What’s new?

Featured: The Jews of Mexico City: A Cultural Journey – 6 Day Tour
Featured: 10 Day Jewish Heritage Tour of Spain: Madrid, Granada & Seville
Featured: 9-Day Jewish England Tour: London, Oxford & Cambridge
New Dates Added: Experience 12 Days in The Imperial Cities Of Morocco
First Ever Passover Program in Tokyo! | April 11-21, 2025
Featured: Trieste & Croatia - Crossroads - 12 days Of Jewish Culture
New Dates Added: The Jews of Cuba - 7 Day Tour
  • Phone
  • Email
× Send

Pesach In The East

From $9,492 (*$8,992 discounted)

Japan, Land of the Rising Sun

Your Luxury Yom Tov in the Heart of Tokyo!

Experience a five-star Passover like no other, in the heart of Tokyo at the luxurious Hilton Tokyo in Shinjuku.

Passover coincides with the spectacular Japanese Cherry Blossom Season, the ideal time to visit this beautiful country. The sights are breathtaking and only visible during this limited time of year.

Gil Travel’s Pesach in the East program is hosted in the Hilton’s state-of-the-art Kiku Convention Center for our group’s exclusive use, including a private lounge, lobby, and round the clock bar and tea room, ensuring a private family setting.

The venue is spacious and beautifully decorated, perfect for our lavish Seders, inspiring Tefillot and Shiurim, and a truly joyous and memorable Yom Tov.

The Program

Japan is a country where the past meets the future. With ancient temples and kimono-clad geisha girls hurrying between traditional tea houses in Kyoto, to lightning-fast bullet trains connecting the high-tech cities of Osaka and Tokyo, Japan is a truly enchanting destination.

Even before heading out to your adventures on our curated excursions, from the comfort of your luxurious accommodations in the Hilton, you’ll have the opportunity to immerse yourself in unique cultural experiences such as a Samurai performance, traditional tea ceremony, kimono dressing, and so much more.

During Chol Hamoed, you will have the opportunity to explore Tokyo and beyond on your own, taking advantage of Gil Travel’s comprehensive guide and resource packet. You may also sign up to join our exclusive group tours (scroll down below for more tour info), led by professional and knowledgeable Japanese guides- the perfect way to discover the rich culture and history of Japan as well as Japan’s Jewish history and modern Jewish life in Tokyo.

  • Minyanim and Shiurim are conveniently held in the Kiku Convention Center, as well as the dedicated babysitting service and engaging kids’ program on Yom Tov.
  • Optional babysitting and activities during Chol Hamoed, for more adventurous parents choosing to maximize their exploration of the country.
  • Unique program and entertainment each evening, as well as special surprises throughout the duration of the program.

The Food

Pesach in the East features renowned Israeli Chef Doron Sasson, known for his innovative gourmet creations, while maintaining the highest standards of Kashrut, non-Kitniyot and non-Gebrokts.  Chef Doron works hand in hand with the Hilton Tokyo world class Executive Chef and their international culinary team to create unique gastronomic experiences.

 

By blending top-tier culinary techniques with traditional Japanese flavors, and kosher-for-Pesach ingredients, the meals are so exceptional you’ll forget they’re even kosher for Pesach.

 

Get ready for Sushi-Pesach Style, Seaweed Finger Food, Traditional Japanese Barbecue, even a gluten free non Gebrokts Mexican feast with custom created tortillas, and so much more!

 

Our cuisine is under the supervision of the Rabbi Menachem Sudakevitch and the JKS – ועד הכשרות יפן.

 

From lavish banquets to special surprise treats, Chef Sasson’s culinary expertise is an experience that will be a highlight of your stay.

Prepare for a culinary journey that will completely redefine your expectations.

To receive your personalized quote, please complete the form below with as much detail as possible, so we can customize this program to your own, or to your group’s needs.

Pricing*

Please note that space is limited and submitting request for quote does not guarantee reservation. We will respond to requests in the order they are received.

 

Program cost includes 10 nights with full room and board, beginning Erev Shabbat, April 11th. Checkout is on the morning of Monday, April 21st.

Rates are all inclusive! No gimmicks! No up-charges! No taxes or service fees!  (Not inclusive of airfare and optional touring). We keep everything transparent and upfront. 

