🌸 MISSED THE
VIRTUAL OPEN HOUSE?
Hear directly from the people who know the experience firsthand.
Watch our Fall Immersion Open House conversation with Steven MacWhinnie from Hirosaki Gakuin University, Summer Immersion participants, and members of our Fall cohort.
Hear what the experience is really like, learn more about the schools and communities we’ll visit, and get a glimpse into what makes this intentionally small immersion different.
Our Fall cohort is coming together—and there’s still time to join us. 🌸
October 2–12, 2026 | Tokyo + Hirosaki, Aomori
Enrollment closes September 5 at midnight.
Learning & Community Immersion in Japan
Fall Intensive
by JETPrep Travel
More than travel—immerse yourself in classrooms, culture, community, and everyday life in Japan.
Observe real classrooms, connect with local educators and community members, explore Japanese culture beyond the tourist trail, and gain insight into everyday life in Japan.
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Real classroom experiences
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Community engagement and cultural exchange
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Reflection, personal growth, and global learning
October 2–12, 2026
Tokyo + Hirosaki, Aomori Prefecture
A focused, high-impact experience designed to help you move from interest to confidence and readiness.
11 days in Japan + guided pre-departure preparation
Optional pre-program cultural immersion and post-program reflection experiences available.
Intentionally small cohort (3–10 participants)
Applications Close September 5
🌸 Hear From Our First Cohort
What is it actually like to learn, connect, and experience everyday life in Japan? Hear directly from participants in our inaugural Summer 2026 cohort as they reflect on the relationships, experiences, and growth they carried home.
Want to hear more? Meet our Summer participants and Hirosaki partner Steven at our Virtual Open House on September 1.
3:30–4:00 PM Pacific → Join Us Live
Eli reflects on how firsthand classroom and cultural experiences helped him understand what teaching and everyday life in Japan could actually look like.
Eli, Summer 2026 Cohort
Giovanni reflects on friendship, challenge, and the growth that can happen when you say yes to unexpected opportunities.
Giovanni, Summer 2026 Cohort
✨ Program at a Glance
A focused, small-cohort experience designed to help you gain firsthand insight into Japanese education, culture, and daily life while building confidence for future opportunities.
October 2–12, 2026 • Tokyo + Hirosaki (Aomori), Japan
💰 Investment: $2,995 USD (international airfare not included)
Includes:
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Four weeks of guided pre-departure preparation
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Welcome and orientation in Japan
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Housing throughout the program
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Transportation throughout the program associated with scheduled activities
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School visits and classroom immersion
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Cultural workshops and community engagement
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Guided reflection sessions and mentorship
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Post-program reflection and integration opportunities
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Access to JETPrep preparation resources
📅 Core Experience
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Welcome and cohort orientation in Tokyo
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Travel together to Hirosaki in northern Japan
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Classroom observations and school visits
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Conversations with educators and university students
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Cultural workshops and community engagement
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Guided reflection and group discussions
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Participate alongside Japanese university students during Hirosaki Gakuin University's annual School Culture Festival
🎯 Designed For
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Future JET Program applicants
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Education majors and aspiring educators
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Students exploring international careers
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Travelers seeking a deeper cultural experience beyond traditional tourism
🌱 Outcomes
By the end of the program, you'll leave with:
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Greater confidence navigating daily life in Japan
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Firsthand experience observing Japanese schools and classrooms
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Meaningful relationships with educators, students, and community members
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Stories, reflections, and experiences that can strengthen future applications and interviews
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A deeper understanding of Japanese culture and community life
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Greater clarity about your next steps in education, international exchange, travel, or future opportunities in Japan
👥 Cohort Size
Intentionally small (3–10 participants) to encourage meaningful relationships, mentorship, and individualized support.
Optional Extensions
For participants who would like to extend their experience in Japan before or after the core program. Choose the core program on its own, or add one or both optional extensions to create a longer, more immersive Japan experience.
🌸 Pre-Program Kansai Cultural Immersion (5 Days)
Begin your journey with an immersive introduction to the Kansai region with additional time in Kyoto, Osaka, and Kobe. Connect with local community members and JET alumni, explore cultural sites beyond the typical tourist experience, and build confidence before traveling north to Hirosaki.
