2026 Smyth County Japan Program
| Travel Dates: |
June 1, 2026 -
June 10, 2026
Dates are tentative
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| Group Organizer(s): |
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| WTT Contact: |
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| Program Tuition: |
$4,490 USD
Airfare not included in program tuition
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| Estimated Airfare: | $1,500 |
Important Reminders
Passport check
Insurance Reminder
Fundraiser
Review all materials
What to Expect
Please read through all of the information below. More details will be added as your departure draws closer.
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 1 | USA - Tokyo | Today the group will depart from the USA to Tokyo, Japan. | Airplane |
| June 2 | Tokyo | Say "konnichiwa" to your program leader, your expert on all things Japan and your travel partner for the duration of the program. At your hotel, throw on a yukata robe, pour a cup of green tea, and put your feet up to relax after a long day of travel. But don't relax too much! Before long we’ll be off to enjoy our first meal in the Land of the Rising Sun. | Super Hotel Tokyo |
| June 3 | Tokyo | This morning, immerse yourself in the spiritual heart of Tokyo with a visit to Sensō-ji, the famous and historical Buddhist Temple. In the afternoon, pass through the Meiji Shrine's sacred torii, passing through its iconic torii gate, a symbolic gateway of traditional Japanese spirituality. Take time to connect with nature as you stroll through the tranquil forest surrounding the shrine, finding moments of peace and introspection amidst the bustling city. In the colorful Harajuku District next door, explore a different kind of energy-- the vibrant spirit of Japanese culture and fashion. Explore the hidden backstreets with your guide, gaining insights into modern life in Tokyo. In the evening, pay homage to the legendary Hachiko statue in Shibuya, symbolizing loyalty and companionship. Marvel at the iconic Tokyo skyline as you stand amidst the bustling energy of Shibuya Crossing, feeling the pulse of the city and the rhythm of its people. | Super Hotel Tokyo |
| June 4 | Tokyo -> Kawaguchiko | Bright and early we'll embrace the harmony of nature, wellness, and cultural tradition, finding moments of tranquility and rejuvenation amidst the awe-inspiring landscapes of Mt. Fuji's foothills in Kawaguchiko in Yamanashi Prefecture. Be surrounded by the majestic presence of Mt. Fuji, this tranquil destination promises a holistic experience of nature, relaxation, and wellness. We’ll visit Lake Ashi, basking in the beauty of our surroundings and soaking in the energy of the nature. We will venture to Owakudani, a geological marvel within the volcanic zone of Mt. Fuji. Witnessing the raw power of nature, we'll marvel at the sulfuric vents and bubbling hot springs that fuel the region's health-promoting onsens. Here, we'll have the chance to indulge in a time-honored tradition—the tasting of Owakudani black eggs, boiled in the sulfuric waters and believed to bestow longevity and vitality. Retreat to the soothing waters of an onsen, allowing tensions to melt away into a sense of relaxation. | Super Hotel Tokyo |
| June 5 | Tokyo -> Hakodate | Set off bright and early for an adventure to Hokkaido aboard the high-speed bullet train! We will traverse the picturesque landscapes as we journey to Hakodate, a city renowned for its breathtaking views of the strait surrounded by ocean on both ends. Stroll through the streets of Hakodate, where the fusion of Russian and Japanese architecure create a unique and captivating ambience and offers a glimpse into its rich cultural heritage. Take in the panoramic view and wonderful night view of this seaside town. Finally, savor some of the freshest and most delectable seafood that Japan has to offer in the evening! | APA Hotel Hakodate Ekimae |
| June 6 | Hakodate -> Niseko | Embark on a cultural journey at the Hakodate Asaichi morning market, a vibrant hub where local fishermen gather to sell their fresh catch of the day to restaurants and visitors alike. Immerse yourself in the atmosphere as you peruse the stalls filled with an array of seafood, melons, fresh dairy and Hokkaido delights. Encounter the essence of Japanese philosophy embodied in the concept of " mottainai ," the mindful appreciation and resourcefulness in avoiding waste. Experience it firsthand by participating in a unique cultural experience—engaging in calligraphy and ink painting using the ink of freshly caught squid. Discover the artistry within the seafood itself as you create intricate designs and expressions, celebrating the beauty and utility of every part of the creature. Our journey continues as we venture to Niseko, a pristine paradise nestled amidst Hokkaido's majestic landscapes. Here, we'll indulge in a variety of outdoor activities that awaken the senses and rejuvenate the spirit. From exhilarating hikes through lush forests to thrilling adventures on snow-covered slopes, Niseko offers an abundance of opportunities for exploration and adventure. As we immerse ourselves in the natural wonders of Niseko, through outdoor activities and cultural experiences, we'll forge lasting memories and deepen our appreciation for the harmony between humanity and nature. | Ezo Fujiya Niseko House |
| June 7 | Niseko | Embark on an adventure-filled day in Niseko, where there is a wealth of exhilarating activitiesin in the great outdoors to invigorate both body and spirit. You could ascend the slopes of Mt. Yotei, and embark on a hiking expedition that offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. Or, test your courage and teamwork with high-ropes courses and zip-lining adventures at PURE in Niseko Village. As the day transitions into evening, treat yourself to a cuisine that embodies the essence of Japanese cuisine—kaiseki. Indulge in a dinner featuring various meticulously crafted dishes that showcase the freshest seasonal ingredients, reflecting both health-consciousness and hospitality at its finest. Cap off your day of adventure with a soothing soak in an onsen bath, where the healing properties of natural thermal springs await leaving you feeling refreshed and rejuvenateda as you gaze up at the starry night sky. | Ezo Fujiya Niseko House |
| June 8 | Niseko -> Sapporo | Embark on an unforgettable day trip to Sapporo, the vibrant metropolitan hub of Hokkaido! Begin your journey at the iconic Sapporo Beer Garden to enjoy a local delicacy, Genghis Khan, a grilled lamb barbecue traditionally used to keep warm in the winter. Indulge in creamy and luscious treats crafted from the freshest milk sourced from Hokkaido's prized cows. Venture to Maruyama Park, where Hokkaido Shrine resides featuring grand torii gates and serene forests. Or if you fancy a bike ride, go around Moerenuma Park and enjoy its harmony of art and nature with lush greenery and outdoor sculptures. Ascend a 5-story glass pyramid for a magnificent view of Sapporo's skyline. Finish your excursion to Sapporo with a culinary dish that traces its heritage back to Hokkaido, miso ramen! A fitting local favorite to end our last night in Hokkaido. | Ezo Fujiya Niseko House |
| June 9 | Niseko -> Tokyo | On our last day in Japan, start with a bullet train ride back to Tokyo. As the day transitions into evening, immerse yourself in the vibrant energy of the neon-lit wonderland of Akihabara Electric Town, a mecca for enthusiasts of electronics, video games, manga, and anime. Pick up some last souvenirs at the local Don Quijote! Conclude your Japanese adventure with a final dinner, then channel your inner rockstar as you step into a karaoke booth for a night of music, laughter, and camaraderie. Sing your heart out to your favorite tunes, creating memories that will last a lifetime and bidding farewell to Japan in style. | Super Hotel Tokyo |
| June 10 | Tokyo - USA | Fly home | 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 Tokyo
Start the day here with a traditional Japanese breakfast before setting out to explore Tokyo. This clean, three star accommodation provides modern amenities and a comfortable experience for all guests. Free Wi-Fi access throughout the building keeps everyone feeling connected. Students will be grouped in their rooms according to gender and availability.
Group Flight
Once your flight schedule has been confirmed, the itinerary will appear here.
Walking Tree will secure a seat on the group flight for each participant unless otherwise instructed.
Travelers are responsible for checked baggage fees. Please visit the airline’s baggage webpage to learn if you should expect to pay anything.
We will provide a group manifest – complete with reservation codes and ticket numbers – to the Group Organizer/s before departure, and travelers will need to check in at the airport in order to receive their boarding pass and have documents verified. We recommend arriving no later than three hours prior to the scheduled departure, but contact your Group Organizer for specific details on exactly where and when to meet on the day of departure.
FLIGHT INTERRUPTION, DELAY OR CANCELLATION
Air travel can be unpredictable. Regardless of proper planning, there may still be instances when a flight is delayed or cancelled due to staffing shortages, weather, mechanical problems, etc. Please note that in such an event, Walking Tree Travel (WTT) is not financially responsible for unanticipated costs incurred by travelers en route. Our programs officially begin and end in the destination country, and because our staff doesn’t fly with the group, Group Organizers (the traveling faculty member/s) become the front-line advocate for the group in the event of a delay. In most cases of cancellations or delays, the airline will be the one who re-books travel or possibly arranges a hotel and food the night. Our primary role will be to keep families updated and provide support to the Group Organizer to reach a quick and effective resolution.
Host Community and Project Details
Packing List
arry on your own.
Finally, we recommend consulting a weather forecast for your destination.
CLOTHES
- Underwear (enough for the entire trip or plan to do laundry)
- Socks (a mix of breathable casual socks and a few moisture-wicking pairs)
- T-shirts (some quick-dry for humid days)
- Long sleeve shirts (lightweight for sun or bug protection, and temple visits)
- Light rain jacket or compact umbrella (essential for rainy season)
- Medium-weight jacket
- Comfortable/light-weight pants (great for temple visits or cooler evenings)
- Comfortable/light-weight shorts
- Durable athletic or walking shoes
- Slip-on shoes (helpful for cultural sites where shoes must be removed)
- Sandals
- Sleepwear
- Hat or cap for sun protection
- Set of slightly dressier clothes (for special visits or cultural activities)
TOILETRIES
- Your basics
- High SPF sunscreen
- Basic first aid
- Hand Sanitizer or travel wipes
- Medications in original packaging
MISCELLANEOUS
- Passport
- Student ID
- Sunglasses
- Journal and pen
- Book
- Camera
- Debit card and/or cash in USD or Japanese Yen
(About $100–$200 depending on souvenirs, snacks, etc.) - Durable, refillable water bottle
- Quick-dry towel (optional but helpful)
- Deck of cards or small games for downtime
- Small daypack for daily excursions
- Portable power bank
- Travel pillow and sleep mask (for flights or bus rides)
Support Team
At a minimum, one experienced Program Leader will travel on every trip. In addition to this full time leadership presence, Walking Tree has additional staff in all destinations and 24/7 support from our headquarters in Denver, Colorado. Below you’ll find the the team members involved in the preparation, planning and execution of your program.
Michael Tung
Japan Country Director
University of California, Irvine – B.A. International Relations; B.A. Japanese Language and Literature
Michael, a California native, has nurtured a lifelong fascination with Japanese culture since his early years, kindled by the captivating world of video games and anime. Michael’s passion for Japan drove him to study Japanese language in high school, and he later pursued a dual major in International Relations and Japanese Language and Literature at the University of California, Irvine. In college, he fully embraced Japanese culture during a pivotal year spent at International Christian University in Mitaka, Tokyo, which ignited his aspiration to eventually make Japan his home one day.
After graduation, he gained valuable experience working in international sales and teaching in underserved communities in California. In 2018, he joined Walking Tree Travel, leading programs that allow students to explore the wonders of Japan. Since 2019, Michael currently resides in Shizuoka, Japan—a picturesque area nestled west of the majestic Mt. Fuji, where he teaches English to local elementary and junior high school students. In his leisure time, he explores cooking and trying new Japanese cuisine, immerses himself in local customs and traditions, and actively engages with the community, living out his commitment to building global bridges.
Emory University – B.A. Sociology and minor in Latin American History
Luke’s path to student travel began in Mexico, during a year abroad in Mexico and Central America. This formative time led him to join an international volunteer program which, after graduating from college, sent him to the small village of San Gerardo de Rivas in south-central Costa Rica. Welcomed by the loveliest of host families, his experience in this tiny town is directly connected to the beginnings of Walking Tree five years later. His love for travel still burns bright, and today he’s lucky to have a wife and daughter who are equally passionate about exploring the world. Settled in Denver, he adores his family and colleagues, skies whenever possible, and is a devoted fan of all Colorado sports teams.
Group Roster
Below is a list of the travelers enrolled on the program.
