Upcoming Tours

Fire and Ice! 

Japan's Geographic Extremes Tour 

Open for Park City Geography students (AP and Regular)

Dates: Feb 13-22, 2026 (evening departure on 2/13)

Trip Description and Purpose: The purpose of this trip is to investigate the implications of Japan's physical geography on its historical, economic, religious, political and cultural development. Students will find that this enriching experience will go beyond just the scope of a tourist trip to Japan. Rather this will be an immersive dive into the richness and beauty of Japan's northern and southernmost islands. And yes, we will be sure to experience first hand the joy of Japan POW on the island of Hokkaido and the beautiful mangrove forests and coral reefs on the Island of Iriomote.

This trip will be coordinated through Kenchan Japan Tours and led by Pete Stoughton (Geography teacher at PCHS) and Ken Wade (owner of Kenchan Tours and History teacher at Waterford). We will add another chaperone as needed depending on trip size. 

NOTES: This is a trip for experienced skiers who are willing to experience basic ski touring (with experienced local guides) - all participants must at least be able to ski black diamond runs at Park City. Also, all participants must travel together and will not be permitted to make separate travel arrangements.

Basic Itinerary: (a much more detailed itinerary available soon.)

• 3 nights Furano - ski and explore Hokkaido
• 1 night Tokyo - experience a taste of the largest metro area in the world 
• 2 nights Iriomote - kayak/snorkel/cycle around this national park island
• 1 night Ishigaki - to be closer to the airport for our trip home

Accommodations: we will stay in Japanese hotels and inns - Students will be 2-4 in a room.

Transportation: We will fly to/from Japan - probably on American Airlines/Japan Airlines. In Japan we will be transported by local tour companies and make use of world-class public transportation systems (buses, trains, ferries), as well as flights on JAL and/or ANA between islands.  

Cost: $5500-$6000 (depending on enrollment and airfare). All student expenses are included -- airfare, travel in Japan, lodging, local guides, activities/admissions/lift tickets/rentals, 3 meals per day, travel insurance. The only additional expenses will be for personal souvenirs and extra snacks. Go to our Online Payments Page for payment options.

Booking Timeline: 

• 9/15 - Application and $500 application payment due (fully refundable until 10/1) 
• 9/26 - 7pm - parent and student Zoom meeting
• 10/1 - deposit of $3000 due 
• 12/1 - final Payment (remainder of total cost -- $2000-$2500) due 
• 12/1-2/12 - several ski touring orientation/practice sessions - details TBA
• 2/13 - depart for Japan! 

Application: 

Here is the application form. Fill it out completely and pay the $500 application payment by 9/15 to be considered for the trip. You will be notified by 9/22