Dates: September 26 - October 1
Core Program Participant Rate: $795 USD
Standalone Experience: $1,295 USD (space permitting)
🙏 Post-Program Reflection Retreat (2 Nights)
Conclude your journey with dedicated time for reflection, cultural experiences, and community connection. This retreat is designed to help you process your experiences, celebrate your growth, and return home with greater clarity and intention.
Dates: October 12 - 14
Starting at $495 USD
Additional fees apply. Optional extensions are available only to core program participants and may be selected separately.
Applications Close September 5
🌏 Why This Experience Is Different
This is not a sightseeing tour. It is a guided learning experience built around education, cultural immersion, community connection, reflection, and personal growth.
Many programs help you see Japan.
JETPrep Travel is designed to help you experience Japan through learning, community, culture, and everyday life while building confidence for future opportunities.
Through school visits, cultural immersion, reflection, and meaningful local connections, you'll gain experiences that extend far beyond traditional tourism.
🎓 Real Educational Immersion
Observe classrooms, connect with educators and university students, and gain firsthand insight into Japanese schools, learning environments, and community life.
🤝 Meaningful Community Connection
Build relationships with university students, local volunteers, community members, and educators through shared experiences and authentic cultural exchange.
🌸 Culture Beyond Tourism
Experience northern Japan through local traditions, festivals, daily life, and community activities that most visitors never have the opportunity to encounter.
💛 Reflection & Personal Growth
Guided reflection helps transform experiences into meaningful learning, allowing you to build confidence, deepen self-awareness, and carry lessons forward long after the program ends.
🚀 Support Beyond the Program
From pre-departure preparation to post-program reflection, application support, and future pathway exploration, your learning journey continues beyond your time in Japan.
👥 Small Cohort Learning
Travel, learn, and reflect alongside a supportive group of 3–10 participants while receiving personalized guidance and mentorship throughout the program.
🤝 Meet Our Partners in Japan
Since 2026, Positive Global Learning and Hirosaki Gakuin University have partnered to create meaningful learning and community experiences that connect participants with classrooms, university students, educators, and local communities throughout Aomori Prefecture.
Rather than simply visiting Japan, participants engage directly with the people, schools, and communities that shape everyday life in Japan.
Through these relationships, participants gain firsthand insight into Japanese education, culture, and community life while building connections that often continue long after the program ends.
Designed with, by, and alongside our partners in Japan.
These partnerships are what make this experience possible. Together, we've created opportunities for participants to learn alongside the people who live, work, and study in Japan every day.
And these are just a few of the people you'll meet throughout the experience.
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Hirosaki Gakuin University
Partner Institution in Aomori, Japan
Located in the historic castle city of Hirosaki beneath Mt. Iwaki, Hirosaki Gakuin University serves as the academic and community home base for the program.
Through our partnership, participants connect with university students, faculty, local schools, host families, and community members while experiencing daily life in northern Japan.
The university provides opportunities for language learning, cultural exchange, classroom engagement, and meaningful relationship-building that help bring learning beyond the classroom.
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Edo Forsythe, Ed.D.
Head of International Exchange & English Language Education
Hirosaki Gakuin University
Dr. Edward "Edo" Forsythe has spent more than a decade creating opportunities for students and educators to learn across cultures through international partnerships and experiential education.
Through his leadership and support, participants gain access to university students, educational experiences, community connections, and cultural opportunities throughout Aomori.
His commitment to experiential learning helps participants experience Japan through authentic relationships, community engagement, and meaningful cultural exchange.
Steven MacWhinnie, MBA
Associate Professor, English Language and Literature Hirosaki Gakuin University
Former Aomori JET Participant (2007–2012)
Steven first came to Aomori as a JET Programme participant before building a career in Japanese higher education.
Drawing on his experiences living, working, and teaching in Japan, he helps participants connect classroom learning with real-world experiences, community engagement, and cultural understanding.
As both an educator and former JET participant, Steven provides valuable insight into Japanese schools, life in Japan, and future opportunities for participants interested in education and international exchange.
Community Connections
Local educators, university students, volunteers, cultural practitioners, host families, and more
Throughout the program, participants engage with university students, local educators, volunteers, cultural practitioners, host families, and community members across Aomori Prefecture.
