Itinerary
Day one
On arrival into Tokyo Narita or Haneda (depending on chosen flights) Airport you will go through the airport formalities and then be met by your guide who will escort you by coach to your accommodation.The stylish Sunshine City Prince Hotel features 4 dining options and a 24-hour convenience shop. It's located in the Sunshine City complex, only 800 metres from JR Ikebukuro Station. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the property.
Rooms at Sunshine City Prince Hotel are fitted with a cable TV, a desk and an electric kettle. Each room has an en suite bathroom with a bathtub, amenities and yukata robes. Nearby Ikebukuro Station offers direct train access to Ueno, Shinjuku and Shibuya within 20 minutes. Higashi-Ikebukuro Subway Station is 500 metres away and has direct links to the Ginza and Tsukiji areas. Guests can find buffet meals at Bayern Restaurant. Musashino Restaurant serves a variety of Japanese dishes, while Kokiden Chinese Restaurant offers Cantonese food.
You will check in and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant or your hotel before heading to bed (tired I am sure!)for your first nights’ stay.
Day two
After enjoying breakfast at your hotel you will enjoy a Sumo Stable Tour which offers a unique glimpse into the daily lives and rigorous training routines of sumo wrestlers. You will enter a sumo stable, known as a "beya," where wrestlers live and train. During the tour, you will observe morning practice sessions, where wrestlers engage in intense training exercises and practice bouts. Knowledgeable guides provide insights into the history, traditions, and rules of sumo, explaining the significance of various rituals and training methods. This experience allows you to see the dedication and discipline required to be a sumo wrestler, making it a fascinating cultural and educational activity for your students.
After enjoying this unique experience you will visit the Akihabara area of Tokyo. Akihabara, known as Tokyo's "Electric Town," is a vibrant area famous for its electronics shops, anime, and manga culture. Students can explore multi-story stores filled with the latest gadgets, video games, and collectible figurines.Thedistrict also features themed cafes, such as maid and anime cafes, offering unique dining experiences. Walking through Akihabara's bustling streets, students can soak in the lively atmosphere, colorful billboards, and cosplay enthusiasts.
For lunch, you can enjoy a variety of options, from traditional Japanese cuisine to quirky themed cafes, making it an exciting and immersive experience for your students. You will then visit Asakusa Sensoji Temple, Tokyo's oldest and most significant Buddhist temple, dating back to the 7th century. The temple is known for its impressive Kaminarimon Gate, featuring a giant red lantern, which leads to the bustling Nakamise Shopping Street. Nakamise offers a lively array of traditional snacks, souvenirs, and crafts, allowing visitors to sample local delicacies and purchase unique mementos. The temple grounds include the main hall, a five-story pagoda, and beautiful gardens, providing a serene contrast to the vibrant shopping street. Together, Sensoji Temple and Nakamise District offer a rich cultural experience, blending spiritual heritage with lively commerce.
You will then visit the Tokyo Skytree, which stands at 634 meters, and is the tallest structure in Japan and a prominent landmark in Tokyo. This broadcasting and observation tower offers panoramic views of the city from its two observation decks, located at 350 meters and 450 meters. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking vistas, extending as far as Mount Fuji on clear days. The tower also features a glass floor section, providing a thrilling perspective directly downwards. Inside Tokyo Skytree Town there a variety of shops, restaurants and an aquarium. The Skytree's modern design and advanced technology make it a symbol of Tokyo's innovative spirit.
You will then enjoy dinner on a Yakatabune River Cruise Boat
A Yakatabune River Cruise offers a unique and traditional Japanese dining experience aboard a wooden boat as it sails along Tokyo's scenic waterways. These cruises typically feature tatami mat seating, low tables, and paper lanterns, creating an authentic ambiance. Your students can enjoy a multi-course meal, often including fresh sashimi, tempura, and other seasonal dishes, while taking in panoramic views of Tokyo's iconic landmarks such as the Rainbow Bridge, Tokyo Tower, and Odaiba.The Yakatabune River Cruise provides a memorable way to see Tokyo from a different perspective, blending culinary delights with the city’s captivating scenery.
After a very interesting and fun day you will head back to your hotel for your overnight stay.
