JACL Kakehashi Project Trip

“Participating in the JACL Kakehashi Project was an unforgettable experience that deepened my connection to my Japanese heritage and broadened my understanding of cross-cultural relationships. Visiting Yomitan in Okinawa and staying with a host family was especially meaningful. Their warmth and hospitality allowed me to experience daily life, traditions, and the essence of Okinawan culture in a way that felt deeply personal.” - 2024 Kakehashi Participant

About

Each year, several participants are selected to attend the 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. 

Selected participants will attend an 8-day trip to Japan where they will visit many historical and educational sites, experience traditional and cultural activities, and participate in lectures and workshops. Each trip will visit Tokyo and one or two other cities.

Please note: This program is not a leisure-based travel opportunity. It is a high-level cultural and professional exchange specifically designed for individuals who have shown a strong commitment to leadership, community engagement, and cross-cultural understanding. Participants are expected to be representatives of the Japanese American community, JACL, and people of the United States. Participants may be expected to: participate in courtesy calls with members of the Prime Minister’s office and members of the National Diet, provide a short presentation about their family history, observe sites of innovation or industry, and engage with local university students.

Objectives of the Program

(1) To promote mutual trust and understanding among the people of Japan and the USA to build a basis for future friendship and cooperation.

(2) To promote a global understanding of Japan’s economy, society, history, diverse culture, politics, and foreign policy.

(3) To convey information on the learnings of the program and the charms of Japan to the general public through participants’ social media and others.

The JACL Kakehashi Program is an international leadership program for:

1. Students currently enrolled in an accredited college or university, or young professionals who meet the age requirements.

2. Between the ages of 18 and 27 years old

3. Japanese American by heritage or adoption. 

By providing participants with a better understanding of Japan through a variety of fields, including politics, economics, and culture, the Kakehashi Project builds relationships between Japan and Japanese Americans. Kakehashi Project alumni are encouraged to become effective advocates in enhancing U.S.-Japan relations

Questions? Email us at kakehashi@jacl.org!

Please do not contact the office regarding your application status. Only qualified candidates will be directly contacted by program supervisors. Due to the high volume of applications we receive, we regret that we are unable to respond to all applicants.

Terms and Conditions

Trip Expenses

The following expenses are COVERED by JICE and MoFA:

• Round-trip economy class international air ticket to/from Japan - The most convenient international airport will be chosen for the participants’ group. In previous years, HNL, LAX, SFO, and JFK served as hub airports for participants. Airport tax and facility fees are included. Travel between the participant’s home and the designated airport, and any excess baggage fees incurred during the program, shall be paid by the participant. Changing the designated flight or class is not permitted, even if the participant pays the cost.

• Overseas travel insurance - Chronic diseases, dental diseases, pregnancy, or those already ill or injured prior to the program are NOT covered. In such cases and other instances when the insurance company disapproves of the payment request, the participant shall be responsible for medical expenses in Japan. Any loss or damage to personal belongings is NOT covered.

• Accommodation, transportation, and meals during the program in Japan

• Admission fees for scheduled activities in Japan - Participants shall pay their personal expenses, including passport fees, vaccinations, travel between their home and the designated airport, accommodations and meals in their home country, and the purchase of souvenirs / personal goods before, during, and after the program.

The following expenses are NOT COVERED by JICE and MoFA:

• Travel to/from hub airport - If the most convenient international airport is not near you or located in another city/state, travel to said hub airport must be covered by the participant in full. Any additional fees or baggage fees to/from the hub airport must also be paid by the participant. Participants cannot change hub airports once one is selected; for example, a participant cannot leave from Los Angeles and return to New York. The same airport must be used for both the outbound and return flights. 

• Attendance Fee - Due to budget constraints, inflation, and other factors causing rising costs, all participants are now required to pay an attendance fee if they are selected to participate in the program. The attendance fee will be announced later. If this fee is a roadblock to any participant selected to attend, please contact staff as soon as possible. 

• Wireless (WiFi)/Cell Service - JICE and JACL will not provide WiFi routers or e-SIMs to participants. For safety reasons, everyone is required to have wireless or cell phone connectivity during the trip. All participants must have a way to use their cellphones or mobile devices during the trip, outside of WiFi provided by hotels or other accommodations. Most cell phone providers offer international data plans, or an e-SIM card may be available for your mobile device.

Health & Safety

The 2024 Kakehashi Project Trip application includes a set of programmatic COVID-19 guidelines to promote a safe visit to Japan. All participants will be required to have received at least 3 previous vaccine doses and must get the most updated vaccination before trip departure unless noted otherwise (e.g. doctor's note). 

Cancellation Policy

If a participant chooses to drop out of the program for reasons other than a medical emergency, a family emergency,  or funeral, the participant shall be fully responsible for any costs associated with this cancellation. The cancellation fees will be charged to the participant if his/her application has already been accepted and the flight and/or other bookings are completed.

In the event of cancellation due to a medical emergency, family emergency, or funeral, cancellation fees may be waived upon presentation of a doctor’s note or evidence of a family emergency or funeral.

“The KAKEHASHI program was a truly transformative experience that deepened my understanding of my identity, especially my Okinawan heritage. As part of the group that had the unique opportunity to visit Okinawa, I immersed myself in the culture through a homestay with a local family. They graciously shared their traditions, including food, music, and the natural beauty of the island, which left a lasting impression on me.” - 2024 Kakehashi Participant

Participants from January 2024 Kakehashi Trip meeting with JICE