Japanese High School
While on exchange in Japan you will experience a new world and lifestyle and will embrace futuristic technology, pop culture and bold fashion, and its rooted traditions. You surely will have the chance to go to a baseball game, sing in karaoke clubs and eat mouthwatering food.
Each school is different
In many countries, all high schools are pretty much the same, but in Japan, schools are very strict regarding punctuality and their attitude towards school work. Each school has its own rules, culture and character, and this means students feel a lot of school pride. To show this pride, schools have annual school festivals, social events, performances and parades. Be prepared for an active student exchange in Japan.
Friendly teachers
Japanese teachers are friendly and they work closely with students. In Japan, as in every other country, it is important to respect your teachers, but students in Japan get to know their teachers well. They are important figures in student's lives and as an exchange student you can approach them during and after school if you have any questions. Often, teachers are also sports coaches or leaders of club activities.
Take off your shoes
Students in Japan take off their shoes before school and sometimes they might wear special shoes in school. Every student has a shoebox for storing his/her shoes.
Club Activities
After school activities are important to Japanese students. They participate in sports, music bands, school newspapers and many other activities. During your high school exchange, it is important to get involved in these clubs as soon as possible. You will make friends, improve your language skills and most importantly have a great time.
Punctuality
Japanese schools can be fun, but do not be late for class! It is not accepted, and if you are late, you will get a detention which means staying back after school.
Typical day at a Japanese high school
6.30 am Wake up for school. Most students take a train to school. You will need to have enought time to eat breakfast and get dressed before you leave. In Japan it is not unusual to travel up to an hour on public transport to get to school.
8.30 am The school day begins with a homeroom meeting. Don't be late!
9.00 am Classes begin. You might have Japanese history, mathematics or something else.
10.00 am Time for your second class of the day. It could be biology or physical education.
12.00pm Lunch time! Japanese schools have cafeterias where students can buy reasonably priced lunch. Many students bring lunch from home. This is a time to enjoy conversations with friends.
1.00 pm You have more classes in the afternoon, such as Japanese government or physics.
3.00 pm School is over for the day, but that doen not mean your day is over. Most Japanese students participate in after school activities or sports. And when you get home you will have a couple of hours of homework each night.