We are all exhausted but happy! So busy trying several cultural activities today.
After class visits the students did Japanese calligraphy, tea ceremony, flower arrangement and cooked and then ate Japanese sweets/snacks OHAGI. Wonderful culture lessons by Mrs Mori and Mrs Matsuda.
We were then given a great treat of entering the traditional hall for martial arts. The students tried Judo and Kendo! Where they found it hard to hit their Minokamo opponents hard on the head ( they do wear head protection)…..
At then end of the day we, the four Genesis staff, were given a private tea ceremony with the Tea master… It was the first time that she had guests in the brand new tea room built in the new building! We feel very privileged for that opportunity.
We practiced for our farewell party tomorrow …. Time has gone quickly! Already a few students are saying they want to stay longer!
Thank you for your positive posts and words of encouragement! Please pray for safe travels for Mr Barker as he makes his way back home tomorrow.
genesis2japan 
Looks like you’re having such a great time and fitting so much in. Enjoy the next week. xx
This day looks so amazing. So thankful to Minokamo for these wonderful experiences for the team and to the lovely host families. Thank you! Safe travels, Mr Barker. Hi Reilly, thinking of you xx
Fantastic photos ! The smiles are just getting bigger and brighter with every day. Awesome to see. You are looking very at home in the kitchen and flower arranging Mitch !! So does Mr Barker doing martial arts !! Safe travels Mr B ! Have a fabulous weekend everyone !
You all look like you are having a fantastic time! Great photo of Mr Barker taking down his apponent. Laynie – we saw Bronwyn and Heather yesterday and they said they saw you twice and got a selfie with you that is amazing that you bumped into each other. Laynie enjoy the rest of your time with your host family and we are counting the days till your return.
Love
Mumma 💜💋
What a great day you had. Have fun tomorrow and take lots of photos of the last day at school.
Safe Travels Mr Barker. 🙂
Wow! Is there anything you haven’t done yet? You are experiencing so much! Can’t wait to hear all the stories when you get home. Love reading the blogs and seeing all the pics. Sooooo jealous!
Haha hey mum 🙂 I cooked stir fry for dinner last night and they were so excited. Love you xxx
Wow, another full-on, fun day. I would love to learn flower arranging – can you teach me Libi? And a traditional tea ceremony…it will be hard to pick a highlight of this trip. Looking very impressive in your Samurai gi too. What an opportunity. Hugs from me to you xx
Wow what a great day! The photos are fantastic!!!