Kyoto Exchange. Turlock High School May. April Kyoto Gakuen High School. A Cultural Exchange with

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1 Kyoto Exchange Turlock High School May April 2014 A Cultural Exchange with Kyoto Gakuen High School April 17th - 26th

2 Table of Contents Travel Itinerary 3 Estimated Cost of Trip 5 Where is Kyoto? 6 Temples of the Kyoto Area 7 Some Things to Know Before Visiting 8 Getting Around Japan 14 How to Use a Japanese Toilet 15 Japanese Cuisine 17 Appropriate Gifts 19 Japanese Manners and Etiquette 20 Words and Phrases 24 Money and Numbers 27 Useful Kanji and Signs 28 Kyoto Exchange Information (contacts and website) 29 Skoolaborate and PacRimX Projects 30 Kyoto Exchange Reservation Form 31 Skoolaborate Student Agreement 32 Short-Term Independent Study 35 Note: Additional information will be distributed through s and the Kyoto Exchange website. This is a private website that is password protected. See page 28 for login information. 2

3 Tentative Travel Itinerary Kyoto Preview Video We visit most of the locations shown in this video during our trip. Thursday, May 2 nd 6:30 am Depart from THS, drive to San Francisco Airport (SFO) (Parents welcome.) 9:00 am Arrive at San Francisco Airport (SFO) 11:29 am Flight departs for Kansai International Airport (KIX) Osaka, Japan (We lose an entire day due to 17- hour time difference and flight time.) Friday, May 3 rd 3:20 pm Arrive at Kansai International Airport (KIX), Osaka, Japan 7:30 pm Meet up with host families at Kyoto Gakuen High School Saturday, May 4th 8:00 am Meet at Kyoto Station, Host Family Day Nara (Tōdai-ji), ancient capital of Japan where sacred deer roam freely Byodoin Temple and museum, temple on the back of the 10-yen coin Sunday, May 5 th 8:00 am Day with host families (Nothing scheduled.) Monday, May 6 th 8:00 am Arrive at Kyoto Gakuen High School 8:30 am Opening Ceremony, be presented to student body in assembly, student speeches, presentation of plaque to Kyoto Gakuen student representative 10:30 am Bus to Nishiki Market, oldest market in Kyoto Noon Lunch in Nishiki Market area 1:30 pm Ninenzaka & Sannenzaka, great souvenir shopping streets Kiyomizu-dera Temple, beautiful temple floating above cherry trees, Otowa-waterfall 4:30 pm Return to Kyoto Gakuen High School 3

4 Tentative Travel Itinerary (continued) Tuesday, May 7 th 8:00 am Arrive at Kyoto Gakuen High School 9:00 am Train to Arashiyama area, romantic train, bamboo forest, Iwatayama Monkey Park, Tenryuji Temple, Togetsukyo Bridge, Hozu River boat tour 4:30 pm Return to Kyoto Gakuen Wednesday, May 8 th 8:00 am Arrive at Kyoto Gakuen High School 8:30 am Attend cultural classes in the morning 11:30 am Lunch in school cafeteria 12:30 pm Fushimi Inari Shrine, famous tunnel of 10,000 torii (red shrine gates) 4:30 pm Return to Kyoto Gakuen Thursday, May 9 th 8:00 am Arrive at Kyoto Gakuen High School 8:30 am Train to Kyoto Station 9:30 am Sanjūsangendo Temple, 1,001 figures of Kannon 11:00 am Kyoto Tower tour 10:00 am Shopping and lunch around Kyoto Station, Bic Camera Electronics Store 2:00 pm Train back to Kyoto Gakuen 3:00 pm Farewell Party at Kyoto Gakuen High School Friday, May 10th 9:00 am Arrive at Kyoto Gakuen High School 9:30 am Entrance Ceremony, welcome new students and their families to the KG High School 11:00 am Early lunch (Change into casual clothes.) Noon Walk to Ryoanji Temple, famous Japanese rock garden 2:00 pm Kinkaku-ji Golden Pavilion, beautiful golden temple in lush garden and lake setting 3:00 pm Bus to Nishijin Textile Center, tour, opportunity to try on a kimono 4:30 pm Return to Kyoto Gakuen High School 6:00 pm Go to Gion Corner Theater [tentative] Saturday, May 11th 8:00 am Arrive at Kyoto Gakuen High School 9:00 am Myōshin-ji Temple, tour grounds adjacent to KG High School Noon Depart for Kansai International Airport (KIX) 5:30 pm Depart for San Francisco International Airport Travel Back in Time 10:59 am Arrive at SFO six and a half hours before leaving Osaka, Japan Noon Start your attempt to synchronize your body clock back to local time (Good luck!) This schedule is subject to change. Many things can affect the schedule. Many times we will encounter parades, festivals, or celebrations when walking between sites and may decide to change our plans.

