greenheart travel japan

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Greenheart International

Facilitating cultural exchange programs in the usa and abroad since 1985.

Greenheart International facilitates cultural exchange programs for students and adults to work or study in the USA or abroad. Our mission of connecting people and planet to create global leaders drives all that we do at Greenheart Exchange (programs in the USA) and Greenheart Travel (programs outside the USA).

Programs in the U.S.

Programs abroad, host an exchange student, host & hire seasonal staff, host international teachers, host an intern or trainee, international partnerships, school partnerships, place exchange students with host families, greenheart participants & alumni, grants & scholarships.

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A practical guide to travelling in Japan, from cherry blossom season to booking bullet trains

Travel in Japan can be complicated, but careful trip planning reaps huge rewards. Here is what to know before visiting.

There is an undeniable enchantment to travelling in Japan; a bewitching magic sweeps through its incense-rich mountain temples and forests full of deer, settling over neon-lit towns. Even those who have yet to set foot on its shores are often captivated by it — and for good reason.

A large part of Japan’s exceptionality is that it rarely, if ever, disappoints. Its length and latitudinal range makes its natural environments strikingly diverse, which plays a huge role in the country’s enduring appeal.

Strung along Asia’s eastern edge, the rocky fingers of its northernmost point, on the island of Hokkaido, almost touch Russia and the climate there is often in line with that of Siberia. On the island’s west side, the ski resorts of Niseko are considered to have some of the best powder on the planet, while Hokkaido’s east fractures spectacularly each winter with the set and flow of sea ice.

In the months that avid skiers are navigating powdered drifts, Japan’s southern islands are blushing with sunshine and cherry blossoms, their blue-glass seas already warm. The same ocean current that makes the Philippines such an exceptional scuba destination feeds the islands of Okinawa. Here, abundant coral reefs crackle with tropical fish and sea turtles, alongside whales, sharks and manta rays.

Add to this the capricious Ring of Fire —   a highly active tectonic belt that long ago formed Japan’s landscape and still regularly reshapes it with earthquakes and eruptions — and the result is some of the most dynamic scenery nature has to offer. Outdoor-focused trips bubble over with adventure, and travellers can try river-rafting glacial flows, hiking pilgrim mountain trails or cycling through rice-paddy fields.

Culture, too, changes along the latitudes. The Indigenous Ainu people of the north and Ryukyu of Okinawa still have distinct populations — but they are rarely what springs to mind when people think of Japanese culture. The country is a behemoth of preserved traditions, kept secret and safe largely thanks to the 1630s sakoku decrees that closed it off to the outside world for over two centuries. This isolationism left an indelible imprint on the national psyche and culture. Precious rituals, traditional architecture, arts and cuisine stood strong, particularly in the historic capital Kyoto, as the world changed around Japan.

When the country reopened its doors after 1853, Japan rapidly incorporated Western technology and ideas, while developing its own. So began an era of zealous modernity — technology, skyscrapers, shinkansen bullet trains, cosplay and karaoke — epitomised in great steel-and-glass metropolises like Tokyo and Osaka.

Today, travellers are greeted by a country of quiet reticence and ear-splitting pachinko pinball parlours, a subtropical paradise with breath-defying mountaintops, a place where monks share streets with steampunk vampires. Here, we look at two trip routes showcasing the best of Japan’s natural and cultural highlights.

Am I likely to encounter significant language barriers?

International events such as the Olympics have made Japan more traveller-friendly, with English guidance and signage now more common in larger cities. However, it’s still not prevalent and often non-existent in rural areas. Advance planning can make the language a charm, rather than a chore. Download translation apps for navigating restaurants, practise a handful of phrases and read up on transport how-to guides. Japanese people don’t expect you to speak a word of Japanese, so don’t be afraid to try.

How expensive is it to visit Japan?

Japan has a reputation as an expensive destination, but much of that comes down to flight prices. On the ground there are plentiful budget options. Try short-term rental apartments, hostels or small shared-bathroom B & Bs. Some of Japan’s best food — like donburi and ramen — is also cheap and quick. Transport and travel cards are generally no more expensive than the UK, often cheaper.

Is it worth getting a Japan Rail pass?

Last year’s 70% price hikes for the Japan Rail Pass have put them out of many people’s price range. They are still incredibly useful, especially if you really want to ride a shinkansen (bullet train), but alternatives are available. Instead of a whole-country pass, look into regional Japan Rail passes that fit your itinerary. These can work in tandem with Japan’s many low-cost domestic airlines, dropping you into different regions. Car hire is a cheap and easy option, with maintained roads and low speed limits —   perfect for families and larger groups.

Is cherry blossom season a good time to go?

Japan’s March–April cherry blossom season is undoubtedly beautiful, but it has downsides. It’s the busiest time of year, tourist sites can be overrun with crowds, and accommodation and flights get more expensive and booked out. If   you’re determined to see sakura, book about a year in advance to reduce stress and expense. If you’re more flexible, why not try seeing cherry blossoms in Okinawa around February, or late-April in Hokkaido. The latter is likely to be far less crowded until the busy Golden Week holiday in early May.

Are there any cultural sensitivities I should be aware of?

Definitely research Japanese customs and expectations in advance; there are many, but very few faux pas will get you into trouble. For example, sticking your chopsticks upright in rice is a big taboo, but no one will tell you off. Be considerate and conscientious, particularly about queuing, noise and littering. Take off shoes inside traditional hotels, homes and some restaurants, and assume both tattoos and clothes aren’t allowed in onsen — though there are occasional exceptions.

Related Topics

• TRAIN TRIPS
• PEOPLE AND CULTURE
• CULTURAL TOURISM

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Greenheart Travel

Why Choose Greenheart Travel?

Greenheart Travel's mission is to travel for a change. To achieve this goal, we have partnered with organizations and governments around the world that empower their local communities through experiential learning and practical development. We believe in the power of travel; a power that broadens your perspective and turns strangers into family. It is this belief that motivates us at Greenheart Travel to provide life-changing adventures for anyone with a case of wanderlust. We are your personal cheerleaders as you navigate the unpredictable joys, surprises, and challenges of life abroad. With unrivaled support and guidance, Greenheart Travel gives you the tools to make sure you are more than a tourist, you are a world citizen. You do not just travel for the sights, you travel for a change. Greenheart Travel is a division of Greenheart International, a nonprofit organization dedicated to connecting people and planet to create a more peaceful and sustainable global community.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Find out all the answers to the most commonly asked questions.

Why go on a Greenheart Program?

Greenheart Travel provides 24-hour support to you or your student throughout the application, program, and alumni processes. We are a mission-based non-profit audited and accredited by CSIET, which requires organizations to meet high-level standards in the industry. We pride ourselves on providing personal and responsive support throughout the entire application process and while your student is in the program.

Can I apply for a work abroad program with a friend or spouse?

Yes, you can apply together! However, whether you will end up being placed together depends on the country and your flexibility. We guarantee that can place people together in Australia, New Zealand, and Ireland.

Do I have to speak the language of the country I teach abroad in?

No! It is not necessary to speak the local language of any of the programs we offer. In fact, the schools prefer that you only use English in the classroom to create a complete immersion experience for the students. However, having some knowledge of the local language will, of course, benefit your day-to-day life, help you negotiate, understand the culture and allow you to connect with your students and people in your community.

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• programs in U.S.
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Why Choose Greenheart Travel?

Greenheart travel is dedicated to not only preparing your child for a life-changing study abroad program, but helping them during and after they return home to translate that experience to academic and career success..

Our Mission:  Greenheart Travel is personally invested in providing cultural immersion programs that change lives, advance careers and create leaders. We provide others with the same positive travel experiences in which we ourselves engage. Through travel and cultural exchange, we help individuals reach their full potential, leading to a more tolerant, peaceful and environmentally sustainable world.

We are excited to be celebrating 30 years of bridging cultures through studying and traveling abroad, and it is with the support of parents like yourself that have made it possible for students to have incredible academic experiences while promoting world peace and understanding.

Greenheart Travel’s study abroad, summer language camps and volunteer programs focus on full cultural immersion that fosters leadership skills and cultural competency. From living with local families to attending classes in their host country’s native language, these experiences give students global awareness. We are dedicated to not only preparing a student for this life-changing program abroad, but helping them during and after they return home to translate that experience to academic and career success.

