Art students say Konnichiwa* to Japan

Aspiring artists from a West Norfolk school had the opportunity to hone their talents in one of the most creative countries in the world when they travelled to Japan for the adventure of a lifetime.

A group of 40 Year 10 and 11 students from St Clement’s High School, in Terrington St Clement, spent five nights in Tokyo, where they were able to try their hands at traditional Japanese skills, such as calligraphy and sushi making, as well as experience the country’s history and culture.

The students, who were all studying Fine Art, Photography, 3D Design or Drama at GCSE, were accompanied by trip organiser Lisa Rigby, who teaches Art and Photography, Head of Design Technology Craig Falco, Head of Drama Carl Schwarz, and Phil Bennell, Art Lead at the West Norfolk Academies Trust, of which the school is a member.

“We left Tokyo and headed to the Hakone region close to Mount Fuji,” explained Mrs Rigby. “Unfortunately poor weather prevented the group from seeing the iconic volcano, but they did still enjoy a boat trip on Lake Ashi and a visit to the open air museum.

“Another highlight was experiencing the Takarazuka Theatre – something which is nearly impossible for non-residents to obtain tickets for, and many Japanese have never had the opportunity to go, so we were very fortunate.”

It was the second time that the trip had taken place, and the school is already planning next year’s return.

Visits included the Sensoji Temple and Meiji Jingu Shrines, along with the iconic Shibuya crossing, Harajuku, and the Tokyo Sky Tree, which is known for its panoramic views across the city. The group also spent time at the world-renowned TeamLab Planets, and had the chance to explore the surrounding area.

“It was fascinating to be able to have a first-hand view of not only the difference between our own culture and the Japanese culture, but also the differences between the modern Japan and the older Japan,” said student Isla Bennell.

“I loved being immersed in both sides of the Japanese culture,” agreed classmate Lily Jackson. “It was the trip of a lifetime.”

“As an art student, I personally felt honoured to be able to experience the creative side of the Japanese culture, even creating my own calligraphy – it was inspiring,” added Caitlin Cox, while Ella Evie Baker said: “The videos on my phone don’t capture the experience I had at TeamLab. It is something I will remember forever.”

“Trips like this have value for so many reasons,” continued Mrs Rigby. “Firstly, Tokyo is one of the creative capitals of the world, and so getting to visit a range of art and design galleries, and experience theatre unlike ours, can directly influence and support their GCSE studies.

“But in addition to this, students also gain so much from simply immersing themselves in a completely new culture.

“Japan is often a country out of reach for many, and so being able to take 40 students to the other side of the world is a privilege, and a chance in a lifetime for those who go.”


*Konnichiwa is a common Japanese greeting, generally translated as hello.