Day three
After enjoying breakfast at your hotel you will be met by your guide and travel to Tokyo TeamLab Planets. Tokyo's teamLab Planets is an immersive digital art museum that offers a unique and interactive experience. It features a series of vast, immersive installations that blend art, technology, and nature. In the Water area your students will wade through water knee-deep as part of the immersive art experience. This interactive installation creates a sensory-rich environment, combining digital art with physical sensations. The water is clean and well-maintained, providing a unique and engaging experience.
In the Floating Flower Garden, you will walk through a space filled with floating flowers. These flowers are suspended from the ceiling and move in response to the presence of people, creating the sensation of walking through a garden that parts and reforms around you. The garden is filled with real, living flowers, enhancing the sensory experience with natural fragrances and the gentle movement of the plants. The museum encourages barefoot exploration to enhance the tactile experience and connection with the environment.
TeamLab Planets aims to dissolve boundaries between the self and the artwork, fostering a sense of unity and wonder. This cutting-edge attraction offers a fascinating glimpse into the future of art and interactive entertainment. You will then visit the National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation. This cutting-edge museum showcases the latest advancements in science and technology, offering interactive exhibits and hands-on experiences. Highlights include ASIMO, Honda’s humanoid robot, and the Geo-Cosmos, a giant LED globe displaying real-time global data. The museum explores diverse fields such as robotics, space exploration, environmental science, and life sciences. Students can also engage with exhibits that explain complex scientific concepts in an accessible and engaging way. Also known as Miraikan it hosts special exhibitions, workshops, and live demonstrations, encouraging curiosity and learning among all ages. With its innovative displays and educational focus, the National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation provides a fascinating journey through the frontiers of contemporary science.
You will then visit Tokyo Joypolis an indoor amusement park located in the Decks Tokyo Beach mall in the Odaiba area of Tokyo. Operated by Sega, it features a variety of interactive rides, arcade games, virtual reality experiences, and attractions based on popular Sega franchises and other themes. Some key features of Tokyo Joypolis include: Interactive Rides and Attractions, these often combine physical movement with digital elements, creating immersive experiences. Examples include motion-simulator rides and VR attractions. A wide range of arcade games are available, from classic titles to the latest releases. The park frequently hosts themed events, limited-time attractions, and collaborations with popular media franchises. Tokyo Joypolis offers a mix of thrill rides, family-friendly attractions, and cutting-edge technology, making it an exciting experience for all of you!
After this fun filled activity you will enjoy a Manga workshop. A manga workshop provides aspiring artists with hands-on guidance in creating Japanese-style comics. Your students will learn fundamental techniques such as character design, panel layout, and storytelling. Experienced instructors offer insights into manga culture, emphasizing artistic expression and narrative development. Workshops often include practical exercises to enhance skills in drawing, inking, and digital tools. They serve as creative hubs where enthusiasts can explore their passion for manga, hone their craft, and connect with fellow artists in a supportive environment.
You will then enjoy a Japanese dinner at a local restaurant before heading back to your hotel for another overnight stay.
Day four
After enjoying breakfast you will be met by your coach and guide and transfer to Tokyo Disneyland. Tokyo Disneyland, located just outside Tokyo in Urayasu, Chiba, is an exhilarating destination perfect for students and teachers looking for an unforgettable adventure. Opened in 1983 as the first Disney Park outside the United States, Tokyo Disneyland combines the enchanting charm of Disney with a unique Japanese twist, making it a must-visit for school trips. Spanning over 115 acres, the park is divided into seven magical themed areas, including the adventurous Adventureland, the wild Western land, the enchanting Fantasyland, and the futuristic Tomorrowland. Students will be thrilled by iconic attractions like Space Mountain, Pirates of the Caribbean, and it’s a Small World, offering a mix of high-speed excitement and whimsical wonder. Throughout the year, Tokyo Disneyland hosts spectacular seasonal events and parades, such as the vibrant Disney Halloween and the enchanting Christmas Fantasy, ensuring there’s always something new and exciting to experience. The park’s dedication to detail and its friendly, welcoming staff make it a joy to explore.
For teachers, Tokyo Disneyland provides a unique educational opportunity, blending cultural experiences with entertainment. You can enjoy diverse dining options, from traditional Japanese dishes to classic American favorites, and discover exclusive Disney merchandise in the many shops. Tokyo Disneyland promises a magical and memorable trip for everyone. Included in this activity is a one day passport.
