Shotoku Gakuen Scholarship to Japan, March 2026

Experienced and shared by Amelia McGill - Year 11The high school exchange I went on was such an amazing and unforgettable experience. I think my favourite part about this trip was going to school, meeting so many kind people, and making new friends. Everyone was so friendly and welcoming, and although there was a language barrier, they still tried their best to include me and make me feel comfortable. The high school in Japan was very different compared to schooling here in New Zealand. For example, a school day in Japan consists of 6 periods and only one lunch break, whereas in New Zealand we only have 4 periods and 2 lunch breaks. 

The school day also felt longer and more structured. What I found interesting was that most of the time, students would stay in one classroom whilst the teachers moved between classes, which is different from schools in New Zealand. I noticed that the students were very respectful of their teachers, and at the beginning of each class, the students would all stand and bow to greet the teacher. 

This shows how much discipline and respect they have. While on this exchange, I was lucky enough to go to some really cool places around Tokyo. My host family took me to Asakusa, and I got to ride on a jinrikisha around Asakusa. I also went to visit Harajuku, and we went to watch a volleyball game. 

We also went to Disneyland, and it was very fun. I even managed to go on a few rides. The food in Japan was so delicious. I ate a lot of sushi and matcha-flavored treats. Overall, this exchange was an incredible opportunity. It allowed me to learn so much more about the Japanese culture, meet so many new and amazing people, and step out of my comfort zone.