Japanese Exchange Program
Takigawa Dai-ni High School is located in Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture, west of Osaka. From there, we will embark on our exploration and study of Japan through extended cultural visits and home stays.
First, as a warm-up, we will visit Kyoto, the ancient Capital City of Japan, where history blends with modernity. Students will stay in a traditional Japanese inn, ryokan, and experience the Japanese hot spring, onsen. They will have the chance to appreciate many shrines, temples, castles, and rock gardens and learn about the history and architecture of Japan.
The majority of our time is spent interacting with our Japanese peers and host families. Students attend not only academic classes, but also cultural classes and club activities at our sister school. We will also visit some cultural sites as a group. Apart from our time in Kobe, we will make excursions to other important historically rich cities, such as Osaka and Himeji.
It is important to note that the opportunity to live with a host family is a unique experience, especially in the hospitable Japanese culture. Being a guest in Japan is a privileged position, and most everyone will do their best to accommodate you. However, certain privileges come with responsibilities.
It is our belief that those who wish to partake in this Project Week trip should be excited to engage with the local culture while abroad, and be equally enthusiastic to host a Japanese student during their visit here. This is a vital component of our exchange agreement with Takigawa Dai-ni High School, and also serves to complete the lessons learned abroad. Please let us know that you will be willing to host at the time of application.
This trip is limited to students currently studying Japanese. Priority is given to grades 12 and 11, but all Upper School students are encouraged to apply.
As this is an Extended Education project, students must attend 5 (or more as needed) orientation sessions prior to Project Week, and must keep a journal during the trip.
Project Week (2024-25)
Mar 24, 2025 - Mar 28, 2025
Contact
Zeya Kyaw
Assistant Director of Experiential Education
zkyaw@overlake.org