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JAPAN LEADERSHIP PROGRAM
Program Details, Sample Itinerary and FAQs
This Immersive Program Includes:
- Curated, facilitated, 6-day in-person program in Japan
- Pre-trip and post-trip virtual meetings and learning program with Katie Anderson -- including self-paced online video lessons and reading -- to augment and crystalize your learning and impact
- Facilitated group discussions led by Katie Anderson before, during and after the program
- Seminars with Japanese leaders including Isao Yoshino
- Visits to host companies and experts
- Entrance, site visit, conference rooms, and speaker fees
- Accommodations in 4-star Western hotels and traditional Japanese ryokan (6 nights total)
- Most meals: Breakfast (6 days), Lunch (5 days), Dinner (2 nights)
- Domestic transportation via private bus and Shinkansen
- Interpretation services (into English)
- Travel logistics during program
- Customized workbook with information about the program, site visits, and space for note-taking
- Group document sharing and communication platforms
- Certificate of Completion
Travel Arrangements
Plan to arrive in Nagoya no later than Sunday midday for the start of the program on Sunday early afternoon, although it is recommended you arrive at least one day earlier to allow for time zone adjustment.
Program will conclude in Tokyo on Friday evening, with hotel check-out on Saturday.
Travel details and more specifics related to your tour date will be provided once you are enrolled in the program. Wait for our go-ahead before buying flights.
SUBMIT YOUR APPLICATION
Sending a group?
If you are investing in your organization by sending three or more leaders on the same program, indicate on your application and we will contact you to discuss enhanced learning experiences and support for your group, including customized pre-trip learning, team-building, and strategic alignment and implementation support.
Are You Self-Funding?
A special bonus is available for individuals self-funding their experience. Please let us know on your application to discuss this option.
Apply now!
Limited Group Size
18 Participants Maximum
* You are responsible for your international flights to Japan, your domestic travel and related costs before and after the program, and any meals and experiences outside of the program itinerary. You are also responsible for obtaining personal travel and international health insurance. Travel insurance is strongly advised.
SAMPLE PROGRAM ITINERARY
Below is a sample itinerary based on Katie Anderson’s prior Japan Leadership Experiences. Each program is unique in its agenda and specific programming. The specific program agenda is determined 2-3 months prior to the scheduled trip and is curated by Katie Anderson for each program, though the learning objectives and focus of the program remains constant.
For 2025 programs, 81-year old Toyota leader Isao Yoshino plans on joining the entire 6-day tour in Japan, pending his health. This is exclusive access to spend time with an influential leader who helped shape the Toyota Way over meals, on the bus, and during discussions.
For more details, you can see past itineraries and highlights for examples of previous programs including November 2024, May 2024 and October 2023. You can also visit LinkedIn for past participants’ daily digests under #JapanStudyTrip.
Note: All program specifics are subject to change due to events such as COVID-related issues, site host availability, or other factors. We will handle all arrangements to ensure a robust learning program and cultural experience.
BEFORE THE PROGRAM
PRE-TRIP LEARNING AND PREPARATION
- Access to pre-trip learning materials including books, videos, lectures and curated reading
- Pre-trip facilitated group calls led by Katie Anderson with your program cohort for discussion and enriched learning to ensure you are best prepared to get the most value from the trip
- Access to shared collaboration platforms and group chat
- Travel and trip preparation logistics support
SUNDAY
ARRIVE IN NAGOYA
- Arrive in Nagoya no later than Sunday midday. Check-in to Nagoya Hotel.
