My once-in-a-lifetime encounter with Japan

Ateneo de Manila Junior High School’s International Study Trip Program (ISTP) in Japan took place from 26 May to 3 June 2025. The AJHS contingent was composed of 21 students, two teachers, two agency officials, and one tour guide, for a total of 26 participants. This article recounts the experiences and discoveries of recent AJHS completer Aegean Nakila (10-Rodrigues, Class of 2025). 

一期一会 (ichi-go ichi-e) – “Once in a lifetime encounter.” This beautiful Japanese proverb was introduced to us by Ms Reina, the instructor of our traditional Tea Ceremony in Kyoto. It emphasizes the importance of cherishing every moment and encounter, as each one is unique and will never happen again in quite the same way. This idea resonated deeply with us throughout our study trip, as we immersed ourselves in Japan’s rich history, culture, and way of life. Through every activity and experience, we not only grew closer to one another but also deepened our connection with Japan.

Our ISTP began with a visit to Hiroshima Gakuin Junior & Senior High School. During our two-day visit to the academy, we participated in class exchanges, the commemoration of their school’s history, cultural activities, and meaningful conversations. The Japanese students energetically welcomed us with warmth and enthusiasm, sharing their school life marked by discipline, cleanliness, and goodwill. We also witnessed firsthand how their students are also “men for others,” a value both our schools share.

Afterward, we visited the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, a solemn site that honors the victims of the atomic bombing in World War II and serves as a symbol of peace and hope for a future without war. The Peace Memorial Museum, though frightening and emotional due to the graphic images and testimonies on display, offered us a powerful lesson about the horrors of war and the need to strive for world peace.

While in Osaka, we attended the Osaka Expo 2025, a global event with the theme “Designing Future Society for Our Lives.” The expo featured groundbreaking innovations and technologies from various countries. After visiting the European Union Pavilion and International Organizations Pavilion, we had lunch and then split into two groups to explore more exhibits. Each pavilion gave us insights into how different nations, cultures, and organizations are working to make the world better, and we engaged with each one with curiosity and open minds.

Aside from the Peace Memorial Museum, we also visited Hiroshima Castle, the iconic Itsukushima Jinja Shrine on Miyajima Island, and even had the opportunity to make our own okonomiyaki. In Osaka, aside from the Expo, we explored the bustling Kuromon Market, experienced the vibrant energy of Dotonbori, and even made fake food out of plastic.

In Kyoto, we learned about traditional Japanese culture and history at the Samurai and Ninja Museum and the Kyoto Railway Museum, before experiencing the elegance of the traditional tea ceremony, where we first heard the phrase ichi-go ichi-e. Finally, in Nara, we made sumi (ink) sticks, observed the deer at Nara Park, and marveled at the grandeur of Todaiji Temple.

Ultimately, this study program gifted us with unforgettable memories of Japan, each one unique and deeply meaningful. Each moment, whether grand or simple, reflected the spirit of ichi-go ichi-e—reminding us to savor every experience and treat each one as precious and sacred. We returned to the Philippines not only filled with awe and appreciation for Japan’s amazing scenery and culture but also with a renewed appreciation for life’s everyday wonders.