JAPAN | Global Education Allies

Mt. Fuji

Kyoto Bamboo Forest

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Mt. Fuji

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JAPAN
JUne - july 2025

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In Pursuit of Happiness:

echoes of the past,

visions of the future

This program focuses on the following components of happiness: Verve, Belonging, Tranquility

This Japan program offers an immersive blend of cultural exploration, educational exchange, and nature-based wellness experiences. Participants will journey through both modern and traditional Japan, from the bustling streets of Tokyo to the serene temples of Kyoto, engaging with local communities, schools, and experts along the way. The itinerary includes visits to historic landmarks, participation in cultural practices like tea ceremonies and sumo demonstrations, and a rejuvenating forest bathing experience in the countryside.

In addition to cultural exploration, the program provides unique opportunities to learn from Japan’s educational system. Through school visits and discussions with local educators, participants will observe how Japanese schools emphasize health, ethics, empathy, and cultural heritage in their teaching. The strong focus on teamwork and community-building encourages collaboration and mutual support among students, offering valuable lessons on nurturing a positive learning environment. This program is designed for educators and lifelong learners seeking to make meaningful connections while gaining a deeper understanding of Japan’s cultural and educational heritage.

ALUMNI PROGRAM TO JAPAN!

$3575

(PRICE BEFORE EARLY BIRD SPECIAL)

Note: Possible trip to Hiroshima pre-trip and/or Seoul, South-Korea post-trip will be offered if there's enough interest. Please do not buy airfare until you have been interviewed, accepted and confirmed the program.

See below how confident GEA is about asking for a fair price while providing you a quality product

cultural highlights

Senso-ji Buddhist Temple
Kinkaku-ji - Golden Pavilion in Kyoto
Kamakura’s Big Buddha
Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine
Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine in Kyoto
Geisha Experience in Kyoto

Sumo Wrestling Experience (optional)
Shibuya Crossing
Shopping in Harajuku
Onsen Visit in Hakone
Forest Bathing in Akasawa
Boat Tour on Lake Ashi
Shinkansen bullet train
Karaoke Japanese style

Michelin star ramen experience
Traditional Tea Ceremony

Note: Details on the itinerary may still change

Stories from the Global Classroom

Everything You Need to Know Before You Go

who

All interested educators, administrators and community leaders are welcome to apply. Non-educator guests will be considered based on availability. An additional fee of $150 for non-educators will be charged to cover additional expenses.

when & where

Ready to explore the details? View the Japan Itinerary!

sample itinerary

price

Alumni Program to Japan: $3575

(PRICE BEFORE EARLY BIRD SPECIAL)

early bird special

For applying before NOVEMBER 30th we will offer a special discount of 5% off the entire package.

*For people applying after the application deadline (if space is still available), we may need to add an additional 5-10% fee over the program cost, to offset the higher prices of late bookings.

WHAT'S INCLUDED?

Shared accommodations

Most meals and program activities (including sightseeing and entrance fees)

All transportation while on program, including flights between countries.

WHAT'S NOT INCLUDED?

Airfare to the program location and back home, airport transportation to and from our meeting and ending locations, some meals, travel insurance, add-on or upgrade options.

APPLICATION TIMELINE

Early bird special: November 30th
Priority consideration: January 15th
Final deadline: March 1st (if spaces are still available)

Zoom interviews will be held starting mid-November and through mid March and all selection decisions will be made by March 15th. A program deposit of $400 and balance must be paid in full 2 weeks before departure.

apply now

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The GEA pledges:

Our Commitment to You

At GEA, we believe happiness is not just an idea but something to be experienced. That’s why every program we offer is designed with special touches to create moments of connection, relaxation, and empowerment for our valued teachers. Here’s what’s included to ensure your well-being is prioritized throughout the experience:

Every full travel program includes:

A complimentary toast (alcoholic or nonalcoholic) during our 'GEA Happy Hour' before the welcome dinner, cultivating a space of belonging.

A Michelin Star meal (or similar level), offering a moment to connect with our senses and enjoy world-class cuisine.

A rejuvenating spa experience, providing moments of calm and relaxation.

An adventure challenge, empowering us by testing the boundaries of the familiar.

