the programthe program
Participants will stay in the heart of Tokyo in the residence halls of the National Olympic Youth Center. The Olympic Center was originally built for the 1964 Olympic Games and has since been renovated and transformed into a youth community, hosting students and school groups from all over the world.
Experience Japan beyond the classroom with two full-day excursions, including an overnight trip to Mr. Fuji and Kamakura, home of the "Big Buddha". Mt. Fuji is one of Japan's most enduring subjects in traditional art and has been considered a sacred place since ancient times. Not until the reign of Emperor Meiji were women finally allowed to ascend the snow-covered volcano. Experience what Japanese pilgrims have experienced for hundreds of years.
You will also get to know Tokyo's more famous neighborhoods. Akihabara--whether you are an anime or manga otaku or (fan of Japanese animation or comic books) or a pasokon otaku (computer fanatic), you will love the bright lights of this world-famous shopping area. Asakusa--take the Metro to the end of the Ginza line and look around one of Tokyo's most traditional neighborhoods, or shitamachi. If you're lucky, you may see a Shinto matsuri, or festival. You will also be able to visit other famous sites in Tokyo, such as the Imperial Palace and Meiji Shrine.