This practice- and research-based presentation focuses on Virtual Exchange (VE) in a Japanese high school classroom. Students were at A1–A2 English proficiency levels, with many exhibiting low confidence and limited motivation to study English. VE sessions were conducted in regular English lessons in collaboration with various overseas secondary schools to enhance motivation through meaningful intercultural interaction. Although students actively engaged in conversations with international peers, the sessions gradually became enjoyable one-off events rather than learning opportunities for developing deeper intercultural understanding. To explore students’ perspectives, qualitative research was conducted on how Japanese high school students experience VE. Retrospective interviews were carried out with students who participated in VE sessions, supplemented by an interview with their current teacher and reflective practitioner notes. Findings indicate that VE had a lasting positive impact on students’ motivation, with many recalling their interactions with international peers vividly. However, there was little evidence of students reflecting on their peers’ culture or demonstrating intercultural insights. Based on these findings, a reflective activity was developed to make VE a more meaningful educational experience. This presentation will provide insights into students’ experiences of VE and introduce a reflective activity that can be implemented in VE classrooms.