Apply now for the 2016-2017 JACL Kakehashi Program!
Up to 200 participants will be selected to participate in this year’s JACL Kakehashi Program, coordinated by the Japanese American Citizens League (JACL) and the Japan International Cooperation Center (JICE), and supported by funding from the Japan Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The goal of the JACL Kakehashi Program is to build relations between Japan and Japanese Americans/Asian Americans. The program provides participants with a better understanding of Japan through a variety of fields, including politics, economics, and culture. JACL Kakehashi Program alumni are encouraged to become effective advocates in enhancing U.S. – Japan relations.
Participants selected in a competitive process will travel to Japan for 9-days where they will visit a number of historical and educational sites, experience traditional and cultural activities, and participate in a homestay with a local family.
Trip Schedule
Trip 1: September 5-13, 2016
Application Deadline: July 15, 2016 *CLOSED*
Copy of Passport Deadline: August 16, 2016
Selection Notification: Early August 2016
Trip 2: December 12-20, 2016
Application Deadline: October 1, 2016 *CLOSED*
Copy of Passport Deadline: November 25, 2016
Selection Notification: Early November 2016
Trip 3: March 13-21, 2017
Application Deadline: December 15, 2016
Copy of Passport Deadline: January 23, 2017
Selection Notification: Early January 2017
Program and Application Guidelines
Applicants must be (1) a student in good standing currently enrolled in accredited college or university OR a young professional who has completed a minimum of a bachelor degree from an accredited college or university; (2) between the ages of 18-25 years old, (3) Japanese American or Asian American heritage. Please click here for additional program and eligibility guidelines.
You do not need to be a JACL member to be eligible.
All applications and requested documentation must be received by the deadlines specified on the application.
If you have any questions or issues, please contact Merissa Nakamura at japanprogram@jacl.org, or call 202-223-1240 (Monday–Friday, 10:00am-5:30pm EST).
