Welcome to Japan!
Japan, The Land of the Rising Sun, is definitely not one of those places you can easily understand from a distance. You need to experience it—see it, feel it, and immerse yourself in its culture.
Japan is a country where ancient traditions are still alive and coexist seamlessly with cutting-edge technology. Thus, it is also a world leader in innovation. Though it is home to a few of the most populated metropolitan areas in the world, three-quarters of its land is still made up of forests and mountains.
Throughout your adventure in Japan, you’ll experience all aspects of Japan’s history, culture, innovations, and cuisine. Explore the cities of Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka. Walk ancient footpaths through forests and cruise on Lake Ashi while admiring views of Mount Fiji.
Your trip also includes unique experiences like sleeping in a traditional ryokan and soaking in an onsen. In addition, you can sing karaoke, learn to roll sushi, and meditate with a Zen Buddhist Monk.
And, of course, let’s not forget that you will even experience Japan’s high-tech bullet train!
Duration: 9 days & 8 nights
Start: Meet at Narita International Airport (NRT) in Tokyo, Japan at 2:00 pm.
Finish: The trip ends in Osaka, Japan. Plan to depart at any time. Hotel check-out is at 11:00 am.
Airfare booking details will be sent after registration. Please wait to book your flight until you receive further instructions.
Travelers are responsible for international airfare to and from Japan.
Transportation and optional activities are not included.
-Experience Tokyo's vibrant culture
-Sushi making class
-Hike the Old Tokaido Road
-Boat cruise on Lake Ashi
-View Mt. Fuji
-Experience Fushimi Inari Shrine
Japan is a combination of ancient traditions, ultra-modern cities, and spectacular natural beauty. As a destination, it is an explorer’s haven with infinite experiences. Simply said, Japan should be on everyone’s bucket list.
This trip offers experiences in all aspects of Japan’s culture, cuisine, landscapes, and traditions. You’ll visit three major cities: Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka. The adventure begins and ends in two different cities. From visiting temples and learning about Japanese Buddhism to walking among forests, cruising on a lake, and observing deer in a park, this trip offers a balance of cultural immersion and outdoor exploration.
You'll stay overnight in a ryokan, a traditional Japanese guesthouse, where you’ll sleep on a futon. Though the bedding is ample on this night, it may be a bit uncomfortable for those who prefer super-soft mattresses.
On this trip, you’ll move around quite often, experiencing various types of accommodations and transportation, including Japan’s famous bullet train. There are limited days with private transportation as most of the transits between activities and destinations will be on public buses and trains. Your Trip Leader will be with you most of the time to help you navigate these transit systems. However, there will also be times when you will be responsible for getting back to the accommodation on your own if you decide to stay out at night, for example. Independent, confident travelers will feel comfortable, but navigating cities could be overwhelming and challenging for those less familiar.
-Age requirement: 21+
-Group size: 16 max, average 12-14
-Physical rating: Moderate. Some activities include physical activity like hiking.
Travel connects us. Community keeps us connected.
Before your trip, you can join a custom WhatsApp group to connect with other members of your group. Many travelers meet at the airport or for pre-trip gatherings if they are from the same city. Some plan extended stays in a country after their trip.
During your adventure, our Trip Leaders do their best to create an open, supportive environment where people feel safe to truly be themselves.
After your trip, you'll become an official U30X Alumni and part of our larger online travel community, where you'll have access to our network of thousands of past travelers. We are constantly hosting meetups, from simple happy hours to hikes to outdoor movie nights, to keep the spirit of travel alive.
More than 70% of our travelers come solo, but they all leave with friends.
Since any travel can be unpredictable, our goal is to provide you with the most rewarding experience.
While we intend to adhere to the itinerary, it is built with flexibility, and alterations may be necessary or desirable on occasion.
Please note that all listed travel times are approximate and may vary due to local circumstances.
You will be traveling by private ground transportation and public trains and buses throughout your trip.
You will be staying in shared hotel rooms for seven nights, with one night spent in a traditional Japanese ryokan.
Laundry facilities are available at the hotel for an additional fee. Ask your Trip Leader for details.
Accommodation may vary but will always meet the same standards.
Solo travelers are paired with someone of the same gender.
Private room options are available upon request, subject to hotel availability for an extra charge.
Travel insurance with at least 200,000 USD in medical coverage, including repatriation coverage, is required to participate in our trips.
Please note that travel insurance covers trip-related issues such as trip interruption, lost luggage, theft, etc. Travel medical insurance covers repatriation, medicine, ambulance rides, and hospital visits/stays.
We strongly suggest that the policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment, and loss of luggage and personal effects. Please ensure your policy includes coverage for all activities you plan on participating in.
Here are a few travel insurance options that meet our minimum medical coverage requirements: Wanderwell, SafetyWing, and World Nomads. Some plans do not cover certain “high-risk” activities. Please make sure to read your plan’s coverage and make a selection based on your planned trip.
Wanderwell donates at least 1% of your insurance purchase to Explore Austin, a sustainable youth outdoor education program, through 1% for the Planet, which was selected by Under30Experiences.
We receive a fee if you purchase products through links on this page at no extra cost to you.
For World Nomads, we receive a fee when you use our affiliate links to get a quote. We do not represent World Nomads, and this mention does not recommend buying travel insurance.
Flexible!
If you notify us at least 60 days before your trip, you can switch to a different trip for free or have your Experience Credits held for future use.
For emergency cancelations made less than 60 days before your trip, please contact your travel insurance company, as they may cover you for some expenses.
We are not able to transfer trips or hold Experience Credits within 60 days of the trip because we have already secured reservations on your behalf.
All Under30Experiences trips are accompanied by experienced Trip Leaders whose primary goal is to make your adventure unforgettable.
Trip Leaders facilitate an awesome experience and help our travelers have an unforgettable trip. They will provide information on the places you are traveling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues, and introduce you to our local friends.
You can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the countries visited on the trip, including their historical, cultural, religious, and social aspects.
Tipping Trip Leaders: While gratuities for Trip Leaders aren’t required on your trip, they can make a meaningful impact for locals employed in the tourism industry. If you are happy with the services provided, a tip is an appropriate way to thank them. It is of great significance to the people who will take care of you during your travels, inspires excellent service, and is a part of the tourism industry across many destinations. We suggest around 3-5 USD per person per day for Trip Leaders, though this is entirely up to you.
Please be eco-friendly.
Bring a reusable water bottle to refill from the tap.
Avoid plastic bags and straws at restaurants and when shopping.
Please avoid aerosol bug sprays as they negatively affect the environment.
Pack lightly to ensure easy transport. A travel backpack or a medium-sized suitcase is ideal, with a small daypack for daily essentials. Space is limited on transportation, so only one main piece of luggage per person is allowed. You will be responsible for carrying your own luggage.
Below are our staff picks of the favorite travel with essentials. All products selected are TSA-compliant (3 ounces or less) and environmentally friendly whenever possible.
Remember to pack a water bottle, sunscreen, sandals, a beach towel, a waterproof rain jacket, sunglasses, and a hat!
Some links on this page are affiliate links, which means that Under30Experiences will earn a small commission if you make a purchase through them at no additional cost to you.
Guidelines for U.S. Passport Holders:
Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the last date of your trip. Please consult the U.S. Department of State if you have any questions.
Make sure there is no damage to your passport. Conditions of damage requiring you to replace your passport include water damage, a significant tear, unofficial markings on the data page, missing or torn-out visa pages, a hole punch, or other issues.
Japan's tap water is safe to drink. To be environmentally friendly and keep Japan beautiful, please bring a reusable water bottle.
Our suggested travel insurance vendor is World Nomads, which has a minimum coverage of 200,000 USD.
Please consult with your doctor before traveling regarding physical activity and vaccinations.
While no inoculations are required to enter Japan from the United States, the Center for Disease Control recommends updating your routine vaccinations.
We suggest carrying 400 USD in cash for establishments that do not accept credit cards.
This is not a total cash amount that you should expect to spend on your trip. Please consider your own spending habits for additional expenses such as snacks, souvenirs, and optional activities.
The official currency of Japan is the Japanese yen (JPY).
Remember to notify your bank and credit card company about your traveling overseas.
For an up-to-date exchange rate, download the XE Currency Exchange App.
Ensure that your US Dollar notes are in fairly good condition since slightly torn, heavily marked, or faded may be difficult to exchange. Denominations lower than 100 USD are often more convenient.
Always carry a copy of your travel insurance, health insurance and passport with you. A photo of these items on your phone is also a good backup.
Keep your passport and any valuables locked in the safe at the hotel.
Don’t leave valuables unattended.
Leave flashy jewelry at home.
US citizens, please consider registering with the US State Department's “SMART Traveler Program,” which allows you to contact your family in case of emergency.
Keep the hotel’s address with you in the event that you get separated from your Trip Leader.
The best time to visit Japan is generally in spring, between March and May, or fall, around October and November.
Highlights of Japan’s Seasons:
Tokyo:
Tokyo’s relatively mild temperatures for most of the year, except during the depths of winter, make it an appealing destination all year. Spring is crisp and pleasant, summer is hot. The weather stays warm until October, with rain peaking in late September.
Kyoto:
Kyoto has four distinct seasons. It is the coldest from January to February, and while it’s possible that snow may fall during this time, it rarely accumulates. Springtime in Kyoto draws many travelers because of its comfortable temperatures. Highs hover around the 60s and 70s. Summer months get very hot, with temperatures in the upper 90s, so the trip to Kyoto can be a soggy, sweaty endeavor. However, fall offers cooler temperatures ranging from the low 60s to low 80s.
