From their website:
Overview
The Kakehashi Project is designed to promote people-to-people exchange between Japan and the United States. The program will provide participants with an enhanced understanding of Japanese economics, society, history, culture, politics, and diplomatic policies and encourage individuals to play an active role in the future of U.S.-Japan relations. A key element of this program is traveling beyond Tokyo and staying with a Japanese host family for a few days.
The Japanese word “kakehashi” means “bridge,” which symbolizes the hope that participants will form lasting relationships with Japan and its people, and serve as bridges between nations and cultures. Participants who travel to Japan are encouraged to share their experiences and discoveries with their networks at home, and contribute to greater appreciation of Japanese culture worldwide.
This program is organized jointly by the Asian Pacific American Institute for Congressional Studies (APAICS) and the Japan International Cooperation Center (JICE).
Dates
Program dates: March 11 - March 18, 2025
Application deadline: December 8, 2024 by 11:59pm ET
Program Details
Students selected to participate in the Kakehashi program organized by APAICS must have some Asian ancestry but not be of Japanese descent. Those of Japanese heritage who wish to participate in a Kakehashi program should apply to the Kakehashi program organized by JACL. Student participants shall also demonstrate that they are motivated in playing an active role in promoting deeper cultural exchanges between Japan and the United States both now and in the future.
Each Kakehashi trip will have a different itinerary, structured so that each participant acquires firsthand knowledge of Japan and how the country is trying to fulfill its shared global responsibilities. The itinerary may include but is not limited to the following:
Lectures on various topics as they relate to Japan, such as politics, economy, society, culture, history and diplomatic relations to promote a better understanding of Japan.
Student exchange programs.
Visiting educational sites and institutions, high-tech and traditional industries, world heritage sites, provincial government offices, and participation in cross-cultural events, workshops, and exchanges with locals.
Hands-on-learning experiences such as home-stays, home-visits, and cultural events.
Participation in reporting sessions and social media posts to share about the program experience during and after the trip.
Participant Requirements
U.S. citizens and permanent residents.
Currently-enrolled students in an undergraduate or graduate program.
Persons with Asian ancestry but not of Japanese descent (students with Japanese descent should apply through the Kakehashi Program organized by JACL).
Individuals physically capable of keeping up with a busy schedule requiring extensive walking each day.
Individuals who have NOT participated in a previous Kakehashi trip or another program funded by the Japanese government.
Individuals who have NOT studied or stayed in Japan for more than 12 months in their lifetime.
Priority will be given to applicants who:
Have studied, researched, or been in involved in activities related to Japanese language and culture for more than a year; or
Have been involved in a business related to Japanese products or services for more than a year.
Students who have previously completed another APAICS program are encouraged to apply.
See their website for more information.