Japan

Atomic Dome visit, Peace Memorial Park visit, Peace Memorial Museum visit, Hiroshima Castle visit

One of Japan’s best-preserved imperial cities, Kyoto, is home to more than 2,000 temples and shrines. Visit Kinkaku-ji, the famed Golden Pavilion, whose top floors gleam with gold leaf above a reflective pond. Continue to Fushimi Inari Taisha, where thousands of bright red torii gates wind up the hillside. Conclude at Sanjusangendo Temple, with its hall of 1,000 life-size guardian statues.

Discover Nara, where history and tradition come to life. At Todai-ji Temple, marvel at the 50-foot bronze Buddha, dedicated in AD 752, and learn the story of its symbolic “eye-opening.” Continue to Kasuga Grand Shrine, famed for its thousand bronze lanterns. Conclude with a stroll through Nara Deer Park, home to wild deer once regarded as messengers of the gods and still protected as a national treasure.

Learn the fundamentals of Japanese calligraphy and practice the basics of this traditional art.

Escape to Hakone, a favorite retreat for Tokyo locals, where lakes, gardens, and shrines create a scene like a living watercolor. Cruise across Lake Ashi with views of Mt. Fuji, then ride the Hakone Ropeway to Owakudani Boiling Valley, where sulfur vents and hot springs mark the volcanic landscape. Conclude with a visit to Hakone Shrine, hidden among towering cedars along the lakeshore.

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.

Visit Tokyo’s Akihabara district, the epicenter 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.

Visit a Japanese school to meet local students, learn some Japanese, and see the differences between schools in Japan and schools at home. (Please note that school visits will not be possible on certain dates due to schools not being in session. WorldStrides will update you as early as possible.)

Under the instruction of a professional chef, prepare, eat, and enjoy a traditional Japanese meal.

Hot springs, breathtaking waterfalls and mountain scenery all make their home in Nikko. See Toshogu, Japan's most lavishly decorated shrine complex, the temple of Rinnoji, Kegon Waterfall, and streets lined with cypress trees. There is much to be discovered at the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Nikko.

Karaoke, which originated in Japan, remains one of Tokyo’s favorite pastimes. Step into a lively venue, grab a mic, pick your favorite song, and sing your heart out alongside friends.

Board your flight home or choose to spend four days exploring South Korea.