Last week, Wasabi Kids brought the magic of Japan to South Geelong Primary School as part of our Victorian Japanese Cultural Incursion Tour. Students were captivated by our Samurai and Ninja Show and Four Seasons Show — fun and educational experiences designed to bring Japan’s rich traditions to life through storytelling, puppetry, and laughter.
As soon as I began the session, I could feel the excitement in the air. The students eagerly sat on the floor, eyes wide with curiosity as I introduced my cheeky sidekick — Taro the Samurai Puppet. Together, we explored the world of Japan’s Edo period — a fascinating time between the 1600s and 1800s when samurai, ninjas, and traditional arts flourished. It was like stepping back into a medieval world filled with discipline, beauty, and creativity.
Through interactive games, traditional props, and plenty of laughter with Taro, the children learned that being a ninja isn’t about fighting — it’s about focus, discipline, and never giving up.
Learning Japanese Culture Through Activities
The show blended Japanese language, culture, and physical activity in a way that kept students fully engaged from start to finish.
We practised Japanese greetings, discovered the roles of the ninja and samurai, and learned simple Japanese phrases that students could use in class.
The backdrop of a traditional Japanese house and sumo wrestler banners created an authentic stage setting that transported everyone straight to Japan. Students joined in a lively ninja action game that got everyone moving — and some even had the chance to hold real ninja stars (shuriken) and bamboo Kendo swords (shinai) for a bit of samurai action!
Teacher and Student Reactions
Teachers at South Geelong PS commented on how well the show complemented their Japanese language curriculum. Some teachers said how even their most energetic students were engaged and involved for the entire session.
One teacher shared:
“P–2 enjoyed the Four Seasons Show while the 3–6 students learned about Ninjas and Samurai. The students loved it all and even came up to me later in the day to say thank you for booking it!
Aiko had trouble making her way to her car when she was finished, as so many students stopped her along the way to ask questions and say thanks.”
Hearing that feedback reminds me why I started Wasabi Kids — to share authentic Japanese culture with Australian children in a way that’s fun, meaningful, and memorable.
Bringing Wasabi Kids to Your School
The Samurai and Ninja Show is one of several Japanese cultural incursions offered by Wasabi Kids, including the Four Seasons Japanese Show, Mottainai Eco Show, and J-POP Smash Show for primary schools.
We also have engaging programs for high schools, OOSH, and childcare centres.
Each incursion is aligned with the Australian Curriculum (Languages – Japanese) and designed to support intercultural understanding, language learning, and student engagement.
Our programs travel across New South Wales, Queensland, Victoria, South Australia, and Western Australia — bringing the spirit of Japan to classrooms and halls around Australia.
If your school is looking for a way to make Japanese lessons come alive, Wasabi Kids offers authentic, hands-on incursions that children remember long after the show ends.
We’re now taking bookings for 2025 and 2026.
You can learn more or reserve your preferred date at
www.wasabikids.com.au
