A Journey of Sport and Sightseeing
The Columbia women’s basketball Lions touched down in Japan on August 11, launching a ten‑day itinerary that would carry them from the historic streets of Kyoto to the neon-lit avenues of Tokyo, with a pivotal stop in Hiroshima in between.
Their first test came on August 14, when they faced Ritsumeikan University on home court. A decisive 53‑35 victory highlighted the team’s chemistry, with Riley Weiss and Mary Ashley Stevenson delivering standout performances that set the tone for the series of exhibition games ahead.
Travel across the islands was largely conducted via Shinkansen, Japan’s famed bullet train. The 510‑mile stretch from Hiroshima to Tokyo not only showcased the efficiency of the rail system but also gave the players a chance to reflect on the cultural contrast between the three cities.
Beyond the hardwood, the squad embraced a series of cultural experiences. In Kyoto they participated in a traditional tea ceremony, gaining insight into Zen philosophies and the meticulous preparation of matcha, a ritual that deepened their appreciation for Japanese customs.
Their sightseeing agenda included a walk through the iconic Arashiyama Bamboo Grove and a visit to the shimmering Kinkaku‑ji, the Golden Pavilion, both of which offered a vivid glimpse into the country’s artistic heritage.
In Hiroshima, the team paid respects at the Peace Memorial Park, touring the museum, the preserved A‑Bomb Dome and the Children’s Peace Memorial, moments that blended athletic preparation with a sobering reminder of history.
The final days were spent in Tokyo, where the Lions marveled at the towering Skytree and absorbed the city’s dynamic energy, completing a journey that was as much about personal growth as it was about competition.
Throughout the trip, updates were posted on GoColumbiaLions.com and across social platforms under the handle @CULionsWBB, giving followers a real‑time window into life on the road and the team’s evolving story.