A Journey to Japan: Second Graders Explore Culture at Shofuso House

As part of their Japan unit, Moravian Academy second graders visited the Shofuso Japanese House and Garden—a beautifully preserved 17th-century-style home nestled in Philadelphia’s West Fairmount Park. Originally constructed in Japan and brought to New York City before being relocated to Philadelphia in 1958, the house was rebuilt using traditional materials and methods, offering students a rich, immersive experience of Japanese architecture and culture. They explored how space is used with intention and efficiency, drawing comparisons to Western design traditions.

One of the highlights of the visit was the tea ceremony. Students learned about the origins of this centuries-old ritual and how matcha became a central part of Japanese culture. With care and focus, they whisked the tea themselves and prepared it thoughtfully for their partner.

The experience continued with an outdoor lunch, engaging storytelling, quiet strolls through the tranquil gardens, the gentle sounds of a waterfall, and the joy of feeding colorful koi fish. Among their favorite moments were sipping matcha tea, touring the traditional house, feeding the koi, and experiencing the peaceful beauty of the gardens.

This enriching field trip brought the students' classroom learning to life in a truly memorable way, deepening their understanding of cultural traditions and helping them grow as globally minded, inclusive citizens.