Japan – Cultural Odyssey

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Signature Journey

8 Days / 7 Nights

$5,495 Adult / $5,195 Child

Explore Japanese culture from the bustling streets of Tokyo to the beautiful city of Kyoto.

The Experience

Japan is truly a cultural mecca. The minute you step off the plane, Tokyo will immerse you in a completely new and vibrant world where a culture developed over centuries meets modernity. This is a journey that opens the door to both sides of Japan and will leave you speechless as you take in the sights and sounds of this incredible East Asian country.

Over the course of our eight day trip, we’ll absorb the sensory overload of the capital, Tokyo, marvel at the beauty of Hakone National Park, and soak up the history of one-time imperial capital, Kyoto. You’ll also visit the relaxing tea fields of Wazuka, see the monkeys of Arashiyama, and enjoy unforgettable views of Mt. Fuji.

As Japan is known for its collision of the modern and traditional, find yourself one day experiencing the organized chaos of Shibuya Crossing in Tokyo, and another relaxing amid the tranquil scenery of Shinjuku Gyoen, one of the capital’s most peaceful and popular parks. End the trip in Kyoto, the ancient former capital famous for its temples, shrines, and the glittering Golden Pavilion.

From Tokyo to Kyoto, your Journey Awaits

Japan is a place that should be on every traveler’s bucket list. And there is no better way to experience Japan than through Discover Corps’ infusion of true cultural immersion with exploration across this fascinating country.

Our Impact

Our impact on this trip is a bit different than others. We firmly believe that the world becomes a richer place when you better understand its diverse cultures, traditions, and values. So in true Discover Corps fashion, we’ll take time to truly understand Japanese culture and society. Over a sushi-making and calligraphy class, learn how Tokyo changed from a small fishing village into the largest metropolis in the world, and how the influence of Japanese culture has spread across the globe. Dig deep into the history of Japan with a guided meditation class led by a Zen Buddhist monk and experience Japanese art in an intricate calligraphy class. Take part in a Samurai and Ninja experience learning how martial arts are instilled in Japanese society.

Where You’ll Stay

We’ll explore three different cities while in Japan. The first three nights will be spent in a 4-star hotel in the center of Tokyo, walking distance to some of the city’s most popular locales. Check out a famous cat café for lunch and walk to some of the best sushi in the city for dinner.

While in Hakone, spend one night in a traditional Japanese Ryokan. Guests sleep on futon beds laid over tatami mat floors, offering you a true feel for Japanese culture.

Spend the last three nights in a a 4-star boutique Kyoto hotel that truly reflects Japanese hospitality. Relax in the spa before heading home or extending your stay to Hiroshima and Miyajima.

Itinerary Overview

Arrive in Tokyo and enjoy a bird’s-eye view from the Metropolitan Government Building, explore the Tsukiji Fish Market and visit the famous Shibuya Crossing. Continue on to a relaxing day in Mt. Fuji spending the evening in a traditional Ryokan and visit the onsen hot springs.

We’ll then board a bullet train to Kyoto to visit he Golden Pavilion and take part in a calligraphy class. Hike through tea plantations and learn more about Japanese tea culture as you experience a traditional tea ceremony and tea tastings. The following day we’ll hang out with monkeys at Arashiyama before a Samurai and Ninja experience and farewell dinner together.

Traveler’s Journal

Tokyo has always been a bucket-list destination for me, but I got so much more from this trip. Kyoto ended up being my favorite. One minute I felt like I was stepping back in time and the next I was off on a bullet train to a new bustling city. My kids loved Monkey Park and all the excitement of Japan, and my husband and I already can’t wait to go back. Truly an unforgettable experience.
Japan vacation

Karen D.

Chicago, IL

Read More Discover Corps Reviews

Rating: 5/5 stars

Dates and Prices

Our trips are inclusive of all activities, lodging, transport and most meals to make your experience hassle-free.

$5,495 Adults

$5,195 Children

  • Double Occupancy Price. Children’s pricing applies to travelers 16 years old and younger sharing a room with an adult
  • Single Room Supplement = $895

What’s Included:

  • 7 nights lodging in 4-star hotels
  • Loaded transportation card for the duration of your trip on bullet trains and public transport in the city
  • Most meals throughout the trip (2 dinners and 2 lunches on your own)
  • Expert local guides to support and inform you throughout your trip
  • Admissions and entrance fees to national parks, historic sites and other scheduled events unless marked as optional
  • An active daily itinerary including a sushi making, calligraphy, and meditation class
  • $50,000 emergency medical evacuation insurance
  • 24-hour Discover Corps emergency hotline

What’s Not Included:

  • Any optional activities
  • Two free evenings for dinner and two free afternoons for lunch
  • International airfare

Dates

Our intimate, small-group departures consist of like-minded travelers. Don’t see a date that works? Want to make it private? Schedule a personal travel consultation and we’ll make it happen.

2024 Dates

April 14-21, 2024

May 26-June 2, 2024 limited

June 7-14, 2024

June 30-July 7, 2024

July 14-21, 2024

September 1-8, 2024

December 15-22 , 2024

2025 Dates

February 2-9, 2025

April 20-27, 2025

May 25-June 1, 2025

June 8-15, 2025

June 29-July 6, 2025

July 27-August 3, 2025

August 31-September 7, 2025

October 19-26, 2025

December 14-21, 2025

Want to learn more?

Alumni & Family Discounts, Monthly Payment Plans, and More

Repeat travelers and groups are eligible for discounts. Looking for a payment plan to help manage your trip? Learn more here.

Customized Private Trips

Let us create a custom trip for your group. Learn more about custom group travel.