Osaka:
Osaka experiences an extended warm period. Temperatures increase sharply in May and stay high until the end of September before cooling off in October. Rainfall peaks in June. Winter is relatively mild, with many clear days and a little snow in February.
By understanding the nuances and rules of Japanese etiquette, you can fully embrace your journey without worrying about committing any embarrassing cultural faux pas.
Be punctual
The Japanese people highly value timeliness and punctuality. Whether you catch a train or hop on a bus, you can rest assured that public transport will arrive on schedule.
Don't skip the line in Japan
Orderly queuing is deeply ingrained in Japanese culture. Always maintain a proper queue, whether waiting for a bus, lining up for the restroom, or anticipating your turn at a restaurant or store. The Japanese believe in a first-come, first-served approach, and skipping the line is considered highly inappropriate. So, always be patient and wait your turn!
Have good manners on public transport
On trains and public transportation, it's not necessary to give up your seat for the elderly, disabled, or pregnant. Japanese public transport already provides designated reserved seating for these groups. Passengers, including tourists, are expected not to occupy these seats. Accidentally sitting in a reserved spot can lead to disapproving glances, so be mindful of where you sit!
Slurp your noodles
In Japanese culture, slurping your noodles while eating isn’t considered rude - it’s a sign of appreciation! Apparently, it enhances the flavor and aroma and even helps cool hot noodles. So, don’t hold back—slurp away and enjoy your noodles like a local.
Be careful when using chopsticks
Using chopsticks correctly is an important part of Japanese dining etiquette. Avoid sticking them vertically into a bowl of rice, as this resembles incense sticks used in funerary rituals. Also, refrain from passing food directly from one set of chopsticks to another since this action is reserved for the bone-collecting ceremony during cremation services.
Lower your voice
It's important to avoid speaking loudly in public spaces. In Japanese culture, respect for privacy is highly valued, and shared spaces are considered communal. Whether on a train, in a shopping mall, or at a park, keep your voice low and show consideration for others.
How to handle cash
In Japanese culture, money is rarely exchanged directly between individuals. When buying an item or service, you do not give the money straight to the cashier. Instead, you should put your cash or credit card on the small tray provided. If you are owed any change, it will also be placed on this tray for you to collect.
Don't spit in public
When visiting public areas in Japan, remember to avoid spitting. Under Japanese law, disregarding this regulation can result in a 10,000 yen fine or imprisonment for up to 30 days. Either way, it's not very pleasant. Always respect the rules and maintain cleanliness in public spaces.
Tokyo
The most popular form of cosplay cafe is the maid cafe, in which waitresses dressed in maid costumes serve food in a playful and interactive way. At these themed cafes, they use formal, polite language, strike cute poses, and make diners bless their food with adorable spells.
Tokyo Tower
While your Trip Leader will assist you with optional activities, please note that these activities are not part of the Under30Experiences itinerary. We cannot guarantee their safety or standard.
Under30Experiences has a zero-tolerance policy for bullying, harassment, and hate speech and is grounds for immediate removal from the trip.
Respect the people around you and the environment in which you’re traveling. This includes but is not limited to, fellow travelers, Trip Leaders, the local community, nature, wildlife, and yourself.
Do your best to keep yourself and fellow travelers safe at all times.
Obey local laws and customs while on our trips. This includes, but is not limited to, wearing appropriate clothing while visiting certain communities, refraining from taking photos of people without asking, avoiding the use of illegal drugs, having weapons, and soliciting prostitution. If you’re not sure what is acceptable, take time to educate yourself or ask your Trip Leader for guidance.
Travel involves contact with new cultures. When experiencing a different lifestyle than you’re used to, strive to understand that neither way is better or worse. They’re simply different ways of life.
Know your limits, whether it’s your physical ability, emotional space, social situations, or alcohol consumption. If you can’t participate in something, be upfront about it. If you need a break from people, take it and drink responsibly to avoid overindulging.
Trip leaders are working in the travelers’ best interest. If they say something or ask you not to do something, it’s not because they’re tyrants, but because they want you to have a good time!
Lying or withholding information about any physical or mental condition that might affect your ability to participate in activities may result in removal from your trip without a refund.
Recommended accommodations in Tokyo:
Recommended accommodations in Kyoto:
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U30X is such an amazing travel community. Once your trip is over, the experience is not. They keep in touch with their alumni & provide platforms for travel questions, personal development, & community connections in your own backyard! If you're a young person looking to travel I highly recommend U30X!
There are not enough ways for me to describe how amazing this company is. After my first trip I always told people, it wasn't about the location, but the experience that u30x gave me. I have some of the best experiences of my life with u30x, and now a passion for travel. Also, their alumni community and groups are awesome too!
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I was so scared to travel abroad alone and then I came across their website and they made international travel so easy! And the people I’ve met on the trips are some amazing individuals! I’ve done 6 of their trips and plan on continuing to do even more!!
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