23 of our students brought in the holiday season over 3 days (December 26th ~ 28th) at our annual English language study excursion to British Hills, Japan’s leading English immersion village in the snow-laden mountains of southern Fukushima. In a setting designed to evoke the feeling of visiting the UK, students participated in a wide variety of English lessons that tested their English abilities and teamwork skills. Lessons included snooker (a type of billiards), card magic, making scones and a science challenge. All the lessons were taught by warm and keen teachers from many British Commonwealth nations.

Other highlights included eating in the refectory, a replica of a British public school lunch hall for their meals, staying a couple of nights in either Tudor-style or Georgian-style guest rooms and an optional nightly challenge activity that had students interacting with staff and teachers alike. In addition, there was a bit of free time where students could go the gym and play badminton, shop for souvenirs, visit the Ascot Tea Room for afternoon tea, or try the butter beer at Falstaff Pub.

Our students had an unforgettable British experience without having to leave Japan. As advertised it is “The Britain that anybody can visit without a passport”. The hope is this will pave the way to a real passport, a gateway to a world of opportunities and experiences. Empowering our students to explore, learn, expand horizons and encourage cross-cultural understanding.