2009 Japan Study Tour

As the leaders of the Japan Study Tour, we strived to put together a balanced itinerary that will expose you to Japanese culture and business practices, while having a memorable two weeks in Japan. Our goal is for you to gain an informed respect for the Japanese people that will benefit your future personal and business relationships. The schedule is composed of three types of activities: Company Visits, Cultural Sightseeing and Free Time.

Company Visits: Experiencing Japanese Business Culture
Considering Japan is the third largest global market place and Washington State’s second largest trading partner, most of us can expect to work with or for a Japanese firm during our careers. The opportunity to meet with, and learn from Japan’s top business leaders will provide insight into the success of corporate Japan and the etiquette of conducting business in Japan. We are currently targeting large multi-nationals with a global presence (Toyota, Sony, Mitsubishi), economic & government organizations (Tokyo Stock Exchange, Narita Airport) and leading Japanese consumer/pop culture companies (Gekkeikan, Orix, Bathing Apes).

Cultural Sightseeing: Experiencing Japan’s past and present
The cultural experiences will begin the moment you step foot into the metropolis that is Tokyo and will continue throughout the trip as we take the 300Km/h bullet trains to Kyoto and Hiroshima. In addition to the daily sights, sounds and sushi of Japan, Coletta has put together a list of seven cultural visits, which represent the highlights of her seven years living and traveling throughout Japan. We will glimpse the rich history of Classical/Feudal Japanese temples, the excitement of modern Japanese baseball, the unique Tsukiji fish market and the solemnity of the Hiroshima Peace Memorial.

Free Time: Establishing a Personal Connection
Even though you will be waking up early on some mornings to iron your clothes, this tour will not be a business trip. We have designed the itinerary with the flexibility for you to become a tourist, shopper or sushi expert at your own pace. You will have a substantial amount of “free” time in each of the cities we visit to explore on your own or with friends. Hotels have been strategically selected in “cultural hot spots”, which offer convenient access to public transportation. With your help, we will be putting together a list of recommended things-to-do.

We invite you to do a little research and post your ideas for how you will be spending some of your free time on the tour.