JAPAN
TOKYO EXPLORERS
For Middle School Students
Explore high-tech cityscapes, dive into anime and gaming culture, learn ancient martial arts and experience the magic of Tokyo built just for young explorers!
Program Overview
Get ready for an action-packed 10-day summer expedition through Japan’s most vibrant metropolis, designed specifically for middle school students looking to step out into the world! On Tokyo Explorers, you’ll discover the captivating contrast between hyper-modern innovation and centuries-old traditions in an approachable, high-energy environment.
On GLA’s Japan: Tokyo Explorers For Middle School Students program you will:
- Express your creativity during an artist-led manga workshop in Harajuku, feel the rhythm in a high-energy Taiko drumming session, and learn the fundamentals of balance in an interactive Aikido class
- Explore food innovation and create your custom cup of noodles at Yokohama’s famous CupNoodles Museum
- Immerse your senses in the mind-bending digital light displays of teamLab Planets Tokyo, visit the Miraikan Science Museum and dive into the world of Pokémon at Poképark Kanto
- Step inside the ancient Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa, stroll the iconic Meiji Jingu shrine and participate in a fun sumo wrestling workshop
- Build cross-cultural friendships, practice basic conversational Japanese and join in team activities during an interactive exchange day with local students
Program Menu
JAPAN
TOKYO EXPLORERS
Sample Itinerary Coming Soon!
JAPAN
TOKYO EXPLORERS
Program Details
Dates & Tuition
2027 Session Dates
June 27 – July 06, 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
Jax R. | 2025 Alumni Student
“This trip was inspirational, I learned that not only do I want to do marine conservation but I want to get involved in cultural projects. Patience matter, kindness matters, community matters. You will learn so much about yourself, I would do this 100% over and over again!”
The Program Experience
Exploratory Travel
Discover Japan as your personal living classroom! Designed intentionally for middle school students, this program bridges historical heritage with global pop culture in a fun, age-appropriate setting. Walk beneath the grand wooden torii gates at Meiji Jingu Shrine, explore the historic merchant streets of Nakamise-dori in Asakusa, and examine future technologies at the Miraikan Science Museum. Along the way, practice everyday conversational phrases while exploring local markets, taking part in a school exchange and discovering how tradition and modern lifestyle blend seamlessly in daily Japanese life.
Adventure
Embrace the high-energy thrill of Tokyo and its surrounding mountain landscapes! Ride a high-flying ropeway over steam vents in the volcanic valley of Owakudani, set sail across Lake Ashi on a full-scale pirate ship, and take in sweeping 360-degree views of the capital skyline from the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Observation Deck. On the ground, get active with beginner-friendly Aikido martial arts, feel the deep thunder of traditional Taiko drums and tackle a fun safety simulation challenge at the Ikebukuro Life Safety Learning Center
Country Spotlight
Lodging: Stay in safe, comfortable and modern hotel accommodations located conveniently in Tokyo. Students sleep in gender-segregated twin or triple rooms with private en-suite facilities. Secure common spaces provide the perfect environment to unwind, process the day’s activities and build lasting friendships with fellow travelers.
Meals: Savor an authentic taste of Japanese food culture prepared daily! Enjoy wholesome local favorites including teriyaki chicken, fresh sushi, savory ramen, bento boxes, rice bowls and traditional snacks, with familiar Western options available periodically to keep everyone energized.
JAPAN
TOKYO EXPLORERS
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