  • Pricing shown is per person for Deluxe rooms
  • Upgrades are subject to availability: Premium, Junior Suite, Tower Suite, and connecting rooms
  • Adult prices are for 13 year old and up
  • Early arrival and extended stay optional
  • Group flight packages available
  • Private Seder subject to availability

Scroll down for more info in our FAQs

See discounted prices below.

*Discount expires at the end of November!

Adult – Double Occupancy
(price per person in a 2 person room)
$9,492  *$8,992
Adult – Single Occupancy$11,884  *$10,884
Adult – Triple Occupancy
(price per person in a 3 person room)
$9,081  *$8,581
Child 7-12 – Double Occupancy
(price per child in a 2 person room)
$7,594  *$6,994
Child 7-12 – Triple Occupancy
(price per child in a 3 person room)
$7,265  *$6,994
Child 3 – 6$2,848
2 and under$949

 

Tours and Excursions

We are still in the process of finalizing our tour offerings that will be available to all participants to sign up for.  Prices for these tours will be posted in the next few weeks.  All tours are conducted in English, and led by knowledgeable tour guides that will enhance the trip with fascinating history, culture and background about Japan in general, as well as the sites you will be visiting.

You will be able to join any or all of these tours, or you can choose to explore Tokyo and beyond on your own.  Before arrival you we receive Gil Travel’s thorough resource guide with all you need to know to successfully navigate and explore this beautiful country using the safe, clean, comprehensive and extensive public transport network.

Eastern Tokyo Day Tour: Skylines, Culture, and Elegance
skytree

 

Approximately 8 hour tour

  • Tokyo Skytree: Begin your day with a breathtaking view of the city from the Tokyo Skytree, Japan's tallest structure. Ascend to the observation decks for panoramic vistas that stretch across the metropolis.
  • Asakusa Kannon: Get a taste of traditional Japanese culture at the Senso-ji Temple, also known as Asakusa Kannon. Wander through the vibrant Nakamise shopping street lined with souvenir shops. The perfect place to find gifts to bring home to friends and family.
  • Sumida River Cruise: Embark on a relaxing Sumida River cruise, passing iconic landmarks like the Skytree and the traditional Edo-period houses of Mukojima. Enjoy the serene river views and capture memorable photos.
  • Ginza for Shopping: Indulge in a shopping spree at Ginza, Tokyo's upscale shopping district. Explore high-end boutiques, department stores, and luxury brands.  Take advantage of the favorable Yen/USD exchange rate to find great deals.
  • Imperial Palace Plaza: Conclude your day with a visit to the Imperial Palace Plaza, the outer grounds of the Imperial Palace. Admire the Japanese-style architecture and serene gardens.
Western Tokyo Day Tour: Urban Energy and Serene Escapes
Rikugien Park
Lorem ipsum

 

Approximately 8 hour tour

  • Shibuya Crossing: Begin your day at the iconic Shibuya Crossing, witnessing the famous "scramble crossing" where thousands of people cross the intersection simultaneously. Immerse yourself in the vibrant energy of this bustling district.
  • Roppongi Hills Observatory: Head to the Roppongi Hills complex and ascend to the Mori Tower's observatory for panoramic views of Tokyo's cityscape. Admire the skyscrapers, the Tokyo Tower, and Mount Fuji on a clear day.
  • Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden: Escape the urban hustle and bustle at Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, a serene oasis in the heart of Tokyo. Explore the meticulously landscaped gardens, including the Japanese, French, and English gardens, and enjoy a peaceful stroll amidst nature.
  • Harajuku and Omotesando: Immerse yourself in Tokyo's youth culture and fashion scene in Harajuku. Visit Takeshita Street, known for its trendy shops and colorful street fashion. Then, stroll along Omotesando, a stylish avenue lined with high-end boutiques and flagship stores.
  • Rikugien Park: Conclude your day with a visit to Rikugien Park, a traditional Japanese garden renowned for its beautiful night illuminations. Stroll through the lantern-lit paths, admire the moonlit ponds, and experience the tranquillity of the park after dark.
Mount Fuji and Hakone Adventure: Peaks, Lakes, and Panoramas
Komagatake Ropeway
Lorem ipsum

 

Approximately 10 hour tour

  • 5th Station of Mt. Fuji: Begin your tour by ascending to the 5th Station of Mount Fuji, the highest point accessible by car or bus. Enjoy stunning panoramic views of the mountain and surrounding landscapes.
  • Fuji World Heritage Center: Visit the Fuji World Heritage Center to learn about the cultural and historical significance of Mount Fuji. Explore interactive exhibits, watch educational videos, and gain insights into the mountain's volcanic activity and spiritual importance.
  • Lake Ashi Cruise: Embark on a scenic cruise on Lake Ashi, surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of Mount Fuji. Admire the mountain's reflection on the lake's calm waters and capture unforgettable photographs.
  • Komagatake Ropeway: Take a thrilling ride on the Komagatake Ropeway (Gondola), offering panoramic views of Mount Fuji and the surrounding area. Reach the summit of Mount Komagatake, where you can enjoy stunning vistas.
Nikko Day Tour: A Journey Through History and Nature
Kegon Waterfall
Lorem ipsum

 

Approximately 10 hour tour

  • Lake Chuzenji: Begin your day by taking a scenic bus ride to Lake Chuzenji, a picturesque lake nestled amidst stunning mountain scenery. Enjoy a leisurely stroll around the lake, admire the beautiful reflections of the surrounding mountains, and take in the serene atmosphere.
  • Kegon Waterfall: Hike to the majestic Kegon Waterfall, one of Japan's most famous waterfalls. Marvel at the breathtaking sight of the water cascading down from a height of 97 meters, creating a mist that adds to the enchanting ambiance.
  • Nikko Toshogu Shrine: Explore the grandeur of Nikko Toshogu Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its intricate carvings, vibrant colors, and lavish decorations. Explore the various shrines and temples within the complex, including the famous Yomeimon Gate and the Sleeping Cat.
  • Shopping: After exploring the historical sites, take some time to enjoy shopping in Nikko. Browse the local shops for souvenirs and traditional crafts.
Half Day, Blow Your Mind: TeamLab Borderless
teamlab
Lorem ipsum

 

Half Day - Erev Yom Tov

Immerse yourself in a mesmerizing world of digital art at TeamLab Borderless. This immersive museum offers a unique and unforgettable experience, where boundaries between art and reality blur. Wander through interactive installations, project-mapped spaces, and digital art that responds to your presence. Lose yourself in a world of light, color, and sound, and create your own unique artistic experiences.  Hint: Be read to to remove your socks and shoes and roll up your pants before entering a an indoor virtual ocean...

Gil Travel

For over 50 years Gil Travel has proudly served the Jewish community promoting Israel and Jewish travel around the world. As the official travel agency for Taglit Birthright Israel (North America) and partnering with other Jewish organizations such as Israel Bonds, JFNA, major Jewish Federations, and more, we have facilitated the journeys and experiences of millions of travelers in a wide range of programs and events.

Gil Travel has produced multiple events in Japan, as well as many other international destinations. For decades we managed air and land programs for Maccabi World Union and the Maccabiah games in Israel and world wide, including Argentina, Brazil, Mexico, Berlin, Vienna and more

For our Pesach in the East program in Tokyo, we are working in conjunction with Chabad of Japan, who have been running, large scale, Pesach events for many years.

Our intimate business relationship with the Hilton network, puts at our disposal truly world class expertise, experience, and facilities that are unmatched in the hospitality industry.

With decades of experience, a global network, professional partnerships, and expert staff, Gil Travel’s infrastructure combined with Chabad of Japan’s local presence, creates the ideal team to smoothly and flawlessly bring the Pesach in the East program to life for you and your family.

Accommodation

*Star rating standards vary from country to country.

Start your adventure here

Or scoll Scroll down for FAQs

FAQ

Is the hotel exclusively open to the Pesach Program?

The Hilton Tokyo is a 5 star, 38 story hotel.  The hotel includes an entire 4th floor 16,000 square foot convention center. The convention center includes multiple conference rooms, halls, and meeting rooms, as well as a private bar, lounge and lobby. The entire convention area is reserved exclusively for the Pesach in the East program and is open only to program participants.

The program is conducted fully in the convention center, including Seders, meals, Tfillot, child care, and entertainment programs.

All other amenities in the hotel are available to all hotel guests including to our program participants. These include, the fitness center, spa, lounges, tennis courts, shopping areas, and more.

