Flights: On this program, all airfare is arranged by Westcoast Connection.

Flight To Tokyo, Japan
We begin this program with a chaperoned group flight from New York or Los Angeles to Tokyo. Our program leaders greet you at the airport and are with you from check-in onward. Everyone has the opportunity to begin bonding before we even land. For our many travelers from outside the New York area, we require all participants to join our group flight to Japan and are happy to assist you with arranging connecting flights at suitable times into New York or Los Angeles. For participants outside North America, please reach out to us to discuss your flight options.

Return Flight Home From Tokyo, Japan
For your return from Tokyo, we offer a chaperoned flight to New York or Los Angeles. You may choose to join that flight and arrange transfers (if required) at suitable times after the group has cleared customs and immigration in the USA to your home city. Our leaders help you to check-in and remain in the airport until flights in designated times have departed.

Meals & New Cuisines
Part of the excitement of traveling to Japan is diving into the incredible local cuisine, so come with an open mind and a taste for adventure! From fresh sushi and hearty ramen to savory okonomiyaki and sizzling yakiniku (Japanese BBQ), you’ll get to try a variety of authentic Japanese dishes. There is plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables and many noodle dishes. Please note picky eaters may get frustrated as there are limited North-American style options available.

Dietary Restrictions & Allergies
Although we aim to satisfy the choosiest of eaters and most dietary requests, there are challenges in Japan. Due to the limited options, we cannot accommodate participants with Celiac disease, or those that adhere to a strictly gluten free or vegan diet.

Fish, sesame and soy are common ingredients in Japanese cuisine. Due to the frequency they are served and likelihood for cross contamination, we cannot accommodate participants with an anaphylactic allergy to fish, sesame or soy. We strongly discourage participants with a non-anaphylactic allergy to these ingredients from traveling to Japan in general and may require a doctor’s note clearing you to participate in this program.

We welcome hearing from you to discuss your individual allergy and dietary restrictions.

Vaccinations & Medication Restrictions
We recommend you follow the advice of the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), and consult with your physician for current immunizations and medication required for travelers to Japan. These recommendations may change from time to time.

Most medications are permitted in Japan with no paperwork or permission required if the total amount brought is less than a 1 month supply. This includes Psychotropics. Make sure that all medicines are brought in the original packaging/container in your carry-on luggage. All prescription medications should be accompanied by a doctor’s note. No need to declare them at Customs.

For medications containing a narcotic or stimulant, you must apply for/receive a permit before your Japan arrival regardless of the quantity brought. Please let us know if your teen is traveling with any medication containing an active ingredient on this list: Narcotics/Stimulants

The medication Adderall is NOT allowed to be brought into Japan by law. We suggest that participants who take this medicine consult with their doctor for alternative medication during their Japan trip.For more information, please visit the following links: Application Guidance and Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare of Japan

Drinking Water
Japan is known for having some of the highest water quality standards in the world. Tap water is safe to drink throughout the country. At all accommodations on this program, you’ll have access to clean, filtered water.

Laundry
You will only need to bring one week’s worth of clothing as outlined in the packing list that will be sent to you prior to departure. We visit local laundromats weekly and we will supply the detergent and dryer sheets. Don’t worry if you’ve never done laundry before, we’ll show you the ropes. Parents, we know the thought of your children doing laundry is making you smile!

What’s Included
Included in your program tuition is all lodging, breakfast and dinner daily, recreation & entertainment listed, airport transfers in designated times, gratuities & taxes.

Not included is transportation to and from the program, lunches, snacks, personal spending money for souvenirs, and laundry. We also make available optional travel insurance that is not included, but highly recommended.

Please contact us with any questions. We are happy to hear from you!