Summer Cultural Trip to Japan 2026 — Cultural Exchange

The Summer Cultural Trip to Japan 2026 is a six-day cultural immersion program run by AYFN Academy for international youth. Participants travel through Osaka, Kyoto and Nara to experience Japanese traditions, heritage sites and local life, with English as the working language so no Japanese is required. The program combines curated cultural activities, sightseeing and cross-cultural networking, and is offered through two competitive partial-scholarship tiers.

Benefits & funding

Two scholarship tiers, both waiving the program fee:
Gold: flight expense support valued up to USD 750
Silver: flight expense support valued up to USD 250
6 days / 5 nights accommodation (double or triple shared room)
Selected meals
All scheduled cultural activities and sightseeing
Local transportation
Certificate of participation; in-country guidance and coordination
Not covered: visa fees, additional airfare, travel insurance and personal expenses
Applicants may choose Gold or Silver, not both

Eligibility

Open to all nationalities
Aged 17 to 40
Any academic background; no degree required
Able to communicate in English (no Japanese required)
Demonstrated interest in travel and culture, involvement in social or youth activities, leadership potential, and good physical and mental health

Can you apply?

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Age requirement
17–40 yrs

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Application process

1
Purchase the required exclusive e-book (no separate application fee) and keep the payment receipt.
2
Prepare a CV in Europass format and two 250-word essays in English: “Why do I need this scholarship and why I deserve this scholarship?” and “My incredible travel experiences”.
3
Submit the online scholarship application form with all documents in English before the deadline.

Program timeline

Application deadline (extended)
Apr 20, 2026
First-phase results announced (estimated)
May 1, 2026
Interviews
2026-05
Final decisions
2026-05
Program takes place
Summer 2026