03 Dec Sinar Cendekia School Exchange Program 2024 in Okayama
Okayama continues to strengthen its reputation as a welcoming destination for Muslim travelers by hosting an educational exchange program for Indonesian students from Sinar Cendekia School. Held from November 13th to 15th, 2024, in collaboration with Okayama Gakugeikan High School, this three-day exchange program is designed not only to promote cross-cultural learning between the two countries, but also to offer a Muslim-friendly experience in Okayama.
The first day of the exchange program began with a university visit at the Okayama University offering early insights into Japan’s academic life and culture.
Still within the day, the students traveled to Okayama Gakugeikan High School where they received a heartfelt welcome ceremony and were greeted by their Japanese peers. This welcoming ceremony set the tone for a series of engaging and educational activities in the future between the Indonesian and Japanese students.
To end their first day, still in Gakugeikan’s International hall, the exchange students were introduced to the local host families who hosted the students during their stay, to deepen the cultural immersion and friendship.
On the second day of the three-day exchange program, the students participated in regular Japanese school life, joining activities such as Physical Education classes and Dancing Exercise (Meidou-kan) in the morning. Later, their activities followed with learning the calming Japanese tea ceremony and a scheduled prayer time before they got their lunch.
For lunch, Sinar Cendekia’s students are welcomed once again with a very welcoming Muslim-friendly lunch prepared by Gakugeikan High School. This thoughtful inclusion reflects Okayama’s commitment to Muslim-friendly tourism and education.
After eating their lunch, the second day itinerary continues with cultural exchanges between the two countries, which includes learning Japanese calligraphy (shodō) and Wadaiko (Japanese drumming; both activities showcase the richness of Japanese local culture.
On Sinar Cendekia’s third and final day, the students come back once again to Okayama Gakugeikan High School to have their final session, English Communication with Nichol-sensei, as well as having their closing ceremony to end the exchange program.
This educational exchange program not only deepens mutual understanding between Japan and Indonesia but also underscores Okayama’s role as a culturally inclusive destination.
To conclude Sinar Cendekia’s exchange program on November 15th, the program extended beyond the classroom. They visited the famous Okayama Korakuen Garden and Okayama Castle. Korakuen Garden is one of the three most magical and mesmerizing traditional gardens in Japan. The serene beauty of this garden left a lasting impression and a refreshing journey full of learning and discovery.
All of the Sinar Cendikia’s students got their free time strolling around the garden and even got the time to rest and have a little picnic, photo times, as well as buying some local snacks and food from the stalls in the garden.
Still within the same area, they also visit the iconic black-jet Okayama Castle as well as learn the Japanese tradition and cultures. In addition to that, some of the students are also able to try Japanese’s samurai clothes and act like one.
Before their exchange trip in Okayama ended, after a whole day full of activities, the students also got to enjoy their last Muslim-friendly meals in Milenga, Okayama. This restaurant is known for their authentic Indian home-style food that are certified by the Halal certificate Institute in India, which ensures that the food prepared is in accordance with Islamic law and is suitable for Muslim.
Their exchange program in Okayama may end, but it serves not only as a platform to deepen mutual understanding between Japan and Indonesia but also to highlight Okayama’s role as a culturally inclusive destination. As Japan prepares for more inbound travel and international events in 2025, initiatives like these set a strong example for how cities can be both globally connected and culturally open.
Okayama is ready to welcome more Muslim visitors and students, paving the way for meaningful global exchanges built on respect, learning, and friendship.
If you want to know more about Okayama and its Muslim-friendly destination, please visit the following URL: https://okayamahealthtourism.com/
For more information about other exchange programs in Okayama, visit:
- STUDY TOUR REPORT: CEMPAKA INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL
- STUDY TOUR REPORT: SINAR CENDEKIA ISLAMAIC SCHOOL