- If arrive the night before, enjoy exploring Nagoya on your own, such as a visit to the Nagoya Castle or an extended visit to the Toyota Museum
- Orientation, Welcome + Discussion with Isao Yoshino
- Guided visit to the Toyota Museum of Technology and Innovation
- Welcome dinner with all participants (included)
MONDAY
NAGOYA AREA
- Visit Toyota supplier or another company + leadership discussion
- Cultural experience(s) (e.g. visit an elementary school to experience the school lunch and cleaning, a Japanese tea ceremony, other experience)
- Leadership workshop with ex-Toyota leaders / Toyota Management Institute
- Reflection + discussion session
- Optional group dinner
TUESDAY
NAGOYA AREA/TOYOTA CITY
- Visit Toyota Supplier or another company + leadership discussion
- Cultural experience(s) (e.g. visit an elementary school to experience the school lunch and cleaning, Japanese tea ceremony, other experience )
- Reflection + discussion session
- Optional group dinner
WEDNESDAY
NAGANO & GUNMA PREFECTURES
- Travel via bus to Nagano Prefecture
- Visit Ina Foods Industries + leadership discussion
- Lunch at Ina Foods' garden restaurant (or another location)
- Sake tasting experience
- Stay overnight at a ryokan (traditional Japanese hotel) in the mountains
- Traditional Japanese banquet dinner and celebration (included)
- Local sightseeing and cultural experiences such as onsen, wearing yukata, and karaoke (optional)
THURSDAY
ASHIKAGA & TOKYO
- Cultural experience - visit the Daruma Temple in Takasaki
- Lunch in Ashikaga and discussions with Japanese business leaders
- Site visit and experience at 1-2 Ashikaga companies (Ogura Metal, Tokyo Foods, or another) + discussion
- Check-in - Tokyo Hotel
- Dinner on own in Tokyo
FRIDAY
TOKYO AREA
- Visit Tokyo-area company or lecture + discussion with Japanese business executive
- Lunch in Tokyo
- Final discussion and wrap-up facilitated by Katie Anderson
- Graduation ceremony with certificate of completion, daruma doll, and group photos
- Optional group celebration dinner or possible additional cultural experience (depends on the trip!) and karaoke
- Official tour program ends Friday evening
SATURDAY
TRIP CONCLUDES IN TOKYO
- Check out of Tokyo hotel
- Fly home - or extend your stay on your own
AFTER THE PROGRAM
FOLLOW UP
- Facilitated group reflection session to embed your learnings and apply them in your organization
- Ongoing access to shared files and group chat for collaboration
DON’T MISS OUT ON THIS TRANSFORMATIONAL LEARNING OPPORTUNITY!
Frequently Asked Questions
Program Impact and Value
Is the Japan Leadership Experience worth the investment in time and money?
Absolutely! The Japan Leadership Experience is an immersive leadership development program that will accelerate your ability to lead transformational change, whether you are an executive, internal change leader, or consultant.
The experience is more than a trip to Japan – it is a leadership learning immersion that is transformational both personally and professionally.
The Japan Leadership Experience includes facilitated discussions and learning both before, during, and after the program in Japan, as well as an immersive and unparalleled learning experience while in Japan. The curated program blends lean management principles with cultural insights, leadership practices, and practical tools. The focus on both people-centered practices and practical technical lean processes provides long-lasting value for leaders looking to foster innovation, psychological safety, and high performance in their teams and organizations.
Over 125+ global leaders have invested in their leadership development through joining my Japan Leadership Experience since 2018 and report real, actionable changes in their leadership approach and organizational culture, making this investment one that pays off over time.
(To see real-life examples of success stories from past participants, scroll down to the question: “What specific outcomes can I expect to gain? How can I explain the benefits or ROI of this program to my leadership (and maybe get them to fund it)”)
Who is the Japan Leadership Experience for?
If you are a leader looking to accelerate your impact and develop a people-centered learning culture, the Japan Leadership Experience is for you.
Whether you’re a lean consultant looking for new ideas to refresh your approach and get better client outcomes, an operational executive wanting to improve production outputs and employee engagement, a leadership team seeking ways to work together to foster learning and innovation in your organization, operational excellence practitioner who seeks to become a transformational change leader or simply a learning enthusiast who has been dreaming about a holistic learning experience in Japan this immersive experience will invigorate your passion for learning cultures and equip you with principles, practices, and mindset you need to create them.
How does this experience differ from other lean-focused tours and trips to Japan?
Unlike other lean tours to Japan that focus primarily on visiting Toyota and other manufacturing sites, or focus mainly on the technical side of the Toyota Production System, the Japan Leadership Experience emphasizes leadership and culture – and the skills, practices, and mindset that will give you greater clarity and confidence on how to create a high-performing learning culture and achieve long-term business success.
The program integrates in-depth leadership practices, pre-and post-trip discussions and curated learning, cultural experiences and exclusive access to companies and leaders, and a unique focus on people-centered leadership practices.
The Japan Leadership Experience also includes exclusive learning opportunities, that other programs don’t offer – including extended time with Toyota leader Isao Yoshino, the subject of my Shingo Award-winning book Learning to Lead, Leading to Learn, and visits with companies and their leaders with which I’ve developed a personal relationship with over her 10+ years of living and working in Japan.
What specific outcomes can I expect to gain? How can I explain the benefits or ROI of this program to my leadership (and maybe get them to fund it)?
Participants report that their participation in the Japan Leadership Experience has transformed their approach to leadership, team development, and operational excellence. From more psychologically safe environments to more effective lean practices, past participants have been able to demonstrate tangible results upon returning including increased employee engagement, quality, and delivery.
Additionally, we can provide resources and guidance on making a business case for the trip, ensuring that the ROI (return on investment) is clearly communicated.
For a glimpse of the program’s impact, you can listen to past trip participants including Issac Mitchell, Patrick Adams, Shawn Carner, Kecia Kelly, Amy Chaumeton, and Stephanie Bursek share their experiences on my podcast Chain of Learning as well as read more testimonials here and watch testimonial videos on YouTube.
I’ve already been practicing lean principles for years. What new insights will this experience offer me?
Even seasoned practitioners of lean find new and enriched perspectives on this program, especially on how lean and Toyota Production System practices can be integrated with leadership and human-centered approaches to ensure a holistic organizational transformation that sustains. This experience goes beyond the technical aspects of operational excellence and dives into how leaders foster a culture of respect, innovation, and psychological safety – areas that are often overlooked or minimized, but are crucial for sustained success.
What if I don’t have experience with lean or I’m not from the manufacturing industry?
While lean principles originated in manufacturing, they are applicable to a wide range of industries, including healthcare, education, government and service sectors. Participants come from a variety of industries, backgrounds, roles, and countries.
This program is designed to accommodate participants with varying levels of experience with lean and continuous improvement technical concepts and levels of leadership experience from emerging leaders to seasoned C-suite executives, and my guidance ensures that everyone gains valuable insights, regardless of their background.
The pre-trip learning will also prepare you to get the most from the immersive time in Japan, and we recommend additional learning to enrich your knowledge.
How can I ensure that the learnings from this trip will translate into practical results for my organization?
This leadership development experience is designed to provide not only theoretical knowledge but also actionable strategies and inspiration to equip you for application when you return from Japan. Participants are encouraged to bring specific challenges from their organizations, and the experiential learning process ensures that these challenges are addressed.
The daily and final-day reflection discussions allow you time to clarify how you will put your learnings into action. Plus, pre-trip and post-trip discussions help bridge the gap between learning and practical application.
Groups and Customized Support
I want to bring my leadership team or a group of leaders from my company. What additional programming do you offer for groups? Do you offer customized learning experiences and support for my organization?
Great idea! Bringing a group of leaders from your company dramatically accelerates learning, plus increases alignment around a common vision for continuous improvement and a team building experience that is truly one-of-a-kind. I also offer additional bonuses to organizations sending four or more people in the same cohort. Let’s talk about a wrap-around experience customized to your group and organization to enhance your impact.
I’m a consultant – can I bring my clients with me to Japan?
You sure can! Bringing clients with you on my Japan Leadership Experience is a perfect way for you to create unique value for your clients, deepen your credibility with them and deliver a one-of-a-kind learning experience for them.
