素晴らしい旅 (A remarkable Journey)

Embarking on an adventure through Japan is an experience like no other. From the bustling streets of Tokyo to the serene temples of Kyoto, our trip was a blend of ancient traditions and modern marvels, giving us a comprehensive taste of what makes Japan so unique. Here’s a detailed look at my enriching journey. After arriving in Osaka, our first stop was at the magnificent Himeji Castle. Known as the largest castle in Japan, it boasts 83 buildings and provides a fascinating glimpse into Japan’s feudal past. There were no photos allowed but imagine the number of stairs we had to climb and let me tell you the steps were very steep. Later, we finished the day with our first authentic Japanese dinner which is called “Okonomiyaki”, and it was a very unique dish. The next day we began with an excursion to Miyajima Park, famously called the “Sacred Island.” There we saw the iconic Itsukushima Shrine, renowned for its floating torii gate.

Following this, an expert local guide took us through Hiroshima, focusing on the city’s poignant history with visits to the Peace Memorial Park and Museum, a UNESCO Heritage Site which was truly eye-opening and a remarkable site to see. Later, we experienced the thrill of the bullet train at insane speeds to Kyoto. While we were in Kyoto, we visited the impressive Nijo Castle, built from Japanese cypress, and the stunning Inari Taisha Shrine, and observe at the Golden Pavilion, a Zen temple adorned with gold leaf. Furthermore, we saw the famous Arashiyama Bamboo Grove and spent half a day at Nara, a landmark famous for its bowing deer. Finally, we spent our last days in Tokyo visiting the Asakusa Kannon Temple, the city’s oldest. Later, we spent our day vising Shibuya for its famous crosswalk, and shopping areas. Altogether, this trip provided a perfect blend of historical exploration, cultural immersion, and modern-day marvels and each day offered something unique.
– Benjamin, SPC Japan Study Abroad Program, May 2024