2026 Japan Cultural & Educational Exchange Program
An Unforgettable 14 Day Journey into the Heart of Japan
Program Overview
Imagine walking through the busiest crossing in the world…
Standing in front of a 1,000-year-old temple…
Wearing a traditional kimono in Kyoto…
And sitting in a real Japanese classroom, making friends from another culture.
This is not just a trip. This is a life-changing experience in Japan.
Designed especially for international students, this program combines:
● Cultural immersion
● Academic exposure
● Real interaction with Japanese students
● Exploration of Japan’s most iconic cities
From futuristic Tokyo to historic Kyoto, from Mount Fuji’s natural beauty to Osaka’s vibrant energy — students will experience the true essence of Japan.
What Students Will Gain
● Confidence to step into a global environment
● Real friendships with Japanese students
● Deep understanding of Japanese culture and traditions
● Exposure to one of the world’s top education systems
● Personal growth, independence, and unforgettable memories
Why This Program is Special
This program is carefully designed to balance: Learning + Culture + Fun
● Not just sightseeing → real school experience
● Not just culture → hands-on activities
● Not just travel → personal transformation
Introduction to Japan
Located in East Asia, Japan is composed of several islands and is renowned for its refined culture, beautiful natural landscapes, and advanced technology. Its blend of tradition and modernity attracts travelers from around the world. Tokyo, the capital, is Japan's political, economic, and cultural center, boasting excellent transportation, bustling shopping districts, and diverse entertainment options. From historical sites like Senso-ji Temple to the modern urban charm of Shinjuku and Shibuya, coupled with fashion, cuisine, and subculture trends, Tokyo offers a captivating microcosm of Japan.
Course Introduction
Itinerary
| Day | Destination | Itinerary Highlights & Milestones | Accommodation |
| D1 | Departure | Departure from Johannesburg (JNB) to Hong Kong (HKG) Flight CX748 (11:10 – 06:30) | Overnight Flight |
| D2 | Tokyo | Arrival in Tokyo via Hong Kong Flight CX526 HKGNRT|Akihabara Pop-Culture Exploration | Hotel JAL City Kannai, Yokohama |
| D3 | Tokyo | Elite University Visit (U of Tokyo/Waseda)|Shibuya Crossing|Hachiko Statue|Odaiba Night View | Hotel JAL City Kannai, Yokohama |
| D4 | Tokyo | Japanese Baseball Culture Experience|Tokyo Skytree|Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building Observation Decks|Senso-ji Temple|Ueno Park | Hotel JAL City Kannai, Yokohama |
| D5 | Mt. Fuji | Tokyo → Mt. Fuji Area|Lake Kawaguchi or Oshino Hakkai|Fuji-Hakone Izu National Park|Arakurayama Sengen Taisha|Mount Fuji View (Day, Night) | Rembrandt Premium Fuji Gotemba Day Spa |
| D6 | Shizuoka | ⭐️【MAIN HIGHLIGHT】Japanese High School Exchange (Classroom Integration, School Lunch, Campus tour)|Tea Ceremony & Calligraphy | Hotel Ole Inn |
| D7 | Mt. Fuji / Nagoya | Mt. Fuji|Aizome Dyeing → Nagoya|Toyota Commemorative Museum of Industry and Techonology|Nagoya TV Tower or Oasis 21|Hirokoji-dori|Sakae District Night View | Nagoya Tokyu Hotel |
| D8 | Nagoya / Kyoto | Nagoya|Inuyama Castle (Sumo Experience) → Kyoto|Kiyomizu-dera Temple|Gion (Traditional Geisha District)|Fushimi Inari Taisha | Miyako Hotel |
| D9 | Kyoto | Arashiyama Bamboo Grove|Kinkaku-ji Temple|Nijo-jo Castle|Kimono Experience | Miyako Hotel |
| D10 | Nara / Osaka | Kyoto → Nara National Museum|Nara Park (Interact with sika deer) → Transfer to Osaka | Hotel Nikko Osaka |
| D11 | Osaka | ⭐️【Full Day Thrills】Universal Studios Japan (USJ)(Harry Potter & Nintendo World) | Hotel Nikko Osaka |
| D12 | Osaka | Osaka Castle|Shinsaibashi|Dotonbori|Tsutenkaku Tower|Kuromon Market | Hotel Nikko Osaka |
| D13 | Transit | Rinku Premium Outlets|Departure from Osaka to Hong Kong Flight CX959 KIXHKG (18:30 – 21:40) | Overnight Flight |
| D14 | Arrival | Hong Kong → Arrival at Johannesburg Flight CX749 HKGJNB (01:05 – 7:45)|End of an Unforgettable Journey | Sweet Home |
Day 2 ── Welcome to Tokyo | The City Where the Future Begins
☰ Akihabara Anime Street
Akihabara is a renowned mecca for anime and electronics culture in Tokyo, home to numerous electronics stores, model kits, and anime shops, and is a representative of otaku culture. Its vibrant cosplay and themed cafes showcase the charm of Japanese subculture.
