To our friends living overseas,
Alternative School: Shidokan Gakusha (Japan)
Short-term Study Abroad Program for Elementary and Junior High School Students
Shidokan Gakusha offers short-term study abroad programs ranging from 1 to 5 days.
This program provides a wonderful learning environment for elementary and junior high school students visiting Japan for sightseeing or business. Participants will experience the spirit of “Do” (the “Way”), which symbolizes traditional Japanese culture, through Judo combined with Shodo (calligraphy), Kado (flower arrangement), or Sado (tea ceremony).
We also provide opportunities for cultural exchange, such as having meals with Japanese children and exploring the Ogikubo area together.
< Eligibility / Target Ages >
Ages 8 to 15
< Location >
Alternative School: Shidokan Gakusha
3-3-4 Imagawa, Suginami-ku, Tokyo
Ogikubo: The Historic Intellectual Retreat of Tokyo
Once celebrated as “The Kamakura of the East,” Ogikubo has long been the preferred sanctuary for Japan’s most prominent literary figures, poets, and intellectuals. Since the early 20th century, it has preserved its prestige as a refined villa district, offering a serene escape from the city’s bustle.
Today, this storied neighborhood serves as the perfect backdrop for Shidokan Gakusha, where students can experience the same tranquil elegance that once inspired great thinkers like Akiko Yosano and Osamu Dazai. After their studies, families can explore Ogikubo’s sophisticated culinary scene, renowned for its artisanal mastery of Ramen and Curry.
< Access >
By Bus from JR Ogikubo Station:
Take the Seibu Bus and get off at “Sogo Ogikubo Byoin-mae” (Sogo Ogikubo Hospital). It is approximately a 3-minute walk from the bus stop.
By Foot from JR Nishi-Ogikubo Station:
Approximately a 20-minute walk.
By Foot from Kami-Igusa Station (Seibu Shinjuku Line):
Approximately a 15-minute walk.
< Program Fees (All prices include tax) >
1-Day: ¥66,000
2-Days: ¥127,600
3-Days: ¥184,800
4-Days: ¥233,200
5-Days: ¥275,000
※Participants can choose from 1 to 5 days.
※The fees include:
Lunch (Onigiri making)
Judo uniform (Gi) rental
Special Gift: A copy of the Judo picture book, “Mitch’s Magic Words (Mitchi no Aikotoba).”
This story blends the core spirit of Judo, Seiryoku Zen’yo (Maximum Efficiency) and Jita Kyoei (Mutual Welfare and Benefit), with Buddhist teachings on overcoming the “Three Poisons” (Greed, Anger, and Ignorance). The book is available in Japanese, English, and French.
※Optional Services
・Personalized Judo Uniform with Name Embroidery: ¥15,000 (tax incl.)
（Reservation required at least one month in advance.）
・Professional Photographer Service: Approx. ¥30,000 per day
（Reservation required at least one month in advance.）
< Cancellation Policy >
- Cancellations made 7 days or more before the experience date: No cancellation fee.
- Cancellations made 6 to 2 days before the experience date: 50% of the total price will be charged.
- Cancellations made the day before or on the day of the experience: 100% of the total price will be charged.
