Thanks to the help of the Fukuoka prefecture Sports Agency and the Kyushu Sangyo University(KSU), we were able to have 30 students from Hawaii’s James Campbell Highschool and 12 students from St. Louis University participate on this mission. Our deepest gratitude goes out too everyone who was there to help.
The students from Hawaii played against local teams from Ohori Highschool the winners of the winter cup, Wakaba Highschool girls team, and the Munakata Highschool. Also during this visit, James Campbell Highschool tied sister school relations with the Fukuoka Suisan Highschool, while St. Louis University did the same with the East Fukuoka Highschool.
We also visited KSU for campus day, where we attended a practical Japanese language class, a student guided campus tour, and a tour of the old town areas of Hakata city. The faint cold hinted winter was approaching Hakata city as we walked through its streets.
On the final day, we paid a courtesy visit to Governor Hattori and Yoshida commissioner of education at the Fukuoka prefectural office. We were warmly greeted by other officials including assembly chairman Kahara, assembly member Kurauchi, and assembly member Haranaka. In the afternoon we visited the Dazaifu Tenmangu shrine, and watched a match of the Grand Sumo Tournament. It was heartwarming to watch the students shout and root during the match!
The students didn’t forget to savor the local gourmet food, indulging Hakata Ramen, burdock tempura Udon, Japanese plums, mochi, and more!
We hope to continue our effort in deepening Hawaii-Japan relations for students, and support their growth as global citizens!
