Ka Leo Alakaʻi o Waikīkī

November 19, 2024

Aloha from Japan!

Dear Waikiki School Ohana:

We are thrilled to share highlights from the recent trip to Japan, where nine of our 4th-grade students had the honor of visiting Gifu University Affiliated Elementary School. This incredible opportunity allowed our students to deepen their understanding of Japanese culture while sharing the beauty of Hawaiian traditions.

During the visit, our students showcased Hawaiian culture by performing a heartfelt "Kaimana Hila" hula and an original oli (chant). In return, the Japanese students delighted us with a traditional dance and several musical performances. This cultural exchange was a beautiful reminder of the universal power of music and movement to bring people together.

Beyond performances, the students participated in hands-on activities that fostered creativity and cross-cultural appreciation. They crafted intricate origami, practiced Japanese calligraphy, played the traditional koto instrument, and enjoyed traditional cultural games. The visit also included a p4c (Philosophy for Children) session, with deep discussions around two intriguing questions:

What is the nature of wild animals, and how should humankind interact with them?
What are the similarities and differences between Japanese and Hawaiian culture?

The trip extended beyond the classroom, offering students the chance to visit culturally and historically significant sites, including the UNESCO World Heritage Site Shirakawa-go, the historic streets of Takayama, and the charming town of Guji Hachiman.

This transformative experience was made possible through the generous sponsorship of the Uehiro Foundation on Ethics and Education, a devoted supporter of p4c worldwide. We extend our heartfelt mahalo to Ms. Nannette Ganotisi, Ms. Eileen Carr, Ms. Amy Wada and Ms. Erin Young, whose dedication in planning and execution ensured this opportunity became a reality.

Looking ahead, Waikiki School eagerly anticipates welcoming students from Gifu University Affiliated Elementary School in August 2025, where we will continue to build bridges of friendship and understanding.

Sincerely,

Mr. Kusuda