The 9th-grade students from St. Mary International School, went on a retreat to Gunma, Japan – a 3-hour drive from Tokyo: to go rafting down a rushing river. The trip, from August 28 – 30, occured during typhoon Shanshan that hit Gunma making the experience humid and wet. The students also went canyoning where they got to flip off cliffs, drop from bridges, and zip line down mountains, which was “fun until they had to switch locations because it took too long,” reported Omran Rifki (‘28).
The students also participated in activities such as hiking, rafting, and team building. They split up into four groups, groups A, B, C, and D where they cycled through activities.
The students hiked up a slippery mountain and crossed a river, facing a variety of obstacles along the way, such as muddy roads. As rain began to fall, some students struggled with the slippery conditions but managed to get through the trail safely. One group however encountered a venomous snake but avoided a bite by remaining calm and moving cautiously, listening to the instructions of the guide. Despite the weather and wildlife challenges, all participants returned safely, having gained valuable experiences from their rugged journey.
The 9th-grade team-building activity was filled with energy and enthusiasm as students participated in various games designed to build trust and cooperation. However, as the day progressed, rain unexpectedly cut some events short like rugby, forcing some groups to participate in indoor activities. Despite the weather, the spirit of teamwork remained strong, and the experience helped us bond in new and meaningful ways.
The retreat not only provided thrilling experiences but also fostered stronger bonds among the students. Despite the typhoon’s impact, the students returned with a sense of accomplishment and a deeper appreciation for adventure. Reflecting on their journey, the students are eager for future opportunities to explore and grow. The Gunma trip has left a lasting impression, combining excitement with valuable life lessons that will resonate throughout their high school years.
Despite the heavy rain and thick fog upon arrival, the group embraced the challenges ahead. Rafting through turbulent waters was a highlight, as the typhoon’s approach made the river wild and unpredictable. “It felt like we were rafting through a hurricane,” joked Kentaro(‘28) after barely surviving the swirling waters.
Canyoning proved to be one of the most exhilarating parts of the retreat, with students sliding down waterfalls and navigating through rocky streams, The heavy downpour turned the natural slides into fast, rushing currents, adding both excitement and a hint of danger to the adventure. Drenched but undeterred, students laughed as they plunged into pools of water, their screams of joy echoing through the foggy canyon. “It was like a natural water park,” one student remarked.
As the final day’s hike approached it turned out to be the toughest yet, with muddy trails and slippery terrain as trees fell, rivers started following through the trails. Even though the hike was grueling, the students’ spirits never faltered, and laughter was heard despite the constant rain. The group powered through, their resilience shining through the thick fog. The sense of camaraderie grew as they encouraged one another, determined to avoid the fate of last year’s group.
At the end of the retreat, the students returned to the lodge, tired but triumphant. Unlike the year before, everyone stayed healthy and cheerful, marking the trip a major success. “We took on the typhoon, and we won!” Arihant(‘28) proudly declared, summing up the group’s feelings as they boarded the buses home, drenched
