Join Travel For Teens on this 19-day adventure across two of East Asia's most captivating countries. You'll begin in South Korea, exploring the vibrant port city of Busan with its famous beaches and cultural villages, then journey to the historic Gyeongju to stay overnight at Golgulsa Temple where you'll learn Buddhist martial arts and participate in dawn prayers with monks. In Seoul, the energetic capital, you'll master K-pop dance moves in an authentic dance class, learn to cook Korean classics like bibimbap and bulgogi, visit the stunning Gyeongbokgung Palace in traditional hanbok clothing, and experience the unique perspective of standing at the DMZ—the border with North Korea. You'll even watch the spectacular Nanta performance and enjoy Korean BBQ and street food at famous markets.

After flying to Japan, your adventure continues in Tokyo's neon-lit streets, where you'll navigate the bustling Akihabara district, explore the colorful Harajuku neighborhood, and witness the world-famous Shibuya Crossing. You'll eat your way through the legendary Tsukiji Fish Market, try making sushi in a cooking class, and visit stunning shrines throughout the city. In Hiroshima, you'll experience a deeply moving encounter with history by meeting with a local atomic bomb survivor and exploring the Peace Museum—a perspective that consistently transforms students' understanding of WWII and nuclear proliferation.

Your final stops take you to Kyoto, Japan's cultural gem, where you'll participate in a traditional tea ceremony, hike through enchanting bamboo forests, spot geishas in the historic city center, and visit the iconic golden temple and ornate palaces. You'll also explore the stunning 700-year-old Himeji Castle and the famous orange torii gates at Fushimi Inari Taisha shrine. Throughout the program, you'll earn 5 hours of community service volunteering with local organizations, stay in safe, centrally located accommodations in each city (hotels in Tokyo and Kyoto, a traditional ryokan in Hiroshima, and family-run establishments elsewhere), and enjoy all breakfasts and dinners prepared with authentic local cuisine.

This program is designed for high school students (grades 9-12) seeking to gain genuine global perspective while immersing themselves in two of the world's most fascinating cultures. You'll travel like a local, eat at authentic establishments rather than tourist chains, and experience both the ultra-modern technology and ancient traditions that define these countries. Whether you're interested in pop culture, history, martial arts, culinary arts, or simply expanding your worldview, this carefully crafted itinerary balances structured activities with free time to explore, shop, and make your own discoveries. Past participants consistently report that this experience profoundly impacts their understanding of different cultures and leaves them with memories that stay with them long after they return home.