Day 3 ── Tokyo: Where Tradition Meets Innovation
☰ University of Tokyo
The University of Tokyo (TOD) is a national comprehensive research university located in Tokyo, Japan, and is widely recognized as Japan's most prestigious institution of learning. Founded in 1877, it was Japan's first modern comprehensive university.
☰ Waseda University
One of Japan's top private universities, renowned for its political, business, and international education programs. The campus is vibrant with youth and academic atmosphere, having nurtured numerous prominent figures in politics and business, making it a representative and prestigious institution of higher learning in Tokyo.
☰ Shibuya Crossing
Known as one of the world's busiest intersections, it sees massive crowds crossing every time the green light turns on. Surrounded by department stores, trendy brands, and restaurants, it's a symbol of Tokyo's youth culture.
☰ Hachiko Statue
Located in front of Shibuya Station, this famous landmark commemorates Hachiko, the loyal dog who waited for his owner every day. Symbolizing loyalty and companionship, it is also a popular photo spot and meeting point for tourists.
☰ Odaiba
This renowned waterfront entertainment district in Tokyo boasts the Rainbow Bridge, gourmet restaurants, shopping malls, and technology exhibition halls. Its captivating nighttime views blend shopping, leisure, and a futuristic urban landscape.
Day 4 ── Culture, Views & Everyday Japan
☰ Japanese Baseball Culture Experience
Baseball is one of the most popular sports in Japan. By watching professional baseball games, experiencing batting practice, and witnessing stadium cheering culture, one can feel the passionate team spirit and charm of the sport in Japan.
☰ Tokyo Skytree
A landmark of Tokyo, standing at 634 meters tall, it is one of the world's most famous towers. It offers panoramic views of Tokyo and combines shopping, dining, an aquarium, and other diverse entertainment facilities.
☰ Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building
Located at the site of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building, it features a free observation deck offering panoramic views of Tokyo and Mount Fuji. The building's modern and impressive exterior makes it a popular viewpoint.
☰ Senso-ji Temple
It is Tokyo's oldest and most popular temple, and the center of the Asakusa area. Its main deity is the Holy Kannon. Built in the 7th century, it was repeatedly destroyed by fire and later rebuilt. Legend has it that the temple was founded after three fishermen found a small, 5.5 cm tall, golden Kannon statue while fishing at sea.
☰ Ueno Park
A famous large park in Tokyo, it houses museums, art galleries, and a zoo. It attracts large crowds of cherry blossom viewers in spring, offering a blend of cultural and natural beauty.
Day 5 ── Mount Fuji Area | Japan’s Most Iconic View
☰ Mt. Fuji Area
Mt. Fuji is an active volcano in Japan, straddling Shizuoka and Yamanashi prefectures. Located approximately 80 kilometers southwest of Tokyo, its main peak is 3,776 meters above sea level. In August 2002, the Geospatial Information Authority of Japan remeasured its height at 3,775.63 meters, making it the highest peak in Japan. The summit of Mt. Fuji is covered in snow during winter, which melts in June or July of the following year. It is managed within the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park in the Honshu region.
