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Unlocking Japan: Journeys Beyond the Guidebook

Jun 30 2026, 6:00 pm - 7:30 pm

Free

Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP

525 University Ave
Palo Alto, CA 94301 United States

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*In-person program

Japan offers endless ways to explore — from vibrant cities to historic towns, quiet countryside, coastal scenery, and hidden regional treasures. But with so many choices, planning the perfect trip can feel overwhelming. Join us for this special travel program designed to help you imagine and plan your dream trip to Japan, emphasizing scenic ways to travel.

We’ll be joined by Japanet, who will share information about their English-friendly cruises. Their tours appeal even to Japanese locals and seasoned travelers, focusing on deep cultural immersion — stops at unique ports of call, such as their hometown of Nagasaki, spanning from the subtropical Okinawa in the south up to Hakodate in the northern island of Hokkaido, and access to traditional cultural experiences like sumo training, daily rajio taiso (radio calisthenics), and more.

Japan Society President Steve Pollock will share some of his travel experiences in Japan and offer recommendations for putting together an unforgettable visit. We will also save time for fellow travelers and attendees to share their secret spots and latest tips to help guide your trip, so bring your questions (and answers!) to the program.

Date & Time:
Tuesday, June 30th, 2026 @ 6:00 – 7:30 PM PDT

Venue:
Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP (14th Floor) | 525 University Ave, Palo Alto, CA 94301

Parking:

There is street parking available and the building has underground parking. The entrance to the garage is located on Cowper Street between Lytton and University Avenues.

Tentative Agenda:

6:00-6:05 PM Opening Remarks | Steve Pollock, President, Japan Society of Northern California
6:05-6:17 PM Japan by Cruise, Nagasaki and Beyond | Jeff Cutler, Chief of Section, Japanet
6:17-6:29 PM Speaker 2
6:29-6:41 PM Speaker 3
6:41-7:11 PM Panel Discussion

  • Jeff Cutler | Chief of Section, Japanet
  • Moderator: Steve Pollock | President, Japan Society of Northern California
7:11-7:25 PM Audience Q&A
7:25-7:30 PM Closing Remarks | Steve Pollock, President, Japan Society of Northern California

 

In Collaboration with

Our Amazing Speakers:

Japanet | Jeff Cutler, Chief of Section

Miguel Concepcion, Videographer, Visual Discovery / Freelance Photographer / Frequent Japan Visitor

Miguel Concepcion has visited Japan since 1978, when he had his second birthday in Tokyo during one of his family’s many visits to Japan. This was due in part to his father’s Philippines-based semiconductor business. While Miguel has visited Japan in five different decades, he increased his frequency dramatically in the last ten years with 13 trips. This is motivated by his desire to thoroughly visit all 47 prefectures and the many goals he seeks to accomplish in each of them. He makes a living as a lifelong videographer and photographer, ranging from legal depositions to portrait and street photography.

Moderator:

Japan Society of Northern California | Steve Pollock, President

Steve Pollock is the President of Japan Society – and a big Japan travel fan. He first lived in Japan during high school as an AFS exchange student and has returned many times, visiting more than 40 prefectures. His all-time favorite destination in Japan is Shirakawago in winter, and his favorite trip was hitchhiking from Tokyo around Shikoku (and back) during his college days. He LOVES sharing Japan travel tips with friends and family members – and hearing about their Japan travel adventures.

Venue

  • Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP
  • 525 University Ave
    Palo Alto, CA 94301 United States

Details

  • Date: June 30
  • Time:
    6:00 pm - 7:30 pm
  • Cost: Free
  • Event Category: