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
Application process
- 1Purchase the required exclusive e-book (no separate application fee) and keep the payment receipt.
- 2Prepare 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”.
- 3Submit 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