Japan

Expedition Dates: 

July 6 - 18, 2026

Cost: 

$4495 + Airfare

Ages:

Worldwide youth ages 15-19

Trip Pace:

Moderate

Physical Activity:

Moderate

Highlights:

Sumo Wrestling Stable, Go-Kart Racing, Lava Caves, Meditation, Monkey Walk

Vaccine Requirements:

None

Visa Requirement:

None

International Airport:

Haneda Airport (HND)

About This Trip

Fly into Tokyo, Japan and dive into a thrilling mix of tradition and innovation. Kick things off with a visit to a sumo wrestling stable, followed by a hearty chanko nabe lunch just like the wrestlers eat. Enjoy some healthy competition as we see who is the fastest on the go-karts. Head into nature to explore the lava caves, zipline courses, and stunning views of the Fuji Five Lakes region.

Continue the adventure in Kyoto, rafting through the Hozugawa River canyon, practicing Zen meditation with a monk, and walking the iconic bamboo forest. Hike to see wild monkeys at Iwatayama, meet bowing deer at Nara Park, and visit the towering Todai-ji Buddha. A special stop at Zao Fox Village brings you up close with dozens of friendly foxes in a mountain sanctuary. From ancient temples to wild landscapes and neon-lit nights, this journey through Japan is packed with unforgettable moments.

Itinerary is subject to change due to group size and availability.
YOUR TRIP LEADER

Justin Bowen

Even though Justin dreamed of being a sheep herder in New Zealand when he grew up, he is a photographer by trade and has led hundreds of youth across the globe with National Geographic for nearly 10 years and 12 years with youth who are members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints with Illuminate Youth Trips. He has worked with the industry greats including Canon, National Geographic, Spin Magazine, and has photographed many stars including Taylor Swift, Britney Spears, Michael Jordan, and Paul McCartney.

He is oddly obsessed with everything penguin, won’t eat vegetables to save his life, has an affinity for swimming in arctic waters next to his favorite natural wonder that are icebergs. He is a wizard at creating once in a lifetime itineraries and often works his best magic with the help of a few hundred Instagram searches at 2am. Justin’s the guy who woke up one morning and realized that he had visited all seven continents in the span of eight months without consciously trying. Justin’s passion for the world, the youth, and life in general is contagious and captivating.

Justin is the co-founder of a non-profit organization, ROAM Humanitarian, giving adults and families meaningful humanitarian experiences around the world.

Justin met his wife Lindsay when he was 14 years old and after over 20 years of marriage still has any adventure with her and their four incredible children at the top of his bucket list. Justin’s world goes round from Heber Valley, Utah which is remarkably beautiful enough to get this wanderer to plant roots and call Utah home.