5 Estimated Cost of Trip Airfare A round trip ticket is between $1,500 - $2,000 depending on when it is purchased and the current exchange range between the dollar and the yen. The current price is under $1900. (This is higher than the average fare last year.) Parents are responsible for making their student s reservation. This allows for flexibility in payment, no travel agent, and the ability to apply frequent flyer miles to receive a seat upgrade or discount. Once the reservation is made, you need to submit a copy to the district to finalize your spot for this exchange. Incidentals A deposit of $300 is required to reserve a spot for this trip. Spots are assigned in the order deposits are received. Money is deposited in a Turlock High School student body account and converted to yen prior to the trip. This money will be used to pay for the Christmas Gift Exchange shipping charges, Kyoto Gakuen commemorative trip plaque, trains, buses, temple fees, and other expenses incurred during the trip. Because we have added activities this year, this amount may increase. We will have a better estimate in late November. It is our intent to keep it below $300. Girls who wish to try on kimonos at the Textile Center will need to pay for this at the time of the tour (approx. $25) Funds are accounted for individually for each student with any remaining amount given back to the student on the morning of the last day shopping trip. This allows them to have it for souvenir shopping. With the mix of activities planned for this trip, we do not expect that we will have a large amount left by the end of the trip. But schedules can change, and that may change this estimate. Spending Money We are always asked, How much spending money is needed? This is not a question easily answered. We ve had students do this trip with $100 spending money (not recommended) and we ve had students bring large sums of money or credit cards to purchase electronics and other high cost items. We will have many opportunities as a group to discuss this issue and students should have a feel for themselves how much they might need before leaving. We are expecting the exchange rate to not be as good this year as last. This may cause many students to pass on buying more expensive items, and instead stick with small souvenirs. Students will need more money if they plan on eating out each day. (Most do this.) Noodles and fish are the most affordable items. Students can ask their host family for a bento lunch if they wish. Students are encouraged to try the bento lunches. 5

6 Where is Kyoto? Interactive Map of Kyoto: 6

7 Temples of the Kyoto Area 7

8 Some Things to Know Before Visiting Kyoto Time Zone Japan is 17 hours ahead of Pacific Standard Time. Plan any calls home accordingly. Telephone Calls To place a direct-dialed international call to Japan: is the code used to dial outside of the United States is the international code used to dial Japan is the city code used to dial Kyoto Internet Students may have an opportunity to send s from host family homes or the school. Shoes You are expected to remove your shoes before stepping up from the entry area into a Japanese home. This custom is also observed in many traditional Japanese restaurants, store dressing rooms and a few other businesses. No footwear, not even slippers, should be worn on tatami (rice mat) floors. Please imitate whatever your host family s customs are. The school will provide slippers for use while at the school. You can also bring your own if you wish, especially if you wear greater than a men s size 9. Soft soles only; no black rubber soles. Smoking Many Japanese people smoke. Smoking is permitted in restaurants and on local trains that have designated smoking cars available. There does not seem to be any courtesy involved in their smoking habits and if you are unaccustomed to smoke from cigarettes, it could be uncomfortable. If you wish to be placed with a non-smoking host family, let us know. No guarantee, but we will try our best to place you appropriately. Bathing Most Japanese homes have a shower. The Japanese shower before bed. It is very humid in Kyoto and cleanliness is considered a virtue. Even if you are normally a morning shower person, you should try to adapt to showering at night. Please ask your host family how to work the controls. The Japanese are on a metered water system and it is very expensive. The Japanese get wet, turn off the water, soap up, and then turn the water back on to rinse. Some Japanese homes may have a tub used for soaking after your shower. It is filled with bath oils and perfumes. It is shared by the household and is prepared weekly. Although it may be covered, don t splash soap into it, and NEVER pull the plug! 8

9 Public Courtesy Americans are accustomed to having a personal space around them. The crowded conditions in Japan do not allow the Japanese this luxury. Japanese people have an internal bubble into which they escape when commuting or in other crowded situations. For this reason, when in public, they refrain from loud conversations, they use headphones to listen to music, and otherwise are very courteous and conscious of others. You should be considerate of this. To keep from intruding on their space, refrain from loud and obnoxious behavior in crowded areas. Please display a quiet demeanor especially on planes, trains, subways and buses. Currency Dollars must be exchanged for yen. The exchange rate fluctuates daily. You can exchange currency through your bank here in the U.S... Do not exchange money at the San Francisco Airport because they add fees and give a very low exchange rate. Plan ahead for exchanging dollars to yen, as your bank will likely need up to a week to complete your exchange order. You will need your passport to exchange money in Japan. The basic unit of currency is the yen. Bills are available in denominations of 1,000, 5,000 and 10,000. (See images at the end of this packet.) US banks will give you 2,000 yen bills. Specifically request that you NOT be given these bills, as they are like $2 bills here in the US. Coins are 1, 5, 10, 50, 100 and 500 yen. Credit cards are accepted in major stores. Most small souvenir shops only take cash (yen). You should check with your bank to see if your ATM will work in Japan. Most credit cards must be authorized prior to the trip with your bank for overseas use. Shopping Japan is not a bargaining economy. Prices shown in the stores are the prices you are expected to pay, along with a national sales tax. Keep in mind that anything you buy in Japan must be packed and brought home. You buy it, you carry it. Going Through Airport Customs Visitors under the age of 20 may not bring tobacco or alcohol into the country. Other prohibited items are: all plants with soil, most meats, fireworks, firearms and ammunition, narcotics, and obscene articles and publications. Check the U.S. Customs website for a more detailed list of what is not allowed. Tipping For the most part, tipping is not expected in Japan. Service received from taxis, restaurants and traditional Japanese inns and hotels require no tip. 9

