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The Johnsons Visit Japan
Lesson 1:

The family arrives in Japan

Lesson 2:

First day in Tokyo

Lesson 3:

The Johnsons head to Kyoto

Lesson 4:

A day of exploration in Kyoto

Lesson 5:

A day trip to Hiroshima

Lesson 6:

Enjoying the sights in Kobe

Lesson 7:

Osaka Castle and street foodLesson 8:

A relaxing day at the onsen

Lesson 9:

Two exciting days in Tokyo

Lesson 10:

The family's last day in Japan

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Lesson 1: The family arrives in Japan
Warm-up:
1. Why do you think the Johnson family have come to Japan? (Maybe they want to…)
2. What do you think they will eat on their first night in Tokyo? (I think they’ll probably try…)
3. What problems might they have in Tokyo? (They might have difficulty with…)

Vocabulary Match:
1. delicacy ●● effectiveness6. to indulge ●● baggage

2. efficiency ●● exploration

7. teenage ●● tidiness3. reception ●● gourmet food

8. luggage ●● walk

4. adventure ●● enthusiastic

9. cleanliness ●● adolescent

5. eager ●● welcome10. stroll ●● to enjoy

Story:
After a long flight from the US, the Johnson family finally arrived in Tokyo. Mr. and Mrs. Johnson,
along with their teenage daughter Sarah and 10-year-old son Sam, were eager to begin theiradventure in Japan. They collected their luggage and made their way to their hotel in Tokyo. The
city amazed them with its efficiency and cleanliness. To get a feel for the area, they decided to takea stroll and try some local street food for dinner. They indulged in some mouth-watering delicacies
and were delighted by the warm reception from the locals.

Quiz:
1. What did the Johnson family do before going to their hotel in Tokyo?
2. What did the Johnson family do to get familiar with the area?

Conversation:
Mrs. Johnson:

Tokyo is incredible, isn't it? The streets are so clean!

Mr. Johnson:

I know, it's amazing. I can't wait to explore the city.

Sarah:

I want to go to Harajuku and sing karaoke!

Sam:

I want to go to the Pokémon Center!

Mrs. Johnson:

We’ll see. There’s so much to do, but we’re only here for a short time.

Mr. Johnson:

Agreed, but for now, let's just keep walking and take in the sights.

Discussion Questions:1. What is the longest flight you’ve ever taken?
2. What is the biggest train station you’ve ever been to? How did you feel there?
3. If you arrived in Tokyo in the evening, what would you do first?
4. Where do you think the Johnson’s will go on the first full day in Tokyo?
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Lesson 2: First day in Tokyo
Warm-up:
1. Where do you think the Johnson family will go first? (I think they’ll go to…)
2. What do you think the family will have for lunch? (I’m not sure, but maybe they’ll get…)
3. What do you think they will do in the evening? (Maybe they’ll…)

Vocabulary Match:
1. be mesmerized ●● keen

6. a district ●● an area

2. leisurely ●● wide-ranging

7. traditional ●● attractiveness3. indulge ●● captivated

8. beauty ●● classic

4. panoramic ●● satisfy

9. bright ●● discover

5. eager ●● relaxed

10. explore ●● shining

Story:On their first day in Tokyo, the Johnson family was up bright and early, eager to explore the city.
They headed out to visit the famous Senso-ji Temple, where they were mesmerized by its beautyand history. They then took a leisurely walk around the Asakusa district and decided to indulge insome traditional Japanese food for lunch. In the evening, they went to Tokyo Tower to enjoy apanoramic view of the city.

Quiz:
1. Where did the Johnson family visit first in Tokyo?
2. Why did the Johnson family go to Tokyo Tower in the evening?

Conversation:Sam:

Wow, this yakitori is amazing! Grilled chicken is the best!

Sarah:

Yeah, but have you tried this okonomiyaki? It's delicious!

Sam:

I don't know, I think the yakitori is better.

Sarah:

It’s not as healthy, though. Okonomiyaki has cabbage in it.

