6-11 July 2023 - Geography Field Trip

The 6-day overseas field trip to Kansai Area, Japan, is specially designed for our S3 and S5 students, offering an incredible opportunity to explore the captivating culture, rich history and breathtaking landscapes of Japan. Join us as we embark on a remarkable adventure, immersing ourselves in the vibrant cities, ancient traditions, and modern innovations that make Japan a truly unique destination. From iconic landmarks to authentic experiences, this field trip promises to be an educational and unforgettable experience for all of us. Here are some highlights of our journey.

Saikazaki in Wakayama - The entrance to the Setonaikai National Park, overlooking Awaji Island and Shikoku

The Saikazaki lighthouse there has a stunning view of the sea and sunset. We measured the wind speed there to investigate the factors affecting the formation of coastal landform features. The day was full of adventure and laughter as we explored the coast, doing field work all together.

- Beo Bat & Adrian Chan (S6CC)

Sandanbeki Cliffs - A tour of the scenic view of a sea cave in Wakayama

Previously, we learned about the formation of sea cliffs only from our textbooks, but during the trip, we were finally able to see them with our very own eyes.

We were taken aback by the mesmerizing power of the waves crashing against the rocks with the loudness of a thunderclap. The moist humid sea air filled our lungs, and the sea sprayed white as pearls frothed and swelled on the turbulent waves.

- Bryan Chen & Bevis Wan (S6CC)

Senjojiki - The vast rock plateau is known as "one thousand tatami mats"

There was a cool breeze despite the scorching sun. Layers of sandstone in different colours formed Senjojiki’s beautiful terrain. Waves had eroded the rocks to provide a stunning landscape. The wind speed is high as it is an exposed headland with little friction.

- Aaron Keung & Ronald Ng (S6CC)

Yuasa Soy Sauce Limited in Wakayama - Yuasa, the cradle of soy sauce

Although it is a nominal factory, the place is still filled with old-time machines. The factory is  more into labour work than capital, preferring the old, traditional way of making soy sauce with a different style.

The factory store was also filled with many types of soy sauce that a lot of us had never heard of nor tasted before. We even tried their soy sauce ice cream, which turned out to be a good surprise.

- Dustin Lam & Matthew Lam (S6CC)

White Peach Farm in Wakayama - Peaches from farm to our table

We did some soil tests on the peach farm to check how fertile the soil was. After that, we picked peaches and ate the ones we gathered. It was so much fun getting our hands dirty and enjoying the tasty fruits straight from the trees. It was a cool experience as we were able to apply geographical knowledge and got to enjoy the deliciousness of nature at the same time.

- Hayden Tam (S4A) & Allen Tao (S4K)

Nunobiki Falls in Kobe - The waterfall right behind the city

We took a short 15-minute hike behind the Shinkansen station and arrived at this amazing waterfall. It was such a breathtaking sight! We got to learn about the characteristics of rivers in the upper course and even saw a plunge pool right below the waterfall. It was so cool to see how the water carved out this pool over time. The whole experience was just fascinating, and we were in awe of the natural beauty surrounding us.

- Ethan Tong (S4K) & Gordon Yueng (S4H)

The Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake Memorial Disaster Reduction and Human Renovation Institution - A museum to remember the victims and lessons learnt from the catastrophic 1995 Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake

Being one of the most catastrophic earthquakes in history, the 1995 Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake took over 6400 lives and cost 200 million US dollars economically.  We visited The Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake Memorial Disaster Reduction and Human Renovation Institution to study the impact of earthquakes on retail businesses and people's well-being. By learning about the causes of this tragedy and exploring how we can improve infrastructure, we can prevent future incidents and move forward. We hope everyone can unite and become stronger whenever we face these disasters.

- Alvina Chan (S4A) & Murakami Haru (S4H)

Kawasaki World - The museum of the Kawasaki Heavy Industries Group has existed for more than 100 years.

We saw and explored Kawasaki’s technology, and experienced the manufacturing operations first-hand. We learnt more about the characteristics of the Kawasaki Heavy Industry, and the history of arsenal manufacturing. Additionally, we engaged with the machines in an entertaining and educational way, appreciating the wonders of technology and appreciating the importance of craftsmanship.

- Dorothy Cheung & Kristie Siu (S6CC)

Kifune Shrine - The head shrine of 2,000 water gods nationwide

In the Kifune Shrine, we saw a Japanese traditional temple, where priests conducted a blessing ceremony. There was a divination called Water dipped Omikuji, where we could put the fortune slips on the water surface, and written oracles would appear on it.

- Zoe Low & Sharon Lui (S6CC)

Kiyomizu Temple - The Buddhist UNESCO World Heritage Sites with a shopping street

Before reaching Kiyomizu Temple, you will discover a street that has transformed from residential houses into a vibrant marketplace. Here, you can find shops selling traditional Japanese items and local delicacies. The temple itself is a remarkable sight, as its magnificent structure is constructed entirely of wood without any nails. The impressive design showcases the craftsmanship and ingenuity of the builders.

- Samantha Wong (S4A) & Erin Lau (S4H)

Namba Walk - An underground shopping avenue that stretches over 715m

There is a wide variety of shops along the Namba Walk, from cheap fast foods and necessities to expensive luxury products. It is built underground to maximize profits and reduce the rent. Each exit has a gate as a precautionary measure to prevent fire from spreading during outbreaks of fire, or climatic hazards like flooding.

- Jayla Chan & Ines Lau (S6CC)

Meiji Naruhodo Factory (Osaka) - The factory of one of Japan's largest dairy companies

The Meiji Milk Factory was a fun-filled experience for us to understand the processing of raw milk to other dairy products, like yogurt or candies, and learn the procedure of making some of the products we see every day. The visit provided us with the opportunity to look at the processing and packaging operations of one of Japan's leading dairy companies up close. Operations were conducted smoothly and efficiently with the use of high-monitoring technology and the flexibility of machinery. This was a unique experience to learn about the Japanese milk culture, as well as the company's commitment to sustainability and quality.

- Amanda Kwan & Miranda O (S6CC)

Kyoto Obubu Tea Farms - The major tea farming in Japan which makes 1/4 Macha of the world

Obubu Green Tea Farm in Kyoto, Japan, holds the distinction of being the largest producer of green tea worldwide. During our visit to the farm, the owner, Hiro, graciously introduced us to a wide variety of teas, including Green Tea, Black Tea, Matcha, and even Genmaicha. We had the opportunity to learn about the different processes involved in making green tea, such as harvesting, oxidizing, withering, and drying. Additionally, we conducted soil tests on the plantation. This eye-opening experience left a lasting impression on all of us, and we were truly captivated by the knowledge and insights gained during our time at the farm.

- Felix Chan (S4U) & Arnold Chan (S4K)

Itami City Garbage Incineration Plant - Advance building incineration plant used to deliver beautiful environment to the city

Our visit was a revelation as we discovered Japan's environmentally friendly approach to managing the vast amount of garbage produced by its citizens. The Japanese employ a meticulous sorting system to separate reusable and non-reusable waste, which is then subjected to further processing. This method of garbage management left us truly impressed and inspired. Japan's commitment to sustainable practices and the efficiency with which they handle their waste is truly remarkable.

- Darryl Hon (S4K) & Aidan Lai (S4U)

It has been a time filled with incredible experiences, new discoveries, and unforgettable memories. From exploring captivating destinations to engaging in educational activities, we have grown and learned together. Hope you enjoyed reading our journey.

Link to website: https://storymaps.arcgis.com/stories/7a85facf0e5e4d76b7a98b4c8b494c43