Grade 3 Field Trip Reflection: Sinmeigu Shrine and Jyouuji Temple

Our Grade 3 class went on a special field trip to two important places in our local community—Sinmeigu Shrine and Jyouuji Temple. This was part of our unit on cultural identity and beliefs. First, we walked to Sinmeigu Shrine, where we were warmly welcomed by the priest. Then we got a lift to Jyouuji Temple to meet the monk. At both places, students asked the same interview questions. We were curious to learn how each place helps their community, what traditions they follow, and what the spiritual leader`s daily life is like.

We learned that while both the shrine and the temple are places of peace and respect, they are different in many ways. Shrines follow Shinto traditions and were born in Japan, while temples are Buddhist and came from India, then China. However, both leaders shared the importance of helping people, honoring ancestors, and caring for the world around us.

Our class felt very welcomed and were able to further strengthen our bond with the local community. At the temple, we enjoyed well deserved ice cream together with the monk and his wide, and were kindly given snacks and tea to take back with us. This trip helped us build stronger friendships in our class and connect more deeply with the local community. It was a meaningful and joyful day that we will always remember.