Do you offer flights?

Gil Travel will be arranging group flights from the US East Coast, and/or West Coast at group discounted rate, based on demand and availability.  Please let us know your preference when submitting your quote request.

What kind of Seder experience will this be?

Pesach in the East includes all meals for the 11 days, including Shabbat and Yom Tov meals, as well as the two Seder nights in the Kiku convention center's main banquet hall, allowing each family or group to run their Seder at their own pace.  The meals are served individually to each table at the pace set by your Seder. For those looking for a more guided experience, a Rabbi led Seder will be conducted in the adjacent banquet hall. Finally, subject to availability, semi private Seders can be reserved - at additional cost.  Please inquire on the form above.

What style of Passover food will the program offer?

The meals are non Gebrokts, non Kitniyot, Cholov Yisrael and Glatt Kosher, supervised by the JKS. At the same time, the culinary program is run by renowned Israeli Chef Doron Sasson, known for his innovative gourmet creations. Chef Doron, works hand in hand with the Hilton Tokyo world class Executive Chef and his international culinary team, blending top-tier culinary techniques with traditional Japanese flavors, and kosher-for-Pesach ingredients. The meals are so exceptional you'll forget they're even kosher for Pesach!

There will also be food related activities and entertainment for all program guests, as well as some geared specifically towards the children, to ensure that everyone is engaged, and gastronomically satisfied.

What can we expect during our stay in Tokyo? What is there to do during Pesach?

Gil Travel's Pesach in the East program stands apart from typical Pesach programs. Whereas many traditional programs are centered around hotel amenities such as endless more-than-you-can-eat food bars, magicians, singers, and poolside entertainment, we understand that our guests are not coming all the way to Japan to spend their time in a hotel.

Our focus is on providing a unique opportunity beyond the hotel, to explore a country where the modern world meets the ancient, all while ensuring you and your family enjoy a luxurious, high-end vacation and Yom Tov experience, with no compromise on traditions and comfort.

For our participants who prefer exploring at their own pace and with specific interests, Gil Travel will provide a comprehensive resource guide for touring and exploring, and many suggestions to help you maximize your Chol Hamoed excursions.

With Japan’s extensive and very user friendly public transportation, this is a popular choice. 

For those who want full service experience, you may sign up for our exclusive group tours (separate cost), led by professional and knowledgeable Japanese guides- the perfect way to discover the rich culture and history of Japan as well as Japan’s Jewish history and modern Jewish life in Tokyo.

  • Our program offers a rare opportunity to glimpse into Japan's rich cultural tapestry and its Jewish connections. One of the most modern cities in the world, Tokyo is infused with tradition in surprising ways—huge skyscrapers loom over women dressed in traditional kimonos, while automated conveyor belts serve sushi to eager diners.
  • You may indulge in the 5-star pool and hot tubs, but we encourage you to explore the country, and discover traditional alternatives, such as Japanese Onsens or thermal baths.
  • Instead of spending time in the hotel's fitness center, tennis courts, or spa, we encourage you to get active by visiting ancient castles with breathtaking views of the mountains, and discover the surprising history between Japan and the Jewish people as you explore sites like Mt. Fuji and the castle town of Matsumoto during the peak of the renowned Cherry Blossom Season.
  • Discover Japan’s fascinating Jewish history and how the first Jews arrived with Spanish and Portuguese traders in the 1500s, some settling in Goa before relocating to Japan during the Goa Inquisition. You’ll have the chance to explore this heritage, including the story of Sugihara Chiune, a Japanese diplomat who saved thousands of Jews during the Holocaust. His memorial is in Gifu Prefecture.
  • Be sure to visit Tokyo’s vibrant Shibuya district famous for its bustling streets and iconic crossing, the National Art Center Tokyo, TeamLab Planets, the Tokyo Tower, and much much more.

Japan is a land of contrasts—old and new, ancient and modern, traditional and technologically advanced. We hope you’ll join us and be inspired by the harmonious fusion of tradition and innovation that makes Japan such an enchanting destination.

What kind of entertainment will there be at the program?
Lorem ipsum

Every day of the program includes unique and engaging experiences.  The full schedule is still in progress of being finalized.  Some of the experiences you can look forward to are Japanese cultural activities such as a traditional tea ceremony and kimono dressing, a Japanese drum show, and a Samurai performance.  

The program also includes engages lectures and presentations on inspiring Pesach Holiday themes and personal growth oriented workshops.

Other entertainers are also on the agenda.  However, we want to stress what has been mentioned above, that the Pesach in the East program is unlike most 'typical Passover programs'.  We recognize the fun and relaxation aspects of the resort and entertainment type of programs.  Those are GREAT!  But most of our guests have done those in the past and are seeking something truly unique this year.

Lounging around in a luxury resort and endlessly satisfying gastronomic cravings with food bars at every corner, and non stop entertainers, does not warrant traveling to the literal other side of the world. 

Likewise, the families joining our program with children are not seeking an 'out of this world' day camp experience to drop their kids off at.  Tokyo is a super family friendly destination, and especially for children and teens can create magical memories.  

Our program is designed to help our guests maximize this special opportunity to explore a country that would usually be challenging for a Kosher traveler.

Of course, all of this being done without compromising on comfort and luxury, in the world class 5 star Hilton Tokyo Shinjuku and all the expected amenities and comforts our guests have come to expect from a high end Pesach program.

Can we come before the program begins, or stay longer?

The Pesach in the East program runs from 3pm, Erev Shabbat, April 11th, 2025 until 11am, Monday morning, April 21st.

Early arrival and extended stay, with Kosher meals are available at an additional cost from April 8th, and extending until April 24th.  Please inquire for details.

While you are already in Japan, it is a great idea to use the opportunity and extend the experience to visit destinations further out, such as Kyoto and Osaka.  Contact us if you are interested in full tour packages before or after the Pesach program. 

What kind of child care is available?
Lorem ipsum

During Shabbat and Yom Tov days, there is babysitting and a children's program during the morning Tefillot and between the morning meal and the evening meal.

Optional child care is also available at an extra cost for the Chol Hamoed days for children who will not be touring with their parents.

Throughout the program there will be fun activities to engage the children, as well adults, such as Japanese calligraphy lesson, Kosher for Pesach Sushi making and Japanese cookie baking Kimono dressing, and more.

Are there any activities for Shabbat and Yom Tov days?
Lorem ipsum

Chol Hamoed will be the best opportunity to travel and explore Tokyo and beyond.  But even  on Shabbat and Yom Tov there will be plenty to enjoy.

For those interested in touring, there will be engaging walking tours around the area of the hotel, in Shinjuku.  There is much of Tokyo to discover even in the few mile radius of the program!

Every day will also have a classes, lectures or workshops on various topics related to Japan, Pesach and other topics.

Is this program appropriate for children?
Lorem ipsum

Absolutely!

We do want to be clear what to expect in this regard:

Although some Pesach programs highlight the resort or hotel activities, and offer elaborate day camps and children's program, in all honesty, that's not what Pesach in Japan is about.

We don't feel it's necessary to take your children half way around the world in order to send them to a day camp and to lounge at a pool or watch entertainers (although we do agree that is also fun!),  there are many programs much closer to most homes for that 

As explained above, Pesach in the East  is a unique opportunity to discover a world often completely unknown to most Westerners.  This includes children.  

Most of the tours and excursions are family friendly and have plenty of engaging interest for children of most ages.  Learning about and seeing close-up people of a completely different culture and way of life is something that will have a memorable impact on your entire family.

Is this a Chabad event?
The Pesach in the East program is not a Chabad event.  It is solely a Gil Travel event.  We have contracted with Chabad of Japan, and the Japan Kosher Service to provide Kashrut certification and supervision, and food and meals procurement and supply chain.
 
Chabad of Japan, has been running, large scale, Pesach events in Tokyo for many years.  Rabbi Sudakevich, the director of Chabad Japan, runs the JKS, Japan Kosher Service, and a year round restaurant.  He is deeply involved in the food industry in Japan and is a Japanese licensed food importer, importing kosher food shipments year round.  He has over 20 years experience in the field and also  manages the airlines' kosher food service as part of Gate Gourmet Ltd.
 
Chabad's typical Seders in Tokyo cater to 400-500 guests, and their experience in this area, combined with Gil Travel’s decades of international programming and professional network, ensure that all aspects of the program are planned and executed smoothly.

Search for something…

Contact us by sending a message

We always aim to reply within 1 business day.