If you're familiar with Japan, you'll know names like
Tokyo, Kyoto, Hiroshima, maybe Sapporo and Okinawa. However, you probably won't recognize the name Kagoshima. This is no fault of Kagoshima's or your own. Rather, Kagoshima and many southern prefectures are overshadowed by the development of the the likes of Tokyo and Osaka. Throughout history, Kagoshima has stood as a beacon of tradition and resisted waves of westernization pouring into the country through Tokyo, seen by many as diluting Japanese culture. What you'll find in Kagoshima is an active volcano lurking on the horizon, beautiful coast lines, amazing food, hidden local shrines and small towns full of culture and warmth.
You can see Kagoshima's location in Japan on the map to the right, as well as an enlarged map of the prefecture with your travel route dotted in red. Learn more about what kind of daily activities you will experience below!
The Kagoshima Keiken Program is centered around the concept of developing a greater cultural awareness and better cross-cultural communication skills. In the increasingly global world we live in, emotional intelligence, cross cultural communication and cultural awareness are necessary skills for the next generation to become active participants in the global society. This program will push students outside of their comfort zones and expose them to experiences they would never have had the chance to experience of their own volition.
Depart Tokyo for Kagoshima. Experience a traditional Kimono dressing, a visit to a large Shinto shrine, and a local high school. Stay in a Tatami dorm room.
Return to the US.
Trip to Meiji Shrine and the Imperial Palace, two ancient sanctuaries built into the city. Enjoy lunch and dinner in local Tokyo restaurants. Stay at Tokyo hotel
Arrival in Tokyo. Dinner at a local restaurant amidst bustling Tokyo night life before settling into the hotel.
Visit to the symbol of Kagoshima, Mt. Sakurajima. Take a Volcanic footbath and immerse yourself in nature, then continue to the ancient garden, Sengan-en. Finish the day with a visit from a guest speaker. Stay in a Tatami dorm room. Begin your homestay with a Kagoshima family. Enjoy local, home-made Japanese cuisine.
Experience a mix of traditional and modern with a local farm visit & nature hike with local students, followed by a tour at JAXA Space Center. Stay at homestay.
Enjoy a rare opportunity to attend a Japanese high school and see what a day in the life of a typical Japanese student is like. Stay at homestay.
Your host family will treat you to a unique, unforgettable day of activities! Stay at homestay.
Enjoy another outing with your host family, then gather for a group BBQ and reflect on your experience. Stay at homestay.
How much will this cost?
The pricing will be determined by the number of students that apply and the airport you will be flying out of. Please send us an email if you'd like more information!
What does the Program Fee Include?
The program fee covers:
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Roundtrip Airfaire
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9 nights and 10 days of housing
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6 Breakfast Meals, 7 Lunches and 8 Dinners
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All activities
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The only fees we ask participants to cover is any shopping they want to do along the way and a few meals
When is this program?
Departure: June 22, 2019
Return: July 1, 2019
Application Deadline: Applicants accepted on a rolling basis
Final Deadline: March 1, 2019
*Other dates available. Please mark preference in application.
Who Should Participate in this Program?
9, 10, 11 graders are welcome for this program (rising seniors will be considered as well)
Questions?
We only have one tentative program date set for this summer, but we can accommodate any groups that wish to participate. If you have a school group, boy scout troop, or club that wishes to participate in this program, please contact us and we will be more than happy to work with you to set it up!
MEET OUR KAGOSHIMA STAFF
Tyler Bartels, Program Coordinator
Tyler Bartels is creator of our Kagoshima Program. He lived in various prefectures across Japan teaching English and Studying. While in Japan he saw the benefits of cross cultural experiences and has been determined to build as many bridges between Japan and the US possible ever since.
Akiko Nagamatsu, Regional Manager
Akiko Nagamatsu is the true heart and soul of GPI US and empowering the youth of today. She has been with GPI US since its conception and is involved in making every aspect of every program as beneficial for the participants as possible.
CONTACT US
GPI US, Los Angeles Office
3325 Wilshire Blvd #711
Los Angeles, CA 90010 USA
GPI US, Boston Office
50 Milk St. 16th Floor
Boston, MA 02140 USA
GPI US also has offices in these locations:
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Seattle
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San Francisco
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New York
We'd love to hear from you!
If you have any questions or comments for us, please email Tyler at tbartels@gpius.net
We are always looking to connect with members of our community to enhance our Japan programs!