Ciara’s First Girl Scout Cookie Reward International Trip
In July 2023, Ciara and I traveled to Tokyo, Japan as part of an extraordinary Girl Scout reward trip. At just seven years old, Ciara earned her place on the trip by selling more than 5,500 packages of Girl Scout Cookies, an accomplishment that required months of hard work, determination, and perseverance.
The trip included 15 Girl Scouts and their caregivers, along with council staff, creating a unique opportunity for girls from across Arizona to explore the world together.
For Ciara, this journey was filled with exciting firsts. It was her first big international trip, her first passport adventure, and her first experience traveling across the Pacific Ocean. We flew from Phoenix through Seattle and on to Tokyo, where a week of unforgettable experiences awaited us.
After arriving and settling into the Shiba Park Hotel, we kicked off our adventure with a special dinner at the Pokémon Café, a dream destination for many young Pokémon fans and the perfect way to begin our time in Japan.
Throughout the week, our group explored some of Tokyo’s most famous landmarks and neighborhoods. We visited the peaceful Meiji Shrine, walked through the vibrant streets of Harajuku and Omotesando, experienced the famous Shibuya Crossing, and learned about traditional Japanese culture in Asakusa. Ciara’s favorite snack was the giant cotton candy that was bigger than her head!
As Girl Scouts, one of the most meaningful stops was the Girl Scout Museum, where we learned about the history of Girl Guiding and Scouting in Japan and discovered how girls around the world share many of the same values and goals.
The adventure also included unforgettable experiences at Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea. DisneySea, found only in Japan, quickly became a favorite with its incredible theming, unique attractions, and immersive storytelling.
One day took us beyond Tokyo to the Mount Fuji and Hakone region. We enjoyed spectacular views of Japan’s most famous mountain, cruised across Lake Ashi, rode the Hakone Ropeway, and experienced one of Japan’s iconic bullet trains. For many of the girls, it was their first time riding a high-speed train.
Another highlight was visiting teamLab Planets, an immersive digital art experience where visitors walk through interactive exhibits that blur the lines between technology, art, and imagination. We also explored the Toei Animation Museum and learned more about Japan’s influence on animation and popular culture.
Throughout the trip, Ciara experienced a new culture, tasted new foods, met people from around the world, and gained confidence traveling far from home. She learned that hard work can open doors to incredible opportunities and that the world is full of amazing places waiting to be explored.
Looking back, Tokyo 2023 was much more than a reward trip. It was a celebration of dedication, goal setting, and achievement. Most importantly, it showed a seven-year-old Girl Scout that big dreams really can become reality when you’re willing to work for them.
This unforgettable journey remains one of our favorite adventures and a powerful reminder of where determination can take you.
Have you ever been to Japan? Is it on your bucket list? Tell us in the comments below!