I recently read that most Japanese city schools are now making their students do home stays in the agricultural, fishing and mountain villages as part of immersion programs into their country. The practice is actually increasing and I think this is a positive development and a better option than sending children to tourist spots.
According to reports, a lot of educational benefits are being seen from students who actually experience nature first hand. The villages and towns, on the other hand, see a business opportunity in the said tours. This is something that they also need because of the dwindling population in these areas.
The practice of making nature excursions has increased over the last five years and this has spread mainly by just word of mouth. I am just hoping that these immersion programs also bring to light the plight of less fortunate people in Japanese society and not just focus on nature.