field trips in japan

• Go School Trip - Make Better Tomorrow

• Products search
• Vietnam School Trips
• Cambodia School Trips
• Laos School Trips
• Myanmar School Trips
• Thailand School Trips
• Indonesia School Trips
• Japan School Trips
• Singapore School Trips
• China School Trips

Showing all 6 results

Japan School Trips & Student Tours

Japan – the land of the rising sun plays host to home spectacular landscapes and stunning destinations ranging from rolling hills, flat farmlands, towering mountains to majestic grand temples, serene shrines and Japan’s Edo-period buildings. Interestingly, there is a limitless number of things to do, see and experience in sprawling megacenter Tokyo, which is a truly inspirational experience for students of all subject backgrounds.

Educational School Trip  is proud of as a reputable tour company developing wonderful student tours to Japan. We specially tailor-made Japan student tours to serve all your student’s needs and your learning objectives. Coming to Japan, students will have ample opportunity to encounter a myriad of custom, deep history, ancient culture in Japan, explore amazing things in the bustling streets of Tokyo, join in state-of-the-art bullet trains and cherish the hospitality of Japanese people. These educational tours definitely will leave students with once-in-a-lifetime experience and meaningful lessons. Let’s Japan school trip awake your student’s travel sense.

Geography Japan School Trip – 14 Days

A Glance of Japan Rugby School Tour – 8 days

Science and Discovery Japan School Trip – 7 Days

Active Japan School Trip – 10 Days

Taste of Japan School Trip – 6 Days

Experience Japan School Trip – 9 Days

Reasons to Choose Japan School Trip for students

Cultural and historical immersion

Marvelous natural sights

High- tech World experience

Safe and secure destination.

Best Places to Visit in Japan School Trips

The capital city of tokyo.

Marvellous Okinawa

The ancient kyoto, charming nara.

Best seasons for Japan students tours

Username or email address  *

Password  *

Remember me Log in

Lost your password?

Promotion of Educational Travel to Japan

ABOUT JAPAN EDUCATIONAL TRAVEL

• arrow_right WHY JAPAN?
• arrow_right Traditional culture
• arrow_right Modern culture
• arrow_right Natural environment
• arrow_right Japanese food
• arrow_right Sports
• arrow_right Made in Japan
• arrow_right Crisis management
• arrow_right Social systems and infrastructure
• arrow_right Peace and friendship
• arrow_right SCHOOL IN JAPAN
• arrow_right JAPANESE EDUCATIONAL SYSTEM
• arrow_right SCHOOL LIFE IN JAPAN
• arrow_right PLAN YOUR TRIP
• arrow_right SUGGESTED ITINERARIES
• arrow_right SCHOOL EXCHANGES
• arrow_right TIPS FOR A SUCCESSFUL ONLINE SCHOOL EXCHANGE
• arrow_right IN-PERSON EXCHANGES
• arrow_right ONLINE EXCHANGES
• arrow_right VISITOR'S VOICES

Educational travel in Japan is an excellent learning opportunity for all students!

• 2024.03.18 News arrow_right Education for Sustainable Development Programs in Japan: A Deep Dive into Sustainable Initiatives in the Shikoku Region
• 2024.03.18 Update arrow_right Visitor’s voices and Stories of National Chu-Pei Senior high school released
• 2024.03.15 Update arrow_right Visitor’s voices and Stories of Balmoral State High School released
• 2024.02.21 Update arrow_right Visitor’s voices and Stories of Hanlim Art & Design High School released
• 2024.01.31 News arrow_right Hosted “Japan Educational Tours Seminar” in Melbourne, Australia

What is Educational Travel?

Educational travel refers to group tours organized by schools for their students with faculty members as group leaders. These trips have clear learning objectives and usually include visits to local schools, site visits, hands-on activities, and so much more. Japan has always been a popular destination for overseas educational travel, with its rich culture and abundant learning opportunities attracting students and schools from all over the world every year.

• Rich in history, culture, and natural scenery
• High-quality and diverse education
• Rich and Diverse learning opportunities
• Safe and secure environment

WHY JAPAN ?

The educational travel can be theme specific, focused on culture, history, nature, food, sports or any other theme you would like.

SCHOOL EXCHANGES

Information about school exchanges during educational travel in japan.

• School exchanges for educational travel in Japan
• The Process of School Exchange
• How to Arrange a School Exchange?

Visitor’s voices: Impressions of educational travel and school exchanges in Japan

Experinces of students and teachers who have participated in educational travel and school exchanges in Japan.

ONLINE SCHOOL EXCHANGE

Online school exchange is interaction with overseas schools online. By using online meeting tools, etc., students can talk to other students while looking at each other and feel that they are in the same classroom despite being far away.

Schools from around the world share their experiences of educational travel in Japan.

PLAN YOUR TRIP

SCHOOL IN JAPAN

What is JNTO ?

JNTO (Japan National Tourism Organization) is involved in a broad range of activities both domestically and worldwide, to encourage international tourists from all over the world to visit Japan. The JNTO engages in promotional activities for every regional market and functions as a centralized reception point for inquiries and for the acceptance of tourists wanting to visit Japan for educational travel.

• STUDENT LIFE
• FIELD TRIPS
• PRICES & DATES

JAPAN FIELD TRIPS

KEI organizes cultural activities in Tokyo, a field trip to Mt. Fuji, and an overnight excursion to Kyoto. Transportation, lodging, and admission for planned activities are included in the program fee.  KEI reserves the right to change planned activities and excursions for destinations of equal value and interest. Excursions may change based on availability, local festivals, and interest. Academic year and multiple-term students participate in planned excursions during their first term of study.

Tokyo is an energetic city that blends new and old. It is the epicenter of Japanese pop culture, yet it retains strong roots in its imperial past. There is much to do and see in the city. KEI organizes a welcome meal during the orientation and cultural activities throughout the semester. Cultural visits include the Imperial Palace, Tokyo Tower, Asakusa Shrine, Ueno Park, Sengaku-ji, and Ghibli Museum Mitaka (anime and manga).

Mt. Fuji is Japan’s highest mountain and an active volcano. On a clear day, it can be seen as far as Tokyo. Fuji-san (Japanese for Mt. Fuji) has long been a sacred mountain. The native Ainu revered the great peak. Shintoists consider the peak sacred to the goddess Sengen-Sama, who embodies nature. Fujiko sect believes the mountain is a being with a soul. A shrine to Sengen-Sama is on the summit. Japanese Buddhists believe the mountain is the gateway to a different world.

Kyoto, once the capital of Japan, is a city on the island of Honshu. Kyoto is famous for its classical Buddhist temples and gardens, imperial palaces, Shinto shrines, and traditional wooden houses. It’s most notable sites include Fushimi Inari Taisha, Kinkaku-ji, Kiyomizu-dera, Kiyomizu-dera, Arashiyama and Nijō Castle.

TESTIMONIALS

Move your mouse over the testimonial to pause rotation.

I want to thank KEI for helping me and providing me with the opportunity to study abroad in Japan. It was one of the greatest experiences I’ve ever had, and it has inspired me in many ways to continue studying Japanese, travel even more in the future, and hopefully work overseas someday.

I’m learning so much about Japanese culture. I’m trying to become involved in clubs, but it’s hard to pick one with all the options available. I also hung out with the British kids and this guy from Portugal. The Finnish students are nice too. I wanna do anything and everything. I’m really enjoying myself.

My semester in Japan was amazing! The university is a great place to learn the Japanese language and offers many courses in English with Japanese students. The KEI Director really helped us adjust to life in Japan. I really loved Japan.

Japan reminds me of home. I may be thousands of miles away from family but I’m not alone. The people on campus and in public are very nice and helpful. I’m surrounded by people who have become my friends. This was my first experience living in a dorm and I’ve enjoyed it. The classes are fun, interesting, and interactive. The KEI Director is great and has a wonderful personality. The excursions were amazing. To see and enjoy other aspects of Japan allowed me to appreciate my time here. I absolutely love Japan.

• COMMUNICATIONS
• COMPUTER SCIENCE
• DESIGN & ARCHITECTURE
• ENGINEERING
• ENVIRONMENT
• HOSPITALITY
• INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS
• LAW & CRIMINOLOGY
• MEDICINE & HEALTH
• PERFORMING ARTS
• SOCIAL SCIENCE
• INTERNSHIPS

KNOWLEDGE EXCHANGE INSTITUTE Phone: 1.212.931.9953 | Toll Free: 1.800.831.5095 | Fax: 1.212.528.2095 48 Broadway, Suite 2, Haverstraw, New York, 10927 USA [email protected] | [email protected]

©Knowledge Exchange Institute. All rights reserved, worldwide: Terms of Use | Privacy Policy

Educational tours & school trips to Japan

Our tour packages are a perfect mix of education and cultural activities, allowing you to discover all that Tokyo has to offer, as well as traditional Japanese arts, such as the tea ceremony or learning how to play Taiko, Japanese drums.

Get in Touch

Group trips to Japan

We organize trips to Japan with one goal in mind: offering the best possible Japanese experience and providing a painless organization process to teachers, institutions and organizations.

Our educational and cultural tours are a balanced combination of language learning and activities, in a safe, international environment. We work closely with you, the trip organizer, to create fully customizable solutions that fits your needs. Our tour packages allow you to discover the secrets of a traditional tea ceremony, test your sushi making skills, sing your favourite songs at Karaoke, learn how to play traditional taiko drums and enjoy many other unique activities as well as starting or developing your journey to learn Japanese.

We take care of everything

With our highly-vetted and trusted partners, we take the stress out of organizing your trip to Japan. We take care of the cultural activities, language schools, accommodation and more, so you can just enjoy the experience.

100% customizable tours and bespoke trips

After seven years running successful trips in Japan, we know that one solution doesn’t fit all, that’s why our bespoke tours can be customized and tailored to your requirements. Whether you are organizing a trip for students, employees, or for family, we’ll make sure you have an ultimate break in Japan. Our wide range of activities mean that no matter what you’re looking for we can build a tour package perfect for you.

Our qualified tour leaders have extensive experience in dealing with diverse groups and always go the extra mile to make sure you have an unforgettable experience.

Local staff and support

We have our own highly knowledgable, multilingual, local staff who act as your guide, translator, and general support for your trip, ensuring you have the best possible experience.

Age is just a number! We have organized trips for travelers from 15 – 55, so get in touch to see how we can help.

What students say about our service?

Spring Course

Nicole’s Story (Australian)

It was really fun, I loved trying a variety of Japanese foods and hanging out with our tour guide. The school and staff super helpful, I’d attend again for sure.

Summer Course

Thomas’s Story (British)

The Summer Course was my first introduction to Japan and it did not disappoint. From the moment I was welcomed at the airport to leaving the dorm for the last time, I had the most fun I have had in a long time. Getting to experience Japan with new people who became fast friends was incredible.

Youth Japan

Alex’s Story (American)

Because of the program, I plan on applying to Japanese university next year because of how much I enjoyed living in Japan and how much I want to return.

Winter Course

Anthony’s Story (British)

It was a very enjoyable experience. The events held by Studytrip.com were amazing and I made some great friendships with other on the course. It was a great experience that I would recommend anyone who wanted to visit Japan to try. It was fairly priced, the staff were great and the events were amazing.

About our tour leaders

Jose (Japan)

I originally came to Tokyo pursuing my passion of the Japanese language and culture. After studying in Japan for 4 years, I started working as Study Trip’s Tour Leader. Through my work, I aim to show people the many reasons why I fell in love with this country, making sure they enjoy their time to the fullest, and engage in a cultural exchange that will enrich everyone’s experience abroad. In my many years as a Tour Guide I have been able to meet a lot of amazing people and help them have the time of their life while in Tokyo.

Students chose our trips

Available courses, customer satisfaction, international offices, photos from our previous study trips.

Find out how we can help you

• Name * First Name Last Name
• Company Name Please write here the name of your Company, School, Institution or Association
• Email * Enter Email Confirm Email
• Your message
• I've read and I accept the Privacy Policy
• Comments This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Why choosing Japan?

Japan is one of the most advanced countries in the world, but it’s still strongly linked to its traditional roots. Exploring this country you will get on a journey through time, nature, technology, history and future. Discovering a culture so different from the rest of the world will allow students to expand their horizons, and get a deeper knowledge of the world and its diversity.

Japan offers all type of cuisines from all around the world, as long as its specialities, such as sushi, tempura, okonimyaki, ramen, etc. Contrary to what people think, many Japanese restaurants offer lunch and dinner for less than 1,000 yen (10$), so you can easily enjoy a delicious meal without breaking the budget.

Transportations

Japanese public transport is famous for being clean, punctual and a lot less complicated than it seems. Taking the train to school is a sure way to learn how to navigate your way around the city.

Japan is a great choice for a school trip, being that it’s famous for being one of the safest countries in the world. That’s why Japanese parents are able to allow their children to be independent from a young age and even takes themselves to school as early as 4 years old.

Our partners

Featured on

Username or E-mail

Remember Me

• Lost Password

• UK & Europe +44 (0)20 8064 0592 / USA +1 (617) 334 7755 / China +86 139 1651 9541 / Middle East +971 50 867 4801

Japan Student School Trips & Educational Tours

Embark on your Learning Adventure to Japan, exploring the vibrant culture, ancient architecture and modern metropolises in your tailored itinerary.

  Our educational tours, faculty-led programs, and school trips to Japan offer students the opportunity to explore the country’s unique balance between modern and traditional culture, architecture, history and much more. Our school trips provide the perfect combination of experiential activities and adventure to ensure that your students learn as much as possible while creating life-long memories.

Whether you’re looking for meaningful historical insight in Hiroshima, cultural experiences in Tokyo and Kyoto, or a case study of the country’s unique geology, we have the perfect school trip or college program for you.

Browse our school and university trips to Japan:

Rugby Tours to Japan

⭐ Alex Lewington, Rugby fixtures 📌 Tokyo, Mount Fuji, 🕐 17 days

History School Trip to Japan

⭐ Tokyo National Museum, Kiyomizu-Dera, river cruise 📌 Tokyo & Kyoto 🕐 7 days

Japan Economics & Business School Trip

⭐ Bank of Japan, Currency Museum, Coca-Cola Plant 📌 Tokyo & Kyoto 🕐 7 days

Robotics & STEM in Japan

⭐ Miraikan, Maglev Exhibition Centre, Kawaguchiko 📌 Tokyo 🕐 7 days

Geography School Trip to Japan

⭐ Rinkai Disaster Park, Fukushima, Rikuzentakata 📌 Tokyo, Kesennuma & Fukushima 🕐 7 days

Culture School Trip to Tokyo

⭐ Kamakura excursion, sushi-making, Hakone excursion 📌 Tokyo 🕐 7 days

Ski in Japan

This exciting winter sports trip takes students skiing in the beautiful Japan.

Golden Route Japan School Trip

⭐ Hakone day trip, sushi-making class, Arashiyama 📌 Tokyo, Hiroshima & Kyoto 🕐 10 days (7 day alternative available)

Art, Anime & Manga in Japan

⭐ TeamLab, International Manga Museum, Higashiyama 📌 Tokyo & Kyoto 🕐 7 days

Why we provide academic travel programs in Japan:

Japan offers learning opportunities that other countries can’t. media students can learn all about manga and anime in tokyo, whilst science or geography groups can get to the heart of disaster management, as they travel to fukushima and hiroshima. some of the activities we offer – such as a talk by an a-bomb legacy successor, visiting tsunami evacuation sites and hiking mount fuji – are once-in-a-lifetime educational experiences..

