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What’s new?
be inspired
why gil travel
Middle East
Western Europe
Eastern Europe
Latin America
Asia/ South Pacific/ Africa
North America
Oceana
From $9,150
OVERVIEW
In collaboration with Jewish Heritage Travel we are excited to offer this tour of Japan.
Discover Japan’s unique place within the wider Jewish diaspora on an unforgettable journey of learning and cultural immersion. Though modest in scale, Japan’s Jewish story is deeply woven with themes of migration, refuge, and resilience. Guided by expert local specialists and accompanied by scholar Dylan Hallingstad-O’Brien, this program brings that history to life while also immersing you in the cultural riches of Kyoto, Kobe, and Tokyo. Along the way, you will also encounter Japan’s spiritual traditions of Shinto and Buddhism, which continue to shape its art, rituals, and cultural landscape.
Our program begins in Kyoto, Japan’s ancient capital, where you will be introduced to the country’s artistic and spiritual traditions alongside its Jewish history. In addition to iconic destinations like the Golden Pavilion, we make excursions to the Shigaraki Mountains and to Nara, home to ancient Buddhist and Shinto temples and the friendly deer of Nara Park.
In Kobe, we encounter the stories of the 19th-century Jewish merchants who arrived when Japan opened its ports to foreign trade and the remarkable Jewish refugee community during World War II. From the Jewish cemetery to the Ohel Shelomo Synagogue, you come to see how these layered histories connect to the broader global narrative of Jewish resilience.
From Kobe, a scenic coach ride carries you through the dramatic landscapes of the Japanese Alps. We stop in Gero Onsen for an overnight stay in a traditional Japanese ryokan (inn). Our tour concludes in Tokyo, where a guided private tour of the Jewish Community Center and encounters with members of the community provide insight on Jewish identity in today’s Japan.
This extraordinary journey reveals how Japan’s cities, landscapes, spiritual traditions, and Jewish story together create a powerful tapestry of heritage, culture, and beauty — an experience that will stay with you long after you return home.
Departures
Duration
Highlights
Notes
Activity Level
Tailor Made
Itinerary
Program Cost: $9,150* includes:
10 nights’ accommodations at deluxe hotels
Full breakfast daily; 7 lunches; 4 dinners
All group transportation via deluxe air-conditioned coach
*Per-person, double occupancy; single supplement: $2,150.
Fees not Included: gratuities: $275; museum membership for nonmembers.
Travel note: Plan to arrive in Kobe on Monday, November 9 and depart from Tokyo on Thursday, November 19.
Please note that transfers to and from the airport are not included.
Each of our scholars are outstanding experts in their fields and play an active role in helping us design our journeys as well as accompanying us as we travel.
Dylan H. O’Brien, PhD, is a professor at Temple University, Tokyo campus, whose dissertation was on how shifting Japanese representations of Jews have impacted the relationship between Jews and others in Japan. He has conducted fieldwork with Jewish organizations in Tokyo, activists, nonprofits, other religious groups, and done archival research through fellowships from the Fulbright program, the Kobe College Corporation-Japan Education Exchange, the America-Japan Society, and other organizations. He has also published articles for the general public about his research in Japan.
Brian Calvert, trip leader, is a Chicago native and holds a degree in political science from the University of Iowa. He is a veteran traveler who has lived and worked in China, New Zealand and Ireland. A former employee of Stanford University’s renowned Travel/Study program, Brian has personally managed group tours across Europe, Cuba, Africa (including Morocco multiple times), and through a vast part of Asia — Japan, Mongolia, Central Asia, Southeast Asia, China, as well as a hike to Mount Everest Base Camp. He lives with his wife and child in Chicago and Thailand.
Plan to depart the United States for Osaka on overnight flights leaving Sunday, November 8 and arriving on Monday, November 9. Upon arrival at the airport, take a private shuttle to our hotel in Kyoto.
As many travelers will arrive late in the day, we will have a welcome desk set up in the lobby in the late afternoon and early evening. The formal program begins the next morning. Quality dining options are available at the hotel for you to enjoy on your own timing.
Accommodations: Westin Miyako Kyoto
Today begins with a trip orientation and introduction from our scholar, who will frame the Jewish and Japanese themes that will shape our upcoming journey.
We then explore Kyoto, the imperial capital of Japan from 794 to 1868. While Tokyo became the nation’s capital, Kyoto remains its cultural and spiritual heart, with its numerous Shinto shrines, Buddhist temples, and traditional arts and crafts.
