About the Program

Naka-Kon will provide one member of the Naka-Kon community with a 5-day, 4-night trip to Tokyo, Japan to participate in a variety of activities and cultural events to experience the rich history, cultural innovation, and social aspects of Japan. After the experience, the recipient will bring their learnings back to the community through photos and/or video documentary so we can continue to promote Japanese culture. That part should be easy. There will be plenty to experience and photograph!

Itinerary

The dates of the trip are Sunday, October 25, 2026 - Thursday, October 29, 2026. Please note that the itinerary is subject to change due to weather, local disruptions, or other unforeseen circumstances:

Day 1 - Arrival Day. You will arrive in Tokyo, Japan via Haneda Airport. There, you will be transferred to your hotel via public transportation with an English-speaking guide.

Day 2 - You and an English-speaking guide will start a full day of sightseeing in Tokyo using Japan’s efficient and internationally renowned public transportation system. Sights and activities include: Tokyo Tower, participation in a tea ceremony, Asakusa Sensoji Temple and Nakamise Street, and Akihabara.

Day 3 - You will have another day of sightseeing via public transportation and see the Meiji Jingu shrine, Harajuku, Shibuya, and teamLab Borderless, an exhibit that highlights Japan’s ability to blend art and technology.

Day 4 - You will have a free day to explore Tokyo at your leisure.

Day 5 - Departure Day. You will meet your driver at the hotel lobby then leave for Haneda/Narita Airport to return home.

Naka-Kon and our on-site coordinator will provide:

• A 5-day, 4-night cultural experience in Tokyo, Japan
• An English-speaking guide
• Round-trip airfare from your closest international airport to Tokyo, Japan + 2 bags
• Hotel accommodations during your stay
• Any necessary tickets or credentials required to enter activities and events on the proposed itinerary

Eligibility and Application

Candidate eligibility is limited to those who:

• Are citizens of the United States of America (U.S.)
• Are eligible to travel nationally and internationally (e.g. if you are prohibited from traveling due to state, national or international regulation, you will not be eligible.) Note: You do NOT need to have a passport at the time of application, but you will be required to have a valid U.S. passport by Monday, August 3, 2026. The passport also needs to be valid for 6 months after the end date of the trip.
• Will be 20 years of age by the application deadline
• Have attended Naka-Kon for a minimum of 5 years
• Are not currently at a volunteer level staff person or above

While we wish we could send everyone, Naka-Kon will review applications based on a variety of criteria through a two-round selection process:

Round 1: Written Application

Those interested in participating must fill out a written application including information such as eligibility to travel outside of the U.S., age, agreement to adhere to behavioral expectations, and essay questions capturing your support of Naka-Kon and interest in our mission of spreading education about Japanese culture. The essay questions include:

1. How do you personally support the mission of spreading awareness of Japanese culture and education to the Naka-Kon community?
2. Please describe your experience interacting with and learning from people different from yourself.
3. Please describe how your delegation for this prize will positively impact the Naka-Kon community and yourself.
4. What knowledge, experiences and takeaways do you hope to gain from your trip to Japan?

Want some pointers on how to write a quality essay question? Check out this rubric.

Applications will be reviewed by the selection committee and a limited number of applicants will move to the second round.

Round 2: Candidate Interview

A panel of Naka-Kon staff will interview selected candidates and determine the winner through a virtual interview. Those selected will be provided with a list of general topics that will be covered in the interview, but they will largely address your ability to represent Naka-Kon in a positive light in Japan.

Important Times

• Tuesday, December 16, 2025 - Application opens
• Tuesday, February 3, 2026 - Application closes
• Friday, February 20 - March 1, 2026 - Candidate interviews
• Sunday, March 15, 2026 - Winner announced during closing ceremonies
• Monday August 3, 2026 - Passport and other winner information due
• October 25 - 29, 2026 - Trip

FAQ

We know that a trip to Japan is a big deal, and you likely have tons of questions! We’ve put together a list of some anticipated questions, but if you need more information, please email: nakatonihon@naka-kon.com!

• Do I have to speak Japanese to be considered for the trip?
  • No! While some knowledge will be helpful, you will be provided with an English-speaking guide for a majority of the trip.
• Will Naka-Kon provide travel insurance?
  • No, however we encourage you to purchase travel insurance individually.
• I want to go with more people. Will Naka-Kon cover their travel and hotel expenses?
  • Unfortunately, Naka-Kon will only cover the cost of travel and hotel for the selected winner. If you wish to bring another individual(s) with you, you MUST inform Naka-Kon, as this may impact arrangements we have with our on-site coordinator. If approved, the other individual(s) travel, lodging and other costs will not be covered by Naka-Kon.
• How accessible is Tokyo, Japan?
  • Having a disability will not preclude an individual's eligibility for the program! Japan’s accessibility accommodations are different from what is provided in the U.S., and travelers should do their own research about their specific accommodation needs to ensure they are familiar with the options available to them.
    • The program takes place in Tokyo, Japan where train stations and public areas are accessible for a number of assistive devices.
    • Please note that if you take any medication, you will need to consult with a physician or international travel insurance provider to determine the legality of bringing such medication to Japan.
    • Applicants should know that this program does involve long days of movement throughout the city. Tokyo is also quite crowded at times, so those who are uncomfortable in those situations should research to consider how this may impact their experience.
  • A good resource for accessibility in Japan can be found below:
    • Accessible Japan
• I belong to a marginalized identity in the U.S. What is Japan like for my identity?
  • We encourage everyone to do research about how their identity may be impacted when traveling to Japan. Here are a few resources to assist in your exploration.
    • LGBTQAI+ Individuals: IGLTA.org
    • Globalii.com - Information for those with marginalized identities including BIPOC, individuals with disabilities and LGBTQAI+ individuals
    • U.S. Embassy & Consulates in Japan - Useful information for those needing to take medication to Japan
• I’ve never traveled abroad before. If I win, will I get some kind of travel orientation?
  • Yes! Naka-Kon will schedule a pre-departure orientation with you to make sure you are informed of necessary travel information to prepare you for departure.
• What if I win, but I am unable to go after all?
  • Winners must sign a contract with Naka-Kon and our partnering organization to confirm acceptance. Winner expectations, including any costs incurred as a result of untimely resignation of the award will be outlined in that contract.
• What if I want to stay in Japan even longer?
  • You are welcome to do so! Naka-Kon will purchase one round-trip ticket. The winner may discuss adding additional days, however any additional costs associated with prolonged stay will not be covered by Naka-Kon.
• Do I have to adhere to the itinerary?
  • Yes. You will be expected to attend all of the events outlined in the itinerary. Failure to attend these activities may result in additional costs incurred by the recipient.
• I am already going to Japan for school. Can I study abroad and go on this trip simultaneously?
  • No. This program is separate from a university provided program, and we will not rearrange travel dates/ the itinerary to accommodate an academic schedule.
• Are the travel dates flexible?
  • No. The dates provided are arranged by Naka-Kon in consultation with our on-site coordinator based on availability.
• Do I need a passport to apply?
  • You do not need a passport to apply, however if you win, you must be able to obtain one by the deadline listed in the application.
• What will be my behavioral expectations while I am in Japan?
  • You will be expected to adhere in accordance with all national and international laws, policies and procedures and act in a manner becoming of Naka-Kon. Remember, if you win, you are representing Naka-Kon, so it is our expectation that your behavior reflects our organization in a positive light.
• You said something about photos and or video. What is that for?
  • Sharing with the greater community! The mission of Naka-Kon is to spread Japanese culture awareness and winners will become a vital part of that mission. We encourage you to share your experiences with the greater Naka-Kon community and that is what the photos and videos are for.
• I have questions that aren’t answered here. Where can I go for more information?
  • Please email us at nakatonihon@naka-kon.com!