The Redlands Sister Cities Association has an ongoing student exchange with Hino, Japan for over 50 years. Students who are currently attending school in Redlands, who are between the ages of 14 through 19 in 2023, are encouraged to apply for our upcoming student exchange.
The home stay/ visitation is approximately 12 days during Redlands, during the Unified spring break. Students will be staying with host families, participating in the city's cultural activities, and traveling to some historic sites in the country.
The tentative cost per student is approximately $1,800- $2,400, which will cover airfare, railway transportation, and other travel expenses. The student and his or her family are responsible for the cost; however, the Redlands Sister Cities Association will assist students in organizing fundraisers to help defer some of the costs. