About the Trip
While racing in the Izumo Ekiden is the primary focus of the trip, cultural exchange and experiencing Japan are also highlights. The team is in Japan for over a week and does a variety of activities that change from year to year. Here you can find a sample itinerary and more information to get a better idea of what to expect.
Sample Itinerary​
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Oct 7 (Tue) - Oct 8 (Wed)
Depart USA for Japan and overnight stay in Tokyo
Location: Haneda Excel Airport Hotel
Description: Leave the USA and fly to Japan and stay one night at the Haneda airport hotel. Possible meeting with members of the Ivy League alumni association of Japan.
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Oct 9 (Thu)
Arrive in Izumo, Shimane Prefecture
Description: Arrive in Izumo. Rest day.
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Oct 10 (Fri) - Oct 11 (Sat)
Prepare for the race and explore Izumo
Location: Izumo City, Izumo Shrine, Hinosaki Temple
Description: We have practice every morning and go to the track one day for pre-meet. While you are expected to rest prior to the race, you will also have the chance to visit the Izumo Taisha and downtown Izumo. There may be a cultural exchange event with the city of Izumo. Examples of past events include a kids ekiden, tea ceremonies, and meeting with city officials.
Oct 12 (Sun)
Opening ceremony
Location: New Welcity Hotel
Description: You will meet the college students who will be translating instructions for you during the race. We will also attend the opening ceremony for the ekiden.​
Oct 13 (Mon)
The race!
Location: Izumo Taisha Shrine
Description: This is race day! You should be ready to go! After the race is the famous Sayonara Party featuring the Ivy Select team performing YMCA.
Oct 14 (Tue) - Oct 15 (Wed)
Training camp and cultural exchange
Location: International Pacific University, Okayama
Description: We will have meals and practice with a Japanese university team and explore their city. This year we will meet International Pacific University. Thanks to our Ivy ekiden alumni donors for making this possible!
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Oct 16 (Thu)
Fly home to the USA
Here is some more about what expect in Izumo