Sam:

Hmm… yeah, but yakitori is still better.

Sarah:

Well, we'll just have to agree to disagree. Let's get more of both!

Discussion Questions:
1. Have you been to Asakusa? What did you do there?
2. In your opinion, from where can you see the best night view of Tokyo?
3. How do you pray at a shrine in Japan? What are the steps?
4. How do you think the Johnson family will get to Kyoto? Why?

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Lesson 3: The Johnsons head to Kyoto
Warm-up:
1. Do you think the Johnson family will enjoy the Shinkansen? Why? (Yes, because it’s...)2. Why do you think Kyoto is so popular with tourists? (I think it’s because there is/are…)
3. Which temple do you think the family will go to? Why? (They’ll probably go to … because …)

Vocabulary Match:
1. excitement ●● thrill

6. awe-inspiring ●● main city

2. bullet train ●● friendliness7. arrival ●● coming

3. hospitality ●● famous8. capital city ●● breathtaking

4. renowned ●● shinkansen

9. boarded ●● live through5. culture ●● heritage

10. experience ●● got onStory:
Excitement filled the air as the Johnson family boarded the bullet train to Kyoto, where they would
experience traditional Japanese hospitality and food. Upon arrival, they headed out to explore theold capital city, renowned for its temples, shrines, and traditional culture. They made their way to thefamous Kiyomizu-dera Temple, which offered an awe-inspiring view of the city.

Quiz:
1. How did the Johnson family feel when they boarded the bullet train?
2. What is Kyoto renowned for?

Conversation:Sam:

Wow, this train is awesome! I can't believe how fast we're going.

Sarah:

Yeah, it's amazing. I've never been on a train like this before.

Sam:

Me neither. It's really different from the ones back home.

Sarah:

Definitely. I feel like we're in the future or something.

Sam:

I know, right? It's hard to believe we're already halfway to Kyoto.

Sarah:

Yeah, time really flies when you're on a bullet train.

Discussion Questions:
1. Have you ever ridden on a high-speed train? What was your experience like?
2. Which famous temple would you like to visit in Kyoto and why?
3. What kind of traditional Japanese food would you like to try at a Japanese inn?
4. If you were the Johnson family, what other places in Kyoto would you like to explore?

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Lesson 4: A day of exploration in Kyoto
Warm-up:
1. What sightseeing spot in Kyoto would you recommend to the Johnsons? (They should go to...)2. What advice would you give them for getting around the city? (I think they should…)
3. What other activities are a “must-do” in Kyoto? Why? (Oh! They really must…)

Vocabulary Match:
1. exploring ●● monument

5. significance ●● importance

2. beautiful ●● picturesque

6. bow ●● praise

3. landmark ●● looking around7. sip ●● greeting

4. marvel ●● admire

8. compliment ●● drink a little

Story:The Johnson family spent the day exploring Kyoto, visiting some of its most famous landmarks.
They began at the stunning Fushimi Inari Shrine and hiked up the torii gates, marveling at thebeauty of the shrine. They then headed to the Golden Pavilion, a renowned landmark in Kyoto.
Later in the evening, they attended a traditional Japanese tea ceremony, where they learned about
the significance of the tea ceremony in Japanese culture.

Quiz:
1. What landmark did the Johnson family hike up in Kyoto?
2. What did the Johnson family learn about at the traditional Japanese tea ceremony?

Conversation:
Mr. J: So, what are we supposed to do at this tea ceremony again?
Mrs J: I think we bow, sip the tea, and then compliment the host on their beautiful tea set.
Mr. J: Okay, got it. Wait, how do we bow again?
Mrs J: I think you bow from the waist, like this.
(both try to bow and accidentally bump heads)
Mr. J: Ow! Maybe we should just skip the bowing part.
Mrs J: Agreed. And let's hope we don't spill any tea on these fancy tatami mats!

