CULTURAL ACTIVITIES
Experience with Classmates
FIELD TRIPS
SCAVENGER HUNT IN LOS GATOS DOWNTOWN
Japanese 2 students write directions and create clues in Japanese. In groups students go on a tour and find all the clues. It is a nice way to spend time with classmates using Japanese.
SAN JOSE JAPANESE AMERICAN MUSEUM
In this trip, Japanese 3H students learn about Japanese interment camps during World War II at San Jose Japanese American Museum.
TEA CEREMONY AT URASENKE FOUNDATION IN SAN FRANCISCO
AP Japanese students spend a day in San Francisco. We attend a tea ceremony at Urasenke Foundation and learn the manners and how to appreciate different elements in the tea room. We also learn about how much thought goes into the preparation to welcome guests in the tea ceremony.
EXCHANGE PROGRAM
With Kagoshima University
We host a college student from Kagoshima University who wants to learn about education in the US. Intern students participate in class activities and give presentations about Japan.
SHAMISEN PERFORMANCE
By Baisho Matsumoto Sensei
Baisho Sensei shares his joy of music with our students. His big personality and powerful performance always amaze our students. He has been visiting Los Gatos High School annually for the last 15 (?) years! In the picture, we danced to Tankobushi, a popular bon dance in Kyushu region, with Sensei's Shamisen.
CALLIGRAPHY
We invite Yukiko Doshiro Sensei and students to learn how to properly hold brush while keeping a good posture. Students practice writing Kanji characters quietly and carefully one sheet at a time. It takes patience to be able to control brush. Calligraphy teaches students how to focus and self-reflect.
COOKING
Food brings people together. Students learn to cook simple yet unique Japanese food in class. They try some ingredients for the first time and understand what Japanese enjoy eating.
ARTS AND CRAFTS
Students learn how to make "Kumihimo: braiding strings, make origami for Japanese annual events and other crafts. AP Japanese students also learn to create miniature "Ukiyoe: wood block print" using shrinky dink paper.
