2025 Ranney Japan Cultural Journey
| Travel Dates: | June 2, 2025 - June 11, 2025 |
| Group Organizer(s): |
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| WTT Contact: |
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| Program Tuition: |
$5,190 USD
Airfare not included in program tuition
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| Confirmed Airfare: | $2,117 |
Tuition Calculator
There are two options for payment, including an interest-free monthly installment plan. Follow whichever option works best for your family. If we are within 90 days of travel, only the pay in full option is possible.
Program Tuition: $5,190
Pay in Full
$5,190.00
due today
Payment Plan
Pay a $500 deposit at the time of enrollment and establish an interest-free monthly payment plan. If you enroll today, your estimated* monthly payments would be:
$469.00
per month
All prices in United States Dollars.
Japan Cultural Journey
This island nation is one of the most remarkable and unique travel destinations in the world. It’s a country with millennia of proud history but also one that rushes forward toward modernity, creating a fantastic mix of old alongside new. Ancient shrines bump up against shiny skyscrapers and neon lights blend with the quiet of the countryside. The food is world-class, the landscapes are spectacular and the culture is one that respects tradition and history alongside karaoke and manga. Few places on earth offer an experience as rich and wonderful!
Program Highlights
Check out some of the featured experiences of your program!
Eat AMAZING Japanese food
Sing your heart out at a local Karaoke!
Have the adventure of a lifetime with your friends
Challenge yourself on a ropes course and zip-line through the trees
Walk through the Harajuku District of Tokyo
Explore Akihabara Electric Town
The Itinerary
We do everything possible to abide by itineraries as originally planned, but decades of experience teaches that we must be flexible in our planning. Changes to a trip’s schedule are uncommon, but Walking Tree reserves the right to make adjustments to programming in the best interest of the group.
| Day | Location | Description | Lodging |
|---|---|---|---|
| June 2, 2025 | USA - Tokyo | Today the group will depart from the USA to Tokyo, Japan. | Airplane |
| June 3, 2025 | Tokyo | Say "konnichiwa" to your program leader, your expert on all things Japan, and your travel partner for the duration of the program. Upon our arrival at the hotel, we will don yukata robes, pour ourselves cups of green tea, and unwind after a long day of travel. But we won’t relax for too long! Soon, we will savor our first meal in the Land of the Rising Sun. In the evening, we will host our orientation meeting to discuss the thrilling days ahead. | Super Hotel Premier Akasaka |
| June 4, 2025 | Tokyo | This morning, we will immerse ourselves in the spiritual heart of Tokyo! After breakfast, we will visit Sensō-ji, the famous Buddhist temple. In the afternoon, we will walk through the iconic torii gate of the Meiji Shrine, a symbolic gateway to traditional Japanese spirituality. We will connect with nature as we stroll through the tranquil forest surrounding the shrine, finding moments of peace amidst the bustling city. Next, we will explore the vibrant Harajuku District, discovering the energetic spirit of Japanese culture and fashion, guided by our knowledgeable leader. In the evening, we will pay a visit to the legendary Hachiko statue in Shibuya, a symbol of loyalty and companionship. We will end our day marveling at the stunning Tokyo skyline amidst the lively energy of Shibuya Crossing, feeling the pulse of the city. A delicious meal will conclude our day before we return to our hotel. | Super Hotel Premier Akasaka |
| June 5, 2025 | Tokyo - Kawaguchiko - Hakone | Bright and early, we will embark on a day trip outside the city. We will embrace the harmony of nature and cultural tradition, finding tranquility in the awe-inspiring landscapes of Mt. Fuji's foothills in Kawaguchiko. We will begin by visiting Mt. Fuji 5th Station, where we will enjoy incredible views over the Fuji Five Lakes and Hakone National Park. After a traditional lunch, we will take a scenic cruise on Lake Ashi, basking in the beauty around us. Participants will then ride the Hakone Ropeway gondola for breathtaking views of the Owakudani Valley, Lake Ashinoko, and a unique perspective of Mount Fuji. We will then drive back to Tokyo for dinner. Finally, we will return to our hotel to rest after our full day of adventure. | Super Hotel Premier Akasaka |
| June 6, 2025 | Tokyo | On our last day in Tokyo, we will continue to explore some of the city’s hidden gems. We will start our day with a visit to the Tsukiji Outer Market, a vibrant hub of fresh seafood, produce, and culinary delights. Students will navigate a maze of stalls offering an array of fresh fish, including sushi-grade tuna, along with seasonal fruits, vegetables, and meats. The group will have the chance to taste delicious street food, such as grilled seafood skewers, tamagoyaki (Japanese omelette), and savory snacks. Following this, we will participate in a soba-making class, learning from skilled instructors who will guide us through the entire process of creating these noodles from scratch. This hands-on workshop will provide a unique way to connect with Japanese culture. As the evening approaches, we will walk to Akihabara Electric Town, immersing ourselves in the vibrant energy of this mecca for electronics, video games, manga, and anime enthusiasts. Students may even pick up some unique souvenirs at Don Quijote! We will en our day with an immersive experience at TeamLab, a museum for the new generation that combines digital art with the beauty of nature using light, water, and sound followed by dinner. | Super Hotel Premier Akasaka |
| June 7, 2025 | Tokyo - Hakodate | We will say goodbye to the city and set off early for an adventure to Hokkaido aboard the high-speed bullet train! We will enjoy a four-hour ride through picturesque landscapes as we journey to Hakodate, a city renowned for its breathtaking views of the strait surrounded by ocean. Upon arrival, we will have lunch and stroll through Hakodate Street, where the fusion of Russian and Japanese architecture creates a unique atmosphere. We will then visit Fort Goryokaku, Japan’s first Western-style fortress, before exploring the Red Brick Warehouses, an atmospheric shopping complex by the bay that offers a stunning evening view of this seaside town. For dinner, we will savor some of the freshest seafood Japan has to offer. We will also ride the Mt Hakodate Ropeway to catch some evening views of the city. Finally, we will check into our hotel, where our luggage will be waiting, and rest for the day. | JR Inn Hakodate |
| June 8, 2025 | Hakodate - Niseko | Today, we will embark on a cultural journey at the Hakodate Asaichi morning market, a vibrant hub where local fishermen sell their fresh catch. We will immerse ourselves in the lively atmosphere as we browse stalls filled with seafood, melons, and Hokkaido delights. The group will engage in a local favorite and visitor highlight, hands-on experience of catching your own squid from a tank—and enjoy it fresh moments later as sashimi, showcasing the island’s deep connection to the sea and culinary tradition. After lunch, we will drive for two and a half hours to Niseko, a pristine paradise nestled amidst Hokkaido's majestic landscapes. Upon arrival, we will check into our hotel and enjoy dinner. Over the next couple of days, we will participate in a variety of outdoor activities, including hikes through lush forests and slopes, deepening our appreciation for nature. Tonight we will have dinner at our hotel and rest up for the next portion of the trip. | Hilton Niseko Village |
| June 9, 2025 | Niseko | Today will be filled with adventure in Niseko, where we will enjoy the town's great outdoor activities. We will start the morning hiking the Lake Hangetsu trail of Mt. Yotei to enjoy views of the area taking us to the "Half Moon Lake," a small crater lake situated on the northwestern base of Mount Yōtei. Then, we will split into smaller groups to explore the town and choose our preferred restaurant for lunch. After regrouping, we will test our courage with zip-lining adventures at PURE in Niseko Village. As the day transitions into evening, we will have more time to explore the beautiful town and see the stunning Shiba Sakura flowers that bloom in late May and early June before returning to our hotel for a dinner that embodies the essence of Japanese cuisine. | Hilton Niseko Village |
| June 10, 2025 | Niseko - Sapporo | Today, we will travel to Sapporo, the vibrant metropolitan hub of Hokkaido! We will begin our journey at the iconic Sapporo Garden, enjoying local delicacies influenced by Genghis Khan, followed by creamy treats crafted from Hokkaido's prized milk. We will then visit Shiroi Koibito Park, a chocolate factory and museum. Our tour will also take us to Maruyama Park, home to the Hokkaido Shrine, featuring grand torii gates and serene forests. After lunch, students will enjoy a bike ride around Moerenuma Park, where art and nature harmonize with lush greenery and outdoor sculptures. We will ascend a five-story glass pyramid for a magnificent view of Sapporo's skyline. We will conclude our Japanese adventure with a final dinner and then channel our inner rockstars as we step into a karaoke booth for a night of music and laughter, singing our hearts out to our favorite tunes, creating memories that will last a lifetime as we bid farewell to Japan in style. Back at our hotel, we will complete our end-of-program activities and reflect on our experiences in Japan before preparing for our departure to Tokyo early tomorrow. | Sotetsu Fresa Inn Sapporo |
| June 11, 2025 | Sapporo - Tokyo - USA | After some wonderful days of adventure, we will leave our hotel bright and early to catch a domestic flight from Sapporo back to Tokyo. Upon arrival, we will wait for our international flight this afternoon to begin our journey home, dreaming of our next adventure! | Your own bed! |
Accommodations
In order to provide a safe and memorable experience, we follow strict guidelines when choosing group accommodations. Walking Tree partners with hotels and guest houses which are centrally located, locally operated, clean and safe. We inspect each partner hotel to ensure they meet these standards.
Super Hotel Premier Akasaka
Super Hotel Premier Akasaka offers a comfortable and modern stay in the heart of Tokyo’s vibrant Akasaka district. Guests can enjoy a traditional Japanese breakfast before exploring the city. The hotel features well-appointed rooms with private bathrooms, free Wi-Fi, and a natural hot spring bath for relaxation. With its convenient location and thoughtful amenities, it provides a cozy retreat for travelers.
JR Inn Hakodate
JR Inn Hakodate features rooms with air conditioning and a private bathroom in Hakodate. This hotel offers a 24-hour front desk and luggage storage space. Guests can enjoy city views. All rooms in the hotel are equipped with a flat-screen TV with satellite channels. With a private bathroom fitted with a bidet, towels and free toiletries, rooms at JR Inn Hakodate also feature free WiFi. At the accommodation the rooms come with bed linen and towels. Guests at JR Inn Hakodate can enjoy a buffet breakfast.
Hilton Niseko Village
Hilton Niseko Village is located in heart of Niseko by the south base of Mt. Annupuri, and features rooms with scenic views of the mountains and ski slopes and are fitted with a flat-screen TV and ironing facilities. Each room has a private bathroom with a bathtub and free toiletries. This hotel offers free Wi-Fi for guests.
Sotetsu Fresa Inn Sapporo-Susukino
Located in the centre of Sapporo, Sotetsu Fresa Inn Sapporo-Susukino offers guest rooms fitted with bed linen and towels and a flat-screen TV. The rooms are equipped with a private bathroom with a bidet, free toiletries and a hairdryer. This hotel offers a buffet breakfast, free WiFi and a 24-hour front desk.
Safety and Support
EASY FUNDING & PAYMENT
24/7 GLOBAL EMERGENCY LINE
HIGHLY VETTED PARTNERS
EXPERT LEADERSHIP
PRIVATE GROUP GUARANTEE
COMPREHENSIVE CURRICULUM SUPPORT
DEDICATION TO CULTURAL ENGAGEMENT
ALL-INCLUSIVE PRICING
I was comfortable that the trip my daughter was on was safe, educational, interesting and fun. She made life long friends with her host sister. An exceptional life learning experience.
Carolyn
Parent of a Peru traveler
Your Adventure Includes
Estimated Airfare
In order to give our travelers the best possible price, we break out airfare from the Program Tuition. We will still handle all booking and ticketing via our flight partner who has access to special fares not available to the general public. Once confirmed, you will be invoiced for the flight roughly 75 days prior to travel.
Program Tuition Excludes: Travel insurance, baggage fees, passport/visa fees, laundry, souvenirs, and activities not listed on itinerary.
Resource Center
Why should high school students travel abroad? What happens if a participant gets sick? How quickly do we need to enroll? We’re sure you have plenty of questions and we’ve got you covered! Visit our Resource Center to discover the answers to your most pressing questions and contact us anytime with additional questions.