Our morning takes us to Kinkaku-ji, the Golden Pavilion, a 14th-century temple whose top stories shimmer with gold leaf above a reflecting pond. Once a shogun’s villa, its tranquil gardens embody Zen ideals of harmony and beauty. We continue to Nijō Castle, the Kyoto residence of the Tokugawa shoguns, famous for its lavish interiors and “nightingale floors” that chirp underfoot.
Enjoy lunch on your own, with free time in the afternoon to rest before a specially arranged welcome dinner with a geisha (and interpreter), who will perform a meticulously choreographed dance and answer questions from the group.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodations: Westin Miyako Kyoto
After a lecture by our scholar at the hotel, we will depart on our first excursion from Kyoto, to the Shigaraki Mountains, where we tour the renowned Miho Museum. Designed by IM Pei, 80 percent of the museum is built underground, seamlessly integrating with the surrounding landscape. The museum houses around 3,000 artworks, spanning Japanese art, including Shinto and Buddhist artifacts, as well as ancient art from Egypt, Greece, Rome, China, and South Asia.
We return to the city for lunch together at a Kyoto restaurant. Afterwards, we visit Ginkakuji, the Silver Pavilion, a Zen Buddhist temple renowned for its understated beauty and serene atmosphere. We also take a beautiful autumn stroll down the Philosopher’s Path, a canal lined with cherry trees and Zen temples.
The evening is free for dinner and exploration on your own.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodations: Westin Miyako Kyoto
Today we take an excursion to Nara, Japan’s first permanent capital in the 8th century and today the location of eight UNESCO World Heritage sites.
Here, we see the Great Buddha, the largest bronze Buddha statue in the world, which is housed in the awe-inspiring Daibutsuden, one of the largest wooden buildings in the world. We also visit the Kasuga Taisha Shrine, a peaceful forested shrine with hundreds of stone lanterns and a very serene atmosphere.
We have lunch together, then explore Nara Park, home to 1,200 freely roaming sacred deer, believed to be messengers of the Shinto gods. We have the opportunity to feed the deer shika senbei special “deer crackers,” a unique and wonderfully photogenic experience.
After a day of taking in these wonders, we arrive back at the hotel in the late afternoon and you have the rest of the day free for dinner on your own.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodations: Westin Miyako Kyoto
This morning, we depart by coach to Kobe, the city where early Jewish traders, mostly from Russia, Poland, and the Middle East, settled soon after Japan opened its ports to Western commerce in the 1860s. During the 1930s–40s, thousands of Jewish refugees fleeing Nazi Europe passed through Kobe, part of a larger network of shelter and support.
On our touring this morning, we focus on the late 19th-century Jewish community of the city, including a stop at the Jewish Cemetery, established in 1868. With some tombstones written in Hebrew, the cemetery contains graves of European and Middle Eastern Jewish merchants, as well as some of the later Jewish refugees.
We also visit Meriken Park to learn about its maritime history and we take Kobe’s aerial gondola to the top of Mt. Rokko for panoramic views of the city, Osaka Bay, and the surrounding mountains.
After lunch at a local restaurant in Kobe, we visit Ikuta Shrine, one of Japan’s oldest Shinto shrines, with a history dating back more than 1,800 years.
Tonight, those who would like to attend services at JCC Kansai Kobe Synagogue, also known as the Ohel Shelomo Synagogue, are welcome to do so. Established in the 1970s, the synagogue serves as a focal point for Jewish worship, education, and community activities in the Kansai region, which includes Kobe, Osaka, and Kyoto.
Afterwards, we have dinner together at the hotel.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: ANA Crowne Plaza
After breakfast, our scholar gives a lecture on Japan’s Jewish community and reception of refugees during World War II. We will then visit the synagogue to enjoy a Shabbat lunch together.
Our scholar will then take us on a guided tour through the historic district of Kitano-cho, where most of the WWII refugee community stayed. Many social gatherings, business dealings, and informal community activities among Jewish residents occurred in or around Kitano-cho.
The rest of the day is for you to enjoy on your own, including an independent dinner.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodations: ANA Crowne Plaza
This morning, we depart by coach for the Japanese Alps. En route, we visit the Chiune Sugihara Memorial Hall, a museum dedicated to honoring the life and humanitarian legacy of the Japanese diplomat who, during World War II, saved thousands of Jewish refugees by issuing transit visas against his government’s strict orders. Afterwards, we stop for a group lunch nearby.
We then arrive at one of Japan’s most famous hot spring resorts, Gero Onsen, where we find a tranquil sanctuary known for its rejuvenating waters, scenic river views, and timeless hospitality. From here we drive to our accommodations at one of Japan’s most celebrated traditional inns, the Yunoshimakan Ryokan, perched in the mountains above Gero Onsen.