☰ Lake Kawaguchi
Lake Kawaguchi was the first of the Five Lakes to be developed, and its convenient transportation has made it the tourist center of the Five Lakes. The most famous island in the lake is Pelican Island, the only island among the Five Lakes. There is a shrine on the island dedicated to blessing pregnant women with safe childbirth. There is also a 1260-meter-long bridge spanning the lake.
☰ Oshino Hakkai
Oshino Hakkai is a group of springs located in Oshino Village, between Lake Yamanaka and Lake Kawaguchi in Yamanashi Prefecture, Japan. It is named "Oshino Hakkai" because of the eight springs scattered throughout the area, and it is famous far and wide. It is said that Oshino Hakkai existed 1200 years ago, formed by snowmelt from Mount Fuji filtering through the earth's strata: Ogama Pond, Sokonashi Pond, Cessko Pond, Nigori Pond, Waku Pond, Kagami Pond, Ayame Pond, and Deguchi Pond.
☰ Fuji-Hakone Izu National Park
One of Japan's representative national parks, it encompasses natural landscapes such as Mount Fuji, Hakone hot springs, and the Izu coast. Boasting volcanoes, lakes, and hot springs, it offers stunning scenery in all four seasons.
☰ Arakurayama Sengen Taisha
Famous for its stunning view of the five-story pagoda framed by Mount Fuji, it is a representative photography spot in Japan. The scenery is especially enchanting during the cherry blossom season in spring and the autumn foliage season in fall.
Day 6 ── School Exchange Day | Be a Student in Japan
☰ School Meal Culture
The school lunch culture emphasizes balanced nutrition and food education, with meals designed by nutritionists using seasonal and local ingredients. Students participate in serving and cleaning together, fostering cooperation, manners, gratitude, and good eating habits—a key characteristic of Japanese education.
☰ Tea ceremony
One of Japan's traditional cultural arts, it emphasizes etiquette, state of mind, and hospitality. Through the process of brewing and tasting tea, it showcases the aesthetics of harmony, respect, tranquility, and serenity.
☰ Calligraphy
Japanese calligraphy blends Chinese characters with artistic aesthetics, emphasizing brushwork, balance, and focused concentration. It showcases the beauty of characters and cultural depth through ink and brush.
Day 7 ── Traditional crafts | exploration of Nagoya
☰ Aizome Dyeing
One of Japan's traditional craft experiences involves dyeing fabric a unique blue using natural dyes. You can create your own piece and experience the culture of artisans and the charm of handcrafted art.
☰ Toyota Commemorative Museum of Industry and Technology
Showcasing Toyota's development from textile machinery to the automotive industry, the exhibition combines interactive displays with live demonstrations, providing a deep understanding of the evolution of Japanese industrial technology.
☰ Nagoya TV Tower
This is a famous landmark in Nagoya, featuring an observation deck offering panoramic city and nighttime views. The area is illuminated at night, creating a romantic atmosphere and making it a popular spot for photos and sightseeing.
☰ Oasis 21
Combining shopping malls, transportation, and public spaces, this complex is famous for its "water spaceship" glass roof and is one of Nagoya's representative modern buildings.
☰ Hirokoji-dori
One of Nagoya's bustling shopping districts, it's home to department stores, restaurants, and specialty shops. The streets are vibrant and energetic, making it a great place to shop and experience local culture.
☰ Sakae District Night View
One of Nagoya's most bustling commercial districts, it is brightly lit at night and combines shopping, dining and entertainment facilities, making it a popular spot to enjoy the city's night view.
Day 8 ── Inuyama Castle | Kyoto: Step into Old Japan
☰ Inuyama Castle (Sumo Experience)
One of Japan's oldest existing wooden castle towers, offering stunning views of the Kiso River and the historic castle town. Combining it with a sumo wrestling experience allows for a deeper immersion in the spirit of traditional Japanese martial arts.
