The Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Japan is sponsoring an all-expense-paid twelve day trip to Japan between June 27 through July 8, 2015.

The purpose of this trip is to provide Japanese Americans students with an opportunity to learn various aspects of Japan (politics, economy, society, history, culture, language, etc.). Applicants will build life-long friendships, see amazing sights, and most importantly, explore Japan’s unique culture.

To qualify, applicants must be a Japanese American High School student. They must hold full American nationality, and must have a strong interest in Japan as well. Also, those who lack opportunity to reach Japan were highly encouraged to apply.

Nozomi Hunter, a freshman, has all these qualifications and has already turned in her application. She has been to Japan before, and absolutely loves the people and both traditional and modern areas of culture.

“I enjoy the Japanese tea ceremonies and flower arrangement. I think they are really beautiful,” Hunter said. “In modern areas of Japanese culture, I enjoy the music, movies, and electronics.”

Only five applicants are picked throughout the nation. Those five will get the chance to explore the Japan’s capital, visit Japanese high school students, and stay with a loving family in the Kansai area.

“If I am accepted into this program, I would look forward to the homestay part of the trip,” Hunter said. “It would probably make me feel as if I were actually living in Japan with a normal lifestyle. Some of my favorite Japanese celebrities are from the Kansai area and just thinking about the chance of me going there makes me smile.”

The deadline was May 5, 2015. If you are interested, please visit their website: http://www.ny.us.emb-japan.go.jp/en/s/JAS2014_program.html.