10 Getting Assistance While Japanese high school graduates have studied English for six years, with college graduates having studied English for an additional four years, it is still not spoken by a vast majority of the population. Should you become lost or need assistance, you should approach a Japanese person, speaking slowly and distinctly, and request assistance. If the person you approach is unable to understand or help you, they will most often attempt to find someone else who can help. The best advice is "Don t get lost!" It is nearly impossible to read the street signs, unless you have studied Japanese. One trick is to take a picture of the bus stop sign or other location with cell phones or cameras before leaving it so you can show someone a picture. This is especially helpful if the address is shown. Language Japanese appreciate any attempts foreigners make in speaking Japanese. They fully recognize how difficult it is and respect our effort in trying to communicate better. On the other hand, the way you speak English will not be understood by most Japanese. Americans, especially younger people, speak very, very fast, dropping off the endings of most words. Remember to speak slowly and distinctly, or you will not be understood. Keep your conversation simple and use only basic and easy to understand words. Don t use slang words, and remember that most jokes don t translate well. Having a good phrase book like Japanese at a Glance by Nobuo Akiyama and Carol Akiyama ($8.99) will be invaluable. This is a pocket sized guide organized for quick lookup. It has a nice plastic cover that protects it during the trip. You will not be sorry having this with you. Good guides are also available for the iphone for common phrases and kanji dictionaries. Foods Traditional Japanese dishes are not all rice and raw fish, and are really quite delicious. Not all dishes are spicy; in fact many of the flavored dishes are prepared with mild soybased sauces. They use a lot of vegetables, beef, pork, chicken and seafood in their menu. It is important to try a little of everything set before you so as not to offend their hospitality. If you do not like something, mention it to your host and you will likely not see it again. Host families will try to provide a bento lunch for each student every day. This is a traditional cold box lunch that contains rice, some meat, vegetables and fruit. Portions are very small in Japan, and food in general is very expensive. A combo meal at KFC or McDonald s will cost upwards of $10. Driving The Japanese drive on the left-hand side of the road, with their car s steering wheel on the right side of the vehicles. Modesto students are not allowed to drive while they are on this exchange. You must pay close attention when stepping off the curb into a busy street. Remember: In Japan you need to LOOK RIGHT FIRST for approaching cars. 10

11 Measurements The metric system is standard throughout the country. Electricity Current is 100 volts AC, 60 Hz in the west (Osaka, Kyoto), and 100 volts AC, 50 Hz in eastern Japan (Tokyo). Plugs are the flat two narrow blade style. The wide blade ones like our US style will not fit. Converters (UG-A) will work in Japan. These types of international converters have built-in protection for electronic devices (as opposed to plugging straight into the outlet or using a plug adapter. Weather Average temperatures in Kyoto for April are 45 F - 66 F. This is springtime in Japan. The 2010 Exchange had 70 F-80 F temps for the first part of the week, then rain the last two days with 50 F-60 F temps. Humidity averages 59% in April. Culture Most Japanese practice a combination of Buddhism and Shinto. Shinto is a pantheistic religion based on an ancient mythology stressing people s relationship to nature as well as honor, courage, loyalty, politeness, and reserve. Most Japanese families have small shrines in their homes dedicated to their ancestral spirits. Japanese society is ordered and group oriented. Cooperation is valued over assertiveness; individuals act for the benefit of the group, not themselves. An extensive system of etiquette, stressing sensitivity to others and self-control, fosters harmony. Confrontation is avoided. A direct no is seldom given, but phrases such as I will think about it can mean no. Yes may mean only that the person is listening or understands the speaker s request. Public criticism is avoided. Japan is still largely a male-dominated society. Men do not open doors for women or give up their seats to them because men always take precedence. On crowded trains, it is not unusual for women to be harassed. A few guidelines for acceptance in polite society: personal space is important, and people do not stand too close to each other in conversation (although people do commonly push and shove in crowded streets and subways). Eye contact may be viewed as an invasion of a personal space. Loud nose blowing is considered quite offensive, as is coughing. If you see someone with a handkerchief tied over their face, or a surgical type mask, they most likely have a cold and do this as a courtesy. In the spring people with allergies will often wear masks. Adults do not eat while walking outside. Students might consider making cards printed with your name, address, phone, and address to give to the new friends you will meet in Kyoto. They will certainly cherish them. Graphics printed on the cards are also nice. 11

12 Modesty in Dress The Japanese are a very modest people. It is very important that we respect this and observe a high standard of personal modesty in what we wear. Casual clothes that you would wear to school here are acceptable over there. A coat will likely come in handy in the evenings. A light coat that doubles as a rain coat (or outer shell) will really be useful if it rains. We usually have a few days of rain during our exchange, so be prepared. Clothing: What to Bring We will usually be in informal settings. Day trips and tours are casual and a time to be comfortable. We do LOTS of walking, so bring comfortable shoes. The number one thing that students comment on is that we seem to walk everywhere. (Something most US students are not accustomed to doing on a regular basis). Thin sandals or flip-flops, dressy shoes, shoes with high heels are a really bad choice. Comfortable shoes with socks are preferred for our outings. Bring shoes that are already broken in and that you can walk a long way in. NOTHING is worse than blisters, and we keep going, blisters or not. So pick out your shoes now and start breaking them in. You will need semi-formal clothing on the first two days at the school. The first day we will be greeting the new students and their families at the Entrance Ceremony. Remember, KG HS is an English Learning private high school. Their connection to the United States and Europe are keys to their student s success. It is an honor to be asked to welcome their new students to the school on this first day of the new school year. This ceremony is on a par with a graduation ceremony in the US and is very formal. Students can change into casual clothing before we leave the campus. The second day we are at the school we will participate in the Opening Ceremony. Two Modesto students, one male and one female, will give short speeches (in Japanese, if possible). This is when we will present the plaque commemorating our visit to Kyoto to their student representative. Students should have comfortable shoes for the rest of the day. 12

