played the latest video games in an arcade, and had ramen for lunch while learning more about each other.
After lunch, Ellie and her hosts went on a riverboat ride, enjoyed shaved ice, and visited Tsutenkaku Tower for a great view of this beautiful city.
Jackson Schutt and his host family visited Nara Park (a very popular destination for our students), shopped, and enjoyed fresh mochi. They also visited the Todaji Temple, Kasuga Taishi Shrine, and enjoyed the experience of a traditional hot spring.
Jackson and his hosts ended their day with a meal of ramen. Jackson says that one of the best parts of the day was going through “the hole in the pole” for good luck at Todaji Temple.
Jackson Stephens and his host family visited Himeji Castle, known as the “White Heron Castle”. This was a first visit for both Jackson and his host family, and they all thought it was stunning.
Afterward, they enjoyed lunch at a ramen restaurant before relaxing at the local hot springs. Jackson really enjoyed getting to know his host family and exploring their cultural differences.
Noah Smith and his host family opted for a simple morning of fishing, had seafood for lunch, and then went swimming.
In the afternoon, they visited a hot spring and traveled to Kobe to visit the Wagyu capital of the world. Noah enjoyed a delicious steak for dinner and will treasure the memories that he made with his host family.
Gisela Garcia and her host family enjoyed an adventurous day at Universal Studios. She discovered that even waiting in line for the next ride could be fun when her hosts tried to teach her a Japanese game to pass the time.
Gisela’s favorite part of the day was riding the roller coasters with her host family. She really enjoyed the day.
Chaperone Emma Ellis and her host family visited Rokko Mountain to get a view of the whole Osaka area. They also took a boat to Kobe, drove around Osaka Bay, swam near the Ohashi Bridge and visited Osaka Castle.
At the end of the day, her host family treated Mrs. Ellis to dinner at a Katsu restaurant. She enjoyed the unique experience of boating in Osaka Bay.
