Journey to Japan Winter Camp

Have you ever wondered what it’s like to experience Japan during the winter? Maybe you’re dreaming of snowy landscapes, festive celebrations, or just want to dive into Japanese culture? This winter camp is your chance to explore all that and more in a fun, interactive way!

In this camp, we’ll take virtual tours, watch videos, look at pictures, and read short texts (just 1-2 pages, nothing overwhelming). We’ll even do quizzes and have discussions to make sure everything clicks. Think of it as a cozy winter adventure where we learn and chat about all things Japan in the winter season.

I’ve spent two years living and working in Japan, and I’ve teamed up with friends who still live there to make sure the info I share is as real and authentic as it gets. Honestly, the best way to learn about a culture is through people who live it, and that’s exactly what this camp is all about.

Whether you’re dreaming of visiting Japan one day or just love learning about different cultures, this winter camp will take you on a fun journey into the beauty of Japanese winter traditions. Let’s explore together!


Japan Winter Camp Schedule 

Day 1: Virtual Travel Through Japan in Winter
Overview: Students will take a virtual journey to some of Japan’s most beautiful winter destinations, including snowy Hokkaido, the illuminated streets of Tokyo, and the traditional villages of Shirakawa-go.

Activities:
- Use Google Earth and video tours to "visit" these locations.
- Discuss how winter impacts daily life and travel in Japan.
- Read article about traveling in Japan during winter (chosen based on student interest)


Day 2: Winter Foods and Traditions
Let's talk about tasty Japanese winter cuisine and learn about traditional activities that make the season special.

Activities:
- Learn about foods like hot pot (nabe), mochi, and seasonal snacks like yakiimo (roasted sweet potatoes).
- Watch video of how mochi is made and other popular winter foods are made.
- Discuss winter traditions like soaking in onsen (hot springs) or going skiing in Hokkaido



Day 3: Winter Holidays – Christmas and New Year in Japan
Discuss how Japan celebrates Christmas and New Year with a blend of modern and traditional customs.

Activities:
- Learn about Japan’s unique Christmas traditions, like eating KFC, enjoying decorative light displays called illuminations, and visiting temples on New Year's Day
- Video about celebrating New Years in Japan 
- Introduce (optional) Japan Winter Trip Itinerary Project 

Each day will include engaging visuals, hands-on activities, and plenty of opportunities for discussion to bring the magic of Japan in winter to life!


Students don't need to have any previous knowledge about Japan to join the class. Everyone who is interested in learning more about Japan is more than welcome. 

Research for this course is based on my experiences living and working in Japan for two years. I also collaborate with friends of mine who are Japanese who still live in Japan when deciding on content to teach in this course. I think the best way to learn about different cultures is to communicate directly with people who are part of these cultures. 

All materials and information in this course comes from Japanese individuals and from people who have spent time properly researching Japanese culture, history, and traditions. 

Please let me know if you have any questions or concerns about this class. If there are any topics that you would like to learn about that are not mentioned above, let me know and I will gladly cover it.