IMPAKD JOURNEY — JAPAN
Rituals, Craft & Connection
Japan invites you to slow down, learn through presence, and share moments that feel both intimate and unforgettable.
Guided by local hosts and shaped by LITC’s 20 years of community expertise, this 12-day journey blends language, culture and hands-on experiences across Chiba, Tokyo, Hakone, Mt. Fuji and Kyoto.
You’ll learn the language before you go, live it every day in Japan, and continue it once you’re home, keeping the journey alive long after it ends.
Start: Chiba
End: Mt. Fuji → Kyoto
Small group
From: £4,455
Who This Journey Is For
This journey is designed for travellers who:
Seek depth, authenticity and cultural connection
Prefer participation over observation
Are curious about language, ritual and everyday life
Value sustainability, heritage and community-led travel
You’ll travel alongside like-minded people who believe travel can help preserve culture, not consume it.
WHY YOU’LL LOVE THIS JOURNEY
Japan encourages you to slow down, to observe gently, and to participate with intention. You’ll work alongside farmers, learn craft with artisans, and join cultural hosts who share the stories and practices that keep tradition alive.
Throughout your journey:
- Language becomes natural through conversation, food, craft and shared moments.
- Culture is not consumed, it is experienced through ritual, gesture and participation.
- Nature becomes a teacher, from Chiba’s fields to Kyoto’s quiet pathways.
- Community partners guide your understanding of what heritage means today.
This journey is for travellers who seek meaning, not just movement. A chance to experience Japan not as an observer, but with the people who shape it.
WHAT YOU’LL EXPERIENCE
This journey unfolds across two contrasting landscapes, Cairo and the Red Sea, bringing together culture, community and conservation in a single, coherent experience.
Hands-On Farming in Chiba
Learn rural rhythms through shared work, seasonal tasks and gentle language moments with farmers who guide you into community life.
Tea & Food Traditions
Experience the quiet beauty of tea ceremony and sweets-making guided by practitioners who preserve ancestral hospitality.
Nature & Culture Journeys
Explore Tokyo, Hakone, Mt. Fuji and Kyoto at a slow pace, letting landscapes, temples and traditions reveal meaning through every step.
Culture & Language Life
Cook, craft, farm and join community events where simple Japanese is practiced naturally through real interactions and shared experiences.
ITINERARY OVERVIEW — 12 DAYS IN JAPAN
Arrive at Narita International Airport (NRT) and meet your local host, who guides you to a peaceful farmhouse stay. Settle in, share a welcome meal and join your onboarding session. Spend the next two days working alongside farmers, planting or harvesting depending on the season, and learning the traditions that shape rural Japan. Enjoy farm lunches, countryside walks, and optional seasonal farm visits such as matcha, sake or miso workshops.
Coming soon
LEARNING WITH COMMUNITIES WHO WELCOME YOU IN
Unlike traditional tours that only “show you” a destination, Impakd immerses you in a complete learning pathway: before, during, and after your trip. Every stage is intentionally designed to help you connect deeper, learn authentically, and become part of a community that continues long after you return home.
Before You Travel — Build Your Foundations
You’ll begin your journey with online group sessions introducing:
- Japanese language basics (greetings, essentials, expressions)
- Cultural etiquette and social norms
- Key insights that prepare you to learn with communities, not just observe them
These sessions ensure you arrive in Japan feeling confident, grounded, and ready to connect.
During the Journey — Learn Through Real Life
Once in Japan, learning happens through experience, not theory, guided by farmers, artisans, tea masters, cultural educators, and community hosts.
Throughout the 12 days, you’ll learn by:
- Working on local farms in Chiba, understanding Japan’s seasonal rhythms
- Participating in tea ceremonies, Wagashi, making, sushi craft, kimono culture, and dance lessons
- Supporting English-learning events in Tokyo and engaging in genuine cultural exchange
- Moving through landscapes shaped by history, from Mt. Fuji views to Kyoto temples
Culture becomes something you live, not something you watch. It reveals itself through meals, rituals, landscapes and the people who welcome you in.
