MSYO - Japan Tour

The itinerary is the starting point to your tour, but it’s not set in stone. Your group leader may make changes leading up to departure.

Day 1, Friday June 23: Overnight Flight

Departure from the United States.

Day 2, Saturday June 24: Osaka

Arrive at Osaka International Airport, where you will be greeted by your tour managers. Transfer your instruments and your luggage onto your luxury coach for the transfer to your first air-conditioned hotel. Enjoy dinner together upon arrival. (D)

Day 3, Sunday June 25: Osaka

Begin the day exploring the historic Osaka Castle and the Sky Garden for spectacular panoramic views of the city. This afternoon, participate in an exchange concert with a local school or orchestra (pending confirmation) at a local venue. Enjoy dinner together this evening. (B,D)

Day 4, Monday June 26: Osaka/Kobe

After breakfast, travel to the historic city of Nara, Japan’s first permanent capital. Visit the magnificent Todai-ji, one of the world’s largest wooden structures and home to the Great Buddha, before exploring Nara Park, famous for its free-roaming deer and tranquil temple grounds. Enjoy a sushi making workshop. Return to Osaka later in the day with free time to experience the vibrant atmosphere of the Dotonbori district, renowned for its dazzling neon lights, iconic signage, and tempting street food. Dinner on your own tonight. (B)

Day 5, Tuesday June 27: ...

Today take a full day trip to the ancient capital of Japan, Kyoto, where all of the emperors of Japan lived from 794 until 1868. The tour includes the shimmering Kinkakuji, also known as the Golden Pavilion, and the Heian Shrine, built to celebrate the 1,100th anniversary of the city's founding. Take an independent lunch before continuing to see the mountainside Kiyomizu-dera Temple. Later this afternoon you will rehearse and perform your next concert at a local concert hall, such as Kyoto Concert Hall or similar. Dinner is included this evening. (B,D)

Day 6, Wednesday June 28: .

Check out and depart, traveling east to Tokyo by Shinkansen. Your instruments and luggage will follow separately. Upon arrival, begin exploring Tokyo with a visit to Meiji Shrine, a peaceful oasis set within a lush forested area. Continue to the vibrant Harajuku district, known for its colorful street fashion and youth culture. Check into your next hotel and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant. (B,D)

Day 7, Thursday June 29: Tokyo

After breakfast, enjoy a photo stop at the grounds of the Tokyo Imperial Palace, residence of Japan’s Imperial Family. Continue with a traditional Japanese sword demonstration, offering insight into the country’s rich cultural heritage. Later, visit the flagship Yamaha store in Tokyo, where innovation, technology, and craftsmanship are showcased through an impressive collection of world-class musical instruments. This evening, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant before attending a concert performance, subject to availability. (B,D)

Day 8, Friday June 30: Tokyo

After breakfast, dive into Tokyo with a hands-on taiko drumming workshop, learning the rhythms and techniques behind this powerful traditional art form. From there, head to the iconic Shibuya Crossing, one of the busiest and most electric pedestrian crossings in the world. In the afternoon, unwind with a traditional Japanese tea ceremony, an intimate look at the ritual, mindfulness, and hospitality at the heart of Japanese culture. The remainder of the day is yours to explore Tokyo independently — sightseeing, shopping, or simply soaking in the city at your own pace. Dinner on your own tonight. (B)

Day 9, Saturday July 1: Tokyo

Today explore Tokyo’s historic Asakusa District to visit the renowned Senso-ji and stroll along the lively Nakamise-dori shopping street. Later, rehearse and present your final concert at Setagaya Civic Hall or similar. This evening, celebrate the conclusion of your tour with a special farewell dinner alongside your fellow MSYO families and performers. (B,D)

Day 10, Sunday July 2: Departure

Transfer to the airport for return flight to the United States. (B)