13 Clothing (continued)..... For the two formal ceremonies, students should wear nice clothes. Male students should wear ties and button up shirts. Suits and sports coats are preferred. Female students should wear a skirt or dress with appropriate footwear. After the ceremonies are completed, students will have a chance to change into casual clothes for the rest of the day. Depending on the weather, you might need a light coat, umbrella, in addition to a backpack or courier bag for touring the city of Kyoto. On both of these days we will be out touring and walking in the afternoons. Be sure you can adjust (take off jacket and ties) to be comfortable for the rest of the day. Temperatures and the weather can change over a few hours in Kyoto. 13

14 Getting Around Japan The ability to get your stuff to Japan, travel around Japan, and then return with everything you took and everything you bought while there is the toughest part of planning for the trip. An added challenge is that you will likely not have access to any laundry facilities while in Japan (unless your host family offers). Travel to/from U.S. and international destinations (excluding travel to/from Brazil) Cabin Class/Program Status Free Baggage Allowance Economy 2 First or Business 2 Global Services 1K Premier Executive Star Alliance Gold Active military personnel and/or dependants with ID and traveling on orders *linear measurement = length + width + height 3 3 duffel bags, sea bags or B-4 bags Max. weight per bag 50 lbs. (23 kg) 70 lbs. (32 kg) Max. baggage size 62 linear inches (158 linear cm)* 115 linear inches (292 linear cm) Fees for baggage more than 70 pounds (32 kg) or exceeding the maximum linear dimensions vary by destination. Contact United or your travel agent prior to your trip for details. These were the limitations on luggage from last year with United Airlines. While you are allowed two suitcases, it will be a major hassle to try to get them around by yourself unless they easily stack or attach to each other. Cars are also very small in Japan, as are their trunks. Try to get a bag as close to the allowable limits as possible for your main (and only) suitcase. (Check airline website for current limits). Pack a foldable duffle bag in your suitcase to carry on with you on your return trip for souvenirs and gifts. Also, and this is key, get a comfortable daypack or courier bag for your carry-on for both the plane and for travelling around Kyoto. You can keep your camera, ipod, handheld games, books, maps, snacks, etc. in these types of bags. This will allow you to have easy access to your personal items. Carry-on baggage for worldwide travel For worldwide travel on United, you may carry on one bag and one personal item such as a purse, briefcase or laptop computer. Your carry-on bag must meet the below criteria: must fit under your seat or in the overhead bin; should not be more than 9 x 14 x 22 in. (23 x 35 x 56 cm) (length x width x height) or 45 linear inches* (114 linear cm); and may be required to travel as checked baggage if the bag cannot be safely stowed on a particular flight. *linear measurement = length + width + height 14

15 How to Use a Japanese Toilet The Japanese style toilet is quite different from what you are probably used to. When using it, you don't sit down on it, but squat over it, facing the raised portion. In some ways, it can even be considered more sanitary than the western style toilet. However, if you are not used to the Japanese style, your legs can become tired, and it can be trying. This page is included as a public service! When in doubt, look for a Western Style Toilets sign at the public restroom. Don't worry though, most Japanese houses have a 'western style' toilet, and there are usually both kinds available on tours and in restaurants. All of the handicapped bathrooms are American style toilets. Most major department stores also have them. They are generally not on every floor so you must ask where they are. Don't worry - there is no penalty or law that prohibits using the handicapped toilet. And many Japanese, I am sure, will understand. You may also come across one of Japan's greatest inventions. Most homes have them. These toilets are western style, but have a panel of buttons on the side which have written instructions, (in Japanese, of course) or coded with little picture diagrams so you can figure out what to do (well, sort of). The first thing you will notice is the seat is cushioned and heated. By pushing a button, you might get splashing, dashing, spraying, hosing or a hot or cold puff of air. 15

16 No one has ever died or been maimed by pushing the buttons, and you can't break it (at least not easily). So give it a try...you might like it! A word of caution: Do not test the buttons while standing up! And a final word of caution. Check the temperature dial BEFORE using the toilet to avoid some uncomfortable scalding. Sitting the rest of the week will be difficult if the heat is set too high. 16

17 Japanese Cuisine Japan is an island. Islands are surrounded by water. Fish live in water. Sounds pretty simple, and simple and fresh are the key words in Japanese cuisine. In most American cooking, the focus is usually on convenience and food is often purchased at fast food restaurants, pre-packaged, canned or frozen foods to help with busy schedules. Most Japanese shop on a daily basis. They are very concerned about the freshness of the food they buy from fish to fruits and vegetables. You will rarely, if ever, see a family eating a Japanese version of "Hamburger Helper". To the Japanese each meal is an important part of their day. There is a beauty to the presentation of even the simplest Japanese meal. Zen Buddhism, Japan's predominant religion, guide Japanese cuisine through kaiseki, the Zen way of cooking, which embraces nature, harmony, and restraint. Most meals in Japan will begin with miso soup, a clear broth with cubes of tofu, mushrooms and rings of green onion. Usually it is served very hot. This is followed by a few slices of raw fish beautifully garnished and placed alone on a plate, a small dish of pickled cabbage, vegetables, salad and small portions of meat. This is the uncluttered art of Japanese cooking. Flavors are celebrated in their simplicity, unencumbered by heavy sauces or complex mixtures. Many foods are left raw or only slightly cooked to maintain and highlight their freshness. Rice, fish, and vegetables provide the base of most meals. The Japanese diet gets most of its protein from soybeans and seafood. Because of this, it is one of the healthiest in the world. Red meat is expensive, and will be used rarely in cooking. Meals are light and cooked with very little oil. The Japanese eat with chopsticks and drink soup directly from the bowl. A main course might be grilled fish, a salad, rice, soup, pickles and tea. The Japanese are very particular about their rice, eating only native grown, medium-grained rice. Noodles are extremely popular, with entire restaurants specializing in them. And you are expected to slurp your noodles loudly! Christian missionaries introduced tempura to Japan during the 16 t " century. Originally it was made with fried fish. Tempura consists of seafood and vegetables deep-fried in light oil until the batter becomes crusty. It is eaten with a soy sauce mixed with daikon radish. Tempura must be eaten hot. The most important thing to remember about Japanese cuisine is that it is very fresh and very clean. Though some things might seem strange at first, it is more in the preparation than the ingredients. The "stinky" smell that most Americans associate with fish is unheard of in Japan. Again "fresh" is the key here. Many Japanese have told me if you can smell a fish, "Don't eat it!" Remember you don't have to finish anything, but try everything! 17

