Travel to Japan

Short-Term Cultural Experience Program

Program Length: 11 Days
Program Price: $3,395 per person (double-occupancy room) or $3,740 (single room) plus 1 credit of Mid-State tuition
Cities: Osaka and Kyoto
Eligibility: Existing Mid-State students and community members who register for the Global Cultural Experience course

Osaka and Kyoto. Two Japanese cities that may bring to mind bustling streets, historic temples, and peaceful gardens. But they’re also filled with unique culture, rich history, and unforgettable sights. Sound tempting? Join Mid-State for a journey to Japan, where you’ll experience the perfect blend of modern energy and traditional charm. A required class will help you prepare for the trip and deepen your appreciation for Japanese culture. Along the way, Jon will share insights on local foods and points of interest, walk you through rituals, and talk about everyday life in Japan - knowledge he’s gained from his time traveling, living, and teaching there.

We start in Osaka, where you’ll dive into the city’s vibrant atmosphere as you:

• Explore the city’s rich history at the Osaka Museum of History.
• Visit Osaka Castle and its beautiful grounds.
• Experience life in old Osaka at the Museum of Housing and Living.
• Stroll through the neon-lit streets of Dotonbori, famous for its food and nightlife.
• Take a day trip to Nara to see the Todai-ji Temple, home to the Great Buddha, and encounter the friendly deer that roam the temples and gardens of Nara Park.

Next, we head to Kyoto, where tradition meets tranquility. You’ll:

• Explore the Buddhism and Shintoism religions as you visit historic temples, gardens, and shrines like Kinkaku-ji and Fushimi Inari.
• Wander through the serene Arashiyama Bamboo Grove.
• Take in the elegance of the Gion district, home to geishas and teahouses.
• Witness a traditional tea ceremony, learning the art and rituals of Japanese tea culture.

You'll soon get comfortable with Japan, so time will be built into the schedule for you to individually explore, shop, or just relax while you take it all in. You may even create some incredible experiences of your own! Karaoke, anyone?

This immersive experience is limited to 16 participants.

Dates

Travel to Japan: May 18 to May 28, 2025
Program Fully Booked
Required Trip Orientation: Wednesday, April 2, 2025 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.

Cost Details

Included in Program Price:

• Round-trip air travel from Chicago O'Hare
• Shared or single hotel room
• Breakfast each morning, one lunch, one dinner, and occasional snacks.
• Public transportation
• Entry and activity fees
• Travel insurance

Not Included:

• Most meals
• Other personal costs

Trip-Specific Resources

Terms and Conditions Form

For additional resources for all trips, see Global Education home page.