At GEA, we are dedicated to supporting you on your professional development journey. Our programs provide educators with valuable tools, strategies, and connections that not only enhance their best practices but also empower them to create lasting impact in their classrooms and communities. Many of our alumni have shared their experiences at their schools, across districts, and even at conferences, using what they’ve learned to inspire others.

We understand the importance of administrative support in making this journey possible. That’s why GEA pledges to assist you every step of the way. Upon acceptance into our program, you’ll receive a letter specifically designed for your school leaders. This letter outlines how participation in a GEA trip directly benefits you as an educator and showcases how other administrators have supported our participants in their learning journey.

In addition to this, we have collected some possible avenues for stipends and scholarships here.

GEA programs are carefully designed to give you the maximum amount of experience and memories for your money. From start to finish, we have many people involved in the operation of a successful program, including our team and local partners on the ground, ensuring you have a unique experience and make authentic, lifelong connections. From our carefully curated activities to meaningful interactions with local communities, we aim to provide a journey that leaves a lasting impact.

Our program price includes most meals, most activities as well as school visits and meetings with local teachers and community leaders. Our programs are led by leaders who are also educators.

We believe we are the most cost-effective program on the market, with no hidden costs. What you see is what you get - there are no surprise add-ons or extravagant meals to pay for on your own.

GEA offers a price-match guarantee to the same locations you may find. If you find a similar program to the same locations, we will match their price (Note: to qualify, the program must match GEA's offering in terms of nights, hotel quality, and the caliber of meals and activities covered).

At GEA, we’re committed to providing you with a transformative, meaningful experience from beginning to end. Here's how we ensure substance in every step of your journey:

Pre-Departure Engagement

We equip you with thoughtfully curated resources to dive into before your journey even begins.

Comprehensive Preparation

You’ll be invited to two orientation meetings to ensure you're fully prepared for what's ahead.

Essential Travel Guide

Prior to departure, you’ll receive a detailed handbook covering everything from packing lists and vaccination/visa info to helpful reminders on how to survive long flights.

Pre-Trip Connections

We help you connect with fellow travelers who may be on your flight en route to our first city.

Meaningful Encounters

Throughout our journeys, we connect with many educators and leaders and hope to help facilitate life-long connections.

Cultural Immersion

You'll have many opportunities to connect with the cultures we visit and learn about the things they do best.

Well-being

Along the way, you’ll have opportunities to unwind and recharge, ensuring a balanced journey of both exploration and relaxation.

Post-Journey Community

After your journey, you'll have access to exclusive alumni opportunities, including alumni-only trips and alumni get-togethers around the country for lifelong learning and connection.

Meet Your Adventure Guides

Quick Links

Program Curriculum and Continuing Education Credits/Units

Explore the program curriculum, designed to enhance your learning journey and give you context to the region’s culture and history as well as the education system.

reflective JOURNAL

Take a look at the frameworks we employ that add more substance to your reflective experience.

TEACHER FUNDING

Look through the funding opportunities we have gathered in one place for you.

health & safety

GEA will be doing everything to help our participants feel secure and comfortable. There are also many ways you can personally manage a safe and happy travel experience and GEA will help remind you along the way.

TESTIMONIALS

TESTIMONIALS

JAPAN
JUne - july 2025

ALUMNI PROGRAM TO JAPAN!

(PRICE BEFORE EARLY BIRD SPECIAL)

Note: Possible trip to Hiroshima pre-trip and/or Seoul, South-Korea post-trip will be offered if there's enough interest. Please do not buy airfare until you have been interviewed, accepted and confirmed the program.

See below how confident GEA is about asking for a fair price while providing you a quality product

At GEA, we’re committed to providing you with a transformative, meaningful experience from beginning to end. Here's how we ensure substance in every step of your journey:

Meet Your Adventure Guides

Quick Links

JAPAN JUne - july 2025

ALUMNI PROGRAM TO JAPAN!

(PRICE BEFORE EARLY BIRD SPECIAL)

Note: Possible trip to Hiroshima pre-trip and/or Seoul, South-Korea post-trip will be offered if there's enough interest. Please do not buy airfare until you have been interviewed, accepted and confirmed the program.

See below how confident GEA is about asking for a fair price while providing you a quality product

Meet Your Adventure Guides

Quick Links

JAPAN
JUne - july 2025