Discussion Questions:
1. Have you ever attended a traditional tea ceremony? What was your experience like?
2. Are there any popular events or festivals in Kyoto? When are they?
3. Which city do you prefer, Kyoto or Tokyo? Why?
4. Where do you think the Johnson family will go next?

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Lesson 5: A day trip to Hiroshima
Warm-up:
1. Should the Johnson family visit Hiroshima? (Yes, I think so. They can…)
2. What food do you recommend they eat in Hiroshima? (They really should try the…)
3. What are some places in Hiroshima that tourists should visit? (There’s…)

Vocabulary Match:
1. devastating ●● significance

5. atomic ●● tram

2. impact ●● disastrous

6. streetcar ●● nuclear

3. importance ●● result

7. opportunity ●● thankful

4. memorial ●● remembrance

8. grateful ●● chance

Story:The Johnson family took a day trip to Hiroshima, where they rode on a streetcar to the Peace
Memorial Park and the Atomic Bomb Dome. They learned about the devastating impact of theatomic bomb and the importance of peace in Japanese culture. Later, they visited Hiroshima Castle
and enjoyed some local Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki for dinner. As the day came to an end, Mr.
Johnson couldn't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to learn about the history of Hiroshima.

Quiz:
1. What did the family ride to get to the Peace Memorial Park and the Atomic Bomb Dome?
2. What did the Johnson family learn about during their visit to Hiroshima?

Conversation:
Sam:

Ugh! I can’t do this! My paper crane looks really wonky!

Sarah:

I don’t know. Just follow the instructions. It’s not that hard.

Sam:

It’s impossible! I can’t believe you’ve made five of them already!

Sarah:

Calm down. Do you know why we’re making these cranes?

Sam:

Erm.. because mom said we have to?

Sarah:

No, you idiot. It’s to honor Sadako. She made 644 of them.

Sam:

Wow. Um, okay. Let me try again. Fold this bit, then this goes here, and…

Sarah:

Then you blow into the bottom, and voilà! Your first paper crane!

Discussion Questions:
1. Why is it important to remember historical events like the atomic bomb in Hiroshima?
2. Can you make okonomiyaki? Do you have a secret recipe?
3. Plan a day trip to Hiroshima. Where will you go first? What about lunch? And in the evening?

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Lesson 6: Enjoying the sights in Kobe
Warm-up:
1. What are some popular attractions in Kobe? (Well, there’s…)
2. What do you think the Johnson family will do for lunch? (I think they’ll go to…)
3. What do you think they will do in the evening? (I’m not sure, but maybe they’ll…)

Vocabulary Match:
1. iconic ●● quay4. maritime ●● presentation

2. waterfront ●● appetizing

5. dumplings ●● naval3. savory ●● famous

6. display ●● gyoza

Story:
Upon arriving in Kobe, the family headed straight to Meriken Park, eager to see the iconic red steel
Kobe Port Tower and the stunning waterfront views. They spent the morning walking around thepark, taking photos, and enjoying the fresh air. They even had the chance to explore the Maritime
Museum, where they learned about Kobe's history as a port city.
Afterward, they headed to Chinatown, where they tried various street foods, including savory
dumplings and sweet red bean cakes.
As the sun began to set, the Johnson family headed back to Meriken Park, where they watched thetower light up in a beautiful display of colors. They couldn't believe how magical the park looked atnight, and stayed to enjoy the view before heading back to their hotel.

Quiz:
1. What did the Johnsons learn at the Maritime Museum?
2. What did they do in Chinatown?

Conversation:Sam:

Wow. The ground is all broken up! What happened here?

Dad:

It’s from the earthquake in 1995. They kept this part so people remember it.

Sam:

I wonder what it feels like to be in an earthquake.

Dad:

It’s not fun at all. In fact, it feels like this! (Dad picks Sam up and shakes him.)

Discussion Questions:
1. Have you been to Kobe? What do you like the most about the city?
2. Plan a weekend in Kobe. Where will you go? How will you get around? Where will you stay?

