Overview
Our program brings you the best of both worlds: the consistency you rely on and the flexibility your group needs.
Travel through centuries of Japanese history alongside your students on this journey through Tokyo, Kanazawa, and Kyoto. Your students will visit ancient landmarks, including the Meiji Shrine and Kiyomizu Temple, and experience contemporary wonders, including wandering through the Harajuku district and catching the famed bullet train to Kyoto. Your group will also visit a local school, participate in an authentic tea ceremony, and reflect on the lasting impact of WWII in Hiroshima.
Itinerary
Day 1
Overnight flight to Japan (Tokyo)
Day 2
Arrive in Tokyo
Meet your Tour Director
Your 24-hour Tour Director will meet you at the airport and remain with your group until your final airport departure.
Day 3
Tokyo guided sightseeing tour
Tokyo is a city of contrasts, where neon lights mix with tranquil temples and cutting-edge technology blends with age-old traditions. With your local guide, start at Senso-ji Temple, where incense smoke is believed to heal. Continue to the Meiji Shrine, honoring Emperor Meiji and his empress, then explore the vibrant Harajuku District, famed for bold fashion and youth culture.
Shibuya Crossing
Akihabara Electric Town visit
Visit Tokyo’s Akihabara district, the epicentre of electronic goods and otaku culture. Explore countless shops filled with anime, manga, and video games, making it a paradise for fans and tech lovers alike.
Day 4
Tokyo Tower visit
Diver City Tokyo visit
The National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation visit
Japanese school visit
Visit a Japanese school to meet local students, practice Japanese, and experience how school life in Japan differs from home. Please note that visits may not be possible on certain dates when schools are not in session.
Day 5
Travel to Kanazawa via bullet train
Kanazawa guided sightseeing tour
Tour Kanazawa, capital of the Ishikawa Prefecture and famed for its 17th-century architecture. Stroll through the Nagamachi Quarter, the city’s former samurai district, where you’ll step inside Nomura House, a beautifully restored samurai residence. Conclude with a walk in Kenrokuen Park, celebrated as one of Japan’s three most beautiful gardens.
Day 6
Travel to Kyoto by train
Arashiyama District visit
Discover Kyoto’s scenic Arashiyama District, a place of natural beauty and cultural treasures. Stroll across the iconic Togetsu-kyo Bridge with its mountain backdrop, then wander through the towering Bamboo Grove, one of Japan’s most photographed spots. Conclude with a visit to Tenryu-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its Zen gardens and historic significance.
Day 7
Travel to Hiroshima via bullet train
Hiroshima guided excursion
Tour Hiroshima, a city that endured unimaginable destruction and has since experienced an inspiring rebirth. At Peace Memorial Park, visit the Peace Memorial Museum and the Atomic Bomb Dome, preserved as a reminder of the devastation of 1945. The park and museum stand as symbols of peace and memorials to those lost. Conclude with a visit to Shukkei-en Garden, a serene 17th-century retreat.
Okonomiyaki dinner
Travel to Kyoto by bullet train
Day 8
Kyoto guided sightseeing tour
With its 2,000 temples and shrines, Kyoto remains one of Japan’s best-preserved imperial cities. Visit Kinkaku-ji, the Golden Pavilion, its upper floors gleaming with gold leaf above a reflective pond. Continue to Sanjusangendo Temple, home to 1,000 statues of the Thousand Armed Kannon, and to Kiyomizu Temple, perched on wooden terraces with sweeping views. Conclude with a walk along Ninen Zaka, a historic street lined with shops and teahouses.
Participate in a tea ceremony
Kinkaku-ji temple (Golden Pavilion) visit
Nishiki Market visit
Spend time exploring “Kyoto’s Kitchen,” the city’s most famous and sprawling market street.
Day 9
Travel to Osaka
Return home
TourFlex: Your Experience, Your Way
With TourFlex, available for tours departing October 2027 or later, you get the flexibility to shape an itinerary that's as unique as your group. Dial your trip up or down for more choice, more control, and more unforgettable hands-on moments, all while getting the right experience at the right value. Available options vary by program and destination.
Explore Your Way
- Add experiences like theatre tickets or unique excursions
- Swap activities for ones that better serve your group
- Extend the learning through go-aheads or stay-behinds
Go Your Way
- Choose the most accessible departure airport for your group
- Opt for 2-, 3-, or 4-star hotels that are centrally located or a convenient ride to major itinerary attractions
Dine Your Way
- Opt for pre-selected meals or encourage exploration by dining on your own
- Enjoy 2-3 course, culturally representative meals or opt for 3-course, authentic dinners at local restaurants
Already Included
WorldStrides Tour Director: A dynamic destination expert who makes learning come to life by leading your group's activities and discussions.
Transportation to & from your destination
Hotel accommodations
Daily meals, with options varying by program (ask your Program Consultant for details)
Admissions to top attractions (details in itinerary)
Guided sightseeing tours & city walks (details in itinerary)
Tips for local guides and drivers (excluding full-day bus drivers and Tour Director)
WorldAssist staff members available 24/7/365 should your group need extra help
Scenes from Japan
Health & Safety
Additional health and safety measures may be available within your respective destination. Refer to your program-specific materials for complete details.
Financial Assistance
Financial Assistance
Through the WorldStrides Canada Financial Assistance Program (FAP), we provide travel grants to elementary and secondary school facing financial hardship. These grants, which can be up to $250 for coach tours and up to $1,000 for flight tours, are designed to make our programs more accessible to students from all backgrounds. Interested families are encouraged to speak with their school to learn more about our confidential application process.
Payment Plans
Monthly Automated Plan
Enroll with a deposit of $99 plus the cost of your travel protection plan (if included). We’ll automatically debit the rest of your tour fee from your chequing account in equal monthly payments, with the final payment due 35 days before you travel.
Please note: If two consecutive payments are declined, your account will be moved to the 4-Step Manual Plan.
4-Step Manual Plan
Manage your payments manually with a $249 initial payment plus your travel protection plan costs (if included). You’ll then make three more payments at key milestones as your departure date approaches. The final balance is due 65 days before your trip.
Please note: Payments on this plan are not automatically deducted and must be made manually.
Fundraising Tools
We are committed to helping you make your educational travel dreams a reality. We offer a comprehensive Fundraising Guide packed with creative ideas, tips, and resources to help you and your students reach your fundraising goals. From setting a timeline to brainstorming innovative campaigns, our guide provides a structured approach to make fundraising a fun and engaging experience for everyone involved.