Lesson 3: The Johnsons head to Kyoto

ESL Course: The Johnsons Visit Japan

Practice your English with the Johnson family as they explore Japan. This is lesson 3 of a 10 lesson course.

PDF: The Johnsons head to Kyoto

Warm-up

  1. Do you think the Johnson family will enjoy the Shinkansen? Why? (Yes, because it's...)
  2. Why do you think Kyoto is so popular with tourists? (I think it's because there is/are…)
  3. Which temple do you think the family will go to? Why? (They'll probably go to … because …)

Vocabulary Match

excitement -   - thrill
bullet train -   - friendliness
hospitality -   - famous
renowned -   - shinkansen
culture -   - heritage

Vocabulary Match 2

awe-inspiring -   - main city
arrival -   - coming
capital city -   - breathtaking
boarded -   - live through
experience -   - got on

Story

Excitement filled the air as the Johnson family boarded the bullet train to Kyoto, where they would experience traditional Japanese hospitality and food. Upon arrival, they headed out to explore the old capital city, renowned for its temples, shrines, and traditional culture. They made their way to the famous Kiyomizu-dera Temple, which offered an awe-inspiring view of the city.

Quiz

  1. How did the Johnson family feel when they boarded the bullet train?
  2. What is Kyoto renowned for?

Conversation

Sam: Wow, this train is awesome! I can't believe how fast we're going.
Sarah: Yeah, it's amazing. I've never been on a train like this before.
Sam: Me neither. It's really different from the ones back home.
Sarah: Definitely. I feel like we're in the future or something.
Sam: I know, right? It's hard to believe we're already halfway to Kyoto.
Sarah: Yeah, time really flies when you're on a bullet train.

Discussion

  1. Have you ever ridden on a high-speed train? What was your experience like?
  2. Which famous temple would you like to visit in Kyoto and why?
  3. What kind of traditional Japanese food would you like to try at a Japanese inn?
  4. If you were the Johnson family, what other places in Kyoto would you like to explore?

Vocabulary Answers 1

excitement → thrill
bullet train → shinkansen
hospitality → friendliness
renowned → famous
culture → heritage

Vocabulary Answers 2

awe-inspiring → breathtaking
arrival → coming
capital city → main city
boarded → got on
experience → live through

Quiz Answers (examples)

  1. They were excited.
  2. It's renowned for its temples, shrines, and traditional culture.

Next Lesson

The Johnsons Visit Japan - Lesson 4

Lesson List

  1. The family arrives in Japan
  2. First day in Tokyo
  3. The Johnsons head to Kyoto
  4. A day of exploration in Kyoto
  5. A day trip to Hiroshima
  6. Enjoying the sights in Kobe
  7. Osaka Castle and street food
  8. A relaxing day at the onsen
  9. Two exciting days in Tokyo
  10. The family's last day in Japan

MORE: