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Japan

Japan: Tokyo Fusion — Custom School Trips

Groups of 8+ | Custom Dates | 0 Service Hours | Fully Supported | 4.9 on GoOverseas

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Immerse yourself in a captivating journey on a week-long adventure in the Land of the Rising Sun. Embark on unforgettable experiences while marveling at the ancient Sensō-ji Temple and taking in the vibrant energy of Shibuya. See snow monkeys, try manga and learn about ninjas. Indulge in mouthwatering sushi, ramen, okonomiyaki, and other delectable Japanese cuisines and learn about the role of religion in the country. Join us as we unravel the sheer brilliance and endless surprises that await in this enigmatic nation.

Custom School Trip

Contact us for a custom quote

Custom dates & duration. Groups of 8+.

Response within 1 business day

Anna Beckerman

Anna Beckerman

Head of School Group Travel

Dartmouth · 15 years at Rustic

321+ school partners since 2010

Not sure yet?

Email Rustic Pathways

Talk to a personal travel advisor: +1 (440) 975-9691

Schedule a call

View program itinerary

What Does a 8-Day Program Include?

A typical program. Daily activities are subject to change based on group logistics and weather.

1

Depart for Japan

Meet up with your group at a pre-selected location at your home airport. Once everyone has arrived, check your bags and go through security as a group. From here you will board your flight and depart for your international flight to Japan. This first day is counted as a full day of travel because the standard travel time to this destination exceeds 12 hours. This may change depending on your departure location. Flight Details: Rustic Pathways will be happy to book your flight as an add-on service.
2

Welcome to Japan!

Touch down in Japan in the afternoon. Your program leaders will meet you at the airport. You’ll board an express train into the city. Enjoy the views out the windows before arriving in Asakusa - a district located in the Taito ward of Tokyo that has a captivating blend of historic charm and contemporary vibrancy. At its heart lies the iconic Sensō-ji Temple, one of Tokyo's oldest and most revered Buddhist temples. Drop your luggage off at your accommodation and head to a celebratory dinner of yakitori and other grilled food. Head back to your accommodation for orientation and rest.
3

Asakusa: Temples and Markets

After your long travels yesterday, we start off the morning by exploring several of the famous sites in Asakusa. Visit the Sensō-ji Temple, Tokyo's oldest Buddhist temple. You'll be blown away by the size and intricacy of the temple building and the garden. You'll learn about the role of religion in modern Japan as we wander the calm space. Head to Nakamise-dori. It is a historic and lively shopping street that translates to "inside the gate," and it has been a bustling marketplace for centuries. The street is renowned for its traditional atmosphere and the wide variety of stalls selling a diverse array of Japanese goods. Overnight: Hotel, Tokyo
4

Shibuya/Shinjuku

When people think of modern Japan they usually think of the crowded streets and gleaming towers of Shibuya. Traverse the iconic Shibuya Crossing, learn about cutting-edge technology hubs, and savor local delicacies, creating lasting memories against the city lights. Retreat to the cool of a shady park for a picnic lunch before exploring Harajuku, famous for being the cutting edge of fashion and trends. Enjoy a quick session with a manga teacher and draw your own manga character in the Japanese style. Grab an early dinner, then hop on the bullet train to Kanazawa, where you will encounter a dynamic blend of nature, culture, and history. Overnight: Hotel, Kanazawa
5

Castles and Kendo

The adventure begins with an early morning venture to Kanazawa Castle, where you’ll get a first-hand appreciation of the importance of Kanazawa in feudal Japan. After a locally-inspired lunch in the town, we head to a kendo classroom and take up our wooden practice swords. Practicing kendo connects us to the spirit of the samurai and will help you understand the connection it still has to modern Japan. Enjoy a walk through the historic samurai and geisha neighborhoods as we enjoy an evening stroll before we savor local cuisine for dinner to wind down your day. Overnight: Hotel, Kanazawa
6

Gardens and Tea Ceremony

Visit Kenrokuen, one of the three famous gardens in Japan and a place steeped in history and spirituality. As you traverse the garden grounds, absorb the serenity and cultural richness of the surroundings. Following a delectable lunch, the day takes an artistic turn with a traditional tea ceremony class. This hands-on experience not only imparts the delicate artistry of Japanese tea culture but also provides a tranquil interlude in the bustling day. The journey concludes with an exploration of Kanazawa’s vibrant streets, from the bustling Omicho Ichiba fish market to the local culinary delights, culminating in a culturally delicious dinner. Hop back on the bullet train and head back to Tokyo and get some rest. Overnight: Hotel, Tokyo
7

