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Upcoming Tours

Japanese Geography - Powder and Islands!

Open for Park City Geography students (AP and Regular)

Dates: Feb 13-22, 2027

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. We will ski-tour the mountains of central Hokkaido and then explore mangrove forests and coral reefs on Amami Oshima.

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 - all participants must at least be able to ski black diamond runs at Park City and be willing to prepare for the basics of ski touring. 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.)

  • 4 nights Asahikawa - ski and explore mountains of Hokkaido
  • 1 night Tokyo - evening in Shibuya/Harajuku/Shunjuku
  • 3 nights Amami-Oshima - explore mangrove forests and coral reefs

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

Transportation: We will fly to/from Japan. In Japan we will use various modes of transportation including airplanes, rental vans, trains, and buses.

Cost: $4500-$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: 

  • 6/30/2026 - Application and $500 application payment due (fully refundable until 9/1) 
  • 7/2026 - parent and student Zoom meeting - details TBA
  • 9/1 - payment of $3000 due 
  • 12/1 - final payment due (remainder of cost - we will communicate this after airfare is purchased.)
  • 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 6/15 to be considered for the trip.