Kanazawa is known for its traditional culture, Samurai houses and old castle. Rockhampton's known for its grand riverfront buildings and heritage village.

So it was appropriate that Japanese students visiting from Japan's Kanazawa Seiryo University were able to see Rockhampton's heritage buildings during their visit hosted by CQUniversity's English Language Centre.

The visitors from Kanazawa Seiryo University

The 10 students were in the Beef Capital around the same time as other groups from Meikai University and Kwassui Woman's University.

One of the academics who accompanied them, Professor Yoshiharu Kawamura said he was pleased that four male students had come on this tour, along with the female students.

"Boys have tended to stay in Japan to focus on their studies and soccer, while girls have always been keen to experience overseas culture," he said.

Professor Yoshiharu Kawamura

"While we don't need English language for day-to-day life in Japan, it's becoming an increasingly necessary skill for relating to the rest of the world."

Prof Kawamura said the students would receive some subject credit for their month of lessons in Australia.

"They've really enjoyed staying with Homestay families, who've been able to help them settle into the community," he said.

While in Rockhampton region, as a break from English classes, the Kanazawa students were able to visit Koorana Crocodile Farm, Cooberrie Wildlife Sanctuary, the Dreamtime Aboriginal Cultural Centre, Myella Farmstay, and the Keppel Islands.

LINK for details on Nagamachi Samurai District at the foot of the former Kanazawa Castle via http://www.japan-guide.com/e/e4204.html

Or LINK for Rockhampton Heritage Village

 
The male students from this year's tour group 
Hamming it up for the camera