Choir and band students from New Westminster Secondary School will be saying Konnichiwa to Japan in March.
A total of 89 students will be travelling to Moriguchi City, Japan, through a cultural exchange program from March 12 to 21.
In a press release, the school says the trip marks a significant milestone in the sister city relationship between the two cities which started in 1963.
New West students haven't been to Moriguchi City since the 1980s, according to director of bands Steve Clements, who has been teaching band at New Westminster Secondary for 24 years.
"The trips provide the students with a chance to see the globe together, and have a memorable bonding experience doing that," he told The Record, noting it also allows the group "to experience diverse musical cultures."
"This form of travel fosters camaraderie and teamwork among students, strengthening their bonds and overall group dynamics, but it also gives them a chance to learn about the greater world around them," said Clements.
Clements added it's what he loves to see: students learning and interacting while having fun outside of their traditional comfort zones.
During the trip, students will engage in collaborative rehearsals, social events with local youth musicians and a group concert in Moriguchi.
Clements said the group is working on a couple of Japanese pieces that they will perform during their stay.
The students are planning on bringing a collection of Canadian folk songs to play with the Japanese students.
In addition to performing, students will have a chance to explore iconic sites, including Asaka Castle and Kyoto, Universal Studios and the Ramen Museum, the areas of Dotonbori and Kuromon, Hiroshima Peace Park and the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Miyajima.