After this fun filled day you will enjoy dinner at a Japanese restaurant before heading back to your hotel.
Day five
After enjoying breakfast you will check out of your hotel. Be sure to take just a small bag for your personal belongings you will need for the next few hours as your main luggage will be transferred to your hotel in Kyoto separately. You will be met by your coach and guide and before you head to Kyoto your first stop will be Meiji Shrine.The Meiji Shrine is a serene Shinto sanctuary dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken. Nestled within a lush, expansive forest in the Shibuya district, it provides a peaceful retreat from the bustling city. The shrine, completed in 1920, is renowned for its traditional Japanese architecture and beautiful natural surroundings. Visitors enter through the impressive torii gates and can explore the main hall, where offerings are made, and the tranquil inner garden, featuring seasonal flora. The Meiji Shrine also hosts various cultural events and traditional ceremonies, offering a deep insight into Japan’s spiritual heritage. It’s a popular destination for both tourists and locals, who come to pray, reflect, and enjoy the harmonious atmosphere.
You will then enjoy a Sushi Making Experience. You will all learn from skilled sushi chefs, discovering the secrets behind Japan's iconic cuisine. They'll master techniques like rolling and shaping sushi, using the freshest ingredients. This hands-on workshop not only teaches culinary skills but also immerses students in Japanese culture and traditions. By the end, you will enjoy your own delicious creations and gain a deeper appreciation for the meticulous craft of sushi. It’s a fun, educational, and delicious adventure that will be one of the many highlights of your trip.
You will then enjoy an incredible journey into the world of contemporary art at two of Tokyo's most exciting art venues: the Mori Art Museum and the National Art Centre. The Mori Art Museum, located in the iconic Roppongi Hills Mori Tower, offers a dynamic and immersive experience that will captivate students and spark their creativity. This cutting-edge museum showcases a diverse array of contemporary art from both Japanese and international artists. From thought-provoking installations to stunning multimedia exhibits, the Mori Art Museum is known for pushing the boundaries of traditional art. As you explore the museum, you’ll also get to enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Tokyo from the observation deck, adding an unforgettable element to your visit. Just a short trip away is the National Art Centre, Tokyo, another must-visit destination for art enthusiasts. Unlike traditional museums, the National Art Centre does not have a permanent collection. Instead, it features an ever-changing array of special exhibitions, ensuring that each visit offers something new and exciting. The building itself is a masterpiece, designed by renowned architect Kisho Kurokawa. Its wave-like glass façade and spacious, light-filled galleries create an inspiring environment to discover the latest trends and movements in the art world. Both venues provide a unique opportunity to engage with contemporary art in a way that is both educational and inspiring.
After a captivating and fun morning you will transfer to Tokyo Station and board the Bullet Train (Shinkansen) to Kyoto.
"Shinkansen" is commonly used to refer to the entire high-speed rail system, while "bullet train" is a more colloquial term used internationally. The Shinkansen network has expanded over the years and now includes multiple lines connecting major cities and regions, playing a crucial role in Japan's transportation system and contributing to its economic growth. The trains can reach speeds of up to 320 kilometers per hour significantly reducing travel time between major cities. Passengers on the Shinkansen enjoy spacious seating, clean facilities, and amenities such as onboard dining and Wi-Fi, making it a comfortable choice.
Upon arrival into Kyoto you will be met by your coach and guide and transferred to your hotel.
Kyoto Tokyu Hotel
Just 5 minutes from Kyoto Station on the free shuttle, Kyoto Tokyu Hotel features 3 restaurants, and a fitness gym. The modern rooms have Tempur comfort pillows and a satellite LCD TV. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the property. You can kick back with a drink from the minibar or have a hot soak in the private bath. All rooms are air-conditioned and include a fridge and an electric kettle. Guests are entitled to complimentary access to the on-site fitness centre. All guest rooms are non-smoking, while there is a designated smoking area on site. World Heritage site Nishi Honganji Temple is just a 5-minute walk away. The Gion area and Kiyomizu-dera Temple are a 15 minute taxi ride. Guests can stay in shape by exercising in the fitness gym, or they can enjoy drinks at The Terrace in the waterfall courtyard. The concierge and 24-hour front desk will assist your needs and requests. Open for all meals, the newly renovated All Day Dining KAZAHANA serves Western and Japanese dishes. Tankuma Kitamise features local Kyoto cuisine while Chinese cuisine is available at Star Hill.