18 Itadakimasu: (pronounced ee-tah-dah-kee-mahs) is said before every meal. Gochisosama: "It was a feast." This is said at the end of the meal to express one's gratitude JAPANESE BREAKFAST Traditional (rice, miso soup, grilled salmon, pickles, raw egg, seaweed, spinach) NOODLES Don't forget that you can make noise when you eat Japanese noodles. Don't be shy! Ramen - noodles in soy sauce flavor soup, pork, green onion, seaweed, boiled fish paste Kitsune Udon - thick noodles in soup, fried bean curd, green onion, spinach, boiled fish paste Tanuki Soba - thin noodles in soup, fried flour crust, spinach, boiled fish paste Zaru Soba - cold noodles with dipping sauce, green onion, wasabi SUSHI Nigiri-zushi with tuna, shrimp, squid, cucumber Chirashi-zushi - sliced raw fish and cooked egg over seasoned rice RICE DISHES Oyakodon (Oyako Domburi) - chicken, onion, and egg over rice Tendon (Tempura Domburi) - deep-fried shrimp and sauce over rice Katsudon (Katsu Domburi) - pork cutlet and egg over rice Kare Raisu - curry over rice SPECIAL DISHES Shabu Shabu - sliced beef simmered with tofu, shirataki noodles, assorted vegetables Unajyu - broiled eel and sauce over rice Tonkatsu Teishoku - pork cutlet, shredded cabbage, rice, miso soup OTHER FAVORITE DISHES Oden - variety of fish cakes, bean curd cubes, seaweed, hard-boiled egg in soup Yakitori - small chunks of chicken and vegetables grilled on skewers 18

19 Appropriate Gifts You will need gifts for your host family and small gifts to present to their friends and relatives when you meet them. The gifts don't have to be expensive, but should be tokens of friendship, which reflect you and the Modesto area. Make sure the gifts are from the Modesto area or American made. Sometimes this is the most difficult part of the purchase. Bring a small photo album filled with pictures of your family, your house (inside and out), pets, friends, etc. to leave with your host family. Be sure to label the pictures. A page or two with cut-n-paste scanned or digital pictures will suffice. This is also a good place to put your address and contact information where they will not lose it. Candy, chocolates Dried fruits, or dried mixed fruit and nut assortments Fruit bars, snack foods T-Shirts (Walgreen's has a supply of Modesto shirts.) Baseball hats or other sports team souvenirs, pencils Locally manufactured products Any type of nuts (almonds, walnuts, pistachios) Books, with pictures of California, San Francisco, Yosemite, American landmarks Magazines - fashion, home decorating, cars, motorcycles Small US-made stuffed animals for children Colorful kitchen towels/potholders/aprons/placemats Coffee - ground, especially with brand names indicating a California seal Homemade crafts BUT nothing fresh or perishable!! 19

20 Japanese Manners and Etiquette VERY IMPORTANT You ve already been told about taking off your shoes before entering a residence and not getting into a bath while still soapy. However, there are a lot more items you may not know. Japanese are very conscious about hygiene, and they are a very sensitive people, especially when it comes to etiquette and proper form. Unfortunately, many Japanese already have a negative image of westerners after observing how some have acted in Japan. Your actions have a profound impact on how others perceive you. As anywhere, many social customs are done away with when in the company of family and close friends, but for more formal situations, it can help a lot to remember these. Here are a few dos and don'ts you should know. Eating It is impolite to eat or drink something while walking down the street. Do not bite or clean your fingernails, gnaw on pencils, or lick your fingers in front of others. In restaurants, or when visiting, it is customary to use a small, moist rolled-up towel (cold in summer, hot in winter) called an "oshibori" to wipe your hands with. It's impolite to wipe the face and neck with it, though some do in less formal places. In Japan it is impolite to pour your own drink when eating with others. You pour your companion's drink and your companion pours yours. If you don't want any more to drink, leave your glass full. It's customary to say "Itadakimasu!" before eating and "Gochisosama deshita!" after eating, as well as "Kampai!" meaning Cheers! when a toast is made in a group. When sharing a platter of food, put what you want on your own plate before eating it. Do not make excessive special requests in the preparation of your food, and don t wolf down your meal. Do not use your chopsticks to skewer food, move dishes around, and NEVER dish out food to another using the same ends you just ate from. Use the opposite ends. Don't use your chopsticks to point at somebody. Don't leave your chopsticks standing up out of your food. Lay them on the plate. It is normal in Japan to pick up your rice or miso soup bowl and hold it under your chin to keep stuff from falling. Traditional Japanese food is served on several small plates, and it's normal to alternate between dishes instead of fully eating one dish after another. Don't leave a mess on your plate and always fold your napkins neatly when finished. Don't take wads of napkins, sugar packs, or steal "souvenirs" when you leave a restaurant. 20

