We are currently exploring of organizing a Japan cultural and school experience program for our Junior and high school students who are studying Japanese at our school.

The idea is to offer a one-week stay in Japan during summer break (around July), where students would have the opportunity to experience everyday school life in Japan. Participants would visit elementary, middle, and high schools, join regular classes, and spend time with local students. At the elementary and middle schools, students would also have the chance to enjoy Japanese school lunches, which are well known for being healthy and delicious.

In addition to school experiences, the program may include a variety of cultural activities such as:

• Traditional arts experiences (Shigin poetry chanting, Taiko drumming, Shamisen, and Blues Harp)

• Sightseeing in Fiji City

• Wearing KIMONO and visiting shrines or attending a traditional performance

• Appearing on a local radio program

• A Tate (Samurai-style stage combat) workshop

• Japanese calligraphy and learning the traditional folk-dance Saran Bushi with local students.

Through this program, we hope to give students a meaningful opportunity to experience Japanese culture and connect with local communities in Japan.

At this stage, we are gathering feedback from Families to see how much interest there may be in this program. If this sounds like something your family might be interested in, we would greatly appreciate it if you could take a moment to complete a short survey.