Japan – Cultural Odyssey – Volunteer Vacations | Discover Corps
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 day sailing across Lake Ashi with Mount Fuji towering in the distance. End the trip in Kyoto, the ancient former capital famous for its temples, shrines, and the glittering Golden Pavilion.
Arrive in Tokyo and enjoy a bird’s-eye view from the Tokyo Sky Tree, learn to make sushi 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 the Imperial Palace before a Samurai and Ninja experience. Hike through tea plantations and learn more about Japanese tea culture as you experience a traditional tea ceremony and tea tastings followed by a calligraphy class Golden Pavilion and take part in a calligraphy class. The following day we’ll hang out with monkeys at Arashiyama before a farewell dinner together.
$5,995 Adults
$5,695 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. This will guarantee you your own, single occupancy room for the entirety of the trip. If you are a solo traveler and would like us to match you with a roommate of the same gender, please book as double occupancy. See full details here.
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
Small Group Dates
February 1-8, 2026
April 19-26, 2026
May 24-31, 2026
June 28-July 5, 2026
July 26-August 2, 2026
August 30-September 6, 2026
December 13-20, 2026
January 31-February 7, 2027
April 18-25, 2027
May 23-30, 2027
June 27-July 4, 2027
July 25-August 1, 2027
August 29-September 5, 2027
October 17-24, 2027
December 12-19, 2027