Questions swirl in the air around Horinouchi Elementary School. What makes this place tick? What stories hide within these walls? Prepare to step back in time.
Horinouchi Elementary School is a municipal school. It resides in Tokyo’s Suginami Ward. But its story is more than just location.
Let’s dive into Japanese education. Public education was based on patriotism and Confucianism. The Imperial Rescript on Education emphasized loyalty to the emperor. It also taught filial piety. Affection between friends was another key aspect.
Before World War II, children learned other races were inferior. They learned the Emperor was a god. After the war, schools came under the control of the Ministry of Education. A new system emerged. Six years of elementary. Three years of junior high. Three years of high school. Plus two or four years of university.
But what about daily life? Uniforms are common. Japanese schools emphasize calligraphy. Students learn the traditional way of writing with a pen, ink and paper. Moral classes teach kindness. Evacuation drills prepare students for earthquakes.
Many students attend cram school after classes. Known as juku, cram schools help with exams. Japanese students get homework during breaks. This teaches continuous learning. Students use “magic” red sheets to review lessons. Red text disappears under the sheet.
Sports festivals foster teamwork. Set gymnastics are a key element. Honoring elders with respectful language is important. Even those just a year older get this respect.
The start of the Japanese school year is the entrance ceremony. Students also learn financial skills like understanding taxes. Automatic promotion is the norm up to grade 9. It focuses on holistic growth.
Look around. Hear the echoes of laughter. See the dedication in every corner of Horinouchi Elementary School. It reflects Japan’s deep commitment to education and community. This commitment shapes not only students but the nation itself.