At the end of May, pupils from the Geography Department embarked on Rugby School Japan’s first three-day academic residential trip – an enriching and memorable journey through the Tōhoku region. Travelling from Fukushima to Kesennuma, the group explored the geographical and human impact of the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake and tsunami, combining academic enquiry with cultural immersion and quiet moments of reflection. The following are some highlights from each day:
Day One: Lessons from Disaster and Recovery
Our journey began at the TEPCO Nuclear Power Plant Archive Centre, where pupils watched powerful footage and learned about the dramatic and difficult decisions made in the wake of the 2011 disaster. It was an eye-opening experience that prompted thoughtful discussion among pupils about the balance between risk, energy policy, and community safety.
The next stop was UKEDO Elementary School, now preserved as a memorial site. Though destroyed by the tsunami, it stood as a powerful reminder of resilience: the entire school population managed to evacuate in under five minutes. Pupils were visibly moved by the story, and the visit left a lasting impression about the importance of disaster preparedness.
The day concluded with a celebratory barbecue dinner featuring local Sendai produce, an evening of food, laughter, and a welcome chance to relax after a thought-provoking day.
Day Two: Remembering the Past, Embracing the Present
After a traditional Japanese breakfast, our pupils travelled to the Iwate Tsunami Memorial in Rikuzen-Takata. This visit offered a sobering perspective on the immense scale of the tragedy, grounding our academic exploration in the real human stories behind the headlines.
In Kesennuma, the Kōyō High School Memorial presented a moving account of students who carried on with their graduation just days after the disaster – despite many having suffered immense personal loss. Watching this story unfold on film brought tears to several eyes and sparked conversations about community, strength, and recovery.
Lunchtime offered a change of pace with a visit to a family-run ramen shop, where pupils enjoyed homemade bowls of comfort and warmth. A stop at Umi no Ichi market followed, where students picked up souvenirs and sampled local delicacies.
In the afternoon, pupils were treated to a private river cruise through the breathtaking Geibikei Gorge, an experience that was equal parts peaceful and magical. Adding to the joy, the region’s top traditional singer performed live on board, and pupils enthusiastically joined in singing. We also celebrated Kosei’s birthday in style, complete with a singalong and riverside cheer.
The day closed with a dinner of tempura and sashimi, followed by a lively geography quiz led by one of our Year 12 pupils. The combination of learning and laughter truly captured the spirit of the day.
Day Three: Cultural Exploration and Final Reflections
Our final morning began with a peaceful visit to the Godaido Hall of Zuiganji Temple, followed by a scenic boat cruise along the stunning Matsushima coastline – known as one of the “Three Views of Japan.” The natural beauty of the area offered a fitting moment of serenity and wonder.
We then explored the moss-covered Zuiganji Temple itself, where pupils took great interest in both the ancient architecture and its tranquil surroundings. Lunch followed nearby, where some pupils embraced adventure and sampled Sendai’s famous beef tongue: a meal that divided opinion!
The trip concluded with a visit to an observatory in Sendai City, providing panoramic views across the cityscape and a final moment to reflect on all they had seen and learned.
Throughout the journey, pupils represented Rugby School Japan with distinction. Their curiosity, maturity, and kindness were evident at every step, and the staff were immensely proud of the way they engaged with each moment. This trip will undoubtedly remain a meaningful chapter in their RSJ journey – one shaped by learning, connection, and the enduring spirit of Tōhoku.
We at RSJ, are deeply grateful to everyone who helped make this experience possible, especially Ms Sophie Nicholls and Mr Andrew Roe, who co-led the trip. It was a privilege to see our pupils deepen their understanding of the world, growing not only in geographical insight, but also in empathy, resilience, and confidence.