After You Return — Continue Your Journey
Your learning doesn’t end when the trip ends. You’ll continue developing your Japanese through LITC’s upcoming online learning platform, staying connected to your cohort, your hosts, and the community you learned from.
This post-trip pathway ensures your experience becomes more than a holiday, it becomes a long-term skill and a richer understanding of Japan’s culture.
DATES & PRICES
- Accommodation details
-
SINGLE ROOM
On request
GBP £4,455.00per person
£4,455.00Request a booking
- Accommodation details
-
SINGLE ROOM
On request
GBP £5,000.00per person
£5,000.00Request a booking
- Accommodation details
-
SINGLE ROOM
On request
GBP £5,000.00per person
£5,000.00Request a booking
- Accommodation details
-
SINGLE ROOM
On request
GBP £5,000.00per person
£5,000.00Request a booking
- Accommodation details
-
SINGLE ROOM
On request
GBP £5,000.00per person
£5,000.00Request a booking
- Accommodation details
-
SINGLE ROOM
On request
GBP £5,000.00per person
£5,000.00Request a booking
- Accommodation details
-
SINGLE ROOM
On request
GBP £5,000.00per person
£5,000.00Request a booking
Accommodation Details
Farmers'INN zennoya
Like a scene from a Ghibli film, Zennoya is a private farmhouse stay for one group per night. Harvest seasonal vegetables, enjoy a BBQ or pizza by the fire, and feel the joy of farming with all five senses.
HOTEL R9 The Yard Togane
Hotel R9 The Yard Togane in Tōgane offers spacious rooms with air conditioning, private bathrooms, and free WiFi. Guests enjoy amenities such as bathrobes, hairdryers, and free toiletries.
Tokyo
Royal Park Hotel
Take a pause between worlds. The Royal Park Hotel Haneda is a quiet refuge inside the city, where you land, breathe, and let the journey soften before moving on.
Hamacho Hotel
Like a hidden pocket of calm, Hamacho Hotel blends into Tokyo’s rhythm, offering a quiet place to slow down, reflect, and feel the city breathe around you.
Hakone
The Prince Hakone Lake Ashinoko
Like a quiet dialogue between water and mountains, The Prince Hakone Lake Ashinoko rests by the lake, where mist, stillness, and nature gently slow the pace of the journey.
Tokinoyu Setsugetsuka
Like a ritual of warmth and silence, Tokinoyu Setsugetsuka in Hakone invites you to slow down, soak in natural springs, and let time dissolve into stillness.
Kyoto
Rinn Kiyomizu Gojo Machiya
Like stepping into another time, Rinn Kiyomizu Gojo Machiya is a traditional Kyoto townhouse where wood, light, and silence hold the memory of old streets.
Hotel Grand Bach Kyoto Select
Like a quiet melody in the city, Hotel Grand Bach Kyoto Select offers a moment of harmony, where rhythm slows and the journey finds a gentler tempo.
What’s Included
- 12 days / 11 nights accommodation, including a private farmhouse stay in rural Chiba and carefully selected hotels in Tokyo, Hakone and Kyoto
- Single occupancy as standard — all stays are in private rooms, unless a shared room is specifically requested
- Daily breakfast, plus selected lunches and dinners (including farm meals)
- Hands-on farming experiences with local farmers in Chiba
- Cultural workshops and experiences, such as:
- Tea ceremony
- Wagashi (traditional sweets) making
- Edomae sushi craft demonstration
- Kimono fitting and traditional Japanese dance lesson
- Community exchange activities, including a Tokyo English-learning event
- All local transportation during the journey, including private vehicles, bullet train (Shinkansen), Hakone Ropeway and Lake Ashi boat crossing
- Airport transfers on arrival (Narita – NRT) and departure (Kansai – KIX)
- Local host support throughout the trip, including coordination and translation assistance
- Pre-trip language and cultural preparation sessions
Post-trip learning continuity through ongoing language and community connections
What’s Included
- International flights to and from Japan
- Travel insurance
- Visa costs (if applicable)
- Alcoholic and soft drinks
- Personal expenses and souvenirs
Optional add-on experiences not listed above
Travel Pace
Relaxed to moderate, balancing guided activities with time to slow down and reflect.
Physical Level
Accessible to most travellers, with daily walking included.
Language
Beginner-friendly, no prior Japanese knowledge required.
Group Size
Small groups only, for deeper connection and flexibility.
Support
A local host and the LITC team accompany the journey throughout.
Payment & Booking
Secure your place with a 30% deposit. The remaining balance is due one month before departure. Flexible payment arrangements are available.
Safety & Wellbeing
Egypt is explored through trusted local partnerships. Your local host provides ongoing support for logistics, communication and wellbeing throughout the journey.
Frequently Asked Questions (2026)
BOOKING & PAYMENTS
Bookings are open now! We recommend securing your spot early as our group sizes are limited to 2-6 people to ensure a quality, intimate experience.
A 30% deposit is required to secure your place at the time of booking.
Balance payment deadlines vary by tour and booking date:
- For tours departing in 65+ days: Balance due 30-60 days before tour start (check your specific tour details)
- For tours departing in less than 65 days: Full payment required at booking (except February/March tours which require full payment 30 days prior)
We accept payment via our website using Stripe, which includes:
- Credit/debit cards
- Digital wallets (Apple Pay, Google Pay)
- Bank redirects
We have a 72-hour cooling-off period for all bookings where no administrative fee applies (payment processing fees may still apply depending on your payment method).
After the cooling-off period, cancellation fees apply based on timing:
February & March tours:
- 30+ days before: £150 admin fee only
- 14-29 days before: 50% refund
- 14 days or less: No refund
April onwards:
- 60+ days before: £150 admin fee only
- 30-59 days before: 60% refund
- 15-29 days before: 40% refund
- 14 days or less: No refund
Please refer to our detailed Cancellation Policy document for your specific tour dates.
Our packages include:
- Accommodation (single occupancy as standard, unless you wish to share)
- Daily breakfast and select meals as per itinerary
- All tours and activities listed in the itinerary
- Professional English-speaking guides
- Airport transfers and ground transportation
- Entry fees to attractions as per itinerary
- Community engagement activities
- Online language course before departure
- In-country language lesson
The following are not included:
- International flights
- Travel insurance (essential – strongly recommended)
- Meals not specified in the itinerary
- Personal expenses (souvenirs, gifts, additional food/drink)
- Alcoholic beverages
- Tips for guides and drivers (guidelines provided)
- Visa fees (where applicable)
- Optional activities outside the itinerary
Our group tours follow set itineraries to ensure the best experience, but we do offer optional tours and activities. Please inquire for details and pricing.
Yes! We strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance covering:
- Medical emergencies
- Trip cancellation
- Baggage loss/delay
- Emergency evacuation
We can recommend providers if needed.
Our cancellation policy applies regardless of the reason for cancellation, including:
- Medical emergencies
- Family emergencies
- Work commitments
- Travel disruptions
- Any other unforeseen circumstances
We strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance that includes:
- Trip cancellation coverage – Protects your investment if you must cancel
- Trip interruption coverage – Covers unused portion if you must leave early
- Medical emergency coverage – Minimum £200,000 recommended
- Emergency evacuation – Essential for remote areas
- Travel delays – Compensation for significant delays
- Personal belongings – Protection for luggage and valuables
ACCOMMODATION & CONNECTIVITY
We use 3-4 star hotels in central locations. All rooms are for sole occupancy (unless a double/twin room to share is requested) and have private bathrooms and modern amenities.
Most hotels offer Wi-Fi. We highly recommend using Airalo ESim for mobile connectivity. We can also provide information about local SIM cards or international roaming options.
Yes! Our itineraries balance guided activities with free time for independent exploration and relaxation. Contact us for specific free time details in your itinerary.
Absolutely! Many guests choose to arrive early or stay longer. We can provide recommendations and assist with additional accommodation bookings.
