Science and Innovation Tour – Japan 2027
Do you want to visit Japan’s leading space research facility, one of the world’s largest aquariums or marvel at the latest robotic innovations?
We are excited to offer Secondary School students the opportunity to participate in the 2027 Science and Innovation Tour to Japan.
When: April 2027 holidays (11 days)
Who: Students in Years 10, 11 and 12 in 2027 (Tour places are strictly limited).
Tour itinerary: Click here.
Student information session: Monday 4 May, Room JF15. This session will outline the initial expression of interest and application processes. Parent briefings will be held later.
This is an immersive experience to focus on many branches of science and technology, through real-world exploration, cultural engagement, and cutting-edge innovation. This tour will take students through some of Japan’s most dynamic cities, including Tokyo, Tsukuba, Osaka and Hiroshima, offering a unique blend of tradition and technological advancement.
Throughout the tour, students will engage with Japan’s globally recognised leadership in robotics, engineering and sustainability. Highlights include visits to interactive science museums, innovation centres and technology precincts, where students will gain insight into emerging fields such as robotics, artificial intelligence, renewable energy and urban design. Experiences such as travelling on the iconic Shinkansen (bullet train), exploring advanced transport systems, and observing real-world applications of physics and engineering concepts will deepen classroom learning in a meaningful way.
Students will participate in a variety of tours and have some cultural experiences along the way, fostering a broader global perspective. By connecting scientific understanding with cultural context, students will develop a richer appreciation of how innovation is shaped by society.
Tour highlights include:
- TeamLab digital art museum, an immersive interactive exhibition combining art, technology and design.
- National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation (Miraikan) to explore robotics, AI and future technologies.
- Kawasaki Robostage to see industrial robotics in action.
- Science Square Tsukuba, an interactive science facility showcasing Japanese innovation.
- JAXA Tsukuba Space Centre, Japan’s leading space research facility, to learn about satellites, astronaut training and space exploration.
- Tsukuba Expo Centre and Planetarium, which offers an awe-inspiring journey through the cosmos with its state-of-the-art projection technology and educational exhibits.
- Cyberdyne Robotics Studio, exploring innovative technologies and the future of automation firsthand.
- Ueno National Museum of Nature and Science to explore fascinating exhibits on Japan’s natural history, technology and space exploration.
- Explore Tokyo’s culture and history with visits to Meiji Shrine and the vibrant district of Harajuku and Sky Circus Sunshine 60 Observatory, an observation deck featuring immersive digital installations.
- Maglev Exhibition Centre to learn about Japan’s high-speed magnetic levitation train technology.
- Narusawa Ice Cave and Fugaku Wind Cave formed by volcanic activity.
- Guided tour of the Maishima Incineration Plant, an architecturally striking waste to energy facility designed by Friedensreich Hundertwasser that demonstrates innovative environmental engineering and sustainable waste management.
- Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan, one of the largest aquariums in the world.
- Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, Peace Memorial Museum and Survivor’s Testimony or Legacy Testimony sharing personal experiences of the atomic bombing.
- Miyajima Island
- Universal Studios Japan, experiencing world-class themed attractions and rides including Super Nintendo World and the Wizarding World of Harry Potter.
The tour is open for any students who are currently in Years 9, 10 and 11. Whilst students do not need to be studying a senior science, this program is ideally suited to students with an interest in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics, who are eager to extend their learning beyond the classroom. This tour provides valuable opportunities to build independence, collaboration skills and confidence in an international setting.
Marlise Kalt
Director of Operations/Physics Teacher