After check in you will have some free time to discover the local area and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant before heading back to your hotel for your first nights’ stay.
Day six
After enjoying breakfast at your hotel you will have lots of interesting and fun activities. You will be met by your coach and guide for your first visit Fushimi Inari Shrine, located in Kyoto, is one of Japan's most iconic and visited Shinto shrines. Founded in 711 AD, it is dedicated to Inari, the Shinto god of rice, fertility, and prosperity. The shrine is renowned for its thousands of vibrant red torii gates, which form mesmerizing paths winding through the wooded slopes of Mount Inari.
You will begin your journey at the main shrine, situated at the base of the mountain. From there, they can follow the trails up to the summit, passing through countless torii gates donated by individuals and businesses wishing for good fortune and success. Along the way, you’ll encounter smaller shrines, stone fox statues, and stunning views of Kyoto. The fox statues, often seen with keys in their mouths, represent Inari's messengers. These sacred foxes are believed to protect the shrines and bring good luck. The entire hike to the summit and back can take about 2-3 hours, but visitors can choose to explore as much or as little of the trail as they like. Fushimi Inari Shrine is not only a place of worship but also a cultural and historical treasure.
You will then head to The Kyoto International Manga Museum. The Kyoto International Manga Museum is a paradise for manga enthusiasts, housing an extensive collection of over 300,000 manga volumes. Located in a renovated elementary school, the museum offers a unique blend of history and modern culture. Visitors can explore the “Wall of Manga,” stretching over 200 meters and filled with manga from different areas and genres. The museum also features rotating exhibitions, workshops, and events that delve into the art and history of manga. A visit to the Kyoto Manga Museum provides an immersive experience into Japan's vibrant manga culture, making it an exciting destination for both students and teachers.
You will then enjoy a Kimono wearing experience. A Kimono Wearing Experience in Kyoto offers a unique and immersive way to delve into Japanese culture for both male and female participants. The kimono, a traditional Japanese garment, is renowned for its intricate designs and cultural significance. During the experience, participants are guided through the process of selecting a kimono, which varies in style and colour for male and female students. Females often wear more vibrant and elaborate kimonos, complete with obi belts and accessories, while males typically wear simpler, more subdued styles. The experience includes professional assistance in dressing, ensuring the kimono is worn correctly and comfortably. Students learn about the history and cultural importance of the kimono, as well as the etiquette associated with wearing it.
After dressing, there's an opportunity to stroll through historic areas of Kyoto, allowing for stunning photo opportunities amidst traditional Japanese architecture and scenic landscapes. This cultural activity provides a memorable and educational experience, highlighting the beauty and craftsmanship of traditional Japanese attire.
During the day you will stop for lunch at your leisure and then embark on a fascinating Calligraphy lesson, a perfect blend of fun and learning. Guided by skilled instructors, you will discover the art of Japanese calligraphy, known as "shodo." Using traditional brushes and ink, students will practice writing kanji characters, exploring their meanings and artistic nuances. The lesson emphasizes creativity and concentration, providing a unique way to connect with Japanese culture. As they master brush strokes and techniques, students will create their own calligraphy pieces to take home as souvenirs. This engaging activity offers a hands-on cultural experience, enhancing appreciation for Japanese traditions and art.
After an enriching day in Kyoto, you will end your adventure with a magical evening in the Geisha District, known as Gion. This historic area is famous for its traditional wooden machiya houses, teahouses, and the enchanting presence of geisha and maiko (apprentice geisha). As the sun sets, the district comes alive with the soft glow of lanterns, creating a picturesque and atmospheric setting. You will enjoy a delightful dinner at a local restaurant, sampling authentic Kyoto cuisine. As you dine, you might catch glimpses of elegantly dressed geisha and maiko moving gracefully between teahouses, adding a touch of historical charm to the evening.
Gion is the perfect way to wrap up your day, leaving you with unforgettable memories of Japan's ancient capital. You will then head back to your hotel for your last nights’ stay.
Day seven
After enjoying breakfast at your hotel you will check out and store your baggage. Depending on which flights you take you can simply relax and enjoy the local surroundings of the hotel and local area before heading to Osaka Airport for your flight home
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