Calm in the eye of Tokyo

Today is the day of castles and mystical gardens. The Edo Castle, now known as the Imperial Palace, is an iconic landmark in the heart of Tokyo. Surrounded by vast gardens and imposing stone walls, the Imperial Palace showcases traditional Japanese architecture and design. Explore the East Gardens, adorned with meticulously manicured lawns, ancient ruins, and serene ponds, providing a tranquil oasis in the midst of the bustling metropolis. Next visit Hama-rikyu Gardens, an Edo-period strolling garden located along Tokyo Bay. This meticulously landscaped retreat offers a contrast to the surrounding skyscrapers, with teahouses, a tidal pond, and scenic pathways. The integration of tidal features, such as the Shio-iri Pond, highlights the garden's unique design, evoking a sense of calm and contemplation. As the evening winds down, participate in a Rustic Pathways ceremony, called Rustic Ties. This process will allow you to reflect on the experiences you’ve had over the past several days. Overnight: Hotel, Tokyo
8

また会いましょう (Mata aimashou) Goodbye Japan!

As the journey concludes, bid farewell to Japan, departing with cherished memories and newfound cultural insights. This transformative week leaves an indelible mark, fostering a lifelong appreciation for the diverse wonders of this captivating country.

Total: 8 calendar days / 7 nights. International flights are not included.

How Does Rustic Pathways Handle Safety?

24/7 Support

In-person staff + US emergency line

Trained Program Leaders

Background-checked, first-aid certified, deep local knowledge

Licensed & Insured Transport

Risk management plans for every program

Customizable Itinerary

Custom dates and duration

Learn more about Rustic Pathways safety protocols.

Japan

What Do School Organizers Ask?

Flights & Cost

How do flights work?

School groups can arrange their own flights, or Rustic Pathways can arrange them as an optional add-on. In either case, teachers fly with students, and Rustic Pathways coordinates airport pickup and handles all in-country logistics.

What's included in the price?

Included: Lodging, all meals, in-country transport, all activities, 24/7 staff.
Not included: International airfare, travel insurance, personal spending ($150–200).

Is travel insurance required?

Travel insurance is not included in the program fee. Rustic Pathways recommends that families purchase travel insurance. Get a quote from our recommended provider →

Supervision & Safety

Who supervises the students?

Rustic Pathways Program Leaders complete a four-month vetting process, and programs maintain a 7:1 student-to-staff ratio. All Program Leaders are first-aid certified, and most have led multiple Rustic Pathways programs. Leaders range from 25 to 35 years old.

Are rooms gender-separated?

Yes. Students room with same-gender peers. Staff stay in adjacent rooms.

What about medical emergencies?

All Program Leaders are first-aid certified. Nearest hospitals are mapped out in all locations. Our health & safety team reviews all medical forms before departure and works with families to plan medications, allergies, and dietary needs.

Communication

Can students contact home?

Yes. Rustic Pathways’ policy is that students can call, text, or WhatsApp anytime. Rustic Pathways is happy to defer to established school policies instead.

How do families stay informed?

Rustic Pathways sends daily photo updates throughout the program.

Group & Logistics

How big is the group?

Group size varies based on the school’s needs. Contact Rustic Pathways for a custom quote.

Can friends room together?

Yes. Rustic Pathways provides a room list prior to travel. Schools can assign rooming allocations or allow students to choose their roommates.

Program Details

Will students have unsupervised time?

Structured independence with staff nearby. No unsupervised time in public areas.

Can Rustic Pathways accommodate food allergies? 

Yes. Dietary needs are collected during enrollment and shared with all meal providers.

How much spending money should students have?

$150–200 recommended. Tipping is included, no extra cash needed.

Support

What if a student gets homesick?

Homesickness can be common during the first few days; Rustic Pathways is well-prepared. See how staff support students through homesickness

Does Rustic Pathways support neurodiverse students?

Rustic Pathways welcomes all students. Read how Rustic Pathways supports neurodiverse students.

What Should Teachers Know?

Which students thrive on this program?
Students who are curious, adaptable, and open to new experiences. No prior travel experience is required.
What will students do each day?
Each day includes a mix of structured activities, cultural experiences, and group time. See the itinerary above for a day-by-day overview.
Japan offers a unique combination of cultural richness, safety, and meaningful engagement opportunities for student groups. Rustic Pathways has operated programs here for years and maintains strong local partnerships.
How Do Flights Work?
School groups can arrange their own flights, or Rustic Pathways can arrange them as an optional add-on. In either case, teachers fly with students, and Rustic Pathways program leaders meet the group at the arrival airport and manage all in-country logistics from there.
What Meals Are Included?
All meals included. Dietary needs accommodated.
Included:
  • All lodging
  • All meals
  • In-country transport
  • All activities and excursions
  • 24/7 staff support
Not Included:
  • International airfare
  • Travel insurance
  • Personal spending money

What Other Program Types Are Available?

Japan Asia Adventure
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