Japan Trip 2024
Headington’s Geography Department went on a transformative journey of culture and discovery to Japan during the summer of 2024.
Upon arriving in Tokyo, the group dived into their cultural exploration with a visit to the serene Meiji Shrine, a peaceful retreat in the heart of the city, dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken. This was followed by a visit to the Harajuku district, Tokyo’s vibrant cultural epicentre, where they encountered an eclectic mix of fashion, youth culture and quirky shops. The day concluded with the mesmerising sight of Shibuya Crossing, where they witnessed the organized chaos of Tokyo’s bustling city life.
One of the trip’s standout experiences was a hands-on learning session at the Ikebukuro Life Safety Learning Center, where the group participated in an earthquake simulation. This experience was both educational and eye-opening, providing the pupils with a firsthand understanding of how Japan prepares for and responds to natural disasters.
Another early memorable highlight was the vibrant atmosphere of the Toyosu Fish Market, one of the largest seafood markets in the world. As Irina (L5) remarked: “The sheer scale and energy of the market was awe-inspiring and we even had the chance to taste fresh seafood straight from the morning’s catch.”
Later in the trip, the group embraced a quintessential Japanese culinary tradition by participating in a sushi-making class.
The geographical exploration extended beyond Tokyo to other remarkable regions. A trip to Hakone was a particular highlight; the natural beauty of this area was truly stunning, offering a peaceful contrast to the bustling city life of Tokyo. The group visited the Hakone Shrine, famous for its red torii gate standing in Lake Ashi, symbolizing peace and serenity.
The group also visited Akihabara, known as “Electric Town,” a haven for anime and manga enthusiasts. Ekin (L5) said: “This is really an amazing place.”
For many, including Dr Gemma Prata, the top highlight was the visit to the Tokyo Skytree, Japan’s tallest structure, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the city from its 634-metre height. Dr Prata said: “The Tokyo Skytree is not just an architectural marvel but also a symbol of Tokyo’s modern skyline.”
The group enjoyed an outstanding day trip to Nagano, where they visited the historic Zenkoji Temple and the Nagano Olympic Museum. The highlight of the day was observing snow monkeys in their natural habitat at the Jigokudani Monkey Park. Amelie (L5) said: “The monkeys were so cute and such a highlight of the trip.”
As the group prepared to return home, Alisa (L6) perfectly captured the essence of their journey, describing Tokyo and Japanese culture as “eclectic, educational, and endlessly eccentric.”
Trip leader Mr David Cunningham reflected on the experience and said: “Japan’s culture is a profound blend of ancient traditions and modern innovation, offering lessons in mindfulness, resilience and creativity. This trip has been a journey of discovery, where every moment has inspired us to embrace the geography and culture.”
The group left Japan with not just souvenirs, but a deeper understanding of its culture, unforgettable memories and a shared sense of adventure that will stay with them forever.
