Kazuno: Learning Beyond the Classroom

Generations of Nishimachi students have traveled to Kazuno, in Gunma prefecture, for exploration and experiences outside of the classroom. Exploring the rich agricultural and natural offerings of this region affords students access to challenging outdoor activities and many group events. Kazuno and the connections with fellow students, both at Nishimachi and at Kurohone School, is a traditional Nishimachi activity that is shared by alumni across the decades.

This fall, grade 8 students were able to resume this annual event which had been postponed in recent years due to COVID. Here are the reflections of Melanika S. and Lila W., as they answered questions for The Internationalist.

What did you enjoy about visiting Kazuno?

We enjoyed preparing food for ourselves. We were broken into 4 advisory groups and we were allowed to decide what we would have for dinner and breakfast. Each Advisory group chose what we were going to eat. Our advisor, Kajita-sensei’s advisory, decided to prepare the second day’s breakfast: miso soup and many kinds of rice balls. At 6:00 am on the second day, Kajita-sensei’s advisory got together and started cooking. It took us about an hour to finish cooking. Although not everyone liked the food we prepared, it was a good experience.

Did you challenge yourself to try a new activity while at Kazuno and what was your experience like?

It was challenging when we went to the river. On the way there, the path was very muddy and slippery. It didn’t look like we were supposed to walk there. Most people were wearing sandals and it was very hard to walk there.

What does it mean to Nishimachi to have this unique property at Kazuno?

Once in a while students are led to a Nishimachi tradition which has been an event for this school for the longest time. During the years of school, we participate in field trips, playing many activities, and helping with communication and growing stronger bonds as a grade, to which Kazuno is one of them.

How would you describe “learning without walls”? Would you recommend this type of experience for other students?

It was very well planned out as we haven’t been back due to COVID so it was really nostalgic. One of the main parts about Kazuno is when the whole grade bunches up for a campfire and s’mores and we all just end up telling stories. It’s not healthy to stay in closed classrooms watching computer screens all day. I wish we had more days to spend at Kazuno.

Overall, Kazuno never fails to surprise me with the memorable time we spent with each other, and I hope, looking back at Nishimachi, that Kazuno will last as long as Nishimachi continues.

If you had not been to Kazuno before, what surprised you about this location?

Surprisingly, it wasn’t as far as it all sounds. The bus is filled with roar and energy which is too much fun to miss out on. We do stop by a rest stop halfway through, where students are allowed to leave the bus on condition to return after a set amount of time. The building is located up a hill with lots of trees surrounding it. It’s quite separated from all the other houses but that’s what makes it special. Night is especially peaceful and the amount of bugs you hear are insane.

There is a natural river nearby. Even though it’s not the time of season for swimming in the freezing water, the exploration of the river and the exhaustion at the end is definitely worth it. It really bothers me how many people had to miss this because of COVID. This isn’t just for students to enjoy, but for teachers too. If we were given another chance for this trip, everyone would be on board with it.