About our service:

All-Inclusive Programs

Most institutions book all-inclusive trips. We cater for all dietary requirements, provide a variety of transport options and include all activities. We can even book you ATOL-protected flights or arrange a more flexible tour.

100% Organized by Us

We plan, book and operate every component of your trip, including guides, transportation and Health & Safety audits. Our commitment to overseeing our tours means that we can offer you an exceptional program at the best price possible.

On-the-Ground Support

Your dedicated Operational Officer will contact you regularly whilst you are on the ground to check how your educational tour is progressing. Your Adventure Leader will also gather your feedback every evening.

Learn more about how The Learning Adventure makes your program hassle-free for teachers, academics and staff.

Speak to a specialist

Educational Programs

Now available virtually, please note that the jicc is located at 1150 18th street nw, washington, dc, not the embassy of japan on massachusetts ave..

Learn more about our program here:

• Video: a captivating introduction to Japan provided by the Japan National Tourism Organization
• Interactive PowerPoint: an engaging overview of the country's geography, traditions, and everyday life with trivia
• Authentic Artifacts: a presentation of a Japanese wedding kimono, authentic dolls, traditional Japanese toys and more

*Activities may vary depending on time allotment of the program

We hope that our programs leave students and adults alike interested in learning more about Japanese culture.

To request an Educational Program:

• Download the Registration Form (Word file) and fill it out completely
• Email the completed form (as an attachment) to the Educational Programs Coordinator
• Await a reply and retain the confirmation letter as it contains important information and directions to the JICC

For classes unable to make the trip to the JICC, we do consider off-site visits on a case-by-case basis.

Please note that the JICC does not offer educational programs on weekends and that we are unable to accept reservations more than three months in advance .

• Live educational program lead by JICC staff that mimics the program we run in person, but better formatted for an online platform with interactive trivia and questions throughout and time for Q&A and/or activity at the end (approximately 1 hour program, can be shortened if needed).
• Pre-recorded program (20 minutes) audience members can view on their own time at their own pace followed by a live Q&A and/or activity with JICC staff. Pre-recorded programs are available from October.

Educational Programs are not currently being offered. Please check back again. We apologize for any inconvenience and thank you for your understanding.

• Download the EP Reservation Form (Word File) and fill it out completely.
• Email the completed form (as an attachment) to the Educational Programs Coordinator at least a week prior to the requested program dates.
• Await a reply and retain the confirmation letter as it contains important information about the JICC's location and facility guidelines.

Please direct all educational program-related inquiries to the Educational Programs Coordinator, Ms. Gabrielle Headly: [email protected] | 202-238-6945 202-822-6524

Embassy Adoption Program

The Embassy Adoption Program is an educational program operated in partnership with the Washington Performing Arts Society and the District of Columbia Public Schools . The Program pairs embassies with fifth- and sixth-graders for a year-long immersive global education, creating a "bond" between local and international communities.

The JICC works with teachers and liaisons throughout the year to organize classroom sessions, cultural immersion programs at the JICC, and field trips for hands-on experience with Japanese history and culture. Often, our classes get to meet diplomats, heads of state, and special embassy guests. They also learn traditional Japanese games, songs, clothing, food, and more, in conjunction with the long and vibrant history of the relationship between Japan and Washington D.C.

The program culminates in a final class presentation at the Residence of the Ambassador of Japan, and a mini-United Nations with other EAP schools.

We look forward to welcoming and working with our EAP groups every year. To learn more about the EAP program and how to apply, please visit the District of Columbia Public Schools website .

• programs in U.S.
• programs abroad

Field Trip to Okinawa: First Flight Jitters and Museum Experience

by Jes Stayton, Greenheart Travel High School Abroad Participant

Another cool event that happens at Japanese schools is the school trip.  Every year a certain grade (in our case, the second year students) goes off on a trip for a few days, usually to another part of Japan.  This trip happens in elementary school, high school, and again in college.  The elementary school trips are usually smaller in scale than the high school and college trips.  For example, one of my current host sisters, who is twelve, told me that for her elementary school trip she went to Fukishima , which is fairly close to Sendai.

At my school, however, we could choose between Okinawa , and Nagasaki , both of which are fairly far away.  (Although that may be because this is a private school, which would have more money to spend than other schools.)  For my school trip I chose Okinawa, which is the Southernmost prefecture of Japan. (A prefecture is like a state.) It was a lot of fun.

photo courtesy of Bucknell Shotokan Karate Club

Our school trip occurred during what was a regular school week for the other two grades, from Tuesday through Friday.  Monday was a regular school day, and, as I was surprised to see, everyone paid attention and did their work.  On the next day, Tuesday, all the students went to the airport.  This year was the first year that all the students went directly to the airport, instead of gathering at the school and leaving as a group.  This is more convenient for many people who live far away from school, but not for us.  We live very near the school, so the airport is almost an hour away by car.  My other host sister, who is in the same grade as me, was going to Nagasaki, so Okasan drove us together.

We arrived very early, so there was a long wait before we went through security.  When we finally did, there was another long wait by the gate.  Most of the students spent the time taking pictures of themselves and their friends in different poses.  The students bound for Nagasaki left during this time.  When at last we boarded the plane, everyone was very excited.  Because Japan is such a small country, there were a lot of students who had never flown before.  Of those who had, usually they had only been in a plane once or twice.  So many people were nervous or scared as we boarded the plane and found our seats.

More than half the plane was filled up with students.  I feel bad for the people who had to ride in that plane with us. (Everyone screamed excitedly when the plane lifted off and touched down. )

Two hours and thirty minutes later, we arrived in Okinawa.  My first thought on exiting the plane was ‘It’s hot.’  Sendai is similar in climate to Massachusetts, so it’s winter here right now.  Okinawa, however, has an almost subtropical climate.  Although it was winter there as well, it was still warm enough to be a big difference.  We were all grateful enough to go into the airport to get our luggage and then ride in the bus that we used for the duration of the trip.  I was also surprised by my first glimpse of Okinawa.  It looked different from America (of course), but also different from Sendai.  The buildings were mostly white and pastel, but the were still modern Japanese style buildings.  There were also plants growing profusely on the sides of buildings, on the ground, everywhere.

Instead of going directly to the hotel, we went to a small museum that was near the airport.  Our hotel was almost a two hour drive away, so it made more sense to go to the museum first.  My friend told me that it was a kiken , or anniversary museum.  I didn’t understand that, or what the museum was displaying, until one of my teachers was kind enough to get me a translation of the museum’s brochure.  It explained that during World War II, an American submarine torpedoed a Japanese ship carrying refugees, most of whom died when the ship sank.

None of my fellow students said anything, of course, but I still felt very sad.  In America, everyone knows that America has fought wars in the past, but we never really think about the people who have been killed by American soldiers in other countries.  I think that if people thought about that, we might be a little more hesitant to go to war.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Subscribe by Email

Completely spam free, opt out any time.

Japanese Online Lessons using SKYPE

• Courses and Curricula
• How to apply
• Apply for trial lesson
• Corporate Services

Social Studies Field Trips in Japan that Anyone Can Enjoy

February 27, 2018

During my grade school days in Japan, there was an extracurricular activity, called a “social studies field trip”, where I got to visit a local factory.

In recent years, more and more companies are actively accepting factory tours in order to create corporate fans, and field trips for adults are very popular. Such tours can easily be enjoyed, because they usually are free or cost only a few hundred yen.

I have primarily selected spots close to Tokyo.

Note that in some cases you must apply in advance, or there may be age restrictions or limits on the number of people in a group. Check with each site for details. Most websites are in Japanese only, but try to do the best you can.

Beer tastes significantly different depending on the country. Japanese beer is relatively easy to get used to for people from overseas.

Almost all beer factories allow beer tasting, so I recommend these tours for beer lovers.

KIRIN（Yokohama City, Kanagawa Prefecture） http://www.kirin.co.jp/entertainment/factory/yokohama/tour/ 　

ASAHI（Minamiashigara City, Kanagawa Prefecture）　 https://www.asahibeer.co.jp/brewery/kanagawa/

SUNTORY（Fuchuu City, Tokyo） http://www.suntory.co.jp/factory/musashino/

SAPPORO（Funabashi City, Chiba Prefecture）　 http://www.sapporobeer.jp/brewery/chiba/

Japanese Sake

For Japanese sake, there is a huge warehouse called a sakagura (酒蔵) that you can tour.

SAWANOI　（Oume　City, Tokyo）　 http://www.sawanoi-sake.com/service/kengaku

KOYAMASHUZO (Kita Ward, Tokyo) 　 http://www.koyamashuzo.co.jp/kura.html

ISHIKAWASHUZO（Fussa City, Tokyo） 　 http://tamajiman.co.jp/tour/

You can also see how soy sauce, an integral part of Japanese cuisine, is made.

Yugeta Soy Sauce (Hidaka City, Saitama Prefecture)　 http://yugeta.com/oukoku/contents/kengaku.html

Kikkoman Soy Sauce (Noda City, Chiba Prefecture） http://www.kikkoman.co.jp/library/enjoys/factory/pdf/eigo.pdf (English site)

Automobiles and Motorcycles

You can see the history of Japanese cars and motorcycles, and famous cars from the past. These tours should be irresistible to car and motorcycle enthusiasts.

TOYOTA（Toyota City, Aichi Prefecture） http://www.toyota.co.jp/jp/about_toyota/facility/toyota_kaikan/index.html

NISSAN (Several plant tours exist)　 http://www.nissan-global.com/JP/PLANT/

HONDA (Several plant tours exist)　 http://www.honda.co.jp/kengaku/index.html

MAZDA (Hiroshima City, Hiroshima Prefecture） http://www.mazda.com/ja/about/museum/guide/

SUBARU (Oota City, Gunma Prefecture)　 https://www.subaru.co.jp/csr/factory-tour/

SUZUKI（Hamamatsu City, Shizuoka Prefecture） https://www.suzuki-rekishikan.jp/

KAWASAKI　（Kobe City, Hyogo Prefecture）

https://www.kawasaki-motors.com/kaze/prev/kojo.html (Regular tours）(English site)

http://www.khi.co.jp/kawasakiworld/ (Akashi City, Hyogo Prefecture）

(Kawasaki limits tours to motorcycle clubs only)

YAMAHA（Iwata City, Shizuoka Prefecture） http://global.yamaha-motor.com/jp/showroom/cp

The airplane hangars are incredibly impressive.

ＪＡＬ （Oota Ward, Tokyo） http://www.jal.co.jp/kengaku/tour/

ＡＮＡ （Oota Ward, Tokyo）　 http://www.ana.co.jp/cp/kengaku/index.html

You can even buy gifts and souvenirs. There’s even a place that offers all-you-can-eat ice cream for free!

glico (Kitamoto City, Saitama Prefecture) https://www.glico.com/jp/enjoy/experience/glicopiaeast

（Hokkaido, Tochigi Prefecture, Hiroshima Prefecture） http://www.calbee.co.jp/factory/

AKAGI (Honjoo City, Saitama Prefecture) http://www.akagi.com/factory/index.html

*This is the manufacturer of the popular Garigari Kun ice cream in Japan.

chateraise　（Hokuto City, Yamanashi Prefecture） https://www.chateraise.co.jp/enjoy/02factory.php

unagipai（Hamamatsu City, Shizuoka Prefecture）　 http://www.unagipai-factory.jp/tour.php

shiroikoibito（Sapporo City, Hokkaido） http://www.shiroikoibitopark.jp/english/

(English site)

royce (Chitose City, Hokkaido)　 http://www.royce.com/contents/english_rcw/ (English site)

Miscellaneous

Cupnoodles-Museum

（Yokohama City, Kanagawa Prefecture） 　 http://www.cupnoodles-museum.jp/english/index.html (English site)

You can make your own original cup ramen, including drawing a picture on the container and choosing the ingredients.

Yamato （Oota Ward, Tokyo）

http://www.yamato-hd.co.jp/hnd-chronogate/visitortour.html

You can tour the latest facilities of a Japanese distribution company that delivers luggage quickly and accurately.

Railway-Museum　(Saitama City, Saitama Prefecture)

http://www.railway-museum.jp/en/index.html (English site)

This is a museum, so it is a little bit different from a social studies field trip, but it is a very popular spot for those who like trains.

• Japanese learning method for business people

Recent Posts

• I cannot keep up with meetings conducted in Japanese. Are there any good ways to study?
• Are there any good writing materials for business Japanese? (Three keys to developing business Japanese writing skills.)
• Are there any free materials available for studying business Japanese reading?
• Should I read newspapers for reading practice in business Japanese?
• Are there any good business magazines to practice reading business Japanese?
• August 2022
• February 2022
• January 2022
• October 2021
• January 2021
• August 2020
• February 2020
• January 2020
• December 2019
• November 2019
• October 2019
• September 2019
• August 2019
• February 2019
• January 2019
• December 2018
• November 2018
• October 2018
• September 2018
• August 2018
• February 2018
• January 2018
• November 2017
• October 2017

Social Media

Member login.

• Forgot your Password?

4 Cool Corporate Field Trips for Families

During the holidays, it's not uncommon for parents to bring their kids on field trips, or 社会見学 (shakai kengaku) , to different factories or government institutions to learn how a business, and society as a whole, works. Spend some time with your family in Japan learning about how television shows, soda, laws or airplanes are made in Tokyo.

Coca-Cola Japan — Tama Factory

For sure you've likely tried a Coca-Cola product or two, but do you know anything behind the bottling process? This tour is a good opportunity for you and your family to take a peek into how the sweet drinks get on the shelves because Coca-Cola's Tama Factory is open for free visits! Your visit includes a video presentation, a tour of the factory and demonstrations, so visitors can get a close-up view of how the products are made before hitting the stores and vending machines. Address: 1-2-9 Nobidome, Higashikurume-shi, Tokyo Registration: Required, by phone (042-471-0463), available to book from two months before the desired day until a week prior Fee: Free Tour duration: 60 minutes Access: via Seibu Ikebukuro Line, get off at Kiyose Station, from the South Exit take the Seibu Bus to Tokyo Metropolitan Higashi-Kurume Sogo Senior High School via Seibu Ikebukuro Line, get off at Higashi-Kurume Station, from the West Exit take the Seibu Bus to Hachimancho Itchome

- www.ccej.co.jp

Fuji TV — Odaiba

We love watching TV and fantasizing what's happening behind the scenes. But did you ever imagine that someday you could go backstage of one of the big studios and possibly even take pictures with your favorite celebrities? Thanks to Fuji TV, you just might get the chance to realize your dream! Fuji's television studio in Odaiba is open to public visit with three parts. On the first floor is the Theater Mall, a souvenir shop featuring Fuji TV shows and anime. The fifth floor is the Fuji TV Wonder Street, the main area that showcases a few of the popular shows, showcasing the props used and the sets. And on the 25th floor is Hachitama, the an area that has temporary events and a panoramic view of the bay area and Odaiba, though admission is not free on this floor. Address: 2-4-8 Daiba, Minato-ku, Tokyo Registration: Not required Fee: Free, except Hachitama, which is ¥550 for high school students and above, secondary and primary school students pay ¥300 Tour duration: unlimited Closed on Monday Access: via Yurikamome Line, get off at Odaiba Station and walk three minutes via Rinkai Line, get off at Tokyo Teleport and walk five minutes

- www.fujitv.co.jp

The House of Councillors, The National Diet of Japan — Nagatacho

https://www.flickr.com/photos/31029865@N06/6700031293

The National Diet is the heart of Japanese politics and all laws and policies are being discussed and finalized in this building built in 1936. It's open for everyone to witness its beautiful interior. Also, it's a good opportunity to learn about Japanese politics for anyone interested in that field. An added bonus is getting to see the government chambers that are usually only seen on TV. Address: 1-7-1 Nagatacho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo Registration: Not required, but you'll need to fill out a form on site if you're a group of 10 or over Fee: Free Tour duration: 60 minutes Hours: Weekdays 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., tours available every hour on the hour. Closed an hour before a parliamentary meeting until it finishes. Access: via Tokyo Metro Yurakucho/Hanzomon/Nanboku Line, get off at Nagatacho Station, a three-minute walk from Exit 1 via Tokyo Metro Marunouchi/Chiyoda Line, get off at Kokkai-Gijidomae Station, walk six minutes from Exit 1

- www.sangiin.go.jp

JAL Sky Museum — Haneda Airport

https://www.flickr.com/photos/m-takagi/18768848836/in/album-72157654528432872/

We all love to travel, especially the excitement when getting onboard a plane to our next destination. But do you know there's actually a lot of work and labor that happens before your exciting flight? The Japan Airlines (JAL) Factory has put together a museum, including pictures from the past, equipment old and new, as well as a few games and activities you can try out. You can also learn about the history of JAL and aviation in Japan. There's also a phenomenal tour in the planes maintenance section where you can even see the staff repairing planes. The facility is right next to Haneda Airport, which means you'll also get to see planes taking off and landing in the middle of your tour. Address: JAL Maintenance Center-1, 3-5-1 Haneda Airport, Ota-ku, Tokyo Registration: Required via the internet (link below), from six months before until 24 hours before the desired day Fee: Free Tour duration: 100 minutes Access: via Tokyo Monorail, get off at Shinseibijo Station, it's a two-minute walk

- www.jal.co.jp (Japanese)

This website uses cookies.

Tokyo: City of Contrasts

Preview video by clicking the “play” arrow

Tokyo is both steeped in ancient history, and yet one of the most modern and trendsetting cities in the world. Visit the juxtaposition of old and new that embraces both neon and nature.

Video length: 11:35 minutes.

Watch Full Video*

*authorized members

National Standards for this video

State standards, learning resources with this video*.

Set in Tokyo Writing Prompt

Tokyo and Your Town Writing Sheet

Tokyo Exploration Virtual Classroom

Tokyo Tower Compare and Contrast Graphic Organizer

Visit a City of Contrasts

The History of the Tokyo Olympics

Draw a Scene

Universal Resources

National Standards

*Links are active on Full Video page.

Video Memberships

• Unlimited viewing of 1 video
• Post-trip quiz + resources for 1 video
• Access to Closed Captioned version of 1 video
• Lowest-cost option

Teacher + Class Membership

• Unlimited access to the entire Virtual Field Trips library
• All quizzes + learning resources
• Access for 1 teacher + all students
• Access to all Spanish videos
• Access to all Closed Captioned videos
• Best value option for one teacher

Schoolwide Membership

• Access for all teachers and all students
• Access to all Spanish videos + resources
• Best for school administrators supporting their teachers & students
• Up to 500 students – $350/year
• 500-1,000 students – $500/year
• 1,000+ students – $1,000/year

Classroom Ideas 

Have students print out a map of Tokyo and identify where the sites in the video are located.  

Cloze Practice

A cloze piece has full sentences used in the virtual field trip with blanks where students can write in the information that is missing. This task requires close listening to the trip in order to complete it.

Country Report

Have students write a report about Japan including: landmarks, population, how it is similar to the United States, history (how it came to be), type of government, economy, famous sites, architecture, interesting facts, religions, food, etc.

Transportation Around the World

Compare/contrast various modes of transportation in different countries (Japanese subways vs. classic cars in Cuba)

Listen to music from Japan.

Food of Japan

Have students research traditional Japanese food.

Tokyo Descriptive Words

Ask students to write a description of Tokyo. You could consider having them include a list of adjectives that describe the city.

Tokyo and Home: A Comparison

Students will write lists of the things they like and dislike about Tokyo. Make sure they explain each opinion. Ask students to write about and discuss whether they would like their own home city or town to be more like Tokyo in any way, and why.

Landforms and Bodies of Water

Identify landforms and bodies of water around Tokyo and Japan.

Create Quizzes

Students create a quiz based on the information presented for their peers. This can be used as a review for a test, or jigsaw class activity where students are responsible for teaching other students assigned topics.

Greetings Around the World

Explore different ways to greet people across various cultures ( Bonjour  in France, bowing in Japan, Hola   in Cuba, etc.).

Draw a scene from the video you just watched.

Create a diorama of Tokyo’s landmarks.

Local Festivals

Have students research Japanese festivals at the local, state, and national levels.  

Creative Writing

Write a story with Tokyo as the setting. The main character could be from another country (compare and contrast characters). 

Tokyo Station Adventure

Find out places you can get to from Tokyo Station, and plan an itinerary for a trip.

Tokyo Tower

Students can complete a worksheet in which they compare Tokyo Tower to the Eiffel Tower in Paris. They should talk about the history of the towers, visiting rules, views, etc.

Classroom Ideas for ALL Videos

Here are dozens and dozens of ideas that you can use in your classroom along with our videos!

Topics Covered In This Video

Tokyo’s location

Imperial Palace

Tokyo Station

Bullet trains

Ginza shopping district

Kabuki theater

Tsukiji Fish Market

Shinjuku Gardens

Asakusa Kannon Temple

Related Videos

London: City of Pomp & Majesty

Paris: City of Light (Grades K-5)

Paris: City of Light (Grades 6-12)

Rome - The Eternal City

Pin it on pinterest.

Walk Japan has been successfully planning and leading school trips for over 20 years. Not only has the number of schools the company works with increased significantly, but also the programmes undertaken by Walk Japan have become firmly established in many school’s annual program of educational tours.

But without a doubt, the best measure of success is knowing that participating students and teachers return to their schools with great memories, photos, stories and experiences to share with their friends and colleagues. Please read below how teachers describe their experiences with Walk Japan.

Daniel Budd of Hong Kong International School

Our group of 20 High School students recently embarked on an incredible journey along a section of the Nakasendo Trail led by Walk Japan. Over the course of 5 days, we travelled from Ena to Nagoya, passing through Magome, O-Tsumago, Kiso-Fukushima, and Kaida Plateau. This experience was nothing short of extraordinary. The tour guides from Walk Japan were exceptionally knowledgeable, providing our students with in-depth insights into the historical significance of the region. They taught us about the language, culture, and, of course, Japan's famous cuisine. Our students were fully immersed in the rich heritage of the Nakasendo Trail, gaining a deeper understanding of Japan's past. The physical challenges of trekking through mountainous terrain, enduring rain and heavy snow, pushed our students to their limits. Yet, they persevered and emerged with a true sense of accomplishment. The resilience and determination they displayed will undoubtedly stay with them for a lifetime. The students had the time of their lives during this journey. It was a trip filled with adventure, learning, and personal growth. The memories created will be cherished forever. Walk Japan provided the perfect balance of education, cultural immersion, and physical activity, ensuring that our students had an authentic experience of Japan. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the tour guides who went above and beyond to make this trip unforgettable. Their dedication, hospitality, and genuine care for our students were evident throughout the entire journey. They fostered a deep bond with our group and helped us develop a broader worldview. We wholeheartedly recommend Walk Japan to anyone seeking an immersive and educational travel experience. The combination of historical exploration, breathtaking landscapes, and the warmth of the local people made this trip truly exceptional. Thank you, Walk Japan, for providing our students with an experience they will treasure for the rest of their lives.

Lauren Jackson of International Community School

Samurai swords sticking out of backpacks and big plushies won from claw machines reminded me that my high school students are still kids, exploring a new culture with wonder and joy, making their own decisions with the gentle support of our Walk Japan guides, Mary Beth, Masaki, and myself. The Nakasendo Way tour was perfect for our summer trip with 15 students, a parent and me. International Community School is a small public school that is part of a large suburban district outside Seattle. When the district discontinued all international travel during the school year, I chose to plan this trip independently because I believe in the value of this kind of travel for students. I have worked and led a variety of trips for students at private international schools outside the US and wanted my public school students to have the same chance to travel with their peers. Walk Japan was such a good choice because they planned everything for our time in Japan and supported me in the pre-trip planning. Before the trip, Mario Anton held an online meeting with the families to explain the trip and answer questions. I got room configurations so I could make up rooming lists prior to the trip. Our pre-trip packet gave daily itineraries and contact information for the inns. The packing list helped me answer questions and prepare students for what to bring, and the cultural information was also very helpful in getting students ready for what they would be seeing and learning along the way. During the trip, Mary Beth and Masaki became part of our group, getting to know the students and adults, treating us as old friends, answering every question we had about what we were seeing along each day's walk and translating for us in stores and with our innkeepers, taking interest in the students personally. Mary Beth gathered the students around her to give short history lessons at just the right intervals to hold our students' attention and teach them about the important aspects of the Nakasendo Way. Masaki took time to work with some students who had been independently studying Japanese to read signs and help them further their language skills. They gave us clear instructions and support for getting on and off of trains and buses and their timing for our group was amazing. We never had to rush to get somewhere and we never sat around waiting for anything. Each day, we walked with purpose but not to exhaustion, took breaks and checked for hydration levels in the heat. Masaki and Mary Beth carried snacks and salt candies that they shared during our breaks. They had a first aid kit for blisters and other issues. When one student overheated, they quickly helped get him to the inn early by bus so he could rest and recover and worked with us to make decisions about how to treat him medically. We arrived at our inns with enough time each afternoon for all the students to bathe and relax in their yukata before dinner. Masaki explained every dish before dinner started and we enjoyed the amazing meals that were spread before us each evening with 12-15 different kinds of food to try. They and the innkeepers were very attentive to our vegetarian students to make sure they had a good experience. (They were not just full at the end of the meal, they also got to try many different foods). Masaki and Mary Beth helped us find a place to gather in the inns and often stayed with us for our after-dinner reflection and journaling times, sharing highlights from the day and things they were thankful for. Our students felt a great sense of accomplishment each day and were tired enough to want to head to bed (always one of my goals on student trips). The natural beauty along the trails, the experience of walking through villages and farmland, past everyday life in rural Japan, and meeting the kind and welcoming innkeepers and folks who came to share history and music with us, relaxing in beautiful onsen and tatami rooms with tea and snacks, and getting to know students and guides deeply along the way is an experience I will always cherish and hope to repeat in the future. Thank you so much.

Cort Bosc of Montclair Kimberley Academy

I cannot say thank you enough for the leadership, time, and care of Walk Japan in building and executing our two-week high school program in Honshu and Kyushu. Their leaders' ability to connect with and listen to our students was essential to making our students feel safe and therefore, more willing to engage with every aspect of the trip no matter how far it might have been out of their comfort zone. Mario, Kaho, and Connor (our Walk Japan guides) were calm under pressure, incredibly knowledgeable and great at adjusting in cooperation with our chaperones. But probably most importantly, Walk Japan has spent years cultivating connections with community members across the country that allowed our students a unique window into how life is lived in Japan both in its urban and rural settings. Students in our group meditated with a local Buddhist monk, spent an evening working at a farm alongside their homestay parents, learned to make Soba noodles from an expert, listened to the stories of survival from someone who lived through the bombing of Hiroshima, and met a master kimono maker. And all of this is just a small window into the experiences the two weeks offered. In our feedback from students, all 30 said they would recommend this trip to their friends, that they would want to travel again with Kaho, Mario, and Connor, and that they had a deeper understanding and appreciation for Japanese culture, history, and people. Finally, as a faculty chaperone, I have been on few trips where I felt more supported and at ease. I truly enjoyed every moment of the experience.

Martin Foakes, Outdoor Education department head of Tanglin Trust School

Here at Tanglin we run an extensive programme of expeditions and service learning opportunities, with each Grade or Year group having its own residential trip during year, from Year 3 at the Zoo to Year 12 Himalayan expeditions. In a typical year we probably organise around 80 different overseas and residential trips involving over 3000 student journeys.  We try to ensure progression in scope and sequence of the outdoor learning experience from Year 3 up, so this does put pressure on the senior trips and by the time you get to the Year 12 summer expeditions the trips do need to be really amazing! In order to provide the best possible experience in safety we have got used to working closely with a wide range of professional tour operators in the region, some of whom we have worked with for many years. We select our educational travel partners very carefully and in order to work with us we require the highest standards of care and attention to detail. I am happy to say that ‘Walk Japan’ more than met our expectations on every trip! We expect students to build up their basic outdoor expeditions skills of course, such as packing a bag for an overnight trip or an extended hiking expedition. We also want our students to commit to travelling responsibly, understand sustainability issues and to build up their knowledge and experience of living and communicating effectively with another culture. We want our students to feel secure and to be used to functioning positively in a setting that may be very different from their comfortable and familiar family home back in Singapore. In Year 12 we offer our students a limited range of around 6 different trip options for their summer CAS expeditions. The choices vary a little every year but the focus is always on supporting the CAS learning objectives and providing what is likely to be the highlight of their time at our school. The trips therefore need to be iconic, inspiring and flawlessly planned. Our community has a low tolerance for risk and uncertainty, and the team at Walk Japan were always able to deal effectively with some searching requests for detailed information about risk management on the trips, crisis response plans and so on. The experience that our students get while exploring the Kunisaki peninsula with Walk Japan stand out as an opportunity to explore and experience authentic Japanese culture, it has been so much more than just a taste of another way of life. It can be very difficult to find and set up a truly authentic collaboration with another culture, but that was the stand out feature of our trip. The knowledge and expertise of our guides was amazing, and their ability to act as a bridge between our group and the local community meant that the students got a truly authentic and immersive experience. So much so that this year our repeat trip to Japan was clearly one of the most popular choices on the list, with places heavily oversubscribed. The popularity of the trip is a result of its positive reputation (it is the ‘coolest’ trip!) among the school community, and I am very sure that Walk Japan will be on our list of trusted providers for many years to come. While setting up the trip a few years ago with our Head of Sixth Form I was lucky enough to ‘walk through’ the same itinerary that the student group would be following, and I am happy to say that it was an absolute privilege to have such a fantastic guide to some rarely visited parts of this amazing country. I will never forget sharing a cup of green tea and a chat in the front room of a an elderly Japanese  couple in their farm house, sharing stories about our respective families, all the while staring down at us from the walls of the family shrine were old black and white photos of their ancestors in traditional Japanese dress and military uniforms. Walk Japan are highly recommended for amazing school trips and we are really looking forward to coming back!

Katy Cowles and Anna Murphy of Pace Academy

Walk Japan was a wonderful organization to work with for planning and guiding our Middle School Study Tour. They thoughtfully customized our trip to fit the needs of our group from arranging gluten-free or vegetarian meals to incorporating as much art into the itinerary as possible. Not only were they accommodating to our needs, but they were prompt, knowledgeable and clear in their communication during the planning stages. In addition, Walk Japan prepared the entire group well prior to departure by sending us a booklet outlining the things we would need to bring and the cultural norms we would need to be respectful of. Mario even came to visit to meet our students, parents, and teachers! The depth of knowledge about and relationships with local communities Mario has made our planning and visit an authentic, special and smooth one. It is clear to us that we picked the right organization to work with. I would highly recommend working with them and look forward to doing so next summer.

