Planning the Ultimate High School Student Trip to Japan

Japan is a small island nation that packs a BIG punch! Home to nearly 124 million people, Japan promises an unforgettable blend of vibrant culture, a proud history, and cutting-edge tech. Whether exploring ancient temples or embracing local flavors, student groups will love the eclectic vibe. Check out our best tips for planning the perfect high school student trip to Japan!

Four Must-See Cities

As you think about planning a student trip to Japan, keep these four cities on your radar. From the dynamic energy of Tokyo to the traditional serenity of Kyoto, these are must-see spots for students.

Tokyo

Tokyo is a brilliant mix of time-honored traditions and futuristic innovations. Noted for its commitment to safety and designed for convenience and efficiency, you’ll be comfortable exploring with students.

Akihabara

Akihabara, or “Akiba,” is Tokyo’s vibrant hub for electronics, anime, and gaming culture. Originally known as “Electric Town” for its post-war electronics market, it has evolved into a paradise for tech enthusiasts, pop culture fans… and teens!

While you’re here, be sure to take in the jaw-dropping view from Tokyo Skytree!

Imperial Palace

Visit the exquisite Imperial Palace, the current residence of Japan’s Emperor, situated within the expansive grounds of the former Edo Castle.

Shibuya Scramble Crossing

Shibuya Crossing is the iconic “scramble” lined with oversized electronic billboards and neon signs often seen in movies and on TV. It’s a ridiculously busy crossing, sometimes with nearly 2500 people crossing in a two-minute span!

Harajuku

Discover the vibrant fashion and youth culture scene of Harajuku, a district renowned for its unique boutiques and lively atmosphere.

Sensō-ji

Immerse yourself in the spiritual atmosphere of Sensō-ji, Tokyo’s oldest temple, renowned for its vibrant architecture and bustling Nakamise-dōri shopping street.

Ueno Park

Stroll through the serene Ueno Park, a vast urban oasis. Here you’ll find several prominent museums and some of the very best cherry blossom viewing in Japan.

Tsukiji Outer Market

Explore the deliciously lively Tsukiji Outer Market, a hub for fresh seafood and local cuisine. It’s a perfect way to enjoy Tokyo’s rich culinary heritage.

Kyoto

Once the imperial capital of Japan, Kyoto is known for its stunning temples, traditional tea houses, and vibrant festivals. Beyond sightseeing, Kyoto is a great place for students to learn about Japan’s history, art, and philosophy.

Nijo Castle

Nijo Castle is one of Japan’s best-known castles and residence of the first shogun of the Edo Period (1603-1867.) This UNESCO World Heritage Site is also home to the opulent Ninomaru Palace and peaceful Seiryu-en Garden.

Fun fact! Students will love hearing the “nightingale floors” chirp as they walk on them!

Fushimi Inari Shrine

The Fushimi Inari Shrine is another student must-do. Known for its thousands of vivid orange torii gates winding up Mount Inari, this vibrant shrine is dedicated to the Shinto god of rice, agriculture, and business prosperity.

Toei Kyoto Studio Park

Join in the action at Toei Kyoto Studio Park, a film-themed amusement park that mixes history and entertainment. Experience the world of samurai and ninjas through immersive costumes, enjoy live performances, and explore real movie sets from historical Japanese films and samurai dramas.

Kyoto Imperial Palace and Gardens

Discover Japan’s imperial history at the Kyoto Imperial Palace, the former residence of the Japanese Imperial Family until the capital moved to Tokyo in 1869.

Then, wander through the surrounding Kyoto Gyoen National Garden, a sprawling green space perfect for a picnic lunch.

Kiyomizu-dera Temple

Don’t miss Kiyomizu-dera Temple, another UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its enormous wooden stage extends over the hillside, offering unmatched views of the city.

Be sure to stop at Otawa Waterfall, where students can drink from three streams of water for good health, love, and success!

Nishiki Market

Nishiki Market is a vibrant food scene, offering a range of culinary experiences. Students can explore local markets like Nishiki Market, visit themed restaurants, and even try their hand at making sushi.

Arashiyama Bamboo Forest

Escape to a different world in the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest. Students will be surrounded by an ‘otherworldly’ grove of bamboo stalks towering nearly 65 feet above them.

Osaka

Osaka is home to historical landmarks AND amazing attractions – like Universal Studios Japan!  It is definitely a must-do on your high school student trip to Japan!

