Seven Year 13 students from Kaiapoi High School went to Japan from 8th - 20th July. They were Nicola Howlett, Royce Walklin, Nathan Childs, Jazmine Crew, Grace Poppelwell, Tahu Russell and Kate Smetanina. This is Grace Poppelwell’s experience.

What an experience. The best 12 days of my life!

Going to Japan was definitely a big cultural change. Leaving New Zealand with weather under 0 degrees and getting off the plane with weather that is 30 degrees, with humidity of 89%, was a big change. Also having to catch a train everywhere, even in rush hour traffic. There were people everywhere and some days the train would be packed to the point where you could not move. Trying Japanese traditions like arranging flowers, going to a traditional tea ceremony and all the amazing foods in Japan really made the experience so much better. 

One of my all time favourite things about the trip would definitely be the people. I met a lot of wonderful people that I will be in contact with for a long time, including my host family and friends that I met at school. I would give it 10/10 and would go again and highly recommend for everyone to visit there, if you get the opportunity. 

I’m so grateful for the chance to go to Japan, so a big thank you to the International Department, Mr Kearney, of course Miss Bichan, and everyone else who helped us get there.