Clare Sisisky, Executive Director of Global Education Benchmark Group

Partnering with Walk Japan for a custom designed program for educators allowed us to benefit from the unique relationships and opportunities made possible through their extensive network. Our partnership from the early design phase all the way through to execution of the program was collaborative, open, and customised to our needs. Mario's expertise and warm manner as a group leader was invaluable to our participants in expanding the richness of their learning and overall experience.

Russ Hovater of Athens Academy

Walk Japan provided the best authentic experience of Japan for our students. From the historic temples and shrines of Kyoto and the gracious hospitality of the innkeepers along the Nakasendo Way, to the bustling, high tech metropolis of Tokyo, we made the most of our ten-day tour of Japan: it far exceeded everyone’s expectations. Our guides, Mario and Kaho, went above and beyond to bond with our students and help them better understand Japan, both past and present. Our students returned to the States with beautiful photographs, fond memories, and, most importantly, a broader worldview. Personally, I would like to thank Mario and Kaho for gladly accommodating my special requests (like helping me acquire items for our art gallery) and for providing world class service every step of the way. Arigatou gozaimasu!

Paul Bloomfield of Wilbraham & Monson Academy

[Our trip with Walk Japan] was well-planned. It was interesting, provided new experiences, and our guides offered a depth of understanding that would not have been possible any other way. We walked along different terrain with our guide Tetsuo showing us vegetation, animal life, and an appreciation for the natural world. At the same time, our travels on the Nakasendo Way in particular allowed us to connect unfamiliar history with real life examples, locations, and customs. Experiencing Japan in this way is important because without understanding the context, you simply miss the complexity, depth, and heart of the country, which is beyond the surface for the casual or business visitor. Though I expected to prefer the city experiences, on reflection I felt very happy in the woods and mountain trails. In the cities, students enjoyed the vast shopping opportunities and of course the Karaoke night. In almost every situation the food was delicious, and an adventure at times, but the countryside inn cuisine was spectacular in its variety, creativity, and colors, as well as being healthful. All of the meals were able to accommodate our requests including vegetarian, non-pork, and gluten free diets. Tetsuo conversed to kitchen and then to us at every meal to ensure we were well fed and diets met. The staff and owners of the inns were gracious and understanding. This tour, personally, gave me insight that no book, You Tube show, or individual travel could ever come close to. Travel is a big aspect for WMA and this was a perfect educational experience for our high school students. I strongly recommend any high school considering going to Japan to use Walk Japan. This type of tour contains some degree of physicality, which all of our students really enjoyed, and made the journey more earned than simply given. Students appreciate this dynamic. This intensified bonding, sharing, and learning. We all felt safe and respected by Tetuso. Later we were joined by Michelle, whose cultural background made her a big hit with our students. Our experience certainly provided us with depth of culture, history, people and geography.

Drew Doty of No Barriers

Our non-profit works with tour operators in over 22 different countries around the world. Having just returned from our pilot program to Japan, I can say with the upmost gratitude that Walk Japan provided an experience far and above what we have ever expected from a tour operator. From the very beginning of planning over a year ago all the way to the last day of our program this year, Walk Japan was truly a joy to work with. Our participants come from a wide variety of backgrounds and ability levels, and we found Walk Japan to be more than accommodating to everyone. Highly organized, responsive, and thoughtful! Looking forward to many years of programming to come!

Jeff Dione of Ashley Hall

I lived in Japan for 13 years and am now based in the US. I’ve just returned from leading a group of 11 American high school girls to Japan, and I chose Walk Japan to handle the final week of our stay. It was a sublime experience with Walk Japan. Mario Anton accommodated our every custom request in the planning stages, and even visited our school prior to the journey to meet our students, parents, and teachers. In Japan our incredible guide was Jamie Dwyer. As someone who is fluent in the language and very familiar with the culture, I was deeply impressed by Jamie's high level of care, his depth of knowledge, his language ability, and the phenomenal choices made for accommodations and food. Everything was perfect, and any challenges were met with intelligent and quick solutions. Absolutely outstanding all around, and an incredible value as well. There was not one low point in our journey, and each moment felt magical and smooth. I can not imagine how to improve any part of what Mario, Jamie, and Walk Japan accomplished for us, and I recommend anyone, whether it be a school program or a personal pilgrimage, to experience Japan with Walk Japan!

James Burke of Tyee Middle School

As an experienced world traveler with younger secondary students, Walk Japan is without a doubt the finest tour operation I have ever worked with. From their accommodating itinerary planning that completely met our group’s needs to the first-class treatment in-country with our tour guides, I will happily select Walk Japan for all my future school trips. Choosing a tour company for travel with middle school students is no easy task. Mario and his peers made it a trip of a lifetime for the organizers, our students, and the accompanying parents. For many of us, it was our first time in Japan, but the ease and comfort in which we arrived, toured two islands, and returned home to Seattle safely, one could easily think that we had been to Japan many times already. The tour engaged the students with plenty of pertinent history and culture, but most of all, the trip provided a real world, engaging, personal experience for everyone involved. We tried almost every type of travel option the country provides – from taxis to bullet trains – and even had the pleasure of an inter-island ferry to the island of Kyushu. The temples we visited were more than just eye candy. We were able to meet the monks that took care of them and were even treated at one temple to training in meditation. Again, all of these activities were superbly coordinated by the Walk Japan tour guides. However, the greatest parts of the trip for the organizers were the community connections that were made. Students learned tree planting techniques, shiitake mushroom farming, and participated in a home stay with families that were eager to share their culture with our group. The heartfelt relationships that were fostered will last a lifetime. This is what world travel is all about: making connections with people. Walk Japan is a breath of fresh air in a world of commercial tour options and our trip organizer Mario made it all happen. Domo arigato gozaimasu and thank you very much. Peace.

Cheryl Lee of Tyee Middle School

Walk Japan unequivocally exceeded our expectations for our school's first ever trip to Japan. Not only did our guide Mario and other Walk Japan employees exude passion, warmth, and enthusiasm in introducing our students to the Land of the Rising Sun, but they also displayed a sense of humor, patience, flexibility, and problem-solving skills that made our trip as smooth and enjoyable as a trip overseas could be for a group of 19 people, many of whom had never even traveled abroad or to Asia. All members of our group were put at ease at every turn of events, at every location of interest, at every juncture of cross-cultural communication - there was never a point where our group felt unsure, uncomfortable, or disengaged from our experience; rather, all of us were always at ease, engaged, and enthusiastic throughout the journey. What also made an enormously positive impact on our experience was Walk Japan's on-the-ground, grassroots relationship with local communities and their first-hand knowledge of organizations, resources, and activities that would suit our group's preferences and tastes. Obtaining an authentic taste of life in rural Japan would not have been possible without this particular strength of Walk Japan - something that other larger educational tour companies were unable to offer us. From the intimacy of meeting a local monk in the countryside of Kyushu to the pleasures of partaking in daily family life with locals, the long-standing and long-forged relationships between Walk Japan and the local people of Japan made all the difference on our trip. Lastly, we as educators and teachers cannot stress enough the importance of a holistic educational experience. By the end of our 8-day journey, our students became more conscientious, more competent, more empathetic, and more compassionate young people who valued understanding ourselves and our world, and who value acknowledging differences and embracing them rather than being afraid of them. From the eye-opening and sobering talk with a Hiroshima bombing survivor to serene walks in the countryside, our student’s holistic inner growth from this truly immersive experience is ultimately the most worthwhile and valuable asset Walk Japan has bestowed on us. We at Tyee Middle School wholeheartedly recommend Walk Japan and continue to look forward to working together for many years to come!

Nora Yamada of the British School in Tokyo

“Without a doubt (and all the teachers on the trip agreed) this was the best school trip that I have ever been on! Mario was brilliantly flexible and ensured that we had an amazing, unique, challenging (but safe!) experience which came in on budget and ticked all our boxes. Walk Japan's close relationship with local people enabled us to get an intense taste of what life in rural Japan is like - we certainly didn't expect to be visiting peoples' homes or meeting their extended family - but that's what we did! I have lived in Japan for over ten years, but I felt that I learned something new from the trip, and I know that my students got a glimpse of a world that is alien to them, despite many of them having lived here for years. The accommodation far exceeded our expectations and the food was deliciously prepared and delightfully local. I would not hesitate to plan another trip with Walk Japan, in fact, Mario's already got our dates for next year!”

Becky Green of the Singapore American School

"Walk Japan offers our high schoolers everything we could hope for on a high-school interim trip: Connections with amazing adults, pushes out of comfort zones, unique experiences, outdoor adventure, and relevant learnings. For the second year in a row, we’ve returned from a winter hike on the Nakasendo Way grateful, invigorated, and wonder-filled. Our students have many options for their interim excursions, and Walk Japan’s Nakasendo Way is one of the first to fill, as students spread the word that it’s a fascinating, enjoyable, and memorable week. As a trip leader, I can’t sing the Walk Japan guides’ praises enough. They make my job easy with their positive attitudes, careful planning, and flexibility. I feel like they truly partner with our trip teachers and also make it a goal to connect to our students and spend the week alongside them. We’re already looking at calendars to make sure next year’s students get the same tremendous experience with Walk Japan!"

Barry Barankin of the Head Royce School

"I just realized I haven’t yet told you what an absolutely wonderful trip to Japan we had. Mario was spectacular. How he made the movement of 27 people through 1500km of Japan, including so many one­-of-­a-­kind experiences, SOOO smooth and pleasant was frankly magical. Plus, he was supremely competent, confident, patient, knowledgeable, open to new things, and downright nice to be around. When we said goodbye to him at Narita the students just swamped him and wouldn’t let go. The four adults felt the same way. We’re going to have a little reunion in the Bay Area in August, I believe. For me it was the trip to Japan I hoped but never expected to have. We did some things I’ve done before, and a lot of things that were new and exciting for me. Best of all, I got to do them with my daughter, who was 7 months old the first/last time she was in Japan. She has always wanted to know why Japan was so important to me, and at the end of the trip she said she not only understood, but that it had become important to her in that same way. Sitting in the Heian Shrine garden surrounded by the irises in bloom, as I had in 1962 but this time with Meghan, was a gift. And there were so many moments like that!"

Ashley Ault of The Harbour School

"The trip remains a vivid memory for students years later as they visit classrooms discussing the highlights from the year before. Students are enthralled by the peacefulness, artistry, tradition and natural beauty surrounding them along the route. For me as a teacher I am always so impressed with the sense of self and independence that the students take away from the trip. Walk Japan allows students to experience history and the evolution of Japan through their knowledgable guides and friendly and professional organization."

Brian Christian, Principal of the British School in Tokyo

Running through history.

It is dark. It is raining. The occasional vehicle sweeps past, splashing up rainbows of spray beneath the streetlights. It is four o’clock in the morning and a motley crew of slightly dazed students and teachers from the British School in Tokyo are huddled together at one end of an ancient bridge in Kyoto. They are about to find out if a crazy idea can possibly be made to work. They are preparing to run the Nakasendo Way. It had all started months earlier with one of those what-if conversations. I had just met Paul Christie of Walk Japan and we were throwing around some thoughts about ways in which we could work together to do something special for BST’s 25th Anniversary; something that would involve students of different ages and open their eyes to the beauty and fascinating history of a Japan beyond the urban sprawl of Tokyo. Paul waxed lyrical about the Nakasendo Way, the ancient route from Kyoto to Tokyo through the Kiso Valley and over the Japanese Alps: a 360-mile journey from post town to post town that had reached the peak of its popularity in the Edo period and which probably hadn’t been covered in its entirety for a century or more. We couldn’t possibly take on something like that, could we? Could we? A few months later, at the beginning of July, we were about to find out. Just like the Emperor’s elite messengers and countless merchants and pilgrims all those years ago, we were going to journey from Sanjo Ohashi in Kyoto to Tokyo’s Nihonbashi – and we were going to do it as an ekiden (a relay) in a little over five days. What followed exceeded all of our expectations. The 16 students taking part, boys and girls, ranged in age from 12 through to 18 while the teachers and parents included the young and fit as well as the rather worn and decrepit – me! At times it was tough, but there were so many highlights: getting up before dawn and reaching a mountain pass by sunrise or jogging along quiet country roads through immaculate rice fields; an early morning run down a deserted post town street or watching fireflies by the river after a traditional Japanese supper. And, of course, there was the finish: the welcome on Nihonbashi, the whole school lined up to cheer us home on our return to Showa, the glow of accomplishment. We did it – but it would never have happened without Paul, Mario, Mayumi and Yohei from Walk Japan. From start to finish it was a massively complicated logistical and physical challenge, and without their know-how, their limitless enthusiasm, determination and good humour we would never have carried it off. The last word must go to Paul Christie who was the architect of what will undoubtedly prove to be an unforgettable experience for all of us. What an adventure! Let me offer a heartfelt thank you to all in the BST/WJ team. This is how the world should work: productive and inspirational – and so much fun!

Eric Usher of the Canadian International School of Hong Kong

"Our first Experience Week trip to the Kunisaki region in November 2013 exceeded the expectations of both students and parents. Students’ reasons for choosing the trip varied, but were often one-dimensional (e.g., good food or relatively safe country), but they came away with a much broader appreciation of Japan, especially traditional Japan and the issues facing those who wish to maintain the traditional lifestyle. Walk Japan worked with us to develop a trip that combined both action – plenty of hiking – and service through some small farming tasks. The key to the trip’s success was the human element, which took the students beyond sightseeing into true experience. Working alongside resident farmers, having the opportunity to participate in an overnight farmstay, spending a half-day interacting with a local monk, learning traditional crafts from local teachers, even trying to communicate with innkeepers – all contributed to students reflecting more deeply on their own lives and choices. Walk Japan did a great job arranging diverse experiences, and putting us at ease in unfamiliar circumstances. In particular, the guide who journeyed with us throughout the trip quickly developed a good rapport with the students, ensuring that their conversations with him clarified and extended their learning. Overall, we were extremely pleased with this trip and have plans to return on a yearly basis. The final day visit to watch sumo provided an exclamation point to an eye-opening experience."

