The group, from Tokyo, will stay with host families for three weeks and attend school, where they will improve their English skills and help teach Moruya students Japanese. 

After arriving on Thursday, July 16, the group have already embraced the coast, with a trip to the beach. 

Moruya High School Japanese-language teacher Mattew Cusack said the students had, so far, helped him teach his students origami and to introduce themselves in Japanese.

“This would not be possible without the host families,” Mr Cusack said. 

“We usually have more, but this year it was a bit hard to get host families.”

Year 8 student Ashley Dunne is hosting one student. 

“I have been studying Japanese for four-and-a-half years,” Ashley said. 

“I have learnt a little bit more from the exchange students.

“We are going to go to Canberra to museums and to the zoo. 

“I thought it would be a good experience and it has been.”

Chiharu Nakamura, 17 from Tokyo, has been to the beach and watched netball and soccer games. 

“I like Australia,” Chiharu said. 

“I like to see Japan from another country and I like to study more English during this home stay. 

“I like it here; there is a lot of open space.

“I have been learning English for five years and I would like to improve.” 

Kunika Sato, 16, is staying with year 8 student Mallee Smith. 

“I have been on a picnic and to see the mountains and the beach,” Kunika said. 

“I liked the beaches; they are very different to beaches in Japan. 

“I got to see a kangaroo and would like to see more nature while I am here.

“There is lots of open space and grass here.

“Australia is very big; in Japan it is very crowded.”