Kakehashi Project

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan launched a youth exchange program to promote understanding of Japanese economy, society, history and culture with various nations. With the help of Japan International Cooperation Center (JICE) who help manage the program, they have partnered with the National Museum of the Pacific War since 2017.

The Japanese word "kakehashi" means "bridge" which symbolizes the hope that participants will form lasting relationships with Japan and its people, and serve as bridges between nations and cultures.

If you have any questions about the upcoming trip, reach out to the Director of Education and Museum Programs at kstys@nimitzfoundation.org or at 830-997-8600 ext 222.


Check back later for information on the 2025 trip.

Qualifications for Participants

  • The applicant must be a US citizen or permanent resident.
  • Those who have participated in Kakehashi Project or other programs funded by the Japanese government are ineligible.
  • Those who have studied or stayed in Japan for over a year are ineligible.
  • The applicant should be physically capable of keeping up with a busy program schedule requiring extensive walking each day.
  • The applicant must be a US high school student in Gillespie or Kerr County.

What is covered and not?

Expenses Covered:

  • Round trip international air tickets from Houston to Japan in economy class
  • Overseas travel accident insurance
  • Accommodation, transportation and meals within the program in Japan
  • Admission fees for scheduled activities in Japan

Participant Expenses:

  • Passport fees (if needed)
  • Fees for vaccination (if needed)
  • Excess baggage charge
  • Travel expenses between Fredericksburg and Houston
  • Accommodation and meals in Houston
  • Bus fee back to Fredericksburg from Houston
  • Small gifts to hand out to people you meet
  • Clothes, luggage or other essential items you need for the trip
  • Purchase of souvenirs/personal goods before/during program

Cancellation Policy:

If a participant chooses to drop out of the program for reasons other than a medical emergency or a family funeral, the participant shall be fully responsible for any costs associated with this cancellation. The cancellation fees will be charged to the participant if their application have already been accepted and the flight and/or other bookings are completed.

In the event of cancellation due to medical emergency or a family funeral, cancellation fees may be waived upon presentation of a medical certificate or evident of the funeral requested by JICE.