☰ Kiyomizu-dera Temple
A representative World Heritage Site of Kyoto, renowned for its suspended wooden stage and ancient temple landscape. The scenery is beautiful in spring (cherry blossoms) and autumn (maple leaves), imbued with historical charm.
☰ Gion (Traditional Geisha District)
Kyoto's most representative traditional district, preserving old townhouses and cobblestone streets. Visitors in kimonos and geishas are often seen, creating a rich Japanese atmosphere.
☰ Fushimi Inari Taisha
A popular Kyoto shrine famous for its thousand torii gates. The red torii gates stretch across the mountainside, symbolizing blessings and prosperous commerce, making it a highly representative Japanese tourist attraction.
Day 9 ── Kyoto Cultural Experience
☰ Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
Towering bamboo groves and walking paths create a tranquil and healing atmosphere, making it a famous natural attraction in Kyoto. Strolling through it allows you to experience Japanese Zen and the changing scenery of the four seasons.
☰ Kinkaku-ji
Officially known as Rokuon-ji, its gold-leaf-covered walls reflect beautifully in the pond. A representative ancient temple of Kyoto, it is also a World Heritage Site.
☰ Nijo-jo Castle
An important historical castle from the Tokugawa Shogunate period, renowned for its magnificent screen paintings and "nightingale-singing floor." A fusion of history, architecture, and garden beauty, it is a representative World Heritage Site of Kyoto.
☰ Kimono Experience
Wearing a traditional kimono and strolling through Kyoto's old streets is a popular cultural experience. It allows you to immerse yourself in the ancient capital's atmosphere and create lasting memories filled with Japanese charm.
Day 10 ── Nara: Nature & History | Nara Park
☰ Nara National Museum
Renowned for its collection of Buddhist art and historical artifacts, it displays a large number of precious Buddhist statues and cultural assets, making it an important place for in-depth understanding of Japanese history.
☰ Nara Park
A large park famous for its leisurely deer, offering opportunities for close interaction with them. Surrounded by ancient temples and natural landscapes, it exudes the relaxed atmosphere of an old capital.
Day 11 ── Universal Studios Japan | A Day of Pure Excitement
☰ Universal Studios Japan
A super popular theme park in Osaka, featuring areas such as Harry Potter and Nintendo World. Combining thrilling rides with movie sets, it is loved by many visitors.
Day 12 ── Osaka: Food, Fun & Energy
☰ Osaka Castle
Osaka's iconic historical castle, built by Toyotomi Hideyoshi, boasts a magnificent castle tower and expansive parks. It's a popular spot for cherry blossom viewing and sightseeing during the spring when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom.
☰ Shinsaibashi
A representative shopping district in Osaka, gathering trendy clothing, drugstores, and department stores. The shopping street has a lively atmosphere and is a popular shopping destination for tourists.
☰ Dotonbori
Osaka's most vibrant food and entertainment district, famous for its Glico Runner sign. It boasts a plethora of local delicacies like takoyaki and okonomiyaki, creating a lively atmosphere.
☰ Tsutenkaku Tower
One of Osaka's famous landmarks, symbolizing the vibrant culture of the Shinsekai district. The observation deck offers panoramic views of Osaka, and the surrounding area is filled with local snacks and nostalgic shopping streets.
☰ Kuromon Market
Known as "Osaka's Kitchen," it sells fresh seafood, fruits, and specialty snacks. It offers a taste of authentic Japanese market culture and culinary delights./p>
Day 13 ── Departure
☰ Rinku Premium Outlets
A large shopping outlet near Kansai Airport offers numerous international brands and discounted items. It's a great place to add shopping and leisure activities to your trip at the end.
☰ Departure
Departure from Osaka to Hong Kong Flight CX959 KIXHKG (18:30 – 21:40).


