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July 24, 2002

The Theisen group returns from their rich and rewarding time with the faculty, students, and host families of Hosen Gakuen (Tokyo Prefecture). During their time in Kyoto, they will be guided by Yuko Tajima. After dancing the night away during the Bon Festival in Higashi Kanamachi and being spoiled by their hosts, the St. Maria group is ready to explore the Kyoto environs with volunteer, Tajima-san. The Arlington group, featured in the last issue participating in the Suika Wari (Watermelon bash), returned from a heartwarming time with new friends and family in Fukuoka Jo Gakuin (Fukuoka Prefecture.) To make their way eastward, they were guided by volunteer Naoko Kohii. Since Hiroshima was on the way, the group stopped off to visit the Peace Park and Museum. This is Ms. Takayabu, the Kansai tour specialist, who provides detailed bus and train schudules as well as maps to enable each group to travel efficiently from site to site.

Theisen waits in line for a Japanese style buffet breakfast. The woman on the left, Kaori Hisada, will be Theisen's guide during the last two days of their stay in Kyoto. Janesville Craig walk around the vicintiy of Rihga Royal Hotel stopping at various spots that are not commonly found in the United States. Students and teachers discuss what these items might be. Here the group discusses the reason for the spread of Jodo sect of Buddhism. Behind us is the main temple of this sect. Parents, ask these students why this sect attracted a large following. If they remember, let me know! The sign on the right is the entrance to a French confectionary shop...breakfast here tomorrow?