A moderate fitness level is required. Most activities can be adapted to different abilities, but please inform us of any:
- Mobility concerns
- Health conditions
- Fitness limitations
This allows us to make appropriate arrangements or advise if the tour is suitable for you.
Specific requirements:
- Japan tours: Some locations (like rural farm areas in Chiba) are not accessibility-friendly due to rugged terrain and steps
- Egypt tours: Includes moderate walking at archaeological sites, uneven terrain, climbing stairs, and water activities requiring basic swimming ability and good physical stamina.
Please enquire prior to booking as we are keen to make adaptations where possible.
Daily breakfast and select meals are included (see your specific itinerary). We can accommodate most dietary requirements with advance notice. Both Japanese and Egyptian cuisine offer excellent vegetarian options.
Important: Please state dietary requirements at the time of booking AND at least 14 days prior to departure.
All travelers receive access to our online language course before departure! This fantastic opportunity includes:
- Essential phrases and vocabulary
- Cultural etiquette guidance
- Connection with fellow travelers, tutors, and hosts before arrival
The course is designed for complete beginners and enriches your in-country experience.
No prior language experience is required. Our courses are designed for complete beginners and focus on practical phrases for daily interactions and cultural connections.
You’ll receive access shortly after booking, giving you plenty of time to learn at your own pace. It’s also a wonderful way to meet your travel companions virtually before departure.
Yes! An in-country language lesson takes place during your tour, and your guide will reinforce language learning throughout, helping you practice in real-world situations. Many travelers find this immersive approach incredibly rewarding.
Community engagement is a core part of our travel philosophy. Full details are available on our website and in our brochure:
- Japan: Agricultural community project, experiencing rural Japanese farmlife in Chiba while contributing to sustainable agricultural farming practices.
- Egypt: Work with Kendaka, a women’s artisan cooperative, learning traditional craft techniques and supporting economic empowerment through fair-trade partnerships. Supporting the organisations VeryNile with river clean up initiatives and working with the Red Sea Project on marine conservation.
Community engagement is integrated thoughtfully into the itinerary to provide meaningful participation without overwhelming your schedule. Specific timeframes are detailed in the full itinerary on our website.
We welcome this! Please let us know about any relevant skills or experience when booking. While our projects are designed for all skill levels, your expertise could create special opportunities for connection.
No, all community engagement activities are included in your package price. Your participation directly supports these communities, and we maintain ethical, sustainable partnerships with local organizations.
Many travelers do! We can provide information about the organizations we partner with if you wish to continue supporting their work or maintain connections after your journey.
Climate & Weather
Japan’s weather varies significantly by season:
- Spring (March-May): Mild and pleasant with cool to warm temperatures, low humidity, and cherry blossoms in bloom
- Summer (June-August): Hot and humid with rainy season in June-July, then intense heat; typhoons possible in late summer
- Autumn (September-November): Cool and comfortable with clear skies and colorful foliage; September may still have typhoons
- Winter (December-February): Cold in the north (2-10°C/35-50°F), mild in the south; heavy snow in Hokkaido, dry and sunny on Pacific coast; excellent time for snow and winter festivals
We recommend layered clothing, warm jackets for winter months, and comfortable walking shoes year-round.
Climate & Weather
This depends on your nationality. Many countries have visa-free access for tourism (up to 90 days).
British passport holders: Do not require a visa (up to 90 days) but need a passport with at least 6 months validity.
Please check with the Japanese embassy or consulate in your country. We can provide a booking confirmation letter for visa applications.
Yes! Japan is consistently ranked as one of the safest countries in the world for travelers. Crime rates are very low, and the country has excellent infrastructure and public safety measures. Our tours visit well-established tourist areas with experienced guides who are familiar with local customs and safety protocols.
Your guide will handle all communications. Major tourist areas in Japan are increasingly English-friendly. Plus, you’ll have a pre-departure Japanese language class online and an in-person class during your travels, providing a great foundation to interact with the local Japanese community!