“I’ve only been going to school (University of Chicago) for 10 weeks and I’ve adjusted as well as it took me to do so in Vienna after 5 months. Partly because my experiences abroad have helped me to adapt to any situation but also because studying abroad was, for me, harder; and it’s rewarding in a completely different and awesome way.“ – Sarah Gourevitch, Greenheart Travel high school alumna in Austria

In the tabs to the left, we provide an overview of our academic and service-learning opportunities for high school teens, and how we can help support you and your child during a study abroad experience. We look forward to connecting and helping your student travel for a change in the months ahead!

Here are just a few ways Greenheart Travel helps your child experience life abroad and meet their academic goals during their program.

Cultural Immersion

Greenheart Travel participants live with a local host family and receive a full cultural and language immersion experience.

Unique Programs Around the World

Whether it’s studying abroad in Spain, volunteering at an Animal Rescue Center in Costa Rica or perfecting German at a summer camp in Berlin, Greenheart Travel programs will open up your child to the many facets of life abroad in destinations across the globe.

Flexible and Affordable Programs

Traveling abroad doesn’t have to interfere with the school curriculum or your child’s graduation timeline. Greenheart Travel offers summer and winter break programs, as well as trimester, semester and academic yearlong study abroad opportunities around the world.

Service Learning Opportunities While Abroad

If your child needs to meet service learning requirements to graduate, they can participate on a volunteer program or volunteer independently during their time overseas through our Greenheart Club.

Personal Program Manager for Every Student

Greenheart Travel has a personal program manager for each student traveling abroad, offering support from the time you or your child inquires to the time they return home, by someone you know by name.

Academic Development

Greenheart Travel alumni are provided with the guidance and tools they need to translate their impactful experiences abroad into tangible skills that can be highlighted on their college applications. Through our Alumni network, your child will have a chance to connect with like-minded students, and mentor future participants.

Pre-departure Preparation and Orientations

“Everything was well organized and I was prepared for my experience and received a great host family and area to live in.”  Kailey, Greenheart Travel high school alumna in Italy 

The most important part of a child’s study abroad program is having realistic expectations about what their experience will entail. Most importantly, students need to have the tools to deal with the challenges and successes they’ll face while abroad. Whether through regular phone conversations, e-mails, or Skype meetings, your child will have the necessary information to make sure they are getting all they can out of their international experience.

Unlike other organizations, Greenheart Travel conducts not one, but two pre-departure orientations . These sessions offer best practices to get the most out of the full immersion program and give your child a full picture of what to expect as an exchange student.

General pre-departure orientation

This orientation covers essential logistical information about the student’s program. It is conducted by a local coordinator in your area when possible, or by a Greenheart Travel staff member.

Pre-departure orientation covers topics like:

• Lines of Communication
• Land Line and Mobile Phone Use while abroad
• Money (how much to bring, what to expect)
• Insurance/Healthcare
• Risk Factors and Tips
• Emergency Procedures
• Program Rules
• Program Evaluations
• Recommended Reading Material

Our students and parents use this orientation to prepare logistically for their child’s departure. They also learn the practices and procedures while their child is abroad and how to deal with questions and concerns.

Cultural Pre-departure Orientation Understanding the basics of culture shock is very important, but understanding the intricacies of a completely different and unique culture is essential. Our cultural pre-departure orientations go over the basics of the their host country’s culture and give students the insight into what will be the most exciting and challenging when they first arrive and throughout the program. This particular orientation has proved invaluable to both parents and students, making the ‘unknown’ known.

Cultural pre-departure topics include:

• Recommended questions to ask the host family when your child first arrives
• Conversation starters to ‘break the ice’ when they initially meet their HF
• Suggestions on how to show their HF appreciation
• Potential issues related to cultural differences and how to avoid them
• Potential issues related to cultural differences and how to handle them if they do occur
• Basic phrases and lingo of host country’s language
• Information on the 5 stages of culture shock
• Tips on how to handle culture shock and homesickness
• Social Integration
• Typical meals (cuisine, meal times, etc)
• How to acclimate to the host country’s culture before departure (i.e. begin taking shorter showers (Ireland), begin using chopsticks (Japan), introduce sharp punctuality into your daily life (Switzerland)
• Little known aspects of host country’s culture (i.e, In most Spanish homes, people are expected to wear house shoes)
• Group participation to excite you and your child about their upcoming adventure!