After settling in, we’ll change into yukata, the casual cotton robes provided for guests, and enjoy a beautifully prepared kaiseki dinner, a multi-course feast celebrating seasonal Japanese flavors.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Yunoshimakan Ryokan
Today, we take a stunning scenic drive through the Japanese Alps en route to Tokyo. Along the way, we stop to tour Matsumoto Castle, one of Japan’s most complete and beautiful original castles, dating from 1594. We have a group lunch at a restaurant near the castle before continuing our drive in the afternoon.
Upon arrival in Tokyo, we check in to our hotel and you are free for dinner on your own.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodations: Imperial Hotel, Tokyo
Today, we discover Tokyo, with visits to iconic destinations, such as the Senso-ji Temple, Tokyo’s oldest and most revered Buddhist temple, located in the historic Asakusa district. Founded in 628 CE, the temple has long been a spiritual and cultural heart of the city. Its iconic outer gate with a massive red lantern is one of Tokyo’s most photographed landmarks.
We enjoy lunch at the atmospheric and delicious Gonpachi Nishi-Azabu, a well-known izakaya (Japanese style gastro-pub) that is featured in films and frequented by celebrities.
In the afternoon, we have a special, personal tour by Rabbi Andrew Scheer of the Tokyo Jewish Community Center and a presentation from our scholar as well as special guests who will give us an inside look at Tokyo’s thriving contemporary Jewish community.
You are free to enjoy dinner on your own.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodations: Imperial Hotel, Tokyo
After breakfast, we visit the Tokyo National Museum, Japan’s oldest and largest museum, which houses masterpieces of traditional Japanese art as well as samurai armor, Buddhist sculptures, ceramics, swords, and kimonos.
In the afternoon, you have time on your own to explore and tend to any personal to-do, to-see and/or to-buy lists.
This evening, we have a special farewell dinner aboard a traditional yakatabune boat. Once reserved for nobles, samurai, and wealthy merchants, yakatabune became popular with the public in the late 19th century. On our private cruise through Tokyo Bay, we savor a multi-course Japanese meal with an open bar, with the opportunity to admire the illuminated bridges and city skyline from the on board.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodations: Imperial Hotel, Tokyo
Individual transfers for flights home from Haneda or Narita airports in Tokyo.
Payment Reserve your space with a nonrefundable deposit of $1,000 per person. Final balance is due 120 days prior to departure.
Membership Participation on these tours is a benefit for active members of JHT museum partners. During the registration process, you will be asked about your membership status with your affiliated museum. If you are not a current member, you will have a chance to activate your membership.
Participation Tour sizes are limited to 28 participants unless otherwise noted. Trips entail considerable walking including over uneven terrain. Participants need to be in good health, be able to keep up with the group, be able to experience group and cultural differences with grace. Please let us know if you have any physical conditions that may require special attention while on tour.
Cancellations All cancellations must be received by Gil Travel in writing. Cancellations received 120 days or more prior to departure: full refund less nonrefundable deposits, per person; 119–90 days prior to departure: 50% refund per person after nonrefundable deposits. 89–0 days before departure: no refund.
Trip Cancellation Insurance Gil Travel Travel strongly urges all participants to purchase travel insurance for coverage of losses necessitated by having to cancel due to illness or accident. For your convenience, we are providing a link to RoamRight, which many past participants have used. When purchasing insurance, please consider the plans carefully to familiarize yourself with what is covered. In this context, do take note that most insurance companies generally will waive exclusion for preexisting conditions only if your application is received by them within 14 days from the date of your program registration. If you have a preexisting medical condition and are interested in taking trip insurance, you should do so either with Roamright or through your own insurance agent within 14 days of registration.
Changes All rights are reserved by Gil Travel and Jewish Heritage Travel to make scholar substitutions and/or to modify the itinerary (including hotels) as needed. Every reasonable effort will be made to operate the program as planned; however, should unforeseen world events and conditions require the itinerary to be altered, Jewish Heritage Travel reserves the right to do so for the safety and best interest of the group. Any extra expenses incurred in this situation are the responsibility of the participant.
Disclaimer of Responsibility By registering for this program, participant specifically waives any and all claims of action against Gil Travel or the Museum of Jewish Heritage and the Jewish Heritage Travel office and their respective staffs for damages, loss, injury, accident, or death incurred by any person in connection with this tour. Gil Travel, The Museum of Jewish Heritage and the Jewish Heritage Travel office and their respective staffs assume no responsibility or liability in connection with the service of any train, vessel, carriage, aircraft, or other conveyance that may be used wholly or in part in the performance of their duty to the passengers. Neither will Gil Travel, the Museum of Jewish Heritage or the Jewish Heritage Travel office or their staffs be responsible for any injury, death, loss, accident, delay, or irregularity through neglect or default of any company or person engaged in carrying out the purposes for which tickets, vouchers, or coupons are issued. No responsibility is accepted for losses or expenses due to sickness, viruses, weather, strikes, wars, and other causes. In the event it becomes necessary or advisable for any reason whatsoever to alter the itinerary or arrangements, including hotels or scholars, such alterations may be made without penalty. All rights reserved to require any participant to withdraw from the tour at his/her own expense when such an action is determined by the tour staff to be in the best interest of the participant’s health and safety and that of the group in general. Prices subject to change. Cost in effect at time of registration will be honored.
