Indiana 4-H International Programs Creating Friendships Around the World

Outbound Programs

Meiji Gakuin Summer Homestay

Meiji Gakuin High School is one of the best and oldest private schools in Japan.  The school, which became coeducational in 1991, was established in 1877 by Presbyterian and Reformed church missionaries.  They were led by Dr. James C. Hepburn, who authored one of the first Japanese-English dictionaries and who developed on of the two systems used today to write Japanese words in Roman letters.  Hepburn later founded and became the first president of Meiji Gakuin University, the high school’s parent institution.

Since 1986, close to 200 Meiji Gakuin students have experienced homestays in Indiana.  Since 1992, Indiana youth have been able to experience Japan through a homestay experience with Meiji Gakuin families in Japan. 

While in Japan, Meiji Gakuin exchangees will live in the Tokyo area.  This is an excellent opportunity to experience urban life in vibrant, energetic Tokyo – 28 million people live within 30 miles of the city center!  Yet, you’ll be surprised at the small town atmosphere of Tokyo’s neighborhoods.  Through visits to Meiji Gakuin High School, Indiana youth will get a rare insider’s look at Japanese education.  There will be plenty of time to see Tokyo’s world-class museums, examine historical sites, shop, and see the city’s extraordinary shrines.

When in the Exchange?

This four-week program runs from mid-July to mid-August, which coincides with the Japanese summer vacations from school.

The Program Includes:

• Round-trip international airfare from Indianapolis to Tokyo
• A homestay with a Japanese family
• A mid-point trip accompanied by Meiji Gakuin High School staff
• All costs within Japan including round-trip transportation to the host family, meals, orientation , farewell gathering, and more. 
• Orientation materials.
• Overnight departure briefing including accommodations, meals, and program costs.
• Year-round support program to ensure a high quality, educational, family-based exchange program.

Download application form now.

For more information, please call your County Extension office or the State 4-H Department at 888-EXT-INFO.