Japanese Food, History and Culture: Going Beyond Sushi
Explore Japan’s enigmatic culinary landscape, from its traditional food to modern trends, as you travel through Osaka, Kyoto, and Tokyo. You will learn about the cultural and historical evolution of Japanese food, from Shojin-Ryori—monks’ food rooted in Zen Buddhism and known for its simple and mindful preparation—to Yoshoku cuisine, a unique blend of Western influences and Japanese cooking, as well as the rich flavours and techniques of Edo-period cuisine.
In Osaka, the food capital, you’ll enjoy local specialties in the lively streets of Dotonbori under the famous Glico sign. Participate in a hands-on cooking class and visit the Cup Noodles Museum—the birthplace of instant ramen—learn the origins and global impact of this beloved dish.
In Kyoto, experience a serene tea ceremony while dressed in a kimono, followed by a Zen meal at a Shojin-Ryori restaurant. Discover the centuries-old brewing techniques at Fushimi Sake District, where you’ll learn about sake’s history and its importance in Japanese culture.
Ride the shinkansen with an Ekiben Bento box to Tokyo. At TeamLab Borderless, experience digital immersive art and enjoy a unique tea-making experience, where digital flowers bloom inside the teacup as long as tea is present. Take the signature sushi-making class, learn about Edo cuisine in Asakusa, explore Kawaii food culture in the vibrant streets of Harajuku, and enjoy lunch at a futuristic restaurant with robot servers. You’ll also have hands-on experience of tea-leaf picking and a tea brewing class at Miyanoen, an idyllic tea plantation in rural Japan.
Program dates
Program Inclusions
- Shared accommodation with breakfast
- Airport Pickup, Induction Course and Cultural Orientation
- A series of Cultural and Industry Immersion Events
- 24/7 Emergency Support and Guidance
Why Choose Our Program?
- Hands-on Learning: From tea-picking to sushi-making, the interactive workshops and cooking classes, you will have the firsthand experience of Japanese culinary artistry.
- Cultural Immersion: Enjoy unique experiences like dressing in a kimono for a traditional tea ceremony to visiting Fushimi Inari shrine in Kyoto and Sensoji temple in Tokyo
- Expert Guidance: Learn from seasoned chefs and local experts who will guide you through Japan’s culinary heritage.
- Bento to Bullet Train: Travel from Osaka to Tokyo aboard Japan’s iconic Shinkansen while savoring authentic ekiben (train bento boxes)
- USD
- GBP
- EUR
- AUD
- NZD
Program Fees
$3195£2625€3050$5050$5450
Visa Requirements
Japan visa requirements:
There is no visa is required if you are citizen of a country on this list.
OR
For countries that do not benefit from visa exemption, you might need to apply for a visa. Please contact your local Japanese Embassy/Consulate-General for more information on the visa type that applies to you, as well as the application process. The cost of your visa is not included in the Program Fee. It is recommended you submit the visa application at least 4 weeks prior to your Program Start Date. Immigration regulations are constantly changing so it is advised you pay attention to updates on the aforementioned list.
Please note that for International Experiences Program applicants, an Advising Call is strongly suggested but not compulsory.