21 Eating (continued) Do not put soy sauce on your rice. It isn't meant for that. Do not put sugar or cream in Japanese tea. There is no real custom like "help yourself". Wait until the host offers something. If you act as host, you should anticipate your guest's needs (cream/sugar, napkins, etc.). If you must use a toothpick, at least cover your mouth with your other hand. Be aware that in Japan it is normal to make slurping sounds when you're eating noodles. In Japan, it's good (in commercials, anyway) to make loud gulping noises when drinking. Expect to hear lots of it in ads. It is normal to pay a restaurant tab at the register instead of giving money to the waiter/waitress. Remember: There is no tipping in Japan. It's considered rude to count your change in a store or restaurant after paying the bill. However, the Japanese themselves do give it a cursory look-over. Everyday Living Thou shalt NOT BE LATE for appointments! NEVER! EVER! There is no custom of "Ladies First". Avoid excessive physical and eye contact! Forget the back-slapping, prodding, and pointing directly at someone with your finger. (Use your hand to point, if you must.) Japanese often use silence for communication as much as speaking. Do not chew gum when working, attending class or in other formal situations. When Japanese are scheduled to start work (or class) at 9 AM, they START at 9 AM. Avoid lots of jewelry or very colorful clothes when going to work or class. White-collar Japanese typically leave the office only after their superiors have done so. Do not expect someone to be instantly free once the official business hours are over. Exchanging business cards in formal introductions is common. You should extend your card to the other person with both hands, right side up to them (upside down to you). You receive cards with both hands also. Be sure to look at the card and not just pocket it. Never put it in your pants pocket and sit on it in front of them. It is polite to put "-san" after another's name, or "-chan" after a young girl s name, or put "-kun" after a boy's name. CAUTION: NEVER use these after your own name. Do not scream about why nobody speaks English, why there aren't five different varieties of a product you want, or why workplaces or restaurants are filled with chainsmokers. Avoid shouting loudly at someone to get their attention Just wave, or go up to them. If you have to blow your nose, leave the room, or at the very least, try to face away from other people. And always use a tissue--not a handkerchief! Don't wear tattered clothes in public, or socks with holes when visiting someone. On escalators, stay on the LEFT side if you plan to just stand and not climb them. Japan has no tradition of making sarcastic remarks to make a point, nor letting out "Bronx cheers" or flashing "the Finger". Avoid using them at all costs. 21

22 Everyday Living (continued) The Japanese gesture for "Who, me?" is pointing at their nose, not at their chest. The Japanese gesture for "Come here" is to hold your hand out palm down, and raise and lower your fingers a few times. (A bit like waving Bye, bye.) The western gesture of palm-up and closing your hand repeatedly is only used to call animals to you. The Japanese gesture for No is fanning the hand sideways a few times in front of your face. Japanese residences have thin walls and poor insulation. Don't blast your stereo, portable game system, or television. Don't wear your slippers into a tatami (straw) mat room. It's customary to sit on the floor in a tatami room (called "washitsu"). Don't wear your slippers into the genkan (at the entrance to a home, where the shoes are kept) nor outside. Don't wear the toilet room slippers outside of the toilet room. It's better to wear shoes that slip on easily when visiting someone. Japanese wear kimono or yukata (light summer kimono) with the left side over the right. The reverse is only for the dead at funerals. It's polite to initially refuse someone's offer of help. Japanese may also initially refuse your offer even if they really want it. Traditionally an offer is made three times. It may be better to state you'll carry their bag, call a taxi, etc., instead of pushing them to be polite and refuse. When they laugh, Japanese women often cover their mouths with their hand. This comes from an old Buddhist notion that showing bone is unclean, as well as a lack of orthodontics in Japan. If you're a woman, you have no obligation to copy this, but you will soon notice how frequently Japanese do this. It's polite to bring some food (gift-wrapped in more formal situations) or drinks when you visit someone. Gift giving is very important in Japan, but extravagant gifts require an equal or slightly higher extravagant gift in return. Avoid giving pricey gifts. Giving cash is normal for ceremonies like weddings and funerals. However, it is presented in special envelopes with a printed or real red tie around it. (These are available in stationary and convenience stores). Always use brand new bills. It's polite to downplay the value of your gift or food (if you are the host) when you offer it, even if it's blatantly untrue. In formal circumstances, it's impolite to unwrap a gift someone gives you as soon as you receive it. In casual situations, it's normal to ask the giver if it can be opened now. It's polite to see a guest to the door (or the front of a building even) when they leave. When someone visits, it s polite to turn their shoes around and put them together so they can be put on easily when the guest leaves. 22

23 Everyday Living (continued) This is an older custom, but in a home, the guest is usually seated facing the room entrance. The highest ranking host sits across from the guest. Again old, but in a car the highest ranking person sits behind the driver. The lowest one rides shotgun. When using taxis, the driver opens/closes the left rear door for you automatically. Japanese often compliment each other to promote good will, but it is polite to deny such compliments about how well you speak Japanese, how nice you look, etc. In Japan the whole family uses the same bath water. As a guest, you will probably be given the privilege of using the bath water first. Make sure you have showered first. Do NOT drain the water out after you have finished your bath! For Further Study If you wish to research the culture further, here are some websites you may find helpful: "YesJapan" is a very popular (almost cult-like) web-based Japanese learning service, and companion series of books. Rosetta Stone is a commercially available software series that is considerably more expensive than other commonly available language programs. 23

24 Words and Phrases Good morning -- Ohayo gozaimasu. Good afternoon (day) Konnichi wa. Good evening Komban wa. Good-bye Sayonara. Good night Oyasumi nasai. How are you? -- O genki desu ka? How do you do? Hajimemashite. Pleased to meet you -- Dozo yoroshiku. / Yoroshiku onegaishimasu. I am fine -- Hai, genki desu. And you? -- Anata wa? Thank you (very much) -- Domo arigato gozaimasu. You're welcome -- Do itashimashite. Say! Listen! (to get attention) Chotto sumimasen! Excuse me (to get attention) -- Sumimasen. Excuse me (pardon me) -- Gomen nasai! / Shitsurei shimasu! I am sorry -- Gomen nasai. Please (when offering something) Dozo. Please (when requesting something) Onegasishimasu. Please show me -- Misete kudasai. Please write it -- Kaite kudasai. Let's go! lkimasho! Do you speak English? -- Eigo o hanashimasu ka? Yes, I speak a little -- Hai, sukoshi. 24

25 Words and Phrases (continued) Do you understand? -- Wakarimasu ka? Yes, I understand -- Hai, wakarimasu. Oh, I see-- Ah soo desu ka. No, I don't understand -- lie, wakarimasen. What is your name? -- Anata no namae wa? My name is -- Watashi no namae wa desu. Where is it? -- Doko desu ka? What time is it? -- Nanji desu ka? How much is it? -- Ikura desu ka? No, thank you lie, kekko desu. Do you like it? -- Suki desu ka? I like it -- Suki desu. I don't like it Suki ja arimasen. It's beautiful -- Kirei. Hello (on the telephone only) Moshi moshi! Let me see -- So desu ne. Welcome! Irrasshaimase! Where is the toilet? -- Toire wa doko desu ka? A lot / plenty Takusan. A little Sukoshi. Why? -- Naze desu ka. When? -- Itsu desu ka. Help! Tasukete! 25

26 Words and Phrases (continued) Watch out! -- Abunai! I'm sick-- Byoki desu. It's all right -- Daijobu desu. Cheap -- Yasui Cold -- Samui [weather] or Tsumetai [beverages] Hot -- Atsui Child -- Kodomo Good Yoi / Ii Woman Onna no hito Man Otoko no hito Money -- Okane New -- Atarashii Old Furui Room -- Heya Stamp -- Kitte Store Mise Tea (green) -- Ocha Water Omizu Small -- Chiisai Large Ohkii 26

27 Numbers 一 one ichi / hitotsu 六 six roku / muttsu 二 two ni / futatsu 七 seven shichi / nanatsu 三 three san / mittsu 八 eight hachi / yattsu 四 four - shi / yottsu 九 nine kyu / kokonotsu 五 five - go / itsutsu 十 ten jyu / toh 27

28 Useful Kanji Symbols and Signs 入 = Enter 出 = Exit 男 = Men 女 = Woman Restroom Stop Online Japanese Language Study Materials 28

29 Kyoto Exchange Information Contacts: Blogs: PacRimX Exchange Coordinator and Chaperone: Stan Trevena, Director, Information and Technology Services Chaperone, Funding Department for PacRimX Program Scott Kuykendall, Director, ROP Phone: (active while in Kyoto on exchange for emergency contact) Chaperone and Multimedia Summer School Teacher: John Scott, Teacher, Downey High School Multimedia Summer School Teacher (standby Chaperone): Brad Cornwell, Teacher, Johansen High School Pacific Rim Exchange Blog: Skoolaborate: District Website: Kyoto Exchange 2011 District Website Critical resource for both parents and students, bookmark and visit often: Username: monet\pacrimx Password: kyoto

30 Skoolaborate and PacRimX Projects The students going on this exchange program will start their participation in the PacRimX Project in October. This is a virtual foreign exchange program exclusively with Kyoto Gakuen High School. We have planned activities all through the year leading up to the Spring Break Exchange. These activities are both online in Second Life and live over video conferences. In December we have a live gift exchange for Christmas. By participating in this project, students become familiar with their Japanese counterparts. They participate in language learning activities with students from KG HS. And students from KG HS are able to practice their English with native speakers from Modesto. By the time the trip gets here, they know many of the students. The PacRimX Project joined up with Skoolaborate in Skoolaborate is based in Australia and has over 40 schools and districts from around the globe participating in online virtual projects that are educational and socially based. This project has been written up by NASA and the George Lucas Educational Foundation. Students are required to participate in planned activities throughout the year with the Kyoto students. They will be given a login id and password to access the Skoolaborate properties on Teen Second Life. The islands are online 24 x 7. Scheduled events are announced well in advance. 30

31 Kyoto Exchange May 2013 Reservation Form In order to reserve a place on the PacRimX Kyoto Exchange May 2013 you need to submit this form and $300 for your deposit. Priority is given to students currently participating in the Japanese Language Program at Turlock High School.. Once you put your deposit down, you will be confirmed for your place on the trip and provided an Airlines Reservation Form. This form will give you the flight numbers, dates and times so you can purchase your ticket online or directly from the airline. We do this to reduce the cost of acquiring the tickets, to allow for the usage of mileage credits, and to give parents flexibility in how they pay for their tickets. Please complete the below information and return it to either Mr. Foote at Turlock High School. Student Name Student ID Number Parent Name(s) Home Phone Home Address Parent(s) address Parent(s) Cell Phone Student address Student Cell Phone ( ) CASH ( ) Check# Coordinator Signature for Deposit Received 31 Date Received

