Japan: Storytelling Through Culture & Tradition

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Overview

Who: Upper School Students
When: March 7-16, 2026

Estimated Cost: $5400
Trip Leaders: Ms. Patel, Dr. Hasegawa, Mr. Goodman

Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime journey through Japan where storytelling and cultural exploration take center stage. This immersive Global Studies trip is designed for high school students with a passion for writing, creativity, and global perspectives. From the bustling streets of Tokyo to the serene temples of Kyoto, students will explore how narrative traditions shape identity, memory, and place. With hands-on workshops, school visits, an overnight stay at a traditional ryokan (Japanese inn), and opportunities to write in stunning natural and urban landscapes, this trip is both a cultural deep dive and a writer’s retreat. Guided by MBS faculty and local experts, students will return with a deeper understanding of Japan and their voices as storytellers.

Storytelling

Storytelling is woven into every part of this experience. Students will try their hand at anime and explore immersive digital storytelling at teamLab. A visit to the Ghibli Museum and a writing exchange with Japanese students deepen the exploration of narrative across cultures. Daily writing opportunities encourage reflection and creativity inspired by the places they visit.

History and Culture

Japan’s rich history and vibrant culture come alive through visits to shrines, castles, and city streets. In Tokyo, students will learn how the old and new coexist, from the Meiji Shrine to Harajuku’s cutting-edge style. Kyoto looks into Japan’s spiritual and artistic traditions, while Osaka provides a lively look at modern Japanese life. Throughout the trip, students will engage with the cultural rhythms that shape Japanese identity and storytelling.

Nature

Japan’s natural beauty is a source of reflection and creative energy throughout the trip. Students will walk quiet forest paths and take in breathtaking views of Mt. Fuji in Kofu. In Kyoto, they’ll experience the stillness of Arashiyama’s bamboo groves and the vibrant trails of Fushimi Inari. These landscapes offer space to pause, write, and connect with the environment in deeply personal ways.

Trip Considerations

Lots of daily walking during the program
Long international flight

Full Itinerary

*Itinerary subject to change.

A more detailed itinerary to follow.

Day 1
--:-- Program Start - Overnight Flight Departs

Day 2
Tokyo (Night 1 of 3)
--:-- Arrive at Tokyo Airport
--:-- Tokyo Welcome Dinner

Day 3
Tokyo (Night 2 of 3)
--:-- Tokyo Castle to Ginza Intro Walk

Historic intro and the “story” of Japan

--:-- Old Tsukiji Market DIY Lunch
--:-- Meiji Jingu (Shinto Shrine) Visit
--:-- Harajuku Exploration
--:-- Shibuya Crossing

Day 4
Tokyo (Night 3 of 3)
--:-- Anime Workshop
--:-- teamLab Digital Art Visit
--:-- Tokyo Skyscraper View

Day 5
Kofu (Night 1 of 2)
--:-- Ghibli Museum Visit
--:-- Travel to Kofu

--:-- Settle into Ryokan

Day 6
Kofu (Night 2 of 2)
--:-- Yamanashi Prefecture School Visit - Writing or Story focus

--:-- Nature Walk, Writing and Views of Mt Fuji in Kofu

Day 7
Kyoto (Night 1 of 2)
--:-- Bus + Train to Kyoto.
--:-- Introduction to Kyoto History + Culture Walk

Focus on storytelling arts + History

Day 8
Kyoto (Night 2 of 2)
--:-- Kyoto Stop: Arashiyama Bamboo Forest or Fushimi Inari

--:-- Short Train to Osaka

--:-- Dontonbori Walk + Snacks
--:-- Shin Sekai New World Exploration - Exploring Japanese Individualism

Day 9
Program Ends
--:-- High Speed Train to Tokyo
--:-- Tokyo Lunch + Closing
--:-- Tokyo Departure for USA

Gallery

Trip Full!

Sorry, this trip has reached capacity.

Trip Requirements and Selection Process

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