Janet Tan, Humanities Dept., Hong Kong International School

"This year marks the fifth year Ian Gill and I are bringing an interim group to Japan for a week’s hiking along the Nakasendo Trail. We look forward to it every year- and each year confirms for us that this is one of the best interims we offer. For a start it is a new experience for 20 students who do not really know each other much at all, to walk for most of the day along a trail that lives its 1200 year old history. We engage in a unique way with the culture of an area that is both rural, through mountain trails and forests, and quietly urban with its villages and towns, with their traditional shops and houses as well as more modern supermarkets. What makes this trip such a fulfilling experience is that the students learn about the culture and history in an organic manner – as we are hiking, and as they put on their yukata each night at the inns they reach each day, as they eat traditional Japanese meals, and as they engage in activities with a tea master, with a traditional folk singer, and with the Walk Japan guides whose local expertise not only in the language and culture but in the history and terrain, is fantastic. The excursions to the onsens after a longs day’s hike are a treat for aching legs and tired bodies. As a school trip it is perfect on several levels. Engagement – we spend the day walking and talking. It is an opportunity to see students engage in a natural way with a culture that is unfamiliar. We are not spending time looking at it through bus windows, but walking through villages and towns and forests so they can engage with the environment, and see it closely- and at a slower pace. The booklet that Walk Japan prepares for us, helps give the students a historical and cultural context for each day’s hike, without overloading them with too much information, about things to look out for and understand – like the jizo for example, that we see all along the way. The evening meal – in the inns provide a situation where it is easy to go round the long table and share observations and insights from the day’s walk. They love wearing the yukata provided and sitting cross-legged at breakfast and dinner tables with home-cooked or inn-cooked beautifully presented Japanese meals. The evenings with the tea master, and the folk singer are always enjoyed. Challenge – the hiking can be a bit of a challenge for some, but not impossible. The days are broken by breaks at coffee shops, and of course for lunch. Our pre interim hike is essential to see levels of fitness and endurance! There are cultural challenges – the onsens are fantastic after a days hike – and for some this is a little uncomfortable at first, but most students end up loving them. We don’t insist students take part and all the onsens have a waiting area where those kids who really do not want to go in, or cannot for some reason, can sit and read or talk while everyone else goes in. Relationships – Because we have mixed grade levels taking part, and the students do not initially know each other much at all, this interim provides a great opportunity for genuine connections. They support each other, and because we walk and talk all day, they shift around on the trails and ‘cliques’ just never form. You see seniors and freshmen mixing comfortably. This interim is one faculty love to run. Outdoors all day, on the Nakasendo trail, everyday is different. The guides are great about stopping to give us information about an area or a landmark that we might otherwise miss, and are clearly comfortable about working with teenagers. By the end of the day we are all tired in the healthiest of ways, and even though we have groups of six or so sleeping together on tatami mats, they go to sleep quickly! An outstanding interim."

Caroline Lui of the Chinese International School, Hong Kong

"Walk Japan is a professional company who customised and prepared our trip to suit our needs. From planning to implementation they paid a lot of attention to detail and made it easy for us to implement. Students found the trip engaging, and even though many have visited Japan before, this trip provided eye-opening experiences that students would never normally experience on a holiday. This gave our students new insight into Japanese culture and was well balanced with physical, cultural and community service activities as well. I highly recommend Walk Japan's school tours for schools, so much so I'm already in the process of organising next year's tour already."

Nathan Mees of the Seoul Foreign School

"It proved to be life giving to our students in ways I could not have predicted. It is a regular topic of conversation in many of my classes, which is exactly the purpose of our Discovery Week. On a personal level, it was a much needed reprieve for Angela and myself in the midst of a crazy fall and it would have been a much longer semester without our time. Brilliant all around."

Chad Lyew of Almaty International School

"Walk Japan was able to offer a custom trip for us that perfectly fit our needs for our week without walls trip. It had the perfect mix of city, countryside, culture, service learning, physical activities, and a homestay at the end. We were late in getting our trips organized, but Walk Japan was able to accommodate our requests and provide all the visa support required. Our professional guide was informative, friendly and really became one of the group. He gave us a deep insight into Japanese culture and was able to meet all of our needs. This was a truly meaningful trip for our students and really provided the learning that we seek on a week without walls trip. I highly recommend Walk Japan for any future school tour and we plan to use them next year."

Joseph Hauet of Yokohama International School

"Walk Japan put together a fantastic experience for our students that included challenging hikes, scenic views and authentic cultural experiences. Our students learned about both the history and culture of the Kiso area from the very knowledgeable guides as well as the many local residences we met along the way. Students were treated to local folk singing, hot springs, authentic and delicious local food and a myriad of unforgettable experiences. Along with being versed in the history, culture and natural environment of the region, the guides from Walk Japan were patient, kind, approachable, receptive and clearly had the best interests of our students in mind. It truly was a great experience for our students"

If you or your school are interested in organizing a trip to Japan, you can find more information on our planning your school trip page , or you can see how our school trips are organized by looking at our sample programmes .

Featured Trips

Hokkaido hike.

10 days | July, August & September Activity Level : 6

Hokkaido Snow Tour

8 days | January, February & March Activity Level : 3

Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage

9 days | March - June & September - November Activity Level : 4

Featured Tours

Basho tohoku tour: narrow road to the north.

7 days | May - November Activity Level : 2

Michinoku Coastal Trail

9 days | April - June & September - November Activity Level : 4

Nakasendo Way

11 days | March - June & September - November Activity Level : 3

Please sign up here if you wish to receive our newsletter.

Walk Japan Ltd. will use the information you provide on this form to be in touch with you and to provide updates and marketing. Please let us know all the ways you would like to hear from us:

You can change your mind at any time by clicking the unsubscribe link in the footer of any email you receive from us, or by contacting us at [email protected]. We will treat your information with respect. For more information about our privacy practices please visit our website. By clicking below, you agree that we may process your information in accordance with these terms.

We use MailChimp as our marketing platform. By clicking below to subscribe, you acknowledge that your information will be transferred to MailChimp for processing. Learn more about MailChimp's privacy practices here .

Quick Links

• For Schools
• Destinations
• Japan Information
• Latest News
• Community Project & Sustainability
• Booking Conditions
• Privacy & Cookies Policy Statement
• Personal Information Collection Statement

Follow Walk Japan

© 1992-2024 Walk Japan Limited

Travel Agents License No. 354159

Website Design by Walk Japan and Development by Macareux Digital, Inc.

Field Trips for Nagasaki, Japan

During the semester, the Japan Studies in Nagasaki (JASIN) program staff organize field trips for students. Specific destinations are subject to change. The following are typical events and activities.

Available in December only

Join in with the local community for an end of the year festival and experience traditional mochi making. You will get the chance to see how this pounded rice cake treat is made by hand.

Available in May/June and October/November only

Experience Nagasaki's unique Dutch history by visiting a theme park that recreates the Netherlands with full-size copies of old Dutch buildings. Known for flower festivals, the park also boasts global cuisine and adventure rides for a full day with international students.

Available in April and September only

This is an overnight trip that includes visits to Shimabara Castle, a traditional Japanese dinner, and relaxing in the largest outdoor foot spa in Japan overlooking the Tachibana Bay.

• DESTINATIONS
• SEARCH FOR TOURS or QUICK LINKS
• TOUR CALENDAR
• REPORTS & PHOTOS
• BIRDS OF A FEATHER SERIES
• PHOTO GALLERY ARCHIVE
• GUIDES & STAFF
• LATEST NEWS
• HEALTH PROTOCOLS
• PRIVATE TOURS
• JOIN OUR MAILING LIST
• ABOUT FIELD GUIDES
• INFO & POLICIES
• TRAVEL RESOURCES
• GUIDING CAREERS

Winter Japan

Dancing cranes & spectacular sea-eagles.

The Japanese archipelago lies at the eastern edge of Eurasia and includes a very diverse range of habitats. Japan is a surprisingly mountainous and wooded land, with beautifully varied coastlines and heavily populated lowlands, where tiny rice fields dot the landscape amidst the rural dwellings.

Winter birding here is one of Earth's great avian spectacles, and three areas in particular are essential for our tour: the Hooded and White-naped crane sanctuaries of Kyushu in the far south, the Red-crowned Crane reserve in southern Hokkaido, and the wintering grounds of magnificent Steller's Sea-Eagles on the ice fields around Lake Furen in the far north. Wintering wildfowl (including Falcated and Mandarin ducks, Smew, and Baikal Teal), thrushes (Dusky, Brown-headed, Scaly, and Pale), finches (Asian Rosy-Finch, Long-tailed Rosefinch, Hawfinch), and alcids (including Spectacled Guillemot), the challenge of the large white-headed Asian gull complex, the world's largest owl--Blakiston's Fish-Owl--and a useful sprinkling of endemics (Ryukyu Minivet, Japanese Green Woodpecker, Green and perhaps Copper pheasants) on the main islands add to a truly memorable visit.

Japanese culture is also a feature of the trip, as some of our lodgings are in traditional Japanese guesthouses, or minshuku , with tatami rush matting, futon bedding, and wonderful deep hot springs ( onsen ). The food is also distinctive, with a fantastic selection of sauces for the fish, rice, and vegetable dishes that make up the traditional cuisine. This tour also has strong appeal to photographers as several of our birding sites offer good opportunities for photography and video, with beautiful scenery and large, spectacular species at close range. And we should have a chance to see the famous Snow Monkeys (aka Japanese Macaques--the most northerly non-human primates) bathing in the hot springs surrounded by deep snow as well, an amazing spectacle.

Select the KEY INFO tab or click here for our itinerary plus space requests, status, fees, limits, and guides for any departure.

Other Tours in JAPAN

Itineraries • tour status • details • space requests.

• 2024 sample (PDF)
• 2025 (PDF expected Apr 2024)

DEPARTURES • We have 2 departures currently scheduled through 2026, with details including limits, guides, fees, and space available listed below.

Jan 10-25, 2025 Guided by: Phil Gregory & local guide Tour Manager: Karen Turner Tour Limit: 7 Status: Provisionally full; waitlist available - The itinerary has not been finalized for this tour. The trip has provisionally filled but, if you are interested, we can waitlist you for the trip. As we do not require deposits until the itinerary and price are finalized, we often have folks drop off a tour when the deposit is required, and so space opens up! Click below to be waitlisted for this tour with no obligation; if you are waitlisted, we will also notify you in case of an added departure of this tour. Tour Fee: Fee TBD / 2024=$9175 REQUEST WAITLIST OR MORE INFO

Jan 9-24, 2026 Guide: TBA Tour Manager: TBA Tour Limit: 7 Status: Provisionally full; waitlist available - The itinerary has not been finalized for this tour. The trip has provisionally filled but, if you are interested, we can waitlist you for the trip. As we do not require deposits until the itinerary and price are finalized, we often have folks drop off a tour when the deposit is required, and so space opens up! Click below to be waitlisted for this tour with no obligation; if you are waitlisted, we will also notify you in case of an added departure of this tour. Tour Fee: Fee TBD / 2024=$9175 REQUEST WAITLIST OR MORE INFO

Enjoy looking through the 5 most recent Field Guides triplists for this tour linked below!

• 2023 (Jan departure guided by Phil Gregory)
• 2020 (Jan departure guided by Phil Gregory)
• 2019 (Jan departure guided by Phil Gregory)
• 2018 (Jan departure guided by Phil Gregory)
• 2017 (Jan departure guided by Phil Gregory)

• Cambridge Dictionary +Plus

Translation of field trip – English–Japanese dictionary

(Translation of field trip from the GLOBAL English-Japanese Dictionary © 2022 K Dictionaries Ltd)

Examples of field trip

Translations of field trip.

Get a quick, free translation!

Word of the Day

anonymously

Your browser doesn't support HTML5 audio

without the name of someone who has done a particular thing being known or made public

Dead ringers and peas in pods (Talking about similarities, Part 2)

Learn more with +Plus

• Recent and Recommended {{#preferredDictionaries}} {{name}} {{/preferredDictionaries}}
• Definitions Clear explanations of natural written and spoken English English Learner’s Dictionary Essential British English Essential American English
• Grammar and thesaurus Usage explanations of natural written and spoken English Grammar Thesaurus
• Pronunciation British and American pronunciations with audio English Pronunciation
• English–Chinese (Simplified) Chinese (Simplified)–English
• English–Chinese (Traditional) Chinese (Traditional)–English
• English–Dutch Dutch–English
• English–French French–English
• English–German German–English
• English–Indonesian Indonesian–English
• English–Italian Italian–English
• English–Japanese Japanese–English
• English–Norwegian Norwegian–English
• English–Polish Polish–English
• English–Portuguese Portuguese–English
• English–Spanish Spanish–English
• English–Swedish Swedish–English
• Dictionary +Plus Word Lists
• GLOBAL English–Japanese    Noun
• Translations
• All translations

Add field trip to one of your lists below, or create a new one.

{{message}}

Something went wrong.

There was a problem sending your report.

J is for Japan: Japan For Kids Virtual Tour

Welcome to J is for Japan for the Global Children’s Book Club ! Today we’ll be going on a virtual tour of Japan with kids. Get ready for a fun and inspiring Japan virtual field trip – perfect for global education at home or for a Japan homeschooling unit.

You can find the full list of countries for the book club right  HERE . Be sure to sign up for the email list to get all the information in advance and to receive fun extras!

Get your  FREE Alphabet Printable Passport  here!

Here’s the  2020 global children’s book club discussion schedule .

J is for Japan: Japan Virtual Tour for Kids

Table of Contents

Featured Japan Book

Grandfather’s Journey by Allen Say (Author and Illustrator)

Read Aloud (Not by the Author)

Grandfather’s Journey  Picture Book Discussion Questions

• Who was the first of your ancestors to move to where you live now?
• Why would someone leave the place they were born?
• Where are two places that you love?  Is it hard to love both places at the same time?
• What is something you have really missed?
• What do Japan and the Unites States have in common?  Are there some differences?

Other Japan Books for Kids

Japan facts, modern japan.

• The capital of Japan is Tokyo.
• The official name is Nippon-koku, or the State of Japan.
• Naruhito is the 126th Emperor of Japan, a mostly symbolic position. Shinzō Abe is the Prime Minister.
• Japan is located in east Asia.
• Japan is an island, so it does not share land borders with any countries. It is separated from China by the Sea of Japan.
• Japanese is the official languages of Japan, and the Tokyo dialect is considered standard Japanese.
• The currency in Japan is the Japanese yen. $1 USD ~ 107 Japanese yen.
• Japan has 4 distinct seasons. The north is subarctic and the south is subtropical – a wide range! It has everything from hot and humid summers to very snowy winters!
• Shinto and Buddhism are the two main religions in Japan. Shintoism is the traditional cultural religion of Japan and about 2/3 practice it. More than 2/3 also practice Buddhism, which began to influence Japan almost 1500 years ago.
• The primary industries are automobiles, electronics, and machines.
• There are 5 main islands in Japan, but there are 6,852 islands in the Japanese Archipelago.
• Japan is the last country to officially remain an “Empire” – first formed in 660 BC.
• 98.5% of Japan is Japanese.
• Not all of Japan is cities, but 90.7% of Japanese people live in a city.
• The tallest point in Japan is Mount Fuji (3,776 meters/12,388 ft.)

Japan Fun Facts

• Osaka Japan is the most expensive place to live in the whole world.
• Japan has cat islands!  Sailors with rodent problems bred cats and…the cats won, outnumbering humans 6:1 in Aoshima, for example.
• People in Japan live longer, on average, than almost anywhere else in the world. Japan also has fewer babies per person than any large country in the world. That means that Japan sells more adult diapers than baby diapers!
• Japan is one of the safest countries in the world. If someone is disturbing the peace and not cooperating with police, the police sometimes use a technique that basically rolls the disturbing person in a mattress and carries them away.
• Maybe because Japan is so safe, you will find vending machines everywhere for almost anything that people don’t really ever try to break into: vending machines for soda and candy to neckties and live crabs.
• More than 1,000 earthquakes hit Japan every year, and 60 of Japan’s 200 volcanoes are still active.
• Students clean the toilets in the schools.  This does not just save money on paying janitors – it also means the students tend to keep the schools cleaner in the first place.
• Almost 100% of youth in Japan can read.  Japanese is written from top to bottom, and from right to left on the page.
• Sometimes the subway trains can get so crowded that the train station hires people with gloves to push people into the train so the doors will close.
• Hotels are expensive and space in limited in Tokyo – the biggest city in the world.  So you can pay to sleep in a “capsule” – sort of like a bunk in a bunk bed just for you.
• High-speed trains can get you from Tokyo to many cities at speeds of up to 200 mph.

