Japan Summer High School Programs with Rustic Pathways
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Japan Summer High School Programs with Rustic Pathways
- Japan
- Tokyo
- Kanazawa
About Program
Prepare to immerse yourself in a captivating journey as we embark on a week-long adventure in the Land of the Rising Sun. From the bustling streets of Tokyo, adorned with neon lights and innovative technology, to the serene beauty of Kanazawa’s historic districts and traditional crafts, this trip captures the essence of Japan’s striking duality. Brace yourself for unforgettable experiences such as marveling at the ancient Sensoji temple, immersing in the vibrant energy of Shibuya, diving into a Japanese language class, wielding a kendo sword, and indulging in mouthwatering sushi, ramen, okonomiyaki, and other delectable Japanese cuisines. Join us as we unravel the sheer brilliance and endless surprises that await in this enigmatic nation.
The best summer camp just got better. Since 1983, Rustic Pathways has led student travel programs for middle school, high school, and college-age students. Travel inspires us all to build friendships and a better world.
Program Highlights
- Connect with local students through English language exchange
- Hike Mount Takao and discover its mountain temples, shrines, and forested trails.
- Explore Kanazawa through Omicho Market tastings, Kanazawa Castle, and tea at Kenroku-en Garden.
- Learn kendo from a sensei and experience modern Japanese culture in Shibuya, Harajuku, and a karaoke studio.
- Learn kendo from a sensei and experience modern Japanese culture in Shibuya, Harajuku, and a karaoke studio.
How Rustic Pathways Staffs Its Programs
Video and Photos
Diversity & Inclusion 💙
BIPOC Support
Program staff complete annual DEIA, cultural sensitivity, and LGBTQ+ competency training, supported by external partners including Gender Spectrum, with scenario-based role-plays on racial discrimination and microaggressions.
LGBTQIA+ Support
Rustic Pathways uses gender-affirming practices across housing, pronoun use, and program design, and plans rooming for transgender and nonbinary students individually and confidentially with the student and family before travel.
Rustic Pathways discloses when local laws in a program destination affect LGBTQ+ travelers, so students and families can plan with full information.
Neurodivergent Support
Personal Travel Advisors at Rustic Pathways create a customized plan that may include predictable routines, sensory breaks, smaller group settings, and clear communication guidelines.
Accessibility Support
Students with chronic health conditions or daily medication needs can travel with Rustic Pathways after a medical review.
Rustic Pathways is candid about limits: programs often take place in remote locations and developing regions where infrastructure such as ramps, paved walkways, and lifts may be limited or nonexistent, so universal accessibility is not possible in every destination.
Impact 🌎
Sustainability
92% of Rustic Pathways seasonal staff are local to the regions where programs operate. Rustic Pathways works to minimize its environmental footprint and offers wildlife experiences only on programs where they support conservation and animal welfare can be assured.
The Rustic Pathways Foundation, a registered 501(c)(3), has raised more than $1.14 million for community projects since 2017.
Ethical Impact
When priorities conflict, Rustic Pathways applies a decision-making hierarchy that puts student safety first, followed by legal compliance and ethical responsibility, with financial impact never the primary driver.
These standards have cost Rustic Pathways revenue: programs have been declined, partnerships have been ended, and destinations have been exited when ethical standards could not be maintained.
Popular Programs
Better together! One week you are exploring the hidden alleys of Tokyo and wielding a wooden kendo sword, and the next week you are off to Seoul and learning to dance like a K-pop star and diving into Korea’s delicious cuisine. From ramen to kimchi, from bullet trains to subways, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of these two Asian powerhouses.


Response from Rustic Pathways
Hi James! Thanks so much for sharing this! We’re so happy to hear how much you enjoyed your Japan trip and that it ended up being such a meaningful experience. We're really lucky to have Scott, Tim, and Ashley on our team. We love that you felt both supported and free to explore too! Thanks again for being part of the Rustic fam! See you next summer?