Thursina IIBS Students Journeyed to Japan in a Culturally Immersive Overseas Visit Program
Students of Thursina International Islamic Boarding School (IIBS) embarked on a cultural journey to Japan as part of the Overseas Visit program to widen their horizons. From February 26 to March 2, 2024, these students immersed themselves in Japanese culture while also exploring the beauty of Islamic tradition and heritage there.
Ustadz Qoirul Mansur Darajat, M. Pd., said that this trip to the land of the rising sun wasn’t just about exploring a new land, but it was to give an unforgettable learning experience with a worldly atmosphere.
“Once they land in Japan, without wasting too much time, they started exploring downtown Tokyo, with a visit to Asakusa, followed by a spiritual moment at the Assalami Masjid in the Taito District of Tokyo. The journey continued with a delicious lunch in Odaiba, before they took a stroll along the busy streets of Harajuku. The day wrapped up with a night in the hotel where a warm dinner awaited them,” Ustadz Qoirul recounted.
On February 27, the day began with a congregational Fajr prayer in the morning, setting a serene tone for the rest of the day. After breakfast, the group headed to the Solamachi Tokyo Skytree to feast their eyes on the magnificent Tokyo landscape from one of its tallest structures. Then, a halal lunch greeted them after a morning of exploration at the Muslim Hanten. Afterwards, they went down to Shibuya to get lost in the sparkling atmosphere of a glamorous Tokyo evening. As the day grew late, they went back to the hotel for a restful and relaxing night.
On the third day, the agenda continued with a trip beyond Tokyo city limits, where they explored the enchanting landscape of Fujiten Snow Resort and immersed themselves in the tranquility of Kawaguchiko Masjid. A delectable bento box accompanied their subsequent journey to the Yamanashi Gakuin Kotou Gakkou before they wrapped up the day with a little retail therapy at the Gotemba Premium Outlet. Back at the hotel, they gathered for a calm dinner, their bonds forever strengthened by the past few days that they have shared.
During this trip, the students also had the opportunity to visit the Yamanushi Gakuin High School, where they got to experience learning alongside their Japanese peers.
The Overseas Visits program not only broadens the perspectives of students from Thursina IIBS but also serves as proof of the power of cultural exchange in strengthening mutual understanding and respect across borders.