The cultural session is conducted via Skype by a Greenheart Travel staff person in the national office. All participants and their parents are asked to attend the session pertinent to their host country destination.

“I really loved studying abroad. I truly believe that no matter what your experience is you will grow as a person and really come to appreciate not only your study abroad culture, but your own country’s.”  Laura, former exchange student in France through Greenheart Travel

Greenheart Travel is the only cultural exchange organization that incorporates social and environmental awareness into our mission statement and into all of the programs we operate. Our internal procedures are as green as they can be: only using recycled paper, monitoring & adjusting our energy usage when necessary, donating a portion of every program fee and staff travel to offset the carbon emissions used during their travel and much more.

For our high school students, we go a step further and offer the Greenheart Club. The Greenheart Club allows your child to take their exchange experience a step further than their peers. Whether your child needs to log community service hours to graduate or not, participating in the Club is a great way to develop a stronger connection with the community and to have tons of fun.

Overall, the Greenheart Club is a huge asset to host communities and to the students themselves. Students become empowered to create positive and lasting change all while meeting new people and expanding their network within their new country.

We understand that as a parent, you have certain questions and concerns regarding how studying or traveling abroad will affect your child’s academic standing, and we hope to put your mind at ease with the following answers:

Can my child receive academic credit for studying abroad?

Translating the cultural immersion experience to your child’s high school transcripts is an important concern. While Greenheart Travel can’t guarantee specific classes abroad, we can provide host country general curriculum guidelines, language course and volunteer project itineraries to help find the best fit for your child’s academic goals. This will also help everyone determine whether the best time to travel abroad is during a specific academic period or during a summer or winter break.

“I feel like studying abroad has prepared me more for college than any college prep class in high school could have. Learning and going to college is not just about getting it done faster and more efficiently, but actually understanding the world and having quality knowledge. There is no better way to do this than to study abroad. Not to mention… how much colleges like students that have studied abroad since it is generally uncommon.”  Rachel Kinder, Greenheart Travel high school alumna in France

What if my child needs to fulfill service learning requirements?

The Greenheart Club encourages students to experience a deeper level of immersion through volunteerism. This is a unique opportunity for your child to meet their service learning hours, make a positive impact abroad and develop leadership skills while learning about the new community in which they are living.

 “While in Spain, I experienced many amazing things and I got the chance to volunteer through awesome organizations and that actually inspired me to major in international relations.” – Eleanor Brow, Greenheart Travel high school alumna in Spain.

What kinds of support and safety precautions are offered to my child?

Your child’s experience abroad begins from the moment they begin inquiring about the program. Each year Greenheart Travel demonstrates our support and safety standards to our participants through the following:

• Thorough vetting and screening process of each host family
• Support for the educational value of international programs through guided, facilitated exchange activities

Before and during a program start date, you and your child will receive full support from a personal program manager in a number of ways:

• Two pre-departure orientations via Skype for both parents and their child
• Regular check-ins throughout your child’s program (with both the parents and student)
• Access to an active social media community to speak with fellow travelers and alumni

Once your child’s program ends , Greenheart Travel continues supporting them in their transition back to their home country by:

• Checking in when they have returned to get their feedback and counsel them through reverse culture shock
• Writing letters of recommendation letters for college applications
• Offering numerous alumni resources to help your child translate and highlight their cultural experience on college applications and offering opportunities for leadership development in their community
• Welcoming them into an active and inspiring alumni community of young global leaders

Can my child travel with a group of students?

Greenheart Travel offers group travel opportunities for both teens and educators in select countries and programs. Ask us about how your child can volunteer with a group or family and friends at our project in Costa Rica or how your school can participate in a school to school exchange.

Email [email protected] for more information.

 “Words cannot express our gratitude for the extra effort that was given in getting Sophia placed in Japan this year. This was an absolutely life-changing, overall positive experience for her that will inform her college decisions and career path. She has made many global friends, and has returned with greater maturity and self-confidence. We are very grateful for Greenheart Travel and the wonderfully caring staff that have made such a positive impact on Sophia’s life. Thank you!”– Marie Zupka-Ludder, mother of High School Abroad participant in Japan