Let’s discuss your vision for how my Japan Leadership Experience can complement and enhance what you’re working on with your clients.
Some success examples:
Brad Toussaint brought a cohort of 3 C-Suite leaders and shared on my podcast Chain of Learning how joining them on the experience deepened his consulting relationships, helped his clients implement what they learned, and ultimately strengthened his business.
Himanshu Raj brought a cohort of executives including company Chairman and former CEO, current CEO, and several site leaders from one of their facilities. In this post Himanshu described the impact:
“The week-long experience was nothing short of transformative. They immersed themselves in Lean philosophies, challenged long-held assumptions, and shifted their perspectives on leadership and organizational growth. This journey didn’t just change their minds; it inspired them to reimagine their vision for the future—a vision rooted in sustainability, continuous improvement, and purpose-driven leadership.”
Enrollment and Payment
What is the application and registration process?
After submitting your application, you will receive an email to schedule time with me to discuss your application, your learning goals for the program, and answer your questions. When you are ready to confirm your enrollment for your (or your team), you’ll receive the participant agreement to review and sign. We will also discuss your payment preferences and send you an invoice based on your desired payment option. Your position (or your team’s positions) on the program is confirmed once we receive your first installment or full payment, as well as the signed participant agreement.
How can I pay for the program? Can I pay for the trip with a credit card or debit card? Do you offer installments?
We offer multiple payment options for your convenience. We accept bank transfers and checks from U.S. banks and international wires from non-U.S. banks. You can also pay with a credit card or debit card. Please note that there is an additional transaction fee for credit card payments. We also offer the option to split the payment into two installments to make it more manageable. Your position on the program is confirmed once we receive your first installment or full payment, as well as the signed participant agreement.
What is the refund policy if I need to cancel or reschedule?
The cancellation and rescheduling policy is outlined in the participant agreement. Depending on the timing of the cancellation, a portion of the payment may be refundable or can be applied to a future program. We highly recommend purchasing travel insurance to cover any unforeseen circumstances, such as illness, that may prevent you from attending the program in Japan. You can see the details of the cancellation policy in the participant agreement before you register.
Can I bring a guest (spouse, friend, adult child) with me?
Yes! We welcome non-participating adult guests to join as tourists and share your accommodation for most of the itinerary and to join us for the optional group dinners (usually Monday, Tuesday, and Friday). Many previous Japan Leadership Experience participants have brought spouses, adult children, and friends along. Your guest(s) should expect that you will be participating on the program from morning through evening and be excited for touring Japan on their own.
There is an additional hotel charge from the hotels to share your hotel room and your guests are not able to join us for the formal Japan Leadership Experience programming. Typically there is one night in our itinerary that guests are not able to join and will need to plan for separate accommodations.
Please inquire about bringing a guest(s) during your application. We will advise on what is possible for your specific program and make recommendations on how your guests can make the most of their experience.
Program Structure, Itinerary, and Other Information
What is the group size for each cohort? Will I get enough personal attention?
Each Japan Leadership Experience learning cohort is intentionally limited to 18 participants to ensure a personalized experience. This allows both for diversity of perspective and deeper discussions, one-on-one guidance, and the opportunity to reflect on and apply what you’re learning directly to your leadership role. We encourage you to confirm your spot or your team’s spots early, as the trip can fill up quickly, especially when organizations send multiple participants. Each program typically sells out at least four to six months in advance.
How frequent are the pre-trip and post-trip meetings, and what are their timings?
Starting roughly three months before the dates of the program in Japan, we typically host two to three pre-trip remote facilitated discussions to enhance your learning experience, best prepare you to get the most out of the immersive program in Japan, and support you in applying what you’ve learned when you return home. Due to participants joining from various time zones globally, these calls are scheduled at different times to accommodate as many people as possible. All sessions are recorded, so if you can’t attend live, you can watch them later.
Following the immersive experience in Japan, we have a reflection session approximately four to six weeks after the trip to discuss how you’ve applied what you learned. The WhatsApp group and our file sharing platform remain active to share experiences, ask questions, and collaborate with your cohort and me long after the program has ended.
What types of companies do we visit? Will we visit one of the Toyota plants as part of the itinerary?
The Japan Leadership Experience focuses on leadership and culture across diverse industries and types of organizations. You will visit a range of companies that are applying the principles of kaizen, people-centered leadership, and excellence to achieve long-term success. The itinerary also includes cultural experiences that enhance understanding of lean principles and cultures of excellence. You can see a sample itinerary and past trip programs here.
While unfortunately, Toyota has not reopened their facilities in Toyota City for visits since the pandemic, our program’s curated experiences provide tangible insights into the core concepts of Toyota’s production and management systems. You will have the opportunity to learn from many former Toyota leaders and Toyota suppliers, including spending exclusive time with 40-year Toyota leader Isao Yoshino during the entirety of your program. In addition, we typically visit several Toyota suppliers who have deep knowledge of the Toyota Production System (TPS), have discussions and seminars with former Toyota leaders who have deep expertise in the Toyota Way and Toyota Management System, and explore the Toyota Museum for an immersion into the history of the TPS and the Toyota Way.
I’m concerned about the language barrier. How will that be managed during the trip?
The program in Japan is fully guided and facilitated by me, Katie Anderson, and my partner in Japan who serves as your translator from Japanese to English. English is the primary language of the program, though each cohort usually includes a diverse group of participants from many countries and native-langage backgrounds. Additionally, many of the key site visits are with organizations familiar with international visitors, so communication will not be a barrier to understanding or fully participating.
I’m introverted or not always comfortable in large group settings. Will I still benefit from the trip?
Absolutely. The small group setting fosters deeper connections and allows for both group and individual reflection. I strive to create an inclusive environment where everyone is encouraged to participate at their own comfort level, ensuring you get the most from the experience in a way that suits your personality. Several evenings we offer several optional group dinners so that those who need to recharge in a non-group environment can do so.
Will there be time to explore or sightsee on my own?
Our six-day immersive itinerary in Japan is structured to maximize your learning and give you a rich learning experience. You will have limited free time during the official program for your own sightseeing, exploration, or downtime. You can take advantage of opting out of the optional group diners to explore or have time on your own in Nagoya and Tokyo. We highly recommend spending a few days either before or after the program for additional sightseeing. If you want recommendations for where to go or what to see during your free time, my team and I are always happy to help!
We have included many cultural experiences as part of the program as well as offer diverse and excellent Japanese cuisine throughout the program. One night we will stay at a traditional Japanese ryokan where you will experience a Japanese banquet.
We offer optional group dinners at delicious and lively Japanese restaurants and an optional karaoke night experience following our celebration dinner on Friday.
Travel Logistics
When should I plan to arrive in Japan?
We recommend that you arrive at least one day before the program in Japan starts to adjust to the time zone. If possible, arriving a few days earlier or staying longer after the trip for personal exploration is ideal, and highly recommended. We will cover details of travel logistics in your welcome information after enrollment and we are always available to answer any questions related to travel logistics to ensure your smooth arrival to the program.
What airport should I fly into in Japan?
We typically start our program in Nagoya and finish in Tokyo. While you can fly into any airport in Japan such as Tokyo (Haneda or Narita airports), Nagoya, or Osaka, it’s often easiest to fly into and out of Tokyo (Haneda or Narita airports) and take the bullet train (shinkansen) from the airport to Nagoya, as it’s more convenient and time-efficient. We will provide comprehensive travel recommendations and logistics guidance once you enroll.
I’ve never been to Japan or traveled internationally. Will I be able to manage?
