English Language Trip: Yokohama

Ten students participated in a two-day, one-night training program in Yokohama, accompanied by two native English-speaking instructors. The theme of the program was to learn how Yokohama became the “birthplace of modern Japan” after the late 19th century, when foreigners began to settle there. A major objective was also to provide an opportunity to use English in a relaxed atmosphere.

On the first day, the students began by learning that Yokohama was the first port in Japan opened for foreign trade. On the way to the port, they also learned about the Japan Herald, Japan’s first daily newspaper, and the fact that Japan’s first English-language newspaper was published in Yokohama.

Afterward, the students visited the Hikawa Maru, a passenger and cargo ship that once connected Japan and Seattle.

Next, we visited Yamashita Park. Here, we saw monuments donated by cities around the world with ties to Yokohama, such as the “Water Guardian” and the “Girl Scout Statue,” as well as beautiful gardens. Yamashita Park is also known as one of Japan’s first Western-style parks.

Afterward, we took a leisurely stroll through the Yamate district, which developed as a foreign settlement. This historic area still retains Western-style buildings, churches, and cemeteries from the Meiji and Taisho periods. The students were able to tour the interiors of the Diplomat’s House and the Catholic Yamate Church.

In the evening, we went to Chinatown. Yokohama Chinatown is the first and largest Chinatown in Japan, and the students enjoyed sampling various authentic flavors while strolling around and eating.

On the second day, feeling tired from the previous day, we started with a leisurely breakfast at the hotel. Afterward, we headed to World Porters, where we enjoyed shops and gourmet food influenced by international cultures. For lunch, we tried dishes from around the world, including Middle Eastern falafel, Thai pho, and Brazilian black bean dishes.

In the afternoon, we visited the Red Brick Warehouse, which was formerly used as a ship inspection facility. Currently, it’s a popular tourist spot in Yokohama, a bustling cultural hub attracting many visitors.

Despite the light rain, we strolled around Osanbashi Pier and headed to our final destination, Shin-Yokohama. Our trip concluded at the Ramen Museum. There, we learned about the history and culture of ramen, and enjoyed a space recreating the streetscape of 1958 (the year instant ramen was invented), feeling as if we had traveled back in time.

Throughout the two days, the students gained valuable opportunities to practice English while experiencing Yokohama’s history and culture. It was a fulfilling training program packed with learning and experiences.