Ancient Japan

• The Heian Period (794-1185) was the last classical period of Japenese history during which Japanese arts and literature flourished.  Chinese influences like Buddhism, Taoism peaked in Japan during this time and the national capital moved to Heian-kyo, modern-day Kyoto.
• Japan’s strong cultural identity is at least partially attributable to being closed to the rest of the world for 217 years, from 1635 when the Japanese government did not like the Portuguese taking Japanese people enslaved to other countries, and only ended in 1852 after a friendly visit from the American Navy.
• During a long period of Sengoku (1467-1603), or “Warring States”, Japanese city-states had built a combined total of probably 5,000 castles to protect themselves from each other.
• After all that fighting, the Edo period (1603-1868) had “no more wars,” a central government, and economic growth and investment in arts and culture.
• Japan has actually been building robots for hundreds of years: nearly 400 years ago, Japanese mechanical puppets could dance on demand!  Today, Sony makes a cute robotic dog “Aido” for companionship.

Color in Japan on this map of Asia!

Japan with Kids: Flag Activity

Flag from  HERE

HERE is a fun printable Japan flag coloring sheet!

Japan Virtual Tour to a Featured Landmark

Mount Fuji is the most famous of Japan’s three holy mountains and has inspired artists and poets for centuries.  The mountain is very symmetrical and is covered in snow about 5-months out of the year.

On clear days, people in Tokyo can see Mt. Fuji since it is only about 100km/62 mi. southwest of the capital city. Mt. Fuji is actually an active volcano that last erupted in 1708. Ancient samurai used the base of the mountain as a training area. You can climb Mt. Fuji in a day if you are in good shape – the first person ever to do it was probably a monk almost 1400 years ago!

Itsukushima

An original shrine in Itsukushima may have been built over 1,400 years ago. The Itsukushima Shrine you see today was first built almost 900 years ago as a holy place in the Shinto religion. The shrine is built to be in harmony with nature on both water and land, including the beautiful, orange “floating” Torii Gate which is partially underwater during high tide. The shrine has always been dedicated to sanjoshin or “three female deities” who are the goddesses of seas and storms.

Featured Japanese Artist: Izumo no Okuni

Izumo no Okuni ( 出雲阿国) invented kabuki (“the art of singing and dancing”) theater in the dry riverbed of the Kamo River in Kyoto. She was born in 1572 and invented kabuki while she was young.

The style was very different from prior forms of theater. The style of its language, the subject of the dramas, and the elaborate stage makeup (kumadori) were all new and exciting. Kabuki became very popular and the tradition of kabuki continues to today. Even after kabuki was very popular, Isumo continued to recruit poor women to act in her all-female group.

Featured Important Japanese Person: Miyamoto Musashi

Miyamoto Musashi (1585-1645) was a samurai swordsman. He fought in 61 swordfighting duels and never lost – a record! Miyamoto had almost twice as many victories as anyone else.

He also spent a lot of time thinking and writing about important concepts. He wrote a book called “The Path of Aloneness” which teaches 21 principles which can still be seen in Japanese culture today. They include things like, “Do not hold onto possessions you no longer need” and “You may abandon your body but you must preserve your honor.”

Featured Japanese Food: Japanese Recipes for Kids

Some common Japanese ingredients include miso, teriyaki, wasabi or dashi. Japanese cooks often add a protein of their choice, and possibly some udon or soba noodles. They use many of these same ingredients to make things like stir-fry, a soup, or salad.

Japan eats more fish than any other country – more than 34 billion pounds/15.4 billion kilos a year.  Much of that fish is served raw and rolled in special rice to create sushi.

It’s polite to slurp your noodles!  It shows the chef that you like them.

• Raddish has a cool recipe for Sushi with kids.
• Japanese Mixed Rice : one-pot wonder you can cook with whatever protein or vegetables you have on hand.
• 5-ingredient, versatile Japanese Curry to have on-hand.
• Omurice , a fried rice wrapped in egg (almost like a Japanese omelette)
• Mushi-Pan Steamed Cake – steamed muffins, sweet or savory.
• It is common for people in Japan to eat breakfast and dinner directly from a grocery or convenience store, where you can also buy some interesting snacks (like “mushroom popsicles”) .

Japanese Craft & Culture Activity for Kids: Koi Watercolor 

The Japanese have many beautifully designed ponds filled with Koi, a Japanese Carp. They are supposed to be places of peace and tranquility. The Japanese people tend to work very hard so this is a nice way for them to feel peace. You can learn more about Koi fish here .

Koi Watercolor Art Project

Materials needed.

• Poster board or thick construction paper
• Watercolor paints + brushes
• Eye Dropper

Instructions here .

Japan Art Books

Other japan kids activities.

• Make a Japanese Paper Carp Kite
• Color your own Great Wave inspired by Hokusai
• Make a super simple Cherry Blossom Collage
• Write a Haiku
• Make a Japanese Fan
• Do some origami from one of the books above!

Animals in Japan

Japan has a number of land and marine animals. Japanese macaques are famous for bathing in the pools of hot springs during the cold winter in the Japanese mountains.

The Japanese pond turtle is almost on the threatened species list because of a loss of habitat.  The Japanese giant salamander can grow to be five feet long and scares away predators by giving off a stinky, milky substance.  Dugongs have tails like dolphins but are strict herbivores, and the Amami rabbit is a close relative of the ancient Asian rabbit with shorter legs and thicker fur. You can read more about animals in Japan here .

Japan Movement Activities

Sumo wrestling.

Sumo wrestling is full-contact wrestling where players try to push their opponent out of the ring, or push them over. It is the national sport of Japan, and is practiced professionally there.

Sumo has many ancient Shinto traditions and rituals. In appreciating it, please be careful to not just play wrestle and ignore the fact that there is deep spiritual significance in its practice. (This article on appreciation vs. appropriation may be helpful.)

Japanese Dance

Bon Odori: Only 3-patterns of dance movement in 10-minutes.

Traditional Japanese Morning Stretching Exercises

Kid Movies About Japan

Plan a Trip to Japan with Kids!

After having all this fun, consider planning a virtual or real trip. What sites or cities would you visit? What food would you eat? Here’s a list of 32 things to do in Japan with kids .

Japan Conversations with a Local: Culture, History, & Food Discussion Video

Japan with kids discussion questions.

• What is the relationship between technology and feeling lonely?
• Why do you think people in Japan live so long?
• Imagine you could sell anything you want in a vending machine.  What would you sell?  Where would you put your vending machine?
• What is something in your house or life that is no longer useful? How can you make sure it is put to good use?
• If you were an emperor of a country, would you choose to isolate from other countries or not?  Why?
• Japan developed faster than any other nation in the world after World War II ended.  How have you been able to turn sad things into growth opportunities in the life of your family or your own life?
• How does Japan have more McDonald’s than any other country in the world except the US, but also have a dramatically lower obesity rate?
• Can you learn how to say “thank you” in Japanese? (ありがとうございました, or Arigatō)

Thanks for Taking a Virtual Visit to Japan With Us!

We’ve loved putting together this resource to virtually visit Japan. We’d love to hear if you do any of these activities for a homeschooling Japan unit, or if you visit in person!

We hope to inspire curiosity and connection through exploring and learning, and we hope this guide helps you and your families. Please share any activities you do with us over on our  Instagram . And we’d be delighted if you passed this Japan for kids virtual tour and homeschooling resource along to others, as well!

IF YOU LIKED THIS POST ABOUT JAPAN FOR KIDS, YOU MIGHT LIKE THESE POSTS TOO:

• GCBC Virtual Travel Guides
• One Day Bangkok Itinerary with Kids
• 10 Tips for Airbnb Hosts: Renting Out Your Home

NOT READY FOR A JAPAN HOMESCHOOLING UNIT QUITE YET? PIN THIS POST FOR LATER!

Recent posts.

The Best Road Trip Novels: 75+ Diverse Audiobooks for Family Road Trips

Ultimate Guide to Olympic National Park: Best Things to Do in Olympic National Park with Kids

Plane Activities for Toddlers: 60+ Screen-Free Airplane Activities for Toddlers

5 Favorite Things March 2024

Help Me Pack For Egypt!

50+ Travel-Themed Easter Basket Ideas Under $5

Romania With Kids: Can’t Miss Things To Do in Transylvania with Kids

4 Spring Break Outfits for Moms: Europe Edition

5 responses.

[…] 7th: India December 8th: Thailand December 9th: South Korea December 10th: Japan December 11th: […]

[…] loved reading another Allen Say book for J is for Japan in the Global Children’s Book Club, and this one is equally delightful. A young boy who has […]

[…] Japan virtual field trip […]

[…] J is for Japan […]

You can see all tours and activities in Fethiye with Fethiye Tours

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Don't subscribe All Replies to my comments Notify me of followup comments via e-mail. You can also subscribe without commenting.

2023 MONTHLY GLOBAL CHILDREN'S BOOK CLUB

• Privacy Policy
• Recommended Destinations
• North America
• South America
• Middle East
• Accommodations
• Photography
• Travel with Infants & Toddlers
• 2023 Global Children’s Book Club
• 2022 Global Children’s Book Club
• A-Z Global Children’s Book Club
• 2021 Global Children’s Book Club
• Global Service Advent
• Virtual Travel
• Holidays Around the World
• Home Education
• Curious Kids Email Course
• Travel Products
• Gift Guides
• Gifts We Gave
• Favorite Things
• Weekly Deals
• Holidays at Home
• Home With Kids
• Weekly Menus
• Summer with Kids
• Work With Us
• Privacy Overview
• Strictly Necessary Cookies

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognizing you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful. Read more about our Privacy Policy .

Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings.

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Sweepstakes
• Destinations

3 Incredible Itineraries for Travelers Finally Heading Back to Japan

How to spend two weeks in Japan three different ways, for the first-time visitor, the budget-conscious traveler, or the avid Japanophile.

Tim Latterner was previously a design editor at Domino, news editor at Architectural Digest, and senior editor at Travel + Leisure.

Puripat Lertpunyaroj/Getty Images

At long last, the country has reopened to American travelers, many of whom have, after two years of staying closer to home, put a Japan trip high on their wish lists. But with so much choice — and relatively tight health and entry regulations still in place — piecing together the perfect itinerary can be a challenge. Enter three experts from T+L’s A-List, who shared their hard-won wisdom on the best way to go, whether you’re a first-timer, a budget-minded explorer, or a Japanophile eager to get back.

For the First-Timer, Designed by Scott Gilman of JapanQuest Journeys

Courtesy of Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group

Head for Tokyo and unpack at the Mandarin Oriental , near Ginza, the city’s most iconic shopping district. “Make time for the food floor at the Mitsukoshi department store,” Gilman says, as well as guided visits to a sumo stable, the famed Tsukiji market, the Meiji Shrine, and ever-hip Harajuku.

Getty Images

After three days in Tokyo, hop on the bullet train northwest to Kanazawa. “It’s home to one of the last well-preserved samurai-era neighborhoods in Japan,” Gilman notes. The city is also known for historic teahouses and shops selling Wajima lacquerware. Next, Gilman recommends visitors spend at least one night in the nearby Kaga Onsen area. This collection of hot-spring towns is home to ryokans such as Kayotei . Also close at hand are the villages of Shirakawa-go and Gokayama, two UNESCO-protected destinations famed for their distinctive architecture and thousand-year history of mulberry and silkworm farming.

From Kaga Onsen, it’s a three-hour train ride to Kyoto, where the Park Hyatt , set on a hillside overlooking the city, is an excellent choice. Gilman says a three-night stay is plenty of time to see the magnificent Nijo Castle, a former samurai stronghold, and the wooded Arashiyama district, with its Sagano bamboo forest. (He can also arrange a guided day trip to a private tea estate in nearby Uji.) From Kyoto, it’s on to Nara, Japan’s first capital city. Gilman’s favorite home base is actually just outside Nara, the Rice Terrace Villa Sasayuri-ann, which is an ideal jumping-off point for hikes in the surrounding area.

Courtesy of Benesse Art Site Naoshima

To round out the trip, go from the ancient capital to the hub of the country’s booming contemporary art scene: Naoshima, an island in the Seto Inland Sea. Stay at the museum-like, Tadao Ando–designed Benesse House . Within ferry and water-taxi distance are Chichu Art Museum, Les Archives du Coeur, Teshima Art Museum, and Teshima Yokoo House. Save time to see the Art House Project, a set of seven disused buildings that have been restored as large-scale, immersive works of art.

For the Explorer on a Budget, Prepared by Amy Tadehara of Inside Japan Tours

Arrive in Tokyo, and head for the historic Asakusa district and the Richmond Hotel Asakusa . The next day, take a guided walking tour that shows two distinct faces of the capital: first the quaint, nostalgic district of Yanaka and elegant Rikugien Garden, before heading to fashionable Omotesando and the neon lights of Shibuya. The following day, take a lesson in kintsugi , the art of repairing broken ceramics with gold lacquer. From the capital, take the train to the Izu Peninsula, home to hot springs and onsens, where you’ll check into a traditional ryokan , Hanafubuki . 

Continue on by train to Kyoto, and the Agora Kyoto Karasuma hotel, then sync up with a guide who will show you around some of the city’s most notable historic sites — and translate during a visit to one of the city’s Buddhist temples, where visitors can partake in a priest-led meditation session. The next day, get a hands-on lesson in roketsu . “This style of indigo dyeing is unique to Kyoto,” Tadehara says, “and makes use of wax to block dyes in areas finely drawn by hand on cloth.”

George Clerk/Getty Images

From Kyoto, it’s onward to Furumaya House , “a beautiful farmhouse run by a young couple who chose to escape the big city and live off the land,” Tadehara says. Guests can take part in a tea ceremony, help with the animals, or wander the country lanes. On day 10, it’s an all-morning train trip back east to Nakatsugawa, about half-way between Kyoto and Tokyo. The area around the city is home to the well-preserved postal villages — small villages that formed as rest stops along travel routes — of Magome and Tsumago; the rustic guesthouse Minshuku Daikichi, in Tsumago, is where to stay.

It’s a short trip north to Matusumoto, one of the few remaining well-preserved Samurai castles in Japan. After a tour, explore the town and its noodle shops, which are famous for soba, or buckwheat noodles; the Richmond Hotel Matsumoto is Tadehara’s go-to. From there, it’s a smooth train trip back to Tokyo, where Tadehara can recommend insider guides to suit any interest, whether it’s a style maven who can lead an exploration of the city’s buzzing shopping districts or a food expert who knows all the best spots.

For the Japanophile, Arranged by Rebecca Mazzaro of ATJ

Skip a stay in Tokyo, and instead head straight to Shikoku, the smallest of Japan’s four main islands. “It’s famous for its pilgrimage circuit of 88 Buddhist temples, a route that’s been popular since the Edo period,” Mazzaro says. Shake off the jet lag at the JR Hotel Clement Tokushima , then sync up with a guide who’ll take you to Ryozen-ji, the start and end point of the temple circuit, as well as other religious sites such as Gokuraku-ji and Konsen-ji, in the foothills of the Sanuki Mountains.

From the city of Tokushima, it’s a short train ride to Takamatsu, home to Ritsurin Park, a centuries-old national treasure. “It’s not officially one of Japan’s most beautiful gardens, but it certainly rivals any in the country,” Mazzaro notes. Spend the days doing hot springs, temples, and traditional cuisine. On beautiful Shodoshima Island, the eight-room Shimayado Mari has manicured gardens and views of Uchinomi Bay; a guide can take you to a sake brewery or Buddhist temples. Then continue down the coast to Dogo Onsen, one of Japan’s oldest hot springs, where you’ll spend the night at a ryokan , such as Katsuragi Kotononiwa, before stopping in the ancient city of Ozu, sometimes called Little Kyoto of Iyo for its carefully restored buildings.