Are Kosher meals available?
While we do not offer Kosher food, we offer fish and/or vegetarian options at every meal included in the trip.
How many people will be on the trip?
On average about 24 people.
What is the age group?
55+
What is the makeup of the participants?
A good mix of singles and couples.
How fit do I need to be? How much walking is there?
You should be able to walk about two miles in a day, though not all at once. Please see the itinerary of the trip(s) you are interested in to get a sense of the schedule for each day. When there is free time, some choose to stay active, others to rest.
If you prefer more activity, many of the hotels we stay in have pools and fitness facilities, and some of our trips do offer the opportunity for more physical activity.
Are the trips accessible for people with canes, walkers, or wheelchairs?
People who use a cane to aid their walking have found our trips accessible. You still need to be able to walk about two miles in a day, though not all at once. Unfortunately, accessibility can be limited in the places we travel, making it too difficult for people in wheelchairs or walkers to participate in our trips.
Is the trip Shabbat Observant?
We normally have a Shabbat dinner together be it at a hotel or restaurant and sometimes at a synagogue. We do not have programming on Saturday other than perhaps a meeting with the scholar. In some destinations we offer walking tours on Saturday. You can refer to the itinerary of your chosen trip for specifics.
When does the program actually begin?
The Itinerary and Program Details section of the trip you are interested in will indicate when to plan to arrive and depart, as well as when the program begins and ends. Every trip includes a welcome session to get oriented and meet each other, the guides, and scholars and a farewell event to celebrate, reflect, and say good-bye to our fellow travelers.
Are airport transfers included?
Airport transfers are not included. Taxis, and often other transportation options, are available from all airports.
Are meals included?
The Itinerary of the trip you are interested in will indicate which meals are included on each day. For meals on your own, suggestions are available from the concierge at the hotels we are staying in. We encourage you to explore the diversity of local and international cuisines in the places we visit.
Are the trips only for Jewish people?
While the majority of our travelers are Jewish, our trips are for anyone interested in exploring the Jewish heritage of the destinations we take you to.
I’d like to explore my genealogy at one of the places you are going to. Is that possible?
Our trips are not designed for genealogical research. If you want to undertake genealogical work, it is necessary to do this on your own and would be best to plan for an extra few days before or after one of our trips.
How much free time will I have?
Please see the itinerary of the trip(s) you are interested in for information on when free time is scheduled for exploring on your own, resting in your room, engaging in conversation with new friends, etc.
Is there Wi-Fi everywhere?
While WiFi is available in most of the world, there are regions or locations where it is not as accessible. Most of the hotels we stay at offer free WiFi.
What Museum Memberships Qualify?
Museum of Jewish Heritage New York: $54
Holocaust Museum LA: $100
Holocaust Memorial & Tolerance Center – Nassau County: $54
Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History: $54
*Membership # will need to be provided upon registration
Accommodation
Rising above Kobe, the ANA Crowne Plaza is a luxury, high-rise hotel with fully-equipped rooms offering expansive views of the city’s skyline or the lush slopes of Mount Rokko. It features several upscale restaurants as well as casual eateries, as well as a panoramic indoor pool and a fitness center.
The Yunoshimakan ryokan celebrates the elegance of Japanese traditions of exceptional hospitality. With baths fed by hot springs, spacious Japanese-style rooms with beautiful natural views, and an exquisite restaurant offering an authentic Japanese gastronomic experience, Yunoshimakan is one of Japan’s most celebrated traditional inns and offers a complete restorative immersion.
Located a short distance from the shopping and theater districts of Ginza and Marunouchi, the Imperial Hotel, Tokyo features elegant, spacious guest rooms as well as a pool, sauna, fitness room. There are several on-site restaurants, from fine French cuisine to a Japanese grill, international diner, sushi bar, and more.
The Westin Miyako Kyoto is a luxury hotel offering spacious rooms with elegant, modern interiors and large bathrooms with upscale amenities. The hotel features an authentic French restaurant, a swimming pool and jacuzzi, and the largest spa in Kyoto, which draws from natural hot springs.
*Star rating standards vary from country to country.
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