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July 23, 2001

Lindbergh High School group begins Tokyo explorations Hmmm, what CDs should I record on my new MD Player?

Final Days in Japan Japanese language students and teachers returned to hotel life after spending eight days with host families from as far south as Fukuoka and as far north as Sendai. As in past NP:J years, the host family portion of the two week trip rates as the most rewarding portion of the trip. While students experienced challenging moments dealing with communication to food during this time, the students always found something within themselves to meet the challenges. Arriving in Tokyo, groups immediately took the opportunity to explore Japanese contemporary urban life with a bit of traditional Japan mixed in. On Sunday, each of the NP:J groups continued their Tokyo area excursions, completing their study day activities as well as making final omiyage (gift) purchases for family members and friends. The day turned out to be a scorcher, bringing some groups back to the hotel in the late afternoon for a quick shower before heading back out into the heat. Others took refuge in very well air conditioned restaurants. Sunday evening became a late one for many as they tried various permutations of luggage packing techniques to fit all they had acquired during the two week trip. Participants sleepily woke to a busy Monday morning, some going to Tsukiji Fish Market at 5:00 am before beginning the process of checking out of the Shiba Park Hotel. At 7:00 am, the bus drivers strategically loaded the luggage onto the buses and the group was whisked off to Narita Airport. All agreed that the past two weeks were filled with lots of fun, learning, and new friends. It is amazing that so much has been accomplished in such a short time. It has been a pleasure for the NP:J staff to witness the growth of the students as they adapted and adjusted to a new culture and to hear their self discoveries. This was a group of very extraordinary students guided by equally exceptional teachers. This issue concludes the 2001 NP:J year. Thank you for visiting this site and please join us again in the Summer of 2002 for a new round of adventures! Sabrina, is that a new electronic gadget?