A. Learning English Diaries - A Japan Travel Experience
Welcome to another post of English Learning Diaries - Travel with Emma.
Today, we're diving into Emma's unforgettable journey through Japan.
Join Emma as she reads aloud from her travel diary.
This blog post will help you practice your English skills by exploring new vocabulary, learning about Japanese culture, and trying out some fun exercises.
Check out the YouTube video! >> Discover the Magic of Japan with Emma
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B. Grammar and Language Focus:
In Emma’s diary entry, you’ll notice the use of Past Simple and Past Continuous tense.
Here’s a quick review:
-Past Simple (for completed actions in the past)
Example: I visited Tokyo last summer.
-Past Continuous (for actions that were in progress at a specific time in the past)
Example: While I was cooking, I listened to a podcast.
Reading Guide:
A. Travel with Emma
B. Grammar & Language Focus
C. Diary Entry + Vocabulary
D. Exercises
E. Speaking Practice - Sample Sentences
C. English Diary Entry - Emma's Japan Travel Stories + Vocabulary
"Last summer, I had the opportunity to travel to Japan, and it was an unforgettable experience.
Today, I decided to practise my speaking skills by reading aloud from my travel journal. I described the breathtaking sights I saw, the delicious food I tried, and the friendly people I met along the way.
(i) breathtaking = stunningly beautiful.
Reading aloud helps me improve my pronunciation and fluency, and it's a great way to relive my travel memories.
During my trip, I visited Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka.
In Tokyo, I marvelled at the bustling Shibuya Crossing and explored the serene gardens of the Meiji Shrine.
(ii) bustling = full of energetic and noisy activity.
(iii) serene = calm, peaceful, and untroubled
The juxtaposition of the modern skyscrapers and the traditional temples was fascinating.
(iv) juxtaposition = the fact of two things being
seen or placed close together with contrasting effect
I also took a day trip to Mount Fuji, where the scenic
beauty left me speechless.
(v) scenic = providing or relating to views of impressive or beautiful natural scenery.
The food in Japan was a highlight of my trip.
I savoured sushi at the Tsukiji Fish Market, tasted authentic ramen in a cosy noodle shop, and enjoyed delicate tempura at a traditional restaurant.
Each meal was a culinary adventure, introducing me to new flavours and textures.
(vi) culinary =related to cooking or the kitchen
The people I met were incredibly welcoming and polite. I learned a few Japanese phrases to communicate, and the locals appreciated my efforts.
(vii) polite= having or showing behaviour that is respectful and considerate of other people.
(viii) phrases = a small group of words (standing together as a conceptual unit)
I even participated in a tea ceremony in Kyoto, where I learned about the
intricate process of making matcha and the importance of mindfulness in Japanese culture.
(ix) intricate = very complicated or detailed.
(x) mindfulness = the quality or state of being conscious or aware of something.
Exploring the historical temples and shrines, such as Kinkaku-ji, the Golden Pavilion, and Fushimi Inari-taisha, with its iconic torii gates, was truly enriching.
I also enjoyed shopping in the vibrant markets and trying on a kimono.
(xi) historical = connected with history; based on events in history (whether regarded as important or not).
(xii) iconic = widely recognised and well-established.
(xiii) vibrant = full of energy and life.
Overall, my trip to Japan was a journey of discovery, and practising my speaking skills by reading my travel journal aloud helps me cherish those memories while improving my English."
D. Let's do some exercises!
(i) Comprehension Questions:
-Where did Mia travel last summer?
-What did she find fascinating about Tokyo?
-Name one traditional Japanese food Mia tried.
(ii) Vocabulary Matching: Match the word with its correct definition:
1. juxtaposition
2. culinary
3. mindfulness
a. The state of being aware
b. Related to cooking
c. Placing two contrasting things close together
(iii) Fill-in-the-Blanks: Complete the sentences with the correct word:
1.The ___________ of the old and new buildings was striking.
2.I enjoy watching ___________ shows to learn new recipes.
3.Practicing ___________ can help reduce stress.
(iv) Writing Task
Write your own travel diary entry. Use at least five new vocabulary words from this post.
E. Let's Recap - Travel Experience Words
Sample sentences you can use to practise speaking!
(a) The breathtaking view of Mount Fuji made the hike worthwhile.
(b) Shibuya Crossing is known for being one of the most bustling intersections in the world.
(c) After a busy day in the city, I found the serene atmosphere of the garden very relaxing.
(d) I was amazed by the juxtaposition of traditional temples next to modern buildings.
(e) Our trip included a scenic drive through the Japanese countryside.
(f) Every meal we had was a culinary delight, showcasing the diversity of Japanese cuisine.
(g) The locals were extremely polite and made us feel welcome.
(h) Knowing a few key phrases in Japanese helped me navigate the city.
(i) The tea ceremony involved intricate steps that required careful attention.
(j) Practicing mindfulness during the tea ceremony was a unique experience.
(k) We visited several historical sites, each with its own story.
(l) The iconic torii gates of Fushimi Inari-taisha are a must-see.
(m) We enjoyed shopping in the vibrant markets of Osaka.
We hope you had fun practicing your English speaking skills with Emma's travel story with this essential set of travel experience vocabulary!
Thanks so much for reading & Happy Learning!
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