SPAIN
COAST TO COAST ADVENTURE
Discover the heart of Japan on a journey of culture, service and adventure that blends modern life with timeless traditions as you engage with its people, communities and heritage.
Program Overview
On this program, explore the vibrant contrasts of Japan, from the cutting-edge innovation of Tokyo to the timeless traditions of Yamanashi’s rice fields. Experience the country’s natural beauty kayaking near Mt. Fuji and give back through hands-on service in local rice fields. This journey offers a unique blend of culture, adventure and meaningful contribution.
On GLA’s Japan: Cultural Kaleidoscope program you will:
- Kayak with Mt. Fuji as your backdrop
- Hike the forested trails of Mt. Takao
- Step into the world of sumo as you meet a real rikishi (sumo wrestler), learn about the traditions, rituals and discipline behind Japan’s national sport and try your hand at sumo wrestling
- Work alongside local farmers in Yamanashi, planting and tending rice paddies while learning about Japanese agriculture and community life
- Explore cultural gems like Yokohama’s CupNoodles Museum and design your own instant noodles
- Experience the dazzling lights, neighborhoods and cityscapes of Tokyo
- Visit historic shrines and World Heritage temples, discovering the traditions and beliefs that have shaped Japan for centuries
Program Menu
SPAIN
COAST TO COAST ADVENTURE
Sample Itinerary
Let’s take a sneak peek at what your program experience might look like this summer! Please note that the order of activities may differ for each program session. The details provided here represent a general outline of what you can anticipate, though community service projects and activities are subject to change based on the needs of our local community partners, cultural celebrations and traditions, weather conditions and the specific requirements of the student group.
Day 1: Arrival
Welcome to Japan! Arrive in Tokyo, meet your GLA staff and settle into Home Base. Enjoy orientation, your first group dinner and time to rest before the adventure ahead.
Day 2: Orientation & Tokyo Tour
This morning begins with program orientation and your first Japanese language class. After lunch, enjoy a guided tour of Tokyo, including a visit to a historic shrine. In the evening, reflect with your GLA Mentor group on your first full day in Japan.
Day 3: Temples & Traditional Crafts
This morning, step back in time as you explore Asakusa, one of Tokyo’s oldest neighborhoods and visit the iconic Sensō-ji Temple, a vibrant center of culture and tradition. After lunch, take part in a hands-on craft workshop to experience Japanese artistry firsthand.
Day 4: Yokohama Discovery
Travel to Yokohama, a vibrant port city. Visit the CupNoodles Museum to explore the history of instant noodles, create your own custom cup, and enjoy interactive exhibits. After lunch, take part in a business seminar or networking event to learn about Japan’s global economy and connect with local professionals.
Days 5-7: Yamanashi Community Service
Travel from Tokyo to Yamanashi, home to Mt. Fuji. Meet the local community and support farmers with hands-on work on a rice farm while learning about traditional practices. After lunch, continue activities and connect with community members to better understand rural life in Japan.
Day 8: Kayaking Near Mt. Fuji
Head to the foothills of Mt. Fuji for a kayaking adventure on a nearby lake, enjoying calm waters and stunning views of Japan’s iconic mountain.
Day 9: Kamakura Day Trip
Take a day trip to Kamakura to visit ancient temples and the Great Buddha before experiencing a traditional Japanese tea ceremony.
Day 10: Hiking Mt. Takao
Explore Mt. Takao’s forested trails, visit Yakuo-in Temple and take in panoramic views of Tokyo and Mt. Fuji.
Day 11: Local School Exchange
Connect with local high school students through collaborative activities, cultural sharing and insight into daily Japanese life.
Day 12: Anime District & Sushi-Making
Dive into Japan’s creative side at an anime museum, then explore Harajuku’s colorful fashion scene and lively streets. Learn how to make sushi, one of Japan’s most iconic traditions in a hands-on delicious class!
Day 13: Temples, Markets & Reflection
Visit a final temple and browse a local market for souvenirs, then reflect with your GLA family on your journey through Japan. In the evening, enjoy a farewell dinner with local staff to celebrate the experience, friendships and memories made.
Day 14: Departures
Travel back to Tokyo’s airport with GLA staff support for check-in. Sayonara, Japan — until next time!
Program Map
SPAIN
COAST TO COAST ADVENTURE
Program Details
Dates & Tuition
2027 Session Dates
June 24 – July 7, 2027
July 11 – July 24, 2027
What's Included in Tuition
In-country transportation
Lodging
3 meals per day
Professional full-time staff and experts
24/7 parent support hotline during program
Secondary medical and evacuation insurance
Cultural activities, lectures and excursions
Pre-departure materials and support
Educational materials
to hold your spot on-program.
Program at a Glance
Every GLA Program is Backed by our 5-Point Safety System™
GLA HOME BASE:
SAFE & SECURE LODGING
CARING SUPERVISION &
EXPERT LOCAL KNOWLEDGE
SAFE
TRANSPORTATION
HEALTHY FOOD
& PURE WATER
24/7 SUPPORT &
EMERGENCY RESPONSE
Recommended by Students and Parents
Bezabh S. | 2026 Alumni Student
“This experience impacted me greatly by helping me connect with people I usually wouldn’t talk to. It helped me open my mind to new ideas, cultures and personalities while also being in a amazing country. I highly encourage others to do the same and come spread your wings on a GLA trip.”
The Program Experience
Exploratory Travel
Experience Japan as an active classroom as you journey from bustling urban epicenters to serene rural landscapes. Learn conversational Japanese, practice traditional crafts in Tokyo and take part in a meaningful school exchange with local Japanese students. In Yokohama, participate in an interactive business seminar to examine Japan’s influence in the global economy and reflect with mentors on cross-cultural leadership. In Yamanashi, nestled in the shadow of Mt. Fuji, roll up your sleeves alongside local farmers and community members to tend rice fields and support rural infrastructure, gaining firsthand insight into sustainable practices and the harmony between ancient tradition and modern innovation.
Adventure
Discover the dynamic contrast between Japan’s quiet nature and neon-lit cities! Kayak across the glassy, serene waters near Mt. Fuji, trek through the lush forested mountain trails of Mt. Takao and explore the ancient coastal streets and historic temples of Kamakura. In Tokyo, navigate vibrant, world-famous neighborhoods, sample street foods and experience the thrilling energy of Japan’s urban culture.
Country Spotlight
Immerse yourself in the legendary hospitality, timeless traditions and hyper-modern energy of Japan.
Lodging: Stay in safe, welcoming Home Bases tailored to each region’s unique atmosphere. Stay in comfortable accommodations that reflect the local setting, from modern hotels in Tokyo to iconic views of Mt Fuji in Yamanashi. Shared meals and common spaces create the perfect atmosphere for bonding with your fellow travelers and reflecting on the day’s adventures.
Meals: Savor authentic Japanese cuisine across every leg of your journey. Enjoy fresh local specialties, traditional rice and noodle dishes, regional teas and fresh seasonal ingredients prepared daily at Home Bases and local eateries, with accommodations available for common dietary needs.
SPAIN
COAST TO COAST ADVENTURE
Photo Gallery
SPAIN
COAST TO COAST ADVENTURE
Explore Similar Programs or Internships
SPAIN
COAST TO COAST ADVENTURE
Discover Spain’s culture, coastlines and creativity — from Málaga to Madrid to Barcelona.