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Departure 3/11
Departure 3/11
Ready to go!
The day has finally come! We’re feeling a mix of emotions—anxious, nervous, but definitely excited. We’re ready to immerse ourselves in Japanese culture and experience everything Osaka has to offer. This is going to be an unforgettable learning experience, and we can’t wait to get started!
We've arrived in Osaka!
It's been a long day of travel! We had a 10-hour flight from Honolulu to Osaka, and because Japan is 19 hours ahead of Hawaii, we’re feeling the time difference. We’ve cleared immigration and customs, and while we’re so excited to be here, we’re exhausted. So, it's time to rest up and get ready for an even bigger day tomorrow!
Thursday, 3/13
Today was packed with exciting moments! We started the day with a warm welcome assembly, completed a tour of Otemon Gakuin, enjoyed a traditional school lunch, and, most importantly, made some amazing new friends!
Entering Otemon like CELEBRITIES!
Welcome Assembly Speech (Iliana & Avery)
The students also participated in a Kendo class, which is a traditional Japanese martial art focused on swordsmanship and discipline.
School Lunch
Wok-fried beef and vegetables with bbq sauce, side potato salad, pumpkin bread, barley and vegetable soup.
Feeling the ALOHA 4,000 miles from home! Our students were greeted with incredible enthusiasm, warm smiles, and plenty of shakas. We're officially in FULL swing, making memories and embracing every moment in Osaka!
Tea Party
After a full school day from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM, we wrapped up with a Tea Party from 4:30 to 5:30 PM, where our students met their host families. This marks the first of four nights they'll be spending with their host families during their homestay adventure.
Friday, 3/14
Calligraphy Class
Students joined a calligraphy class where they practiced writing the word 'tomo,' meaning 'friend' in English. They learned about kanji, characters from Chinese writing, that represent words and ideas. Kanji are written with beautiful, detailed strokes to show meaning.
Recess before school!
On the rooftop at Otemon Gakuin with majestic the Osaka Castle standing in the background.
At Otemon Gakuin, history comes to life! Down in the basement, you'll find a museum with actual walls from Osaka Castle.
Osaka Castle
Students explored the history of Osaka Castle and enjoyed a bird's-eye view from the top
Our students experiencing a Japanese class firsthand, learning Kanji and immersing themselves in the language!
Monday, 3/17
After 4 amazing days of homestay with their host brothers and sisters, students are ready for a busy day ahead, including the Ramen Museum, Osaka Museum of Housing and Living, and a Farewell Party!
CupNoodle Museum
Students learned about the history of CupNoodle and its founder, Momofuku Ando, then got hands-on, kneading and mixing to create their very own personalized CupNoodles!
Osaka Museum of Housing and Living
Osaka Museum of Housing and Living
We explored the Osaka Museum of Housing and Living, learning about the city's history and culture. From traditional architecture to everyday life in the past, we got a glimpse into Osaka’s evolution through the years.
Taking the subway back to the Otemon Gakuin for the Farewell Party.
Farewell Party
The day was capped off with a lovely farewell party hosted by Otemon Gakuin, a perfect ending to an unforgettable experience! Many friendships were made, and memories that will never be forgotten were created. It’s never goodbye, just see you later!
Farewell Party Opening Speech - Ida Lum
Farewell Party Opening Speech - Mei Hudson
Farewell Party Performance Speech - Noah Shirley & Makayla Chun
Finished the busy day with a delicious dinner! Itadakimasu!
Tuesday, 3/18
Kiyomizu Temple
Students visited the stunning Kiyomizu Temple in Kyoto, taking in the breathtaking views from the famous wooden stage and exploring the temple grounds. They also learned about the Buddha statues and the sacred water, believed to bring blessings of love, health, and success!
Fushimi Inari
Students continued their Kyoto adventure with a visit to Fushimi Inari, famous for its thousands of vibrant red torii gates. They walked through the iconic trails, learning about the shrine's significance and its connection to the Shinto religion.
Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan
Check out our adventure at Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan! We were amazed by all the sea creatures, from giant whale sharks to colorful fish.
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