This summer, students from Harrison High School had a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to visit Japan. Nineteen lucky students spent ten full days exploring the vibrant cities of Osaka, Kyoto, and Tokyo. This trip gave these young adventurers the chance to experience a different country, something that most people don’t get to do in their lives.
Rawlston John, a junior traveler, was particularly struck by the native traditions he encountered. He observed customs such as praying, bowing when approaching people, and taking off shoes indoors. Rawlston said that being in Japan “felt like a breath of fresh air, cleansed his spirit, and reduced his stress.” He found some customs quite unusual, like driving on the left side of the road, the very small hotel rooms, the abundance of deer everywhere, and the fast-paced walking of the locals, who seemed to fill the streets more than the roads.
Dayon Mock, a senior at Harrison High School shared his excitement about visiting various stores and shops rich in local culture. He had a particular excitement for a store called Electro City. Through his explorations, Dayon learned about the cultural significance of the fox in Japanese tradition.
“There was no dull moment I had, this trip made me realize how much I wanted to travel and explore more around the world,” Dayon says.
Kevin Gallegos, a senior, also noted that the shops they visited were deeply rooted in the local culture. He observed that public places had strict behavioral expectations, with locals being polite but serious. Kevin’s favorite store was a video game shop, and he was amazed by a five-floor store that featured a roller coaster on the outside. Like Dayon, Kevin also expressed a desire to live in Japan after immersing himself in the culture.
This trip really opened my eyes to a different lifestyle. Japan is so deeply rooted in their culture that they prefer to keep their education system free from outside influences, including other languages. I found that really fascinating,” Kevin says.
Chaperone Porschae Brown, the Dean of Restorative Justice got to experience seeing many great monuments and cultural structures while on the trip, things such as one the biggest Buddha structures in Japan, the statue of liberty, temples that sound like birds singing, and castles . She felt as though all students should be able to go on trips like these to experience something so memorable that you can remember for a lifetime. There are challenges to international travel.
Mrs. Brown stated, “When you get the chance to explore, it’s hard leaving and going through all the emotions. I was relieved to be back at home but a part of me wished I was still in Japan.”
The trip to Japan was more than just a vacation for these students; it was an educational and life-changing experience. They returned home with a deeper understanding of Japanese customs and traditions, and a newfound appreciation for the rich cultural heritage of the country. For many of them, the trip lightened a passion for travel and exploration, and a desire to see more of the world. The memories they made and the lessons they learned will stay with them for a lifetime, shaping their perspectives and inspiring them to seek out new adventures.
For students who would like to get in the travel game, HHS is taking kids to London and Paris in June 2025 and also have an upcoming trip planned to Iceland!
