At our school, we offer an off-campus learning program for international students called Edventure (a coined word combining “Education” and “Adventure”), where students can experience and learn about Japanese culture in a hands-on way.

In January, we held an Edventure field trip themed around Nijō Castle and wagashi (traditional Japanese sweets). At Nijō Castle, built during the Edo period, students deepened their understanding of Japanese history and culture while experiencing the unique features of traditional Japanese architecture, such as the famous “nightingale floors.”

In addition, at the Kyoto confectionery shop Tsuruyoshinobu, students observed up close as skilled wagashi artisans carefully handcrafted each piece. Watching the delicate and beautiful sweets take shape right before their eyes, the students were visibly impressed and inspired.