Japanese language teacher Mark Kanetsuna’s students experienced more of the Japanese culture when 16 students from Shizuoka, Japan visited his classroom on Dec. 3.

Sophomores from Shoyo High School, which is a part of the Tokai University System, participated in a cultural exchange with students from Kanetsuna’s Japanese Club and language classes.

Kanetsuna said that the school has hosted different schools from the Tokai University system for the past five to six years.

Shoyo students practiced their English speaking skills in an interactive presentation with Radford students, and even demonstrated the art of calligraphy.

“I had a lot of fun during the Japanese visitation. While the language and cultural barrier got in the way at times, more often than not, we got over the bump and communicated,” Japanese language student Kahlin Baughman (12) said. “It was really fun to see and experience what they brought over for us. From doing calligraphy, and  even learning a dance.”

After visiting Radford on their second day in Hawaii, they scheduled popular Oahu activities such as hiking at Diamond Head, snorkeling at Hanauma Bay, and shopping at Ala Moana Center.