Absolutely! Our team provides comprehensive support, from helping you with travel arrangements to guiding you through every step of the trip. Japan is a very welcoming country for international travelers, and the itinerary is structured to make sure you feel comfortable, even if it’s your first time abroad. Plus, you’ll be part of a small group where everyone supports each other, so you won’t feel like you’re navigating it alone.
What if I experience jet lag or travel fatigue?
We understand that traveling to a new time zone can be challenging. We highly recommend that you arrive in Japan at least one, or more, days in advance (by Saturday) to give yourself time to recover from your travel and start to adjust to the time. There’s a mix of structured activities and downtime to help you adjust and recharge. We offer optional group dinners on Monday and Tuesday nights to give those who need more rest time the opportunity to recharge outside of a group environment. Our team is also available throughout to offer tips for managing jet lag, so you can make the most of every moment.
What if I have dietary restrictions or other specific needs?
Japan is well known for its hospitality, and most places are able to accommodate dietary restrictions. Whether you’re vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or have other needs, our team will work with you to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. We handle all the communication with restaurants and accommodation providers, so you can focus on enjoying the experience.
What should I pack, and what cultural considerations should I be aware of?
You will receive a detailed packing list and guide on Japanese culture before the trip, so you’ll feel well-prepared. From weather-appropriate clothing to cultural customs, you’ll have all the information you need to be respectful and comfortable during your stay. And don’t worry—Japan is very understanding of international visitors, so as long as you show basic respect, you’ll fit in just fine!
What happens if there’s a medical emergency?
Japan has a world-class healthcare system, and our team will have a plan in place for any medical needs that may arise. Plus, our team is always nearby to assist and ensure you’re well taken care of, so you can feel safe and supported throughout the journey. We highly recommend that you purchase travel health insurance during your stay in Japan to ensure you’re covered in case of any emergencies.
Concepts We'll Explore
Respect for People
Understand more deeply what respect for people (“hitozukuri” or the art of developing people) means in Japan and how “respect for people” became one of the two pillars of the Toyota Way codified in 2001. Respect for people is the uniting theme across all the organizations we will visit.
Craftsmanship
Observe how respect for craftsmanship (“monozukuri” or the art of making things) is pervasive in the Japanese culture. Learn how the teacher (sensei) and apprentice (deshi) relationship is essential to developing skills – and developing people.
Learning
Understand how respect for learning and reflection is fundamental to Toyota’s success. Discover how Japanese children learn through visiting a local elementary school.
Precision and Kata
Ride on the Shinkansen (bullet train) between Nagoya and Tokyo and be awed by the Japanese focus on precision. This deliberate focus on precision can be seen in the kata (routines) in everyday life, from tea ceremonies to how business cards are exchanged. Learn how precision is an important part of standard work and continuous improvement.
Regret of Waste
Appreciate how the concept of “mottainai” (regret for waste) is a deeply held Japanese cultural value, taught at an early age to children, and how elimination of waste is an essential component of the Toyota Production System and Lean thinking.
Continuous Improvement
Learn how continuous improvement (“kaizen”), the second pillar of the Toyota Way, is incorporated into the daily work of every employee, and the leader’s role in supporting daily improvement. Kaizen is not a “project”, but rather the small ideas that make the organization work a little bit better every day.
Creativity
See, through multiple site visits and observations of daily life, how Lean principles support and encourage people’s creativity for improvement – and how concepts of joy and fun can be brought into business and factory environments.
Community
Hear how organizations use Lean concepts to improve their business operations and how their mindsets are focused on doing good for their broader community. Learn how one town in Japan has used Lean practices as a strategy to revitalize their community.
Hospitality and Customer Service
Experience the Japanese concept of “omotenashi” (the Japanese term for hospitality and customer service) in everyday interactions. Understand how the concept of service is linked with kaizen to demonstrate respect for customers – and employees.
Organization and Cleanliness
Be amazed at the organization, tidiness, and cleanliness of Tokyo and other Japanese cities. Learn how respect for organization facilitates Lean practices such as 5S, but in no way ensures that 5S is easy!
