Japan’s rich culture has long fascinated Westerners, drawing admiration for their food, language, and manners. One aspect that stands out is their unique educational system, which prioritizes character development and responsibility from a young age.
Unlike Western schools, Japanese students don’t face the pressure of exams until the fourth grade. Instead, the focus is on instilling good manners and virtues, emphasizing respect, compassion, and self-control.
Students in Japan also take on the responsibility of cleaning their schools, teaching them teamwork and respect for their surroundings. They enjoy healthy, balanced meals together, served by fellow students, promoting zero waste and camaraderie.
After school, students often attend preparatory schools or workshops to secure a spot in a good middle school. They also learn traditional art forms like calligraphy and Haiku, honoring centuries-old traditions.
Uniforms are strictly enforced to promote equality and a focused learning environment, with a ban on makeup and excessive grooming. Japanese students are known for their punctuality, rarely missing school and displaying a readiness to learn.
However, the rigorous focus on exams intensifies as students approach college, leading to a challenging period known as ‘examination hell.’ Success in one crucial exam determines their college prospects, highlighting the immense pressure on Japanese students.