Universal Studios Japan

Universal Studios Japan opened in 2001 and is one of the most visited amusement parks in Japan. It has ten incredibly awesome areas. These include Hollywood, New York, San Francisco, Jurassic Park, Waterworld, Amity Village, Universal Wonderland, Minion Park, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, AND Super Nintendo World.

Fun Fact! Super Nintendo World here is the inspiration for the same world in the new Epic Universe in Orlando.

Osaka Castle

Osaka Castle is a historic castle known for its role in the unification of Japan during the Azuchi–Momoyama period. It was constructed in 1583 by Hideyoshi Toyotomi, a powerful feudal lord and warrior. The castle has been rebuilt several times throughout history, with the current iteration, including the main castle keep, being reconstructed in 1931.

CupNoodles Museum

One of the coolest things your student group will do is visit the CupNoodles Museum – the birthplace of instant ramen noodles! There’s a CupNoodles-shaped interactive theater, instant noodles tunnel, colorful exhibits, even a factory experience where you can create your own packaging.

Hiroshima

Hiroshima is a name with which many of us are familiar. When you visit, students will have an opportunity to learn about the city from a completely different perspective. It’s one that is very much a first-person account of an historical event that many only know about from history books.

It’s also a vibrant and thriving city with much to see and do!

Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Museum

This park offers a somber yet powerful space to reflect on the atomic bombing and the city’s history. It includes the Atomic Bomb Dome, the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, and the Children’s Peace Monument.

Miyajima Island

A short ferry ride from Hiroshima, Miyajima is known for its iconic Itsukushima Shrine with its floating torii gate and beautiful natural scenery.

Authentic Tea Ceremony

Students can also experience a traditional Japanese tea ceremony, a ritual that involves the preparation and serving of matcha tea.

Okonomimura – “Okonomiyaki Village”

This four-story building is home to more than 25 restaurants serving some version of okonomiyaki and other local specialties. An absolute must to get a taste of the local flavor!

Calligraphy Brush Making

Participate in a workshop to create your own authentic calligraphy brush with a traditional crafter.

Navigating the Culture

Visiting Japan can be a thrilling – and possibly confusing – experience. There are big cultural, language, currency, and safety differences from what students may be used to.

Here are a few pointers to keep in mind…

Communication

Japanese is the official language of Japan. Sometimes, you may also hear various and interesting “hogen” (dialects) that preserve local accents and reflect diverse community cultures.

Learning basic Japanese phrases when visiting like “arigatou” (thank you) and “sumimasen” (excuse me) can be helpful.

Using a language translation app like Google Translate is also a great way to bridge any language barriers. However, note that wi-fi is limited in many places so you may want to invest in a pocket wi-fi device.

Tech Tips for Teens on the Go

Currency

Japan’s currency is the Japanese yen (円/¥). Major currencies can be exchanged at airports and banks.

In general, credit cards issued by major credit card companies like Visa and MasterCard are accepted throughout the country. However, cash is still widely used.

Safety

Japan is one of the safest countries in the world with a very low crime rate. However, thefts do still happen so keep track of personal belongings.

If you do have an emergency, dial 110 for the police and 119 for fire or ambulance services.

Time Differences

Japan is one of the easternmost countries in the world, while the U.S. is one of the most western. As a result, there’s a huge time difference between the two countries. Japan is 15 hours ahead of the central U.S.

This difference changes slightly depending on where in the U.S. you live. For example, Tokyo is 13 hours ahead of Washington D.C.

Travel Requirements

Japan has reciprocal visa exemption arrangements with the United States. Passport holders can visit Japan for a short-term stay of less than 90 days without applying for a visa.

Planning the Ultimate High School Student Trip to Japan with Kaleidoscope Adventures

Japan is the perfect destination for an amazing high school trip. Its history, culture, art, and beauty make it an adventure that your students will never forget!

For more than 30 years, Kaleidoscope Adventures has been the conduit for travel experiences that teach, inspire, encourage, and allow students to explore the world around them. Our pro team has countless ideas for a trip that’s just right for you.

We make it easy SO easy to plan your high school trip to Japan…

• Expert planning team
• Online registration and payments
• Convenient crowdfunding options
• Impeccable customer service from start to finish
• Travel that exceeds your expectations

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