Are you ready to transport your seniors to the enchanting land of Japan without ever leaving the comfort of your aged care facility? Our comprehensive guide to Armchair Travel to Japan is here to make it happen! Tailored specifically for activity coordinators in aged care settings, this guide provides step-by-step instructions on how to host an immersive and memorable Armchair Travel experience for seniors.

Our guide is specially crafted for aged care facilities, promising a fantastic Armchair Travel session every time. We share practical tips and creative ideas, from picking destinations to adding fun sensory experiences. Our aim? To keep seniors engaged and make your event a hit!

As a Premium Member, you’ll enjoy exclusive access to downloadable resources, including themed visual aids, discussion starters, and activity sheets. These tools enrich Armchair Travel sessions, creating unforgettable experiences for residents.

From the bustling streets of Tokyo to the serene temples of Kyoto, seniors will embark on a virtual voyage filled with cultural immersion, exploration, and connection. Join us for an amazing trip to Japan! Explore its beauty and culture with Armchair Travel. It’s a fun way to connect, engage, and bring adventure to seniors in aged care!

Planning the Experience:

Let’s kick off our Armchair Travel to Japan with some strategic planning!

Pick a Date & Promote the Session: Choose a date that suits everyone and create excitement by spreading the word with eye-catching posters or casual announcements. Get everyone in the mood with a friendly, “Are you ready to explore the wonders of Japan?” Invitation cards are available below!

Set Up a Cozy Space: Set up a cozy space with plenty of seating around a big TV, creating the atmosphere of a welcoming Japanese getaway. Imagine yourself in a traditional Japanese home, poised to explore serene gardens and picturesque landscapes.

Print Passports and Boarding Passes: Add an element of fun by printing custom passports and boarding passes. Seniors will love receiving their printed passports and collecting stamps as they embark on their virtual journey.

Get Creative with Decorations: Create a vibrant atmosphere with colorful decorations like paper lanterns and traditional Japanese banners. Picture Japanese flags swaying gently among cherry blossom trees, setting a festive mood. Add to the ambiance with images of iconic Japanese landmarks such as Mount Fuji or the Kyoto Imperial Palace.

Prepare Japanese dishes: Savor the authentic tastes of Japan with traditional delights like Tempura, Tsukemono pickles, and Sashimi. Delight in the crispy perfection of Tempura, the tangy goodness of Tsukemono pickles, and the fresh flavors of Sashimi. These mouthwatering dishes will whisk you away to the heart of Japan, satisfying your cravings and leaving you longing for another bite.

Japan Session Program:

A printable A4 version of this step-by-step program is found in our premium membership download at the bottom of this page.

Follow our Step-by-Step Sample program for a successful Armchair Travel event:

1. Welcome

Set the atmosphere with Japanese Music as guests arrive. As they walk through the door, let’s give them a warm welcome and have a staff hand them the passport with their names already on it.

Seat residents comfortably. Have a staff member go around to each table and glue the stamps into the passports. (Stamps provided in our printable kit) To spice things up, dress the volunteers and the staff as airplane/ship crew for a more realistic experience!

Duration: 5 – 15 minutes

2. Introduction

Engage residents by asking what they know about Japan. Start by asking simple questions like the colors of Japan’s flag, its national anthem, and famous personalities. Then, dive into Japan’s fascinating culture, geography, and must-visit places.

Duration: 20 – 30 minutes

3. Refreshments

Treat residents to a Japanese experience with delightful beverages like Matcha tea, Sakura tea, and Yakult, accompanied by traditional Japanese snacks or sushi rolls. Set a serene and welcoming ambiance for everyone to savor.

Duration: 5 – 10 minutes

4. Quiz & Trivia

Keep the excitement going with a Japanese-themed quiz and trivia session. Test residents’ knowledge of Japan’s history, geography, and cultural traditions, providing opportunities for friendly competition and laughter.

Duration: 30 – 40 minutes

5. Show some captivating videos of Japan

This can be shown on the big TV or projector screen during the travel experience. Explore the 10 Best Places to Visit in Japan. Ready your minds and travel with your imagination! Transport residents to the beauty of Japan with captivating videos showcasing its stunning landscapes and vibrant culture.

Duration: 15 minutes

6. Dancing Demonstration

Get residents moving and grooving with a Japanese Sakura dance demonstration or instructional video. Encourage everyone to join in and sway to the music, fostering a sense of joy and connection.

Duration: 30 minutes

7. Share Experiences

Invite residents who’ve visited Japan to share their memories. Form a big circle and let every one of them speak and share their core experiences with Japan. You can formulate your own or use the provided template for a more organized sharing.

• My most memorable experience in Japan is/are _____
• What I like about Japan is/are _____
• What makes Japan unique is ______
• The people from Japan are _______
• If I get the chance to travel back to Japan again, I would ______

Duration: 20 – 30 minutes

8. The Beauty of Japan

Continue the virtual journey with more videos highlighting Japan’s natural beauty and iconic landmarks. Showcase breathtaking scenery and cultural landmarks, allowing residents to appreciate the unique charm of the islands.

Respect runs deep in Japanese culture, influencing how people behave and interact. Etiquette, politeness, and showing deference to authority figures and elders are highly valued in Japanese society.

Duration: 30 minutes

9. Culinary Delights

Treat residents to a sampling of Japanese cuisine with traditional snacks and treats. Serve up options like sushi rolls, green tea mochi, or miso soup, letting residents indulge in the delicious tastes of Japan. Check out these recipe videos for some culinary inspiration!

Duration: 20 – 30 minutes

10. Closing

Conclude the event with a heartfelt thank you to participants and a discussion of future travel destinations. Encourage residents to share their feedback and suggestions for future Armchair Travel events, ensuring ongoing engagement and enjoyment for all.

Duration: 10 minutes or less

Extending the Experience:

• Wind down the event with a relaxing coloring activity featuring Japanese-themed designs. (Coloring pages are available in the printable resources file) Provide coloring sheets and pencils, allowing residents to express their creativity and unwind after their virtual journey.

• Keep the Japanese spirit alive with additional activities like crafting Japanese Classic Origami Crane. Extend the Armchair Travel experience into an all-day Japanese theme day, filled with music, food, and fun!

Step into the world of Japan with our Armchair Travel experience, where every moment is brimming with beauty, warmth, and the essence of hospitality. Let’s embark on a journey together and create memories that will last a lifetime!