Yokohama

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Extracurricular Activities

Sections

1. Sports Activities

Sports are a popular extracurricular choice in Yokohama, with options ranging from traditional Japanese martial arts to modern team sports.

Popular Sports Options

  • Martial Arts (Karate, Judo, Kendo, Aikido):

    • Many dojos (training halls) in Yokohama offer classes for all age groups.
    • Notable Locations: Yokohama Budokan (a large martial arts facility in Naka Ward).
    • Costs: Monthly fees range from ยฅ5,000 to ยฅ10,000, with an initial registration fee of around ยฅ5,000. Uniforms and equipment may cost extra.
    • Cultural Note: Respect and discipline are key values in martial arts. Bowing to instructors and peers is customary.

  • Baseball and Soccer:

    • Baseball is a national pastime in Japan, and Yokohama has many youth leagues and clubs.
    • Notable Organizations: Yokohama BayStars Junior Team (affiliated with the professional Yokohama DeNA BayStars baseball team).
    • Costs: Club fees range from ยฅ3,000 to ยฅ8,000 per month, plus equipment costs.
    • Cultural Note: Team spirit and dedication are highly valued. Parents are often expected to participate in team activities, such as helping with events.

  • Swimming:

    • Many public and private swimming schools operate in Yokohama.
    • Notable Locations: Konami Sports Club and Yokohama International Swimming Pool.
    • Costs: ยฅ8,000 to ยฅ12,000 per month for weekly lessons.
    • Enrollment: Most swimming schools have rolling admissions. Youโ€™ll need to fill out an application form and provide proof of residency.

  • Tennis and Badminton:

    • Available at sports centers and private clubs.
    • Notable Locations: Yokohama Country & Athletic Club (YC&AC) offers tennis programs for children and adults.

2. Arts and Cultural Activities

Yokohama has a vibrant arts scene, with opportunities to explore traditional Japanese arts as well as modern creative pursuits.

Traditional Japanese Arts

  • Calligraphy (Shodล):

    • Classes are available at cultural centers and private studios.
    • Costs: ยฅ3,000 to ยฅ5,000 per month, plus materials.
    • Cultural Note: Calligraphy emphasizes mindfulness and patience.

  • Tea Ceremony (Sadล):

    • Learn the art of Japanese tea preparation and etiquette.
    • Notable Locations: Sankeien Garden occasionally offers tea ceremony workshops.
    • Costs: ยฅ2,000 to ยฅ5,000 per session.

  • Ikebana (Flower Arrangement):

    • Classes are held at community centers and private studios.
    • Costs: ยฅ3,000 to ยฅ6,000 per session, including materials.

Modern Arts

  • Painting and Drawing:

    • Art schools and community centers offer classes for all skill levels.
    • Notable Locations: Yokohama Museum of Art runs workshops for children and adults.
    • Costs: ยฅ2,000 to ยฅ5,000 per session.

  • Music Lessons:

    • Piano, violin, and guitar lessons are widely available.
    • Notable Organizations: Yamaha Music School has branches across Yokohama.
    • Costs: ยฅ8,000 to ยฅ15,000 per month for weekly lessons.

  • Dance:

    • Ballet, hip-hop, and traditional Japanese dance are popular.
    • Notable Locations: Yokohama Ballet School and local community centers.
    • Costs: ยฅ5,000 to ยฅ10,000 per month.

3. Academic and STEM Programs

For students looking to enhance their academic skills, Yokohama offers a variety of programs in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), as well as language and cultural studies.

STEM Programs

  • Robotics and Coding:

    • Coding schools like Tech Kids School and CoderDojo Yokohama offer classes for children.
    • Costs: ยฅ10,000 to ยฅ20,000 per month.
    • Enrollment: Online registration is common. Some schools offer trial lessons.

  • Science Workshops:

    • The Yokohama Science Frontier High School occasionally hosts public science events.
    • Notable Locations: Hamagin Space Science Center offers hands-on science exhibits and workshops.

Language and Cultural Studies

  • Japanese Language Classes:

    • Designed for non-native speakers, these classes are available at community centers.
    • Costs: ยฅ1,000 to ยฅ3,000 per session.
    • Notable Organizations: Yokohama International Association (YOKE) offers affordable language programs.

  • English and Other Languages:

    • Private language schools like Berlitz and ECC cater to both children and adults.
    • Costs: ยฅ10,000 to ยฅ20,000 per month.

4. Community and Volunteer Activities

Yokohama has a strong sense of community, and volunteering is a great way to engage with local culture.

  • Environmental Activities:

    • Groups like Yokohama Greenery Foundation organize tree planting and park clean-up events.
    • Costs: Free or minimal fees for materials.

  • Cultural Exchange Programs:

    • YOKE and other organizations host events where locals and foreigners can interact.
    • Costs: Free or low-cost.

  • Youth Clubs:

    • The YMCA and local community centers run youth programs focusing on leadership and community service.
    • Costs: ยฅ3,000 to ยฅ5,000 per month.

5. Enrollment Procedures

  • Step 1: Research Options
    • Visit websites or contact organizations directly. Many have English-speaking staff or translated materials.
  • Step 2: Attend a Trial Class
    • Most programs offer trial sessions for a small fee or for free.
  • Step 3: Submit an Application
    • Fill out a form, either online or in person. Some programs may require proof of residency or ID.
  • Step 4: Pay Fees
    • Fees are typically paid monthly via bank transfer or cash.

6. Cultural Points to Consider

  • Punctuality: Arrive on time for classes and events. Being late is considered disrespectful.
  • Parental Involvement: For childrenโ€™s activities, parents may be expected to participate or assist.
  • Language Barrier: While many programs cater to non-Japanese speakers, having basic Japanese skills can be helpful.
  • Respect for Rules: Follow the rules and guidelines of the organization or facility.

7. Notable Local Sites and Organizations

  • Yokohama International School (YIS): Offers extracurricular programs for its students, including sports, arts, and academic clubs.
  • Yokohama Childrenโ€™s International Exchange Center: Hosts cultural and educational activities for children.
  • Minato Mirai Area: Home to various cultural and recreational facilities, including the Yokohama Museum of Art and sports complexes.

Yokohamaโ€™s diverse extracurricular offerings ensure that thereโ€™s something for everyone, whether youโ€™re interested in sports, arts, academics, or community engagement. By participating in these activities, youโ€™ll not only develop new skills but also gain a deeper appreciation for Japanese culture and the vibrant community in Yokohama.