Blog and Communication
During travel we work hard to keep families updated as frequently as possible with blog posts and photos, giving you peace of mind that your traveler is safe and thriving on their program. Students regularly contribute to these posts, providing families back home a great way to vicariously track the progress of the trip. You will be notified when the first update is posted, after which we recommend checking in regularly via the black “Program Blog” button at the top of this webpage.
Assuming your school allows the use of cell phones, most destinations are wired enough to allow participants access WiFi at different moments in the program, allowing them to communicate directly with home. Ask your Walking Tree representative about the degree of connectivity on your program.
GLC Curriculum
Walking Tree has developed a curriculum of activities meant to help travelers get the most out of their trip before departure, during travel and after they return home. These simple and engaging activities are meant to spark discussion, frame experiences, and prepare participants to travel ethically and effectively both on this trip and on future adventures.For more information about student learning objectives and the format of the curriculum, click on the ‘learn more’ button below.
To view and complete the Pre-Program Activities, visit our online portal at the button below.
Standards of Behavior
In order to run a safe and successful program, it is vital that travelers are prepared to be on their best behavior and bring enthusiasm and interest to each and every day. A communal atmosphere of trust and mutual respect is the foundational. As such, all individuals participating on a Walking Tree program are required to take responsibility for their actions and adhere to a high standard of personal conduct.
IMMEDIATE DISMISSAL
- Possessing, consuming or distributing alcohol or illegal drugs.
- Associating with participants while they are in possession of alcohol or illegal drugs.
- Behaving in a way that consistently damages the group dynamic or jeopardizes personal or group safety. This includes consistently displaying a negative attitude, intimidating or excluding other participants, sneaking out, disobeying group leaders, and any other behavior that is not conducive to an atmosphere of trust and mutual respect.
GROUNDS FOR DISMISSAL OR IN-COUNTRY CONSEQUENCE
- Getting a piercing or tattoo.
- Stealing, or deliberately damaging or defacing any personal property, buildings or materials.
- Threatening physical or emotional harm, or brandishing a weapon.
- Possessing, consuming, or distributing tobacco or nicotine, including vape pens.
- Riding mopeds, motorcycles, or any other type of unauthorized vehicle.
- Being out of designated area or accommodations after curfew.
- Breaking group rules.
These standards of behavior are essential for the successful completion of your program. Please take the time to review these as a family and make sure everyone understands and agrees to them.
Health and Safety
We strongly recommend visiting the CDC Japan website to get the most updated information on health and vaccination considerations in your destination country. In addition, we encourage you to consult your personal family physician so you can be as informed as possible when making important decisions about vaccinations and other necessary health-related preparations before traveling.
Our in-country staff meticulously prepare for all programs. Walking Tree receives regular updates from the U.S. Department of State’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to proactively stay ahead of any potential security concerns. Our in-country staff also verify the safety records of our partner organizations, vendors, and transportation providers, thoroughly vet homestay families through in-depth interviews and visits, and stay informed about important current events in the region.
Program Leaders are seasoned travelers who are CPR and First Aid certified, undergo thorough training in crisis management, and participate in comprehensive leadership training. We do our best to prepare for any eventuality and have detailed emergency protocols for our leaders, in-country staff, and U.S.-based staff.
We collect medical disclosures from all participants to ensure we can meet every student’s needs during the program. Please inform us immediately of any additional health issues not listed during your initial registration process. Leaders and in-country staff are prepared to respond promptly to any mental, physical, or emotional health concerns and follow comprehensive emergency protocols.
Insurance
While we work hard to ensure the safest experience possible for our travelers on program, experience teaches that travel can be unpredictable. For this reason, we recommend that all travelers consider a travel insurance policy with a Cancel for Any Reason (CFAR) provision. Detailed explanations of plan options can be found via the link below.
To provide travelers and families with a quality option, Walking Tree has partnered with Travel Insured International, one of the most respected providers in the industry. Begin by getting a quote here.
IMPORTANT NOTE: in order to secure coverage that includes CFAR, you must purchase the plan within 14-21 days of your first payment to Walking Tree. Be careful when you read the tenets of the policy to ensure you understand the required timeframe for purchase. You must also insure 100% of your trip cost, so program tuition + flight. Please reach out to us with questions.