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Recommended outdoor recreation for junior high school students: A roundup of fun outdoor activities

Even in junior high, it’s fun to play in the schoolyard during breaks and get active outside after school or on days off, isn’t it?

There are also plenty of times when everyone needs a bit of recreation, like during homeroom or for outdoor activities as part of class.

So in this article, we’ll introduce a bunch of outdoor games that junior high students can enjoy!

We’ve included not only classic games you’ve been familiar with since elementary school, but also some that are a bit unusual.

Learn the rules and have fun playing together!

Recommended Outdoor Recreation for Middle Schoolers: A Collection of Fun Outdoor Activities (21–30)

Sideways tug-of-war

Children's Event Planning: Vertical Tug-of-War in Kawaguchi, Saitama
Sideways tug-of-war

When you think of tug-of-war, you might imagine the full-scale version played at school sports days.

But with this sideways tug-of-war, even a small group can enjoy it casually.

Instead of holding the rope at both ends, you pull against each other with the rope positioned vertically.

It may seem like a never-ending battle, but it’s a good idea to set a rule that crossing this line means you’re out, just like in the regular version.

It’s sure to appeal to middle schoolers eager to test their strength! Give it a try during a sunny recess!

softball

Finally kicking off! “Japan–U.S. Softball 2018”
softball

Softball is a perfect outdoor activity for middle schoolers.

The ball is larger and easier to hit, so even kids who aren’t confident in sports can enjoy it.

Since it’s pitched underhand, it’s easier on the shoulder, too.

It works great with small or large groups, making it ideal for class or club recreation.

Slow-pitch, where teams enjoy lots of hitting, is also popular overseas.

Give softball a try—it’s a fun, active way for everyone to spend time together.

Outdoor recreation recommended for junior high school students: A roundup of fun outdoor activities (31–40)

Hide-and-seek

We played serious hide-and-seek at the new Mizutamari House and it was way too fun lol
Hide-and-seek

Hide-and-seek is an exciting game even in middle school.

If you increase the number of seekers or play over a wider area, it gets even more fun.

It’s great because even people who aren’t confident in their stamina can enjoy it.

Just remember to put safety first.

It also helps you get closer with friends, so why not go all out in the schoolyard or a park? Since it’s a game everyone can get into, it’s perfect for homeroom time or outdoor activities.

Magma Game

Magma game in the park! Can we escape to the end?
Magma Game

The magma game, where you get to run around, is perfect for energetic middle schoolers! You can easily play it at parks that have equipment to use as escape spots or in the schoolyard.

After someone shouts “The floor is lava!” and a few seconds pass, the ground is considered magma—anyone still on the ground loses.

Since there’s a bit of last-minute pressure, it might even help train your calmness.

You can, of course, tweak the countdown, change how the magma rule works, or use special moves from anime as the call to make it even more fun!

Mini Ball Tag

Ideal Play Activity for a Children’s Association Event: “Mini Ball Tag” in Kawaguchi
Mini Ball Tag

If you’re a middle schooler looking for a new game, Mini-Ball Tag is perfect.

It’s recommended for those who are bored with regular tag.

The rules are simple: the tagger throws a ball and tries to hit other players.

But both runners and taggers need to stay sharp.

You might get targeted from far away—but if the throw misses, that’s your chance! In the latter half, the number of taggers increases, making it even more thrilling.

Run around the schoolyard together and you’ll have fun while getting some exercise.

Change the size of the ball to enjoy a different twist on the game.

Treasure hunt with puzzles to enjoy in the park

Search for a treasure chest in the park! We tried a treasure hunt while solving riddles! 💎 [Includes info on collaboration goods with QuizKnock]
Treasure hunt with puzzles to enjoy in the park

Solve the riddles and find the treasure chest! Here are some ideas for a riddle-solving treasure hunt you can enjoy at the park.

This activity is great for sparking children’s curiosity and creativity! By hiding treasures around a familiar park and crafting clever puzzles, you can help nurture problem-solving skills.

The thrill of searching for hidden items like snacks or toys makes the experience exciting, and the sense of accomplishment at the end is a big draw.

Both the seekers and the planners are sure to have a great time together.

kickbase

41st Osaka City Inter-Ward Children's Association Friendly Kick Baseball Tournament, Round 2 vs. Daidō-Minami, July 6, 2014
kickbase

It feels like the best of both baseball and soccer.

The pitcher rolls the ball, and you kick it to send it flying.

You can play in a schoolyard or park, so it’s perfect for having fun with everyone.

The rules are simple, so you can start right away.

It’s great for mixed groups, and it fits well into recess or PE class.

If you make it a team competition, it’ll get even more exciting.

To avoid injuries, it’s best to use a soft ball.

Working together to aim for victory is really fun, isn’t it? Let’s make some memories with kickbase!