Pupils swap the classroom for an extraordinary cultural adventure, discovering Japan’s ancient traditions, futuristic cities, delicious food and powerful history.
This October break, our pupils embarked on the trip of a lifetime to Japan, immersing themselves in a country where centuries-old traditions sit alongside some of the most exciting and fast-paced cities in the world. From navigating Tokyo’s famously busy train stations to hiking the heights of Miyajima Island, the group packed an incredible amount into their adventure, returning with new knowledge, unforgettable memories and plenty of stories to share!
The adventure began in Tokyo with an Introduction to Japan session, where pupils learned basic Japanese phrases, practised counting and explored Japanese customs. Working alongside local students, they put their new skills to the test in a fun town-based challenge.
At Senso-ji, Tokyo’s oldest Buddhist temple, the group explored the traditional streets of Asakusa, browsing craft shops and sampling delicious street food. Pupils also experienced a Japanese tea ceremony led by a tea master and took part in a kimono workshop, learning about these beautiful traditional garments and trying them on for themselves.
A peaceful visit to Meiji Jingu Shinto Shrine offered an insight into Japan’s spiritual traditions, before the group headed to the colourful streets of Harajuku to explore its fashion, shops and lively atmosphere. They also experienced the extraordinary crowds of Shibuya Crossing and spotted Godzilla peeking out above the rooftops of Shinjuku!
There was plenty more to discover in Tokyo and pupils enjoyed the peaceful surroundings of Hamarikyu Gardens, took a Sumida River cruise and explored the bustling Tsukiji Fish Market, sampling everything from fresh seafood to sweet treats.
Visits to Tokyo Tower and the spectacular teamLab Borderless immersive art experience provided more memorable moments, with dazzling displays of light, colour and movement.
At Akihabara, famously known as Electric Town, pupils explored electronic shops, anime culture and gaming arcades, trying their luck at some wonderfully unusual games. Evenings brought further opportunities to experience Japanese cuisine, with pupils enjoying hot-pot-style meals and getting involved in cooking their own food.
Olivia (S5) reflected: “My favourite experience from our school’s 2026 Japan trip was dressing in traditional Japanese kimonos with my friends. It was a really fun experience, and I enjoyed getting to try something new and learn more about Japanese culture. Another highlight was taking the bullet train to Hiroshima and cooking okonomiyaki, which was cool to experience making Japanese food.”
After their Tokyo adventures, the group boarded Japan’s famous Shinkansen bullet train to Hiroshima — an exciting experience in itself!
The visit to Hiroshima provided a more reflective chapter of the trip. At Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Museum, pupils learned about the devastating atomic bombing of 1945 and the importance of remembering those affected. A particularly moving highlight was hearing a talk from a successor carrying forward the legacy of an atomic-bomb survivor, sharing survivors’ experiences and the continuing message of peace.
The group also visited Hiroshima Castle and its museum to discover more about Japan’s feudal history and samurai era. After a thought-provoking day, pupils enjoyed Hiroshima’s famous okonomiyaki, a delicious savoury pancake and local speciality.
A visit to Miyajima Island was another major highlight. Home to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Itsukushima Shrine and its iconic great torii gate, the island offered stunning scenery, friendly deer and charming shops and food stalls. Some adventurous pupils even sampled the local oysters!
Lisa (S5) said: “I’m so grateful to the school for taking us to Japan it was an unforgettable experience, one I probably wouldn’t have had if it wasn’t for the school. The highlight of the trip was Miyajima Island especially with the deer wandering through the streets even though they did spill my Starbucks.”
The biggest challenge was the hike towards the island’s summit, where those who ventured upwards were rewarded with spectacular views across the surrounding islands and coastline.
Scott (S5) shared: “My favourite part of the trip was the island as I found the ancient shrines and artwork to be interesting and pleasing to look at. I found that the trip aspect of it was good as we got to see things you wouldn’t get to see normally like the tea ceremony and the kimono one too….and the steak was good too.”
Throughout the trip, pupils embraced every opportunity to try something new, from tasting unfamiliar foods to navigating Tokyo’s busy train network with increasing confidence. They developed their independence, broadened their cultural understanding and strengthened friendships along the way.
Trip Leader and Hutchie Art Teacher, Adele Armour said, “It has been an absolute privilege to see our pupils throw themselves into every aspect of this adventure. They have approached new experiences with curiosity, shown real independence and developed a deeper understanding of Japan, its people and its history. The visit to Hiroshima was especially meaningful, while Miyajima gave us some truly breathtaking moments.”
From ancient temples and tranquil gardens to neon-lit streets and mountain-top views, this October break has been an extraordinary adventure. Pupils return with a wealth of new experiences, a deeper appreciation of Japanese culture and memories they will treasure for years to come.
Sayonara, Japan – until next time!
Click below to view the full trip album:
