Cuisine, culture on the menu for students visiting Japan

CV’s Culinary Arts class is off on a trip to Japan this summer.

Culinary Arts teacher Marcellus Waller has organized a trip to Japan for his culinary students and a few others, to experience and learn all that Japan has to offer in a culinary  and cultural aspect. The trip will last a total of 10 days, from June 5-14. 

The journey will begin in Kyoto and then head to Osaka, Hakone and finally end in Tokyo.

When visiting so many destinations in Japan, what does transport look like, especially with a big group of students, teachers and family?

“We have buses in Kyoto and Osaka, and then from Osaka to Hakone we’re taking a bullet train, which is gonna be cool. And then from Hakone to Osaka we’re taking another bullet train,” said Waller.

Students attending will be exposed to numerous new foods and culture. Traveling to another country is quite the accomplishment and in doing so there are many opportunities to learn new and unique things. 

Waller explained what he hopes students take away from the trip.

“International wherewithal, to be able to travel outside the country on their own, or with family, to a new place, and experience not only the culture but the cuisine that's local to the specific area.”

Culinary Arts teacher Marcellus Waller (center), will take 13 students on a summer trip to Japan. Among those going are freshman Kenny Harrington and senior Zachary Smith (seated left), and freshman Thalia Morris and sophomore Piper Hanlon (seated right). Photo by Lucy Weber/Talon staff

Students attending also shared their thoughts on what they are anticipating on this trip.

“Im just excited to see the culture and see how us, as like America differ. Just seeing something outside of my everyday life and especially in a new country, it's just going to be so cool,” said freshman Thalia Morris.

With that, this trip is an accomplishment in itself, especially with most of the 13 students traveling without their parents.

“That’s gonna be something new for them,” Waller said. “Hopefully they develop some tougher skin, going to a different country on their own, hanging out with friends, and interacting with different cultures, and being forced to learn new languages and interact with people who are unlike them.” 

When it comes to what language looks like in Japan, what are students worried about? Perhaps a language barrier, being misinterpreted?

“I’ve been trying to learn it for a minute, but I'm not really concerned about the language barrier,” said sophomore Piper Hanlon. “I think body language is enough.”

With little concerns from the students regarding the trip and much to be excited for, Culinary’s trip to Japan is on track to success.