inside jewish

japan

 

September 11-18, 2025

Join JDC Entwine on our first ever trip to Japan! Learn about the small but mighty centuries old Jewish communities in Kobe and Tokyo, the biggest city in the world. Unearth stories about Jewish refugees traveling through Japan during World War II. Explore famous Japanese markets filled with amazing food, art and cultural wares. Discover ancient shrines and Buddhist temples. Eat sushi, practice Kintsugi and learn about global Jewish responsibility!

APPLY NOW

trip
highlights

FAQ
  • Visit the Jewish Community of Japan in Tokyo and the historic Jewish community in Kobe.
  • Discover iconic sites such as the Meiji Shrine and Senso-ji Temple in Tokyo, the Kobe Port, and the stunning Kiyomizu-dera Temple in Kyoto.
  • Wander through Tokyo’s Tsukiji Outer Market, Kobe’s Kitano-Cho district, and Kyoto’s Nishiki Market to experience local flavors and crafts.
  • Meet with members of the Jewish communities in Tokyo and Kobe to learn about their history and current initiatives.
  • Participate in discussions about the role of Jewish communities in Japan and their contributions to global Jewish responsibility.
  • Enjoy traditional Japanese cuisine, explore the vibrant nightlife in Tokyo, and appreciate the art and textiles in Kyoto.
  • Understand how the JDC responded to the devastating 2011 earthquake and tsunami in Japan, including their relief efforts and support for affected communities.

“No matter what happens, travel gives you a story to tell.”

– Jewish Proverb

PARTICIPATION FEE:

$1,750 (airfare not included)

*We are dedicated to ensuring that all members of our community have equal opportunity and access to this program. We offer additional subsidies to make this trip accessible for all participants. More info about subsidies is provided below.

INCLUDES:

Local transportation within Japan

Meals

Hotel accommodations

Site visits, briefings, tours, etc.

Medical and emergency evacuation insurance

*Please note that your participation fee does not include international airfare. Travel and cancellation insurance is required.

Trip Dates

September 11-18, 2025

Application Deadline:

June 15, 2025

APPLY NOW

About JDC

JDC (the American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee or “The Joint”) is the leading Jewish humanitarian organization, working in 70 countries to lift lives and strengthen communities. We rescue Jews in danger, provide aid to vulnerable Jews, develop innovative solutions to Israel’s most complex social challenges, cultivate a Jewish future, and lead the Jewish community’s response to crises. For over 100 years, our work has put the timeless Jewish value of mutual responsibility into action, making JDC essential to the survival of millions of people and the advancement of Jewish life across the globe. Learn more at jdc.org.

Additional Subsidies

At JDC Entwine, we value Arevut, mutual responsibility. We understand that our participants contribute significantly to the trip experience and that financial circumstances vary among our participants. We have a generous donor community that ensures participation fees for all Insider Trips are highly subsidized to provide greater access and opportunity for participation. To ensure accessibility and equitable opportunity, we are able to offer additional financial subsidies based on each participant’s ability to contribute to the cost of the trip. Learn more about our commitment to DEIB.

How it works:
Applicants accepted to an Entwine trip will receive a form to indicate need for additional financial assistance (up to 50% of the participation fee). Our team will review inquiries submitted on a case-by-case basis and inform individuals via email if we are able to offer them additional subsidies. Note: if additional subsidies are offered, the subsidy can only be applied towards the participation fee – participants are responsible for flights.

Explore more trips