These school holidays, 10 students from St Raphael’s Catholic School, together with Principal Michelle Deschamps, and LOTE Teacher Tamatha Olbourne, are embarking on the adventure of a lifetime, flying out of Sydney International Airport on their whirlwind 16-day tour of Japan.

The group will soon return home, carrying with them memories and friendships that will last a lifetime.

Their journey so far has taken them across the country on Japan’s famous bullet trains, including a visit to Hiroshima.

There, students explored Miyajima Island, admired the iconic Itsukushima Shrine torii gates rising from the water, and reflected at the A-Bomb Peace Park and Museum and gaining a deeper understanding of the devastation faced by the people of Hiroshima during World War II.

The adventure has also included Kyoto, with its breathtaking temples and historic castles, a favourite being the Golden Pavilion, Kinkaku-ji Temple.

The striking temple, lavishly covered in gold leaf, was a visual highlight and made for a great backdrop in many of the selfies sent home!

This annual cultural exchange for St Raph's Stage 5 & 6 students is an extraordinary cultural and educational experience for all involved, broadening horizons and fostering international friendships.

St Raphael’s looks forward to welcoming the group home safely, with stories and lessons they will treasure forever.