For 31 years in the travel business, I’ve been fortunate to experience so many incredible destinations—countless cruises, beautiful Caribbean islands, Alaska, European river cruises, and even the laid-back charm of places like Jost Van Dyke.
But never… not once… have I traveled like this.
This was my first time backpacking through a country, fully immersing myself in the culture—and experiencing it alongside my son, Zac, who lives in Japan, speaks the language, and teaches English at both a junior high and elementary school.
And nothing could have prepared me for what we experienced during those first few days.
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🇯🇵 Bring Your Parents to Work Day
Our journey began with a visit to Zac’s school. I wasn’t about to come all this way and miss seeing firsthand the life he has built here.
We took a cab over to the school, and even that experience felt special. The driver shared photos of the Shimizu area with us and even invited us to dinner later in the week. We told him we would try—only to later realize we’d already be heading home that day.
What struck me most?
The kindness.
He even lost his phone at one point, called the school to reconnect, and ended up taking Zac out to dinner and paying for it. That’s just who they are—genuinely kind, welcoming people.
👟 A Simple Moment That Meant So Much
As soon as we arrived at the school, we were asked to remove our shoes and change into indoor shoes—mine happened to be about two sizes too big 😊
Such a simple thing… but it immediately showed us the level of respect and structure within their daily lives.
🎓 Inside the Junior High School
At the junior high, students wear uniforms and carry themselves with such pride and discipline.
Zac had us fully participate in the class—what he called an “English experience.” The students broke into small groups and played learning games like Battleship, all while practicing their English.
They were focused. Respectful. Engaged.
At one point, Terry jokingly pulled out his phone—and the students wanted nothing to do with it. Their attention and commitment to learning was truly something to witness.
🧡 The Elementary School Experience
The next day, we visited the elementary school—and this is where it truly touched my heart.
The students, ranging from 4th, 5th, and 6th grade, each took turns coming up to us with their computers and, in English, explaining places we should visit in the Shimizu area.
Can you imagine? At that age.
They were so proud. So prepared.
🧹 Life Lessons Beyond the Classroom
One of the most impactful things we observed was how the students take responsibility for their environment.
After each lunch period, every student has a role in cleaning the school—classrooms, hallways, and shared spaces—and they take it very seriously.
There was a quiet sense of pride in how they worked together. It wasn’t rushed or treated like a chore… it was simply part of their daily routine.
Before and after each class, a student would stand at the front and respectfully announce:
“We will begin our English test.”
“We will end our English test.”
The structure. The respect. The discipline.
It was incredible to witness.
🪖 Moments I’ll Never Forget
Each elementary student has their own helmet to wear to and from school—so the community knows who they are and where they belong.
Looking back now, I realize there were about 30 students walking alongside Terry, Zac, and me each day to and from school—each proudly wearing their helmets. It was such an amazing thing to be part of.
At one point, they all lined up asking for our autographs—on their helmets, their hands, even their erasers.
It was incredibly humbling.
And to know that we signed those helmets, and that they are still walking around each day with our names on them… that is something I will never forget.
✨ A Moment Worth Respecting
Out of deep respect for the Japanese culture and the privacy of the students, we were not able to take photos during these moments. (the picture I found on the web)
And honestly… that made it even more meaningful.
These weren’t moments meant for social media—they were moments meant to be felt, experienced, and remembered.
And they will forever live in our hearts.
💚 A Mother’s Perspective
But what touched me most was seeing the love they have for Zac.
The way they respect him. Look up to him. Learn from him.
As a mom… there are no words.
✨ A Moment That Stayed With Me
Looking back on those two unforgettable days, I can’t help but smile knowing that in Shimizu, there are some pretty amazing kiddos walking around with our names on their helmets.
What stood out to me most was the difference in cultures—and the pride they have in being Japanese. One little girl kept coming up to us with the biggest smile, giving two thumbs up and saying, “Japanese!”
It was simple… but it said everything. 💚
✨ Final Thought
What stayed with me most wasn’t just the experience—but the connection.
The pride these children have.
The kindness we felt everywhere we went.
The way Zac has built a life here that is making a difference.
It reminded me that travel isn’t just about where you go…
It’s about the people you meet, the connections you make, and the pieces of your heart you leave behind. 💚
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