32 Student Agreement Skoolaborate Project Skoolaborate is a place where all students should feel welcomed. As with other online communities, this means establishing a few basic rules of conduct. All Residents of Skoolaborate are responsible for knowing and understanding the rules of the project. Information about this project can be found at our blog: Once a student account is created, access will be granted to the Skoolaborate Project Wiki: ( Intent: The basic understanding for participating in Skoolaborate is that we are all there to learn from each other in a safe and supportive environment. If you do not agree with the terms we have listed, please see your coordinating teacher. If you perform actions that are against the intent of these agreed understandings, we may deactivate your account or reduce your level of privileges. You will then need to justify your action to your coordination teacher. Each school will enact their own disciplinary procedures. 1. Respect your fellow residents. You should never use bullying, derogatory or demeaning language, images, or actions against another resident because of their race, ethnicity, nationality, gender, religion, sexual preference, or disability. This includes 'trapping' residents or restraining them against their will. 2. Stay Anonymous. Always use your avatar name when posting to the Internet. This goes for the forums on the Second Life website, school based blogs, and any other public postings. 3. Keep your password to yourself. The Skoolaborate Island is a private island on the Teen grid of Second Life. The only people allowed on the island are students who have been approved for participation, and adults who facilitate the program. All adults have been through extensive background checks. Unauthorized access to a student account by any other person may result in immediate termination of your access. Under no circumstances should you allow another person to use your avatar, or should you use another person s avatar. 4. Respect resident s privacy. Remotely monitoring conversations, posting conversation logs, or sharing conversation logs without consent of those involved are all prohibited in Teen Second Life and on Skoolaborate. 5. Keep it clean. All content, communication, and behavior in Teen Second Life should follow PG guidelines. This means no strong vulgar language or expletives, no nudity or sexual content, and no depictions of sex or strong violence. Remember, this rule also applies to your texture uploads, groups, events and forum/blog posts as well. 32

33 Student Agreement Skoolaborate Project Page Two 6. Be supportive and encouraging. You should never communicate or behave in an offensive, intimidating, or threatening way toward another Resident or group of Residents. 7. Keep the Peace and respect learning. Do not disturb scheduled events or deliberately disturb the technical functionality of the site. 8. Report Abuse. If you feel that you have been abused while on Skoolaborate, you need to report the specifics to your school coordinator. 9. Building. We encourage visitors to explore the islands, and as they do so, to respect the many hours of work that went into conceptualizing, designing, and building them. As such, visitors are asked to limit all building and rezzing activity to the Sandbox areas that have been created expressly for that purpose. All structures, furniture, artworks, sculptures, plants, and other elements found outside these areas are not to be edited or modified in any way. You may build or create (rez) any G-rated object you like in the Sandboxes, but please practice good Sandbox etiquette and return your creations to your personal inventory before you log off. 10. Classrooms are made for all to use. Once again it is expected that members will clean up after using classrooms, and put their items away. If it is necessary to use the space for an extended period, just let other members know how long you will need the room for. Please do not keep items in the room if you do not intend on using them within a few days. 11. Balance. Students need to balance their time spent on the island with their other commitments such as homework, projects, work and life in general. It can be easy to lose track of time in these virtual worlds. Make productive use of your time on the islands, and do not let it take away from your real world responsibilities. 12. Other. Anything deemed inappropriate by school personnel, but not specifically covered above, could also result in termination of access to the island. 33

34 Student Use Agreement Skoolaborate Project School Year In order to participate in Skoolaborate, students need to read, understand and agree to the rules of conduct listed in this document. Violation of any of these rules can result in being suspended or removed permanently from the project. A student must sign this agreement, and return it to the teacher who invited them to participate in this project before they are given access to the project s virtual world. At least one parent must also sign and date this agreement. Students will not be allowed to participate if their parents do not agree to their participation. Please print clearly and legibly. I,, have read and understand the rules of student full name conduct for participation in the Skoolaborate project. If I violate any of these rules of conduct, I understand that I will lose my access to Skoolaborate. I also understand that my participation in this project is for a non-specific period of time, and that anything that I create or build, including my avatar, are not transferrable outside of Skoolaborate. By signing this agreement, I am agreeing to be held to these rules of conduct for this project. Student Signature Date of Birth address (must not be linked to another Second Life account) Avatar First Name Student ID# Parent Signature Date 34

35 Short-Term Independent Study This trip is not scheduled to fall during a school break this year. While this has been the case, this year it is not. Students participating in this exchange will be out of school form May 2nd until May 11th. Kyoto Gakuen High School is a private English learning high school. This exchange program is a key component of the education offered at Kyoto Gakuen High School. The students will resume classes at Turlock High on May 13th. Their homework for Independent Study will be due on their return. All students will work out arrangements for completing school work with their teachers individually. Short Term Independent Study is coordinated through Ms. Sandra Blair in the THS counseling office. It is HIGHLY recommended that they take some work with them to Japan. The flights are over ten hours long, and their host students will have homework each night after school. Students must be able to balance their studies and activities during this trip if they are to keep up with their school work and not fall behind. 35