In recent years, many schools had shifted their sports festivals to spring, but we’re now seeing a return to autumn events. While each school has its own reasons, the most common concern is the intense heat.
Before the body has time to acclimate to warmer temperatures, the risk of heatstroke is significantly higher—especially in May and June when students are not yet accustomed to the heat. We always emphasize this point during our training sessions and lectures: heatstroke can be life-threatening if not properly managed.
This season, we had the pleasure of attending an autumn sports festival for the first time in a while. Weather plays a major role in the success of these events, and fortunately, the day was a comfortable 20°C—cool for spectators and ideal for students. From classic events like cheering battles, relays, and scavenger races to impressive performances by the physical education department, the day was filled with energy and excitement.
The festival reminded us of the educational value embedded in these events—teamwork, cooperation, and shared responsibility, all of which are strengths of Japanese culture. Beyond the teachers’ dedication, it was inspiring to see student committees and support teams fulfill their roles with such care and precision. It’s a true reflection of the best in Japanese education.
Surveys show that elementary and junior high school students enjoy physical education not only for the sense of achievement when mastering new skills, but also for the joy of collaborating and connecting with friends. Sports offer far more than competition and technique—they foster community, growth, and shared experience.
