CLASSIC JAPAN JOURNEY
定番の日本旅

TOKYO, KYOTO, OSAKA

Program Overview

This immersive 10-day program takes students through Japan’s most iconic destinations—Tokyo, Mt. Fuji, Kyoto, Nara, Osaka, and Yokohama—combining cultural exploration, hands-on activities, and unforgettable local experiences. Students will engage directly with Japan’s history, traditions, modern innovations, and daily life.

Suggested Time

Mar — June
Oct — Dec

Group Size (6:1 Ratio)

12 Students
2 Chaperons

Suggested Ages

12 — 22

Program Highlights

EDUCATIONAL VALUE

Blends history, culture, language exposure, and hands-on learning.

ENGAGEMENT

Students don’t just watch—they create, taste, and participate.

BALANCE

Mix of structured activities and free exploration within safe, guided settings.

VARIETY

Ancient temples, high-tech cities, nature, pop culture, and culinary arts.

Itinerary

Day	Highlights
1-2 Tokyo	Departure & Arrival in Tokyo Our journey begins as the group meets at the airport and flies to Japan’s vibrant capital. Upon arrival in Tokyo, we settle into our hotel and enjoy a welcome dinner—our first taste of authentic Japanese cuisine. It’s the perfect opportunity for students to connect, shake off travel fatigue, and start soaking in the sights, sounds, and energy of Japan.
3-4 Mt. Fuji, Kyoto	Mt. Fuji & Kyoto’s Timeless Beauty We leave Tokyo for the picturesque Oshinohakkai Village, with its spring-fed ponds and stunning views of Mt. Fuji. After a hearty Hoto noodle lunch and a scenic Lake Kawaguchi cruise, we speed to Kyoto aboard the bullet train. In Kyoto, we stroll through the peaceful Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, cross the iconic Togetsu Bridge, and marvel at the thousands of red gates at Fushimi Inari Shrine—iconic images of Japan’s cultural heritage.
5-6 Kyoto, Nara, Osaka	Kyoto Traditions, Nara’s Friendly Deer & Osaka’s Flavors Kyoto’s cultural treasures shine as we visit Kiyomizudera Temple, wander historic Gion, and take part in a traditional tea ceremony, learning to make Japanese sweets. The next day brings us to Nara’s friendly deer and the impressive Todaiji Temple, before heading to Osaka to explore its historic castle, shop in Shinsaibashi, and join a sushi-making workshop that blends fun with culinary skill.
7-8 Tokyo, Yokohama	Tokyo Highlights & Yokohama Adventures A bullet train ride returns us to Tokyo, where we explore the traditional Tsukiji Fish Market and take in panoramic views from Tokyo Tower. The following day, we head to Yokohama to design our own instant noodles at the Cup Noodle Museum, relax by the waterfront in Yamashita Park, and wander through Japan’s largest Chinatown, sampling treats and soaking in colorful sights.
9-10 Tokyo	Pop Culture, Tradition & Farewell Our last full day is a blend of modern and traditional Japan—meeting Hachiko at Shibuya Station, crossing the world-famous intersection, diving into Harajuku’s youth culture, and finding calm at Meiji Shrine before enjoying a comforting udon dinner. On departure day, we visit the lively Asakusa district and Sensoji Temple, picking up final souvenirs before heading home, carrying with us new friendships, incredible memories, and a deeper appreciation for Japan.

Options

Tokyo offers a wide variety of experiences. Students may choose homestay programs with local families or participate in Japanese language immersion and school exchange activities.
In addition, Japan provides a rich selection of traditional crafts and cultural activities, with options tailored for both boys and girls — such as illustration, tea ceremony, ninja experience or judo training.