Overview
Our program brings you the best of both worlds: the consistency you rely on and the flexibility your group needs.
Set out to immerse your students in the cutting-edge technological innovations, rich culture, and fascinating history of Japan. Your students will visit the Tokyo Rinkai Disaster Prevention Park, explore the Tsukuba Space Center, enjoy a guided tour of the Kyoto International Manga Museum, and visit the Yamanashi Prefectural Maglev Exhibition Center. Your group can also look forward to experiencing Japanese culture firsthand during a taiko drum lesson and traditional shabu-shabu dinner.
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
The Tokyo Rinkai Disaster Prevention Park visit
In the event of a large-scale disaster such as an earthquake, Tokyo Rinkai Disaster Prevention Park serves as the city’s central hub for emergency response. It houses disaster management headquarters, facilities for compiling information, and teams coordinating critical relief measures across the Tokyo Metropolitan Area.
The National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation visit
The National Museum of Nature and Science visit
Day 4
Tsukuba excursion
Located about an hour north of Tokyo, Tsukuba is known as “Japan’s Science City” is home to Visit the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency’s Space Centre on a guided tour that may include the astronaut training area, the Kibo control room, and an introductory film. Learn about robotics at Cyberdyne Inc., where HAL (Hybrid Assistive Limb) technology is developed, then explore AIST-Cube, a reimagined exhibition space showcasing how cutting-edge research in areas like sustainable energy, robotics, and healthcare is shaping the future.
Shabu-Shabu dinner
Day 5
Chiba and Saitama excursion
Brimming with beautiful nature and unique cultural sites, Chiba and Saitama are home to fascinating local attractions. Step back in time at the Former Yoshida Family Residence and Historic Park, where traditional architecture and landscaped grounds evoke Japan’s past. Then visit the Saitama City Sakura Environmental Centre, an innovative facility that highlights sustainability and community-focused environmental practices.
Free Time in Harajuku and Omotesando
Harajuku’s Takeshita Street buzzes with trendy shops and crepe stands popular with Tokyo’s youth. Nearby Omotesando, often called Tokyo’s Champs-Élysées, caters to adults with luxury boutiques and stylish restaurants.
Day 6
Travel to Otsuki
Yamanashi Prefectural Maglev Exhibition Centre visit
Opened in 2014, the Yamanashi Maglev Exhibition Centre sits alongside the 26.6-mile Maglev Test Line. Here, visitors can explore exhibits on the science of magnetic levitation and Japan’s plans for next-generation rail, then head to the observation area to watch test runs of the Maglev train racing by at 310 miles per hour.
Travel from Mishima station to Kyoto by Shinkansen (Japanese Bullet Train)
Day 7
Nijo Castle visit
Kyoto International Manga Museum visit
Kyoto International Manga Museum workshop
Museum staff will guide you through an introduction to manga, from drawing techniques and character design tips to the use of "manpu"—the symbols and signs that bring characters’ feelings to life.
Fushimi Inari Shrine visit
Day 8
Kinkaku-ji temple (Golden Pavilion) visit
Tenryu-ji Temple visit
Japanese Taiko drum lesson
Enjoy a hands-on cultural experience with local musicians as you learn the history and basics of taiko drumming. Try simple techniques and play a traditional song that connects rhythm with energy, leaving both body and mind refreshed.
Gion District city walk
Visit the historic district of Gion, best known for its traditional geisha culture.
Day 9
Return home
Optional Extension
Add 2 Days in Hiroshima
Travel by bullet train to Hiroshima, a city rebuilt from the devastation of the atomic bomb, to tour the Atomic Bomb Dome, Peace Memorial Park, and Peace Memorial Museum, then stroll the tranquil Shukkei-en Garden. The next day, ferry to Miyajima to see Itsukushima Shrine’s “floating” torii, visit the Senjokaku Pagoda, and shop along Omotesando Street before heading 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
Free academic credit for eligible Ontario-based students. Ask your Program Consultant for details.
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.