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Lesson 7: Osaka Castle and street foodWarm-up:
1. Where do you think the family should go in Osaka? (I think they should go to…)
2. Do you think the Johnson’s will enjoy the food in Osaka? (Yes. I think they will like…)
3. How can they get around the city? (They can…)

Vocabulary Match:
1. castle ●● fortress

5. billboards ●● fluorescent

2. nightlife ●● octopus balls

6. neon ●● guide3. takoyaki ●● entertainment

7. navigate ●● advertisements

4. starving ●● very hungry

8. impatient ●● restless

Story:The Johnson family's first trip to Japan included a visit to Osaka. They headed to Osaka Castle, oneof the most famous castles in Japan. The castle's beauty and history left them in awe. Next, theyexplored the Dotonbori district, famous for its street food and nightlife. They sampled some delicious
takoyaki and okonomiyaki for dinner. Sarah and Sam were amazed by the colorful billboards andneon lights in the area. The family used their smartphones to navigate the busy streets of the city.
They had a fantastic time, but Mrs. Johnson was feeling sore from all the walking.

Quiz:
1. What is the Dotonbori district famous for?
2. What were the children amazed by?

Conversation:
Mrs. Johnson:

Oh, my poor feet. We’ve been walking all day!

Mr. Johnson:

You’re right. Let’s sit down over there by the big crab sign.

Mrs. Johnson:

Where are we going next? Dotonbori? Is it far?

Mr. Johnson:

Hang on, I’ll check on my phone. “Hey phone. Directions to Dotonbori.”

Mrs. Johnson:

Well? What does it say? I’m starving and the kids are getting impatient.

Mr. Johnson:

Um.. it says we’re already in Dotonbori. This is it, we’re already here!

Discussion Questions:
1. What street food would you like to try in Dotonbori?
2. What are your top 6 must-visit attractions in Osaka?
3. Do you use your smartphone for directions? How else can a smartphone help tourists?
4. What do you like to do when your feet are sore?

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Lesson 8: A relaxing day at the onsen
Warm-up:
1. Why do you think the Johnson’s are going to a hot spring? (Hmm… probably because…)
2. What do you think the family will do after they take a bath? (I think they’ll…)
3. What do you think they will have for dinner? (Maybe they’ll have…)

Vocabulary Match:
1. onsen ●● a formal event

5. soaking ●● relaxing in water

2. yukata ●● traditions

6. amazed ●● tasty

3. ceremony ●● Japanese robe7. thrilled ●● impressed

4. customs ●● hot spring

8. delicious ●● excited

Story:The Johnson family was thrilled to visit a traditional Japanese onsen. They were not familiar with thecustoms, but they followed the rules, and they were amazed by the natural beauty of the hot spring.
The family enjoyed a relaxing day soaking in the hot water and trying local Japanese food for lunch.
In the evening, they put on their yukatas and participated in a traditional ceremony, feeling like true
locals. Afterward, they had a delicious traditional “kaiseki ryori” Japanese dinner.

Quiz:
1. What were the family amazed by?
2. What did the Johnsons participate in?

Conversation:
Sam:

What's this? The plates are tiny! Is this all we're getting?

Sarah:

I think it's called “kaiseki ryori”. It's a traditional meal with a load of different courses.

Sam:

Kaise-what? Is it like sushi?

Sarah:

Not exactly. There might be some sushi, but it's more like a fancy multi-course meal.

Sam:(Takes a bite) Hmm, not bad, but I'm still hungry. When does the next course come?

Sarah:

I don't know, but let's try to enjoy it. It's a new experience, and we can always grab a
McDonald’s after this if we're still hungry.

Discussion Questions:
1. Do you like to go to hot springs? When do you go, and why?
2. What traditional clothing do people wear in your country? Do you ever wear it?
3. What do you think about “kaiseki ryori”? Which is your favorite part?
4. Do you like to experience different cultures? What would you like to try in the U.S.?

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Lesson 9: Two exciting days in Tokyo
Warm-up:
1. The Johnsons are going to Harajuku. What do you think they’ll do there? (Maybe they’ll…)
2. Do you remember what Sam said he wanted to do in Tokyo? (Yes! In Lesson 1, he said…)
3. Where do you think the family will go to enjoy Tokyo’s nightlife? (I think they’ll go to…)

Vocabulary Match:
1. jam-packed ●● adorable

5. colorful ●● witness, see

2. plethora ●● busy, full

6. a blast ●● vibrant

3. marveled ●● amazed

7. displays ●● exhibits

4. cute ●● a lot of

8. behold ●● a fun time

Story:The Johnson family wrapped up their trip to Japan with two jam-packed days of adventure in Tokyo.
First, they headed to the lively streets of Harajuku to try their hand at singing karaoke. With aplethora of Japanese and English songs to choose from, they sang their hearts out and had a blast.
Afterwards, they visited the nearby Pokémon Center, where they marveled at the cute and colorfuldisplays of their favorite characters. In the evening, they made their way to Shibuya, known for its
shopping and nightlife. The bright lights and crowds of people were a sight to behold.

Quiz:
1. What did the Johnson family do in Harajuku?
2. What did they marvel at?

Conversation:
Dad:

Look at all these people! Have you ever seen anything like this before?

Sarah:

Yes! This is the place I saw on TikTok! It's called the Shibuya Crossing, right?

Dad:

That’s right. It's a massive pedestrian scramble. It’s been in Hollywood movies.

Sarah:

It's crazy! I can't believe we're actually here. Oh my god, there are so many people!

Dad:

The light’s turning green! Here we go! Stay close to me, okay?

Sarah:

OK. Wait, where are Mom and Sam??! Dad? Dad!!!

Discussion Questions:
1. Do you like Shibuya? What do you like or dislike about it?
2. Do you enjoy singing karaoke? What songs do you usually choose?
3. Pokémon is popular in the U.S. Can you guess the English name of the character “Satoshi”?
4. The Johnson family have one more day in Japan. How should they finish their trip?

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Lesson 10: The family's last day in Japan
Warm-up:
1. The Johnsons are going to see a fireworks exhibition. Do you know any famous ones?
2. What do you think the family will eat for their final meal in Japan? (They’ll probably eat…)
3. What do you think Sarah and Sam’s favorite parts of the trip were? (I think Sarah liked…)

Vocabulary Match:
1. vibrant ●● magnificence

5. reflecting ●● chance

2. illuminated ●● lit up

6. opportunity ●● amazing

3. awestruck ●● amazed

7. incredible ●● journey

4. grandeur ●● colorful

8. adventure ●● thinking back

Story:On their last day in Japan, the Johnson family attended the Sumidagawa fireworks festival in Tokyo.
The vibrant explosions illuminated the sky, leaving the family awestruck by their beauty andgrandeur. It was a completely new experience for them, unlike anything they had ever seen before.
After the show, they celebrated their final night at a ramen restaurant, reflecting on their trip and all
the amazing experiences they had had. They were grateful for the opportunity to visit Japan andknew they would never forget this incredible adventure.

Quiz:
1. What left the Johnsons awestruck?
2. What did the family do at the ramen restaurant?

Conversation:
Sarah:Can you believe our trip to Japan is almost over? It feels like we just got here.

Sam:

Yeah, I know. I'm sad it's ending.

Sarah:

What was your favorite part of the trip? Mine was tonight’s fireworks.

Sam:

I loved the shinkansen! And the Osaka castle! And the earthquake!

Sarah:

Haha, yeah, we’ve seen so much. I can’t wait to come back again.

Sam:

I want to eat more of that yakitori we tried. That was so yum!

Sarah:

Don’t forget the takoyaki, and the okonomiyaki. And this ramen’s amazing, too!

Sam:

Mom! Do we have to go home tomorrow? Can’t we stay just a little longer?

Discussion Questions:
1. The Johnson’s did so much in Japan, but can you think of anything missed out on?
2. Plan a trip across the U.S. Where would you start? What would you do in each city?

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