Cultural Experiences
Our Japan itinerary typically includes:
- Traditional tea ceremony
- Temple and shrine visits
- Cultural districts exploration
- Local cuisine experiences
- Hands-on agricultural experiences
- Japanese language & cultural exchange
- Traditional Japanese dance lesson and Kimono fitting
Absolutely! Our tours are designed to showcase the best of Japan for both first-timers and return visitors.
If you can’t find the answer you’re looking for, please contact us at impakd@litc.org
We’re here to help make your Impakd journey unforgettable!
Cancellation Policy
Impakd Tours 2026
Organisation: LionHeart In The Community (LITC)
Tour Brand: Impakd
Destination: Japan and Egypt
Effective Date: 01 December, 2025
Deposit Requirements
- 30% deposit due at time of booking to secure your place
- Remaining balance due 30-60 days prior to tour start date (depending on tour month – see schedule below)
Launch trips do not require full payment at booking as the tour start date is less than 65 days away. Only the deposit is required initially, with the remaining balance due 30 days prior to tour start.
Note: From April 2026 tours onwards, depending on when a trip is booked, full payment may be required if nearer to the travel date. Please check all payment dates when booking or enquire for information.
Cancellations are accepted subject to our cancellation policy terms and conditions as outlined below. Please note that February and March 2026 tours have separate cancellation windows compared to all tours from April 2026 onwards.
Cancellation Policy – February & March 2026 Tours
| Cancellation Window | Refund Amount |
|---|---|
| 30+ days before tour start date | Full refund minus admin fee |
| 14-29 days before tour start date | 50% of total tour price |
| 14 days or less before tour start date | No refund |
| Cancellation Window | Refund Amount |
|---|---|
| 30+ days before tour start date | Full refund minus admin fee |
| 14-29 days before tour start date | 50% of total tour price |
| 14 days or less before tour start date | No refund |
All tours from April onwards follow this cancellation structure:
| Cancellation Window | Refund Amount |
|---|---|
| 60+ days before tour start date | Full refund minus admin fee |
| 30-59 days before tour start date | 60% of total tour price |
| 15-29 days before tour start date | 40% of total tour price |
| 14 days or less before tour start date | No refund |
Administrative Fee
- Early cancellations (30+/60+ days before tour start date): You receive your full payment back minus £150 admin fee. Please check specific cancellation deadlines for your tour at the time of booking.
- Mid-range cancellations: You receive the stated percentage of the total tour price
- Late cancellations (14 days or less before tour start date): No refund is provided
- Submit Written Cancellation
- Email or letter required (verbal cancellations not accepted)
- Send to: impakd@litc.org
- Include Essential Information
- Your full name
- Booking reference number
- Tour date you’re cancelling
- Reason for cancellation (optional but helpful)
- Cancellation Effective Date
- Your cancellation is effective from the date we receive your written notice within office working hours before 1700 UK local time, not the date you send it or decide to cancel
- We recommend using tracked/confirmed delivery methods
- Confirmation from Us
- We will confirm receipt of your cancellation
- The Impakd team will review the cancellation request and respond with an outcome within 7 working days
- If eligible for a refund, we will confirm your refund amount
- Refund Processing
- Refunds processed within 14-21 business days
- Refunded to original payment method
- Credit card refunds may take additional 3-5 days to appear
- Failure to Join Tour: If you fail to join the tour on the departure date, no refund will be made
- Late Arrival: If you join the tour after it has departed, no refund will be made for missed services
- Early Departure: If you leave the tour before completion for any reason (other than operational cancellation by us, such as circumstances beyond our control, safety concerns, or significant service failures), no refund will be made for unused services
This policy applies to all Impakd Japan and Egypt Tours departing in 2026 and is subject to the full Terms & Conditions
Last Updated: January 1, 2026
Ready to Experience Japan With Purpose?
Travel slowly. Learn deeply. Connect meaningfully.
At LITC we are on a mission to transform lives and communities through the power of Sport, Education, Technology, and Art. Our journey began with a commitment to make a difference, and it has evolved into a thriving movement dedicated to empowering young people and inspiring positive change.