On day six, leave Shikoku for Japan’s southernmost main island, Kyushu. Post up at ANA InterContinental Beppu Resort & Spa , with its bay-view onsen, then do a guided forest-bathing session at Aso-Kuju National Park. Next, you’ll explore the area around Mount Aso, a group of five peaks that includes one of the world’s largest active craters, at 71 miles around the rim, before checking in at Takefue , a luxurious bamboo-shrouded ryokan . Also worth a day is Unzen-Amakusa National Park, which has Yellowstone-esque geothermal features, incredible biodiversity, and a 17th-century castle.

Christian Ender/Getty Images

From central Kyushu, it’s a short trip to Nagasaki, where more than 70,000 people were killed by a U.S. atomic bomb in 1945. “A third of the city was destroyed,” Mazzaro says, “but Nagasaki has made a remarkable recovery.” She recommends a guided full-day tour that includes stops at the Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum and Oura Cathedral, Japan’s oldest Christian building. Get more perspective on World War II in Kagoshima, in southern Kyushu, where the Chiran Peace Museum displays the stories and personal effects of kamikaze pilots. Aside from war history, this corner of Japan is also known for its sun-warmed sands and fantastic hotels, including the Relais & Châteaux Wasurenosato Gajoen , a series of thatched-roof villas with tatami-covered floors and open-air, hewn-stone onsen .

A version of this story first appeared in the October 2022 issue of Travel + Leisure under the headline "Two Weeks in Japan, Two Ways."

• South Africa
• Afghanistan
• North Korea
• Adventure + Outdoors
• Amusement Parks
• Backpacking Trips
• Boating + Cruises
• Budget Travel
• Bus + Train Travel
• Coasts + Islands
• Country Trips
• Fall Vacations
• Family Vacations
• Green Travel
• Heritage + History
• Honeymoons + Romance
• Inspiration + Guide
• Landmarks + Attractions
• LGBT Travel
• Markets + Bazaars
• National Parks + Reserves
• Nature + Wildlife
• Parks + Gardens
• Pets + Animals
• Photography
• Airlines + Airports
• Budgeting + Currency
• Business Travel
• Celebrity Travel
• Customs + Immigration
• Deals + Rewards
• Family Travel
• Hotels + Resorts
• Luggage + Packing Tips
• Offbeat News
• Photography Tips
• Responsible Travel
• Solo Travel
• Tech + Gear
• Travel Etiquette
• Travel Warnings
• Bars + Clubs
• Celebrity Chefs
• Restaurants + Cafés
• Wine + Vineyards
• Beach Hotels
• Boutique Hotels
• Hotel Openings
• Hotel Reviews
• Luxury Hotels
• Mountain + Ski Resorts
• Spa Resorts
• Vacation Rentals
• Asia Cruises
• European Cruises
• Festivals + Events
• Museums + Galleries
• Style + Design
• Travel’s Best
• Hotel with Agoda.com
• Hotel with Booking.com

Leh Ladakh bike trip itinerary — How to spend 6 days…

Leh Ladakh bike trip blog — Ladakh bike trip guide &…

Guide to Shenzhen nightlife — Top 5 things & what to…

Ladakh trip cost per person from Delhi — How much does…

India trip tips — 9+ things to know before going to…

All about tips in Nepal — How much to tip in…

Cambodia travel tips — 15+ what to know & things to…

When is the best time to visit Kyoto? — The best,…

Must eat in Hong Kong — 7+ must eat & must…

Must eat in Georgetown — 10+ famous, must-eat & best street…

Must eat in Melaka — 10+ famous Malacca street food &…

Hong Kong Soya sauce Chicken Rice and Noodles — The first…

Top hotels in Siem Reap — 8+ best places to stay…

Top hotels in shanghai — 15+ best hotels in Shanghai

Top hotels in Malacca — 10+ good & best hotels in…

Top places to stay in Bali — Top 10 best areas…

10 must-know things for your best first time European river cruise

Top 3 best luxury cruises in Halong Bay, Vietnam

Cherry blossom festival Korea 2024 — Top 5 cherry blossom festivals…

Ghibli museum blog — The fullest Ghibli museum guide for first-timers

Kyoto festival — Top 10 best events & most famous festivals…

National Palace Museum Taipei blog — What to see in National…

Japanese waterfall — Top 10 most beautiful waterfalls in Japan in…

19+ most beautiful towns in Europe every tourist need to visit…

Georgia travel photos — 20+ captivating photos show Georgia is heaven…

Explore Damnoen Floating Market — The oldest floating market of Thailand

Visiting Fenghuang Ancient Town — One of the most charming ancient…

Mekong Delta travel blog — Beyond rivers of Southwestern Vietnam

14 reasons why you should travel when you are young

Shigaraki Tanuki – An animal symbol of good luck in Japan

Living in the charms of cave houses in Andalucia, Southern Spain

20+ jaw-dropping tiny homes around the world

Japan itinerary 4 days — how to spend 4 days in japan to visit naria, tokyo, fuji.

Summer has come, I packed up again and hit the road, this time to the land where the sun rises the earliest in the world — Japan, dubbed the land of the rising sun, the land of cherry blossoms and one of the world’s most beautiful autumn places as well. I didn’t have too much time for this trip because I planned for some long upcoming trips, so I chose to go to Japan for a short time, enough to embrace the rainfall in Tokyo, strolling around Shinjuku, visit Naritasan Shinshoji Temple and fruit picking in Yamanashi.

• What to do in Japan? — 100 things to do in Japan & best, must things to do in Japan
• Japan itinerary 9 days — How to spend 9 days in Japan to visit: Osaka – Kobe – Kyoto – Nara?
• 8 recommended onsen (hot springs) you should visit when traveling in Beppu, Japan

Arashiyama travel blog — The fullest Arashiyama travel guide with top things to do in Arashiyama

• Tokyo best parks — 10+ best & most beautiful parks in tokyo

So, what to do and how to spend 4 days in Japan? Let’s check out our suggested Japan itinerary 4 days 3 nights on my field trip in summer to visit Narita, Tokyo and Mount Fuji with a very detailed plan from how to get to Japan, where to go, what to do as well as the trip cost.

Japan itinerary 4 days: Fly to Japan

I chose to flying with Vietnam Airlines because I want to fly directly and Vietnam Airlines allows up to 40kg of free checked baggage, which is convenient because every trip to Japan I often bring back a bunch of beautiful things, delicious food and buy all kinds of miscellaneous things, usually at least 30kg will be needed to store. There is a small note, you should bring one normal suitcase and another empty suitcase to be able to shop comfortably.

The airfare from Saigon, Vietnam to Tokyo ranges: USD 439 – USD 657/round-trip. You should book one month in advance to get low fare.

How to spend 4 days in Japan?

Here are my detailed suggested Japan itinerary 4 days 3 nights.

Day 1: Saigon – Narita, visit Shinshoji temple in Narita, try Shabu Shabu hot pot and stay overnight at Toyoko Inn.

Day 2: Tokyo – Odaiba, visit Asakusa Shrine in Tokyo, take photos with Tokyo Skytree, visit Akihabara electronics district, go to Teamlab Planets – an impressive digital museum, go to Odaiba to see the Statue of Liberty and overnight at Grand Hotel Kanachu in Kanagawa near mount Fuji to visit it on the next day.

Day 3: Tokyo – Kawaguchiko – Fuji: Visit Yamanashi Fuehukigawa Fruit Park to pick seasonal fruits, experience an earthquake at Earthquake Simulation Center, visit Oishi Park flower garden, visit Oshino Hakkai ancient village. Overnight at Route Inn and bath onsen.

Day 4: Fuji – Narita, shopping at Aeon Mall and fly back to Vietnam.

Japan itinerary 4 days: The most impressive places and best things to do of the trip on 4 days in Japan journey.

Naritasan shinshoji temple, narita.

Shinshoji Temple left an impression on me because of the peace and grandeur of its architecture, coming here you will feel as to live in a completely different space. This place is not crowded but the area is extremely huge, to walk and explore entire the temple area you will need a whole day.

Address: 1 Narita, Chiba 286-0023, Japan Hours: 8AM–4PM Founder: Kanchō Daisōjō Opened: 940 AD

teamLab Planets TOKYO

In Tokyo, there is not only one teamLab museum but also 2, one is teamlab Planets in Toyosu and another is teamlab Borderless in Odaiba. You can go to 1 of 2 because each place has extremely impressive digital galleries. I chose teamlab Planets because that day Borderless closed for maintenance. But really overwhelmed with the exhibitions that hit all the senses, here you will be able to step into the star-lit room, go into the luminescent lake, and watch the night sky full of glowing flowers.

Address: 6 Chome-1-16 Toyosu, Koto City, Tokyo 135-0061, Japan Hours: 9AM–8PM Entrance fee: 3,200 JPY Website: https://teamlabplanets.dmm.com/en/

Peach picking in Yamanashi

During this trip to Japan, I had the opportunity to visit Yamanashi Prefecture to visit fruit farms, Yamanashi Prefecture is considered the fruit garden of the whole of Japan with a variety of fruits grown all year round.

June is the peach harvest season. Delicious, succulent and ripe. When I arrived, I saw many green grape vines, ready for August to be harvested. Coming to Yamanashi, except for winter, you can participate in fruit picking activities at the garden in the rest of the seasons: Cherry (April-May), peaches or apples (July 6), grapes (November 8).

Lavender Garden – Oishi Park in Kawaguchiko

Coming here, you will not only see lavender flowers but also many other flowers. Don’t forget to try the lavender ice cream here for only 350-400 yen.

Address: ２５２５番地の１１先 Oishi, Fujikawaguchiko, Minamitsuru District, Yamanashi 401-0305, Japan

Getting there: The way to go to Oishi Park is relatively simple, from Tokyo you can depart from Shinjuku and Shinagawa stations, there are trains to Kawaguchiko Station. From Kawaguchio Station, take another bus trip following the instructions of this link to get there. https://goo.gl/maps/NUetGQwETH4ZhrWSA

Oshino Hakkai Ancient Village

Oshino Hakkai is the perfect choice for my summer trip. Located in the area of ​​the five lakes around Mount Fuji, this ancient village has eight clear spring water ponds which completely formed by melting ice from Mount Fuji for over the past 80 years . That’s why the water is crystal clear.

Address: Shibokusa, Oshino, Minamitsuru District, Yamanashi 401-0511, Japan

Getting there: The way to get to Oshino Hakkai is very simple. From Tokyo, take the train from Shinjuku to Kawaguchiko Station, then there will be a bus that runs every an hour from Kawaguchiko Station to the old village.

Japan itinerary 4 days 3 nights: Trip cost for 4 days in Japan

Airfare: USD 615 because I bought it 2 weeks in advance

• Transportation: $8.77 (by public transport)
• Shabu-shabu hot pot: $13.16
• Stay: Toyoko Inn : $140.22/night/double room for 2 people
• Traveling from Narita to Tokyo: $21.94/person
• Getting around Tokyo: $26.32
• Tickets to teamlab Planets: $28.48/ticket
• Lunch buffet at Carne Station Ginza: $10.97/person
• Dinner: $13.16
• Grand Hotel Kanachu : $140.40/night/double room for 2 people

• Tickets to the peach garden: $13.16
• Gettingn from Kanagawa to Misaka noen: $39.49
• Lunch at Houraiya: $10.97
• Earthquake Museum: $20.18
• Traveling all day: $70.11 because sometimes I had to take a taxi
• Dinner at Route Inn: $13.16
• Stay: Route Inn Hotel: $140.40/night/double room for 2 people ( Agoda.com or Booking.com )

• Getting from Fuji to Narita: $61.43 by bus and train
• Lunch: $10.97
• Transfer from Aeon to the airport: $7.02

A TOTAL OF $1,405.08 for this self-sufficient trip.

Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in, to and from Tokyo you can refer to

• Private Narita International Airport Transfers (NRT) for Tokyo 23 Wards, Hakone, or Karuizawa
• Private Haneda International Airport Transfers (HND) for Tokyo 23 Wards, Hakone, or Karuizawa
• Airport Limousine Bus Transfers from/to Narita and Haneda International Airport (Free Wifi Onboard)
• Tokyo Amazing Sightseeing Bus Day Tour
• Tokyo Highlights Private Day Tour
• Nikko Day Tour from Tokyo
• Mt Fuji & Hakone Day Tour: Lake Ashi & Ropeway Day Trip from Tokyo
• Nikko Cultural Day Tour from Tokyo
• Tokyo Subway Ticket (24, 48, or 72 Hours)
• Tokyo Skyliner and Tokyo Subway Ticket
• Shuttle Bus Transfers (One Way/Round Trip) from Shinjuku/Ikebukuro to Tokyo Disneyland or Tokyo DisneySea
• Tokyo Disney Resort Park Ticket
• Klook Pass Greater Tokyo
• SHIBUYA SKY Ticket
• Warner Bros. Studio Tour Tokyo – The Making of Harry Potter Ticket
• Skyliner Narita Airport Express Ticket
• TeamLab Planets Ticket
• TOKYO SKYTREE® Ticket
• Limousine Bus Narita or Haneda Airport to Tokyo
• Skyliner Narita Airport Express With Tokyo Subway Ticket
• JR Tokyo Wide Pass
• Sky Hop-on and Hop-off Bus Pass
• 4G Prepaid Sim Card (JP Airports Pick Up) for Japan
• 4G WiFi (BKK and DMK Airport Pick Up) for Japan (Unlimited Data)
• JR Pass for Whole Japan (7, 14, or 21 Days)

Are you finding more top things to do in Japan: Tours, activities, attractions and other things? Let’s check it out here.

Related articles

RELATED ARTICLES MORE FROM AUTHOR

Leh ladakh bike trip itinerary — how to spend 6 days in ladakh by motorbike, leh ladakh bike trip blog — ladakh bike trip guide & tips for first-timers, guide to shenzhen nightlife — top 5 things & what to do in shenzhen at night, ladakh trip cost per person from delhi — how much does ladakh trip by bike cost.

India travel tips — 25+ what & things to know before traveling to India

Coron itinerary 5 days — What to do & how to spend 5 days in Coron?

Explore Fenqihu old street — What to do in Fenqihu in a day trip?

Where to go in Kunming? — 15+ top Kunming attractions & best places to visit in Kunming

Editor picks.

Leh Ladakh bike trip itinerary — How to spend 6 days...

Leh Ladakh bike trip blog — Ladakh bike trip guide &...

Guide to Shenzhen nightlife — Top 5 things & what to...

Popular posts.

What to buy in USA? — 17+ must buy in USA...

Must buy souvenir in Taiwan — Top 17+ most famous, cheap...

Must buy in Korea — Top 23 cheap, famous & best...

Popular category.

• Inspiration + Guide 1461
• Trip Inspiration 468
• Thailand 209
• Food + Drink 208
• Coasts + Islands 193
• South Korea 168
• Vietnam 166
• Travel Photos 144
• Work for Us
• Terms & Conditions
• Privacy Policy

• Meet the Team
• Work with Us
• Czech Republic
• Netherlands
• Switzerland
• Scandinavia
• Philippines
• South Korea
• New Zealand
• South Africa
• Budget Travel
• Work & Travel
• The Broke Backpacker Manifesto
• Travel Resources
• How to Travel on $10/day

Home » Asia » 10 AMAZING Day Trips to Take from Tokyo | 2024 Guide

10 AMAZING Day Trips to Take from Tokyo | 2024 Guide

Imagine this; You wake up in your Tokyo hotel room to a chorus of cars honking during the morning commute, towering skyscrapers, with just a hint of smog in the air. You decide to grab your daypack and make your way to the subway station. After a brief one-hour train ride, you suddenly find yourself amidst the serene mountains, where birdsong fills the crisp air, and a sense of peace washes over you.

Tokyo is the world’s largest city, home to a whopping 37.5 million people, and there is absolutely no shortage of things to do here. But, if you’re anything like me, spending a week or more in this city can get a bit overwhelming ; the crowds, the heat, the traffic. Trust me, you’ll end up needing a break from this chaotic metropolis.

After spending some time in the city, backpacking and hitchhiking around its surroundings, I’ve compiled the ULTIMATE list of the 10 best day trips from Tokyo .

From ancient towns, waterfalls, and beaches to encounters with snow monkeys, ascending the iconic Mount Fuji, and even the thrill of roller coasters, there’s a world of adventure right on Tokyo’s doorstep. Let’s delve into it friends!

Unlock Our GREATEST Travel Secrets!

Sign up for our newsletter and get the best travel tips delivered right to your inbox.

Getting Around Tokyo & Beyond

Half-day trips in tokyo, full-day trips in tokyo, final thoughts on day trips from tokyo.

I remember my first trip to Tokyo , arriving at the Shinjuku station, Japan’s most infamous and iconic station.

I hopped off the train with my backpack and only a few hours of sleep under my belt and found myself frozen. People were swarming around me like bees, becoming engulfed in the organized chaos that is a Tokyo train station.

After a few moments of shock, I headed over to the ticket machines to try to get to my hostel, as I hadn’t yet picked up a Japanese SIM card . I took one look at the map and started to cry… (admittedly partially from sleep deprivation).

Seriously, just take one look at the Tokyo metro map. It looks like an alien with a few dozen different colored tentacles.

In all seriousness, though, it’s pretty freakin’ confusing trying to navigate. I’ll try to explain it in simple terms for you so you don’t end up in confused tears like me…

Getting Around Tokyo

The Tokyo metro network consists of lines managed by several different companies. That means you can’t just buy one ticket and ride the metro wherever you want. There are the JR lines, the two subway networks, and several private lines as well.

Sound confusing? Well, it is.

The good news is that most Japanese people are super friendly and helpful, and will step in to save your dazed and confused ass, have Google Translate handy if you can though as many Japanese don’t speak much English. They’ll do a much better job of explaining things than I could.

Even though it’s a bit tricky to navigate, the Tokyo metro system is pretty awesome and will get you everywhere you need to go in the city.

There are plenty of  bus lines  as well, but those are even more difficult for the rookie to figure out.

Ubers and Taxis are available in Tokyo, but they’ll break the bank… try to stay away from them if you’re trying to do Japan on a budget.

Traveling by Train

I’m sure you’ve heard of Japan’s amazing high-speed trains by now. Japan definitely has one of the most impressive rail networks in the world, so traveling to and from Tokyo by train is a great option. Trains here are fast, comfortable, and incredibly punctual.

But train travel here can be a bit complicated. I always look at Google Maps for detailed and up-to-date info on the trains. Google Maps provides you with super useful info such as:

• Which platform the train is departing from and which exit to take (incredibly helpful as Shinjuku station has over 50 platforms and 200 exits)
• The total cost of the trip
• Whether or not your trip is covered by the JR pass
• Whether or not the train has air conditioning
• Best car number for most efficient entry/exit

PRO TIP : Get an IC card. I can’t believe I spent a week backpacking in Japan without one, grappling with the confusing ticket machines EVERY TIME I tried to take a train.

Trust me, grab an IC card like Suica, Pasmo, or Icoca.

You can add them to your Apple Wallet in a matter of seconds. Just tap when you enter and tap again when you exit, and your fare is automatically deducted. (You can use them at convenience stores and some grocery stores too, which is great if your debit card has foreign transaction fees).

Of course, bus travel is always an option to get to and from Tokyo as well. Since it’s the capital city and all, you can catch buses heading in all directions out of Tokyo. One bus company that I personally used is Willer Express .

I highly recommend checking out some of our best Japan travel tips , so that you get the most out of your experience while keeping your budget in check.

When you’re in Tokyo, no time goes to waste! Even if you’ve only got a weekend or a few days on your hands to explore, many memorable trips are just an hour away, or even less, from the city. 

These short Tokyo day trips are fun and unforgettable, and best of all, they only take half a day! So you’ve got plenty of time to visit all the best places in Tokyo  as well as the surroundings.

Yokohama, Japan’s second-largest city with a vibrant population of over 3 million, is a perfect blend of Oceanside charm and city life, also featuring amazing Chinese food (we’ll get into that in a moment).

This is an ideal day trip for those craving a city break within their city break, as it’s a lot less of an intense place than Tokyo itself. It’s also a neat place to stay too with a few different areas in Yokohama to choose from.

Here you’ll find not one but two ramen museums—the Cup Noodle Museum and the Shin-Yokohama Ramen Museum —where you can make your own ramen and learn about the history of this famous dish. It’s actually a really fun experience, one I thoroughly enjoyed.

The city is home to the world’s largest Chinatown , which was founded in 1860 by the first immigrants from China. Don’t hesitate to try street foods like xiaolongbao, char siu bao, shu mai, and bubble tea.

Also, check out Yamashita Park with breezy views of the Port of Yokohama or shop at the Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse. For a perfect day’s end, catch the sunset from the top of the Cosmo Clock 21 Ferris Wheel, once the world’s tallest at 107.5 meters.

For a truly memorable experience, consider indulging in a stay at a  capsule hotel in Yokohama . They’re a blast and totally unique way to do Japan!

Nicknamed ‘Little Edo,” Kawagoe is a city perfectly preserved in the past. It’s a town lined with traditional buildings converted into adorable restaurants, cafes, and shops.

You’ll know you’re in the right place when you spot the Toki no Kane bell tower , an unmistakable structure standing at a height of 16 meters. The bell chimes on four occasions daily, sounding at 6 a.m., noon, 3 p.m., and 6 p.m.

You can find numerous excellent lunch sets that offer traditional and reasonably priced options, with eel as their specialty.

NOTE : Think twice before ordering eel (unagi) as it’s critically endangered. There are many other, more ethical choices of fish you can make.

Make sure to check out the Kawago shrine as well. There you can catch a Tai to find out your fortune, cool off with the refreshing wind chimes in summer, or take part in some incredible Japanese festivals .

Enoshima is a top Tokyo beach spot, with sandy shores for lounging and a cool island to explore.

You can easily walk from the train station to the island, where you can visit shrines and Japanese gardens, or even chill in the caves on the other side. Just a heads-up, there are some stairs, but you can also take a boat around the island.

This rocky island has lots of fun stuff to see and great views, making it a sweet escape from the city, especially in the summer .

During this time, there are fun fireworks and events held by the sea. But be warned! In the summer, beachgoers from Tokyo come to escape the heat, and it can get insanely crowded .

This is also a great place for water sports such as paddleboarding, windsurfing, and kayaking. You can rent equipment and take lessons if you’re a beginner.

Packing in a day trip from Tokyo is a lot more rewarding than taking half-day trips. By heading out before the sun rises and leaving at the end of the day, you can easily pack in a full day of adventure and fun with your loved ones. These aren’t narrowed down for tourists alone, Japanese locals also love to explore their home!

Nikko lies north of Tokyo, a wonderful place known for its forests, waterfalls, and natural hot springs – a very peaceful day away from the busyness of Tokyo.

One of the most famous places in Nikko is the Toshogu Temple , the final resting place of Tokugawa Ieyasu, who ruled Japan for over 250 years. He was a pretty important guy, and you can tell by how elaborate and beautiful his tomb and shrine are.

Make sure not to miss Kegon Falls , one of Japan’s most famous waterfalls. At almost 100 meters high, it’s completely breathtaking. This EPIC Tour will take you through the Nikko Toshogu Shrine and Kegon Waterfall. Afterward, you can choose your own adventure before your tour concludes. Don’t miss it!

The most magical temple most will ever step foot in is in Nikko, Kanmangafuchi Abyss , located in a mystical forest full of Jizu statues of different sizes and shapes, carved thousands of years ago, all next to an electric blue, ice-cold river.

It’s one of those temples where, when you touch the stones, you can truly FEEL the energy of the past blast through your bones.

Lake Kawaguchiko

Lake Kawaguchiko, one of the Fuji Five Lakes, is arguably the best place for the ULTIMATE views of Fuji-san.

You can rent a bike here for $6.68 a day and explore the well-paved path around the lake, stopping at various attractions along the way. There are three highly popular museums, the Kawaguchiko Music Forest Museum, the Kubota Itchiku Art Museum, and the Contemporary Art Museum .

Oishii Park, located on Lake Kawaguchiko’s north side, has some pretty jaw-dropping views of Mount Fuji – it’s like the  mountain’s personal portrait studio.

I’ve come up with the perfect Lake Kawaguchiko itinerary to guide you upon your visit, don’t miss it! You can take a nice walk along the pathways, chill on benches with perfect views, and witness a massive flower garden in full bloom. There are also some ice cream shops with local- flavors. Fuji-apple ice cream, anyone?

Hakone is a popular spot to see Mt. Fuji. It’s a convenient 1.5-hour trip from Tokyo, nestled around Lake Asahi. Here you can relax in some of the country’s most famous hot springs, a true highlight of Hakone.

If you’ve got 3-4 days, you can give the time and love to the villages and the backroads that make Hakone unique and stay in the best places . For the best experience, consider visiting Hakone in the autumn , when the changing season paints the hillsides in a golden hue.

You can detour to Owakudani to witness the sulfur steam rising from the live volcano and the steaming hot rivers. This is the place to savor the renowned black eggs that the region is famous for—they say indulging in these might add seven years to your life, so eat wisely!

If you’re going to Hakone from Tokyo, you can get the Hakone Free Pass , a pass designed for tourists to save money while visiting Hakone from Tokyo.

This pass includes a round-trip ticket from Tokyo to Hakone, a lake cruise at Ashi Lake, unlimited public transport in Hakone, and discounts on a lot of attractions once you’re there.

I recommend jumping in for this 6-hour private tour around Hakone . The guide was extremely knowledgeable, friendly, and helpful in showing us one of the most amazing areas around Hakone. GET EXICTED!

Nagano 

Nagano Prefecture is overflowing with amazing places to explore. If you catch an early Shinkansen to Nagano City, you’ll have time to visit renowned spots like the Togakushi shrine path and the Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park before returning to Tokyo.

Check out Nagano City, home to Japan’s most famous temple Zenko-Ji, and also the host of the 1998 Winter Olympic Games.

Zenko-Ji Temple is home to the first Buddhist statue ever brought to Japan. Right outside the temple, there’s a lively street filled with shops and stalls selling all sorts of things, from handcrafted goods to fancy tea.

Nagano is also famous for its onsen resorts , where you can unwind in soothing hot springs. While many require an overnight stay, a few, like Shibu, welcome day-trip tourists from Tokyo.

The main attraction in Nagano, and a personal highlight of my trip were the famous Nagano Snow Monkeys , which are truly remarkable. There doesn’t need to be snow on the ground to see them either! I saw them swimming around in the hot spring in the middle of September.

Jump on this EPIC day trip to discover Nagano’s near-1400-year-old Zenko-ji Temple and visit the world-famous Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park.

Hike Mt. Fuji

Tackling Mount Fuji, Japan’s iconic volcano, is on every Japanese backpacker’s bucket list. It’s also home to one of Japan’s wonderful national parks . It is no small feat, but with the right planning and a sprinkle of determination, it can be an AMAZING adventure.

First things first, pick the right season. The official climbing season is from July to September, when the snow has melted and the trails are accessible.

There are ten mountain huts along the way where you can rest, refuel, and even catch some z’s if needed. These huts provide simple meals, hot drinks, and a place to rest, but don’t expect luxury accommodations – it’s all part of the experience.

As you inch closer to the summit, the air gets thinner, and you might start feeling the effects of altitude. Take it slow and steady, and don’t be afraid to take breaks. The sight of a breathtaking sunrise from the summit makes every step worth it.

You’ll really enjoy this day trip around Mt Fuji, but if you don’t want the extra stress of traveling, stay a night or two and take it easy!

When thinking of  where to stay on Mt. Fuji , you’ve got some cool areas to choose from.

Swap your walking shoes for flip-flops and head to Atami. Perched on the hills overlooking Sagami Bay, it’s a coastal onsen town just inside Shizuoka Prefecture.

Unlike some other seaside spots in Japan, Atami doesn’t feel like a deserted ghost town. It bustles with life. However, you’ll spot remnants of the 80s bubble era, like flashy but slightly weathered hotels, a few empty buildings, and some intriguing Brutalist architecture.

Being a town that combines hot springs and the seaside, Atami offers something for all seasons. In the colder months, you can enjoy a relaxing onsen soak, while in the warmer months, take a dip in the sea. The town’s name, “Hot Ocean,” reflects its natural hot springs, making it a popular getaway for Tokyo residents since the 8th century.

Try heading to Kinomiya Shrine , a short 15-minute walk from Atami. Here, you’ll find a 1,300-year-old tree believed to grant an extra year of life to those who walk around it.

You can also try cooling off indoors at the MOA Museum of Art or the Hihokan Adult Museum (meaning sex museum.. worth a look?!).

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

Fuji Q Highlands

Fuji-Q Highland, often referred to simply as Fuji-Q, is a renowned amusement park located at the base of Mount Fuji. The park is home to some of the most famous and intense roller coasters in Japan. It features “ Eejanaika ,” a 4D roller coaster that flips riders head over heels, and “ Fujiyama ,” once the tallest and fastest coaster in the world.

In addition to the rides, there are also more family-friendly attractions such as carousels, Ferris wheels, and water rides. It also has dining options, souvenir shops, and entertainment shows.

You can also check out the Haunted Hospital, beware: you must have strong nerves to go there.

Fuji-Q Highland can be reached directly by bus from Shinjuku station. The trip takes about an hour and 40 minutes.

Don’t Forget Your Tokyo Travel Insurance

Japan is a safe country to visit. But, besides, you can’t plan for everything. Believe me, if things don’t go according to plan,  solid Japan insurance  is invaluable.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

From the peace of mystical mountains to exploring ancient towns, chasing waterfalls, relaxing on beautiful beaches, and connecting with snow monkeys, there’s something for every adventurer just on Tokyo’s doorstep.

Don’t forget the iconic Mount Fuji for those seeking the thrill of a challenging ascent or the exhilaration of roller coasters for an adrenaline rush.

Having personally explored these day trips from Tokyo on my own Japan backpacking adventure, I can tell you that there are so many fantastic options. This list only covers the TOP 10 best day trips from Tokyo.

These places provide a perfect balance to the city’s chaotic energy, allowing you to soak in the beauty and serenity of Japan’s diverse landscapes, all within easy reach of Tokyo. So, pack up your backpack and get out of the craziness of the city to see a whole other side of Japan.

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Share or save this post

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of followup comments via e-mail.