Whether learning traditional crafts, sharing meals, volunteering, participating in local events, or simply spending time together, these relationships help transform a visit to Japan into a meaningful cultural exchange experience.
Many participants leave not only with memories, but with friendships, mentors, and connections that continue long after the program ends.
👥 Who Is This Experience For?
You don't need to have everything figured out — just a sense of curiosity about what's possible and a willingness to explore.
Whether you're considering JET, exploring a career in education, or simply looking for a meaningful way to experience Japan, this program is designed to help you learn, connect, and grow. It may be a good fit if you are:
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Exploring the JET Programme, teaching abroad, international education, or other global opportunities
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Studying education or considering a future in teaching
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Curious about Japan and looking for a more meaningful experience beyond traditional tourism
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Considering a career shift, gap year, or international pathway
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Looking for structured support as you take your next steps
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Seeking personal growth through travel, reflection, and cultural exchange
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Students, recent graduates, and lifelong learners exploring what's next
You don't need prior teaching experience or Japanese language skills to participate — just a willingness to learn, engage, and step outside your comfort zone.
What matters most is your curiosity, openness, and willingness to learn, connect, and grow.
🌏 Your Journey — Step by Step
From preparation to immersion to reflection, this guided learning journey is designed to help you explore Japanese education, culture, and community while building confidence for future opportunities.
Phase 1 — Pre-Departure Preparation (4 Weeks Online)
Build confidence and cultural understanding before you arrive in Japan.
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Introduction to the JET Programme and life in Japan
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Japanese education system and classroom culture
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Cross-cultural communication and cultural adjustment
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Daily life preparation and practical travel readiness
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Reflection activities and goal setting
👉 Arrive in Japan prepared, confident, and ready to engage.
Phase 2 — Tokyo Arrival & Cohort Experience (2 Nights)
Begin your journey together as a learning community.
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Welcome and cohort connection
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Guided exploration and cultural orientation
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Real-world navigation confidence
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Reflection and goal-setting activities
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Travel together to northern Japan
👉 Settle in, connect, and begin your experience with support.
Phase 3 — Hirosaki Education, Culture & Community Immersion (8 Days)
Experience everyday life, education, and community in northern Japan through meaningful relationships and immersive learning experiences.
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School visits and classroom observations
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Conversations with educators and university students
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Community engagement and cultural exchange
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Cultural workshops and local experiences
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Participation in Hirosaki Gakuin's annual school culture festival
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Guided reflection and group discussions
👉 Gain firsthand insight into Japanese schools, culture, and community life.
Phase 4 — Reflection & Future Pathways
Bring your experience together and explore what comes next.
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Guided reflection and discussion
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Identifying key stories and lessons learned
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Connecting experiences to future opportunities
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Explore future pathways including JET, education, international careers, and global opportunities
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Celebration and community gathering
👉 Leave with new perspectives, lasting relationships, and a clearer sense of what's next.
Optional Extensions
Want to spend more time in Japan? Extend your journey with optional pre-program and post-program experiences that provide additional cultural immersion, community connection, and guided reflection.
Phase 5 — Post-Return Integration & Continued Support
Continue your growth beyond the experience.
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Group reflection gathering
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Optional one-on-one support
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Access to JETPrep resources
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Application Lab and interview preparation opportunities
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Continued connection with the PGL community, mentors, and fellow participants
👉 Continue growing through reflection, community, and ongoing support.
📅 What a Typical Day Might Look Like
Each day offers a different window into education, culture, and community life in Japan. While every cohort is unique, here's a glimpse of what a typical experience might include.
🎥 See the Experience in Action
Weekday Mornings
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Japanese language learning and conversation practice
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Classroom observations and school visits
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Visits to elementary, junior high, high school, and kindergarten classrooms (depending on the schedule and partner schools)
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Conversations with educators about teaching and learning in Japan
Weekday Afternoons
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University classes and discussions with Hirosaki Gakuin students
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Cultural workshops and hands-on learning experiences
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Community engagement alongside local partners and university students
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Opportunities to explore life in northern Japan beyond the typical tourist experience
Examples may include:
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Soba-making workshops
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Tsugaru cultural experiences
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Calligraphy
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Tanbo Art (Rice Paddy Art)
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Zazen
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Local festivals and seasonal events
Evenings
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Shared dinners and community gatherings
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Conversations with university students and local community members
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Guided reflection and group discussion
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Time to explore Hirosaki with fellow participants
Weekend Experiences
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Homestay and community-based experiences
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Shared meals and conversations with local families
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Exploring local traditions and daily life
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Seasonal festivals and regional events
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Time to deepen cultural understanding through meaningful relationships and shared experiences
A Highlight of the Program
Participants join Hirosaki Gakuin University's annual School Culture Festival, working alongside Japanese students, supporting festival activities, and experiencing one of the community's most vibrant celebrations.
Every cohort experience is shaped by local opportunities, community partnerships, and the relationships built throughout the journey.
✨ Highlights from Our First Cohort
Our inaugural Summer 2026 cohort explored classrooms, built meaningful relationships, engaged with local communities, and helped lay the foundation for future Learning & Community Immersion cohorts.
Below are a few moments and reflections from participants who experienced Japan alongside our university partners, community members, and one another.
💬 Participant Reflections
The first JETPrep Learning & Community Immersion cohort has already begun sharing reflections about the relationships they built, the confidence they gained, and the impact of experiencing everyday life in Japan.
Here are a few reflections from participants and volunteers after returning home.
“I gained a true understanding of what life would look like living and working in Japan. I am thrilled to have made so many wonderful memories and great connections."
Abigale
Learning & Community Immersion Participant
"My experiences were professional, personal, and transformative. I'm beyond confident that I'll return with the most informed perspective possible for my future JET journey."
Eli
Learning & Community Immersion Participant
“Sharing my experiences has shown me all the ways I've grown during my time on the JET Programme—and all the ways I want to continue exploring and understanding Japan."
Ariana
Current JET Participant & Volunteer
❓ You Might Be Wondering…
We know choosing an international experience is a big decision. Here are answers to a few of the questions we hear most often.
Do I need teaching experience?
No. Whether you're just beginning to explore education or already preparing for a teaching career, you don't need prior classroom experience to participate.
How much Japanese language ability do I need?
None. Participants join with a wide range of language backgrounds, including complete beginners. You'll receive support throughout the experience, and daily interactions often help participants build confidence naturally over time.
Is this a traditional study abroad program?
Not exactly. While you'll study, learn, and explore, this experience is designed as a learning and community immersion journey. The focus is on real-world cultural engagement, classroom experience, reflection, and preparation for future opportunities in Japan and beyond.
Do I need to be applying to the JET Programme to participate?
No. While the program is designed with future JET applicants in mind, participants also join to explore education, international careers, or simply gain a deeper understanding of Japan through meaningful cultural immersion.
Where will I stay during the program?
Participants stay together in shared accommodations in Tokyo during the onboarding portion of the program and in hotel accommodations while in Hirosaki. Depending on the cohort and local availability, optional homestay experiences may also be offered, providing an additional opportunity to experience daily life with local families.
Will I have support while I'm in Japan?
Yes. Support begins before departure and continues throughout the program and after you return home. Alongside the Positive Global Learning team, participants learn with and receive guidance from university staff, local educators, and community partners throughout the experience.
Can I earn academic credit?
Students may have the opportunity to earn Japanese language and culture credit through Hirosaki Gakuin University's Summer Intensive Japanese Program, depending on their home institution and enrollment status.
How do I reserve my spot?
Participants may enroll directly through the program website. Because the cohort is intentionally small (3–10 participants), we encourage interested participants to reserve early once registration opens.
👉 Still have questions? We'd love to hear from you. Reach out anytime or schedule a conversation—we're happy to help you decide whether this experience is the right fit.
🚀 Ready to Begin Your Journey?
Gain real-world experience, meaningful relationships, and a deeper understanding of education, culture, and everyday life in Japan.
Whether you're considering the JET Programme, exploring a future in education, or simply looking for a more meaningful way to experience Japan, this program is designed to help you learn, connect, and grow through real-world engagement.
Take 2–3 minutes to get started.
Have questions? We'd love to connect.
Participation is limited to 10 participants to preserve meaningful relationships, mentorship, and personalized support throughout the experience.
We'd love to welcome you to our next cohort.
Applications Close September 5