Explore,
Exchange,
Experience
Embark on a culturally immersive journey, see the world from a new perspective, and grow as a global citizen.
Summer travel for those looking for something more meaningful
JapanBound is more than just travel. Through cultural activities, immersive site visits, and inspiring guest speakers, our programs foster independent thinking, self-reflection, and a better understanding of today’s global world. Participants will have ample opportunity to challenge themselves and break out of their comfort zones.
Students will travel across the country visiting a variety of cultural and historical sites. Programs may include opportunities to experience daily life with local communities or attend high school alongside Japanese students, offering an authentic perspective on Japan’s unique geography and rich culture.
Our staff specifically designs each program itinerary for each location to connect you with the local communities and highlight what makes each destination special.
Program Details
Dates
* Custom programs are available all-year round.
See upcoming programs.
Destinations
Vary by program. Learn more.
Grades
9*, 10, 11, 12
* Must be 15 years of age or older by date of departure.
Included in program fee
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Accommodations (including homestay)
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Breakfast and dinners
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All activities (see sample itinerary)
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All airfare and domestic transportation in Japan
Language requirement
No Japanese language ability required.
Sample Itinerary
All activities listed below are subject to change.
Days 1-3: Tokyo
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Tokyo Learn & Lead with local university students — practice your leadership and collaborative skills by planning your own sight-seeing schedule!
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Visit major destinations across Japan’s capital city
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See an all-female musical production of Takarazuka Revue
Day 4: Transfer to another city
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Travel to secondary location, typically closer to a local high school and host families
Days 5 - 11: Homestay
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Attend a local high school — get a glimpse into student life in Japan
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Stay with a host family — immerse in local, daily life
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Build global connections and friendships!
Days 12 - 13: Sightseeing
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Visit significant historical sites and museums
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Take a day trip to a nearby destination, such as Kamakura, known for its cultural monuments and sandy beaches
or Contact Us about planning a new program
Program Destinations
Tokyo
Japan’s capital, where future meets tradition
Kyoto
Heart of Japan’s ancient temples and traditions
Hiroshima
Symbol of peace, history, and resilience
Kagoshima
Gateway to volcanoes, hot springs, and samurai lore
Hokkaido
Land of snowy peaks and wild nature
Hear from Our Participants
I enjoyed being able to spend time with my homestay family and other students, and being a part of [their] everyday life (meals, school, shopping, etc.). It was very different from America, but very fun and [an] amazing cultural learning experience.
JapanBound 2025 Participant
[As someone with no history learning Japanese,] the only thing that was slightly difficult was communication, but that was easy to get around with translator apps. Overall, my experience was extremely positive; my [host family] made me feel like I was a part of the family.
JapanBound 2025 Participant
My classmates were very considerate, kind, and inclusive in all classes. They asked me questions, enjoyed chatting openly, and helped me out when I was struggling with Japanese.
JapanBound 2025 Participant
I loved that the [local high school] teachers included us within lessons as if we were their own students. I loved living a typical Japanese student life, meeting new people, making memories, and doing things I normally couldn't do, [like] cleaning classrooms after school. I found it fun!
