Beyond the Classroom: Our 2026 Japan Student Expedition with ISL
Apex Summit Trails has had the wonderful opportunity to lead 34 students, staff and expedition leaders from ISL on a nine-day expedition through Japan, combining mountain adventure, leadership development and cultural immersion.
A major highlight of the programme was climbing Mount Fuji via the Gotemba Route, where students experienced the mountain’s open volcanic landscapes, impressive scenery and the excitement of working towards a shared summit goal. Throughout the climb and the wider expedition, students took on leadership roles, supported one another, worked as a team and built confidence through real experiences outside the classroom.
Beyond Mount Fuji, the group explored Tokyo, Japanese temples and cultural sites, travelled by bullet train, took part in sushi-making and kimono experiences, enjoyed Japanese food and finished the journey with a visit to Tokyo DisneySea. The result was a well-rounded student expedition that brought together adventure, culture, leadership and unforgettable shared experiences in one of the world’s most exciting destinations.
Climbing Mount Fuji via the Gotemba Route
Mount Fuji was the highlights of the expedition and a memorable experience for the students.
The group climbed via the Gotemba Route, known for its wide volcanic terrain, open views and quieter mountain environment. The route gives students the opportunity to experience Mount Fuji at a steady pace while taking in the unique scenery that surrounds Japan’s highest mountain.
For many students, this was their first major mountain experience and their first summit.
Throughout the climb, the group worked together, encouraged one another and shared the experience as a team. Students learned how important communication, patience and teamwork are when working towards a common goal.
Reaching the summit of Mount Fuji at 3,776 metres was a proud moment for the group.
For some students, climbing a mountain may not have been something they had imagined themselves doing before the expedition. Completing the experience gave them a new sense of confidence and achievement, and for some, it may have sparked an interest in joining future mountain expeditions around the world.
Exploring Tokyo and Japanese Culture
After Mount Fuji, the group continued exploring Japan and experiencing the cultural side of the journey. Students spent time in Tokyo, visited temples and local cultural sites, travelled on the bullet train, tried a variety of Japanese food and took part in hands-on experiences such as sushi-making and kimono fitting.
These activities gave students the chance to engage with Japan beyond sightseeing and experience its traditions, food, transport and everyday culture first-hand. The trip also encouraged independence, confidence and cultural awareness as students navigated a completely new environment together.
The expedition ended with a visit to Tokyo DisneySea, giving the group a fun way to celebrate the journey and enjoy time together after a programme filled with adventure, leadership and new experiences.
A huge congratulations to the ISL students on an incredible journey through Japan and an unforgettable Mount Fuji summit! 🇯🇵⛰️
From the mountain to Tokyo, cultural experiences, teamwork and plenty of new memories along the way, it was amazing to see the energy, confidence and leadership the students brought to every part of the trip.
A big thank you to ISL for trusting Apex Summit Trails to be part of this adventure. We’re proud of everything the group achieved, and we hope this is just the first of many more journeys, mountains and adventures to come.
Here’s to the next summit!
Comments