Many people worldwide are interested in Japanese culture, especially those who indulge in Japanese creative works like anime and manga. Through these productions, foreign fans are taught about locals’ daily lives and even adapt to their social norms, like bowing to elders and being punctual at all times.
It isn’t a shocker that many Malaysians are avid anime fans; even a popular anime store recently opened its doors in KL. However, if you want to have the full Japan experience, you might want to take a look at this interesting programme in Japan that allows you to experience what it’s like to be a full-fledged Japanese student!
For ¥30,000 (RM874), you can become a one-day student at a local Japanese school near Tokyo. Situated in the mountains of Kimitsu in the Chiba Prefecture, tourists will “study” at “Kimino High School” and graduate the same day! That’s right, you’ll even get a graduation certificate at the end of the day. Don’t worry – you won’t be disrupting actual students, as this tourist attraction is a refurbished abandoned school.
You’ll start the day off donning their traditional school attire, “Sailor Fukus” and “Gakurans”. Then, you’ll proceed to your first class, which is Japanese calligraphy. Don’t understand Japanese? Fret not, everything will be taught in English by the “teachers”, who are professional actors! You’ll also participate in swordfighting classes, cladding traditional kimonos, and using fake katanas. Of course, authentic cafeteria lunches will be served as well before you continue with your school day.
As mentioned, you’ll wrap up your day with a graduation ceremony and receive your diploma. Sounds like the perfect attraction for those who dream of the Japanese high school life! So, what are you waiting for? Here’s your chance to experience a traditional Japanese school day!
Sources: The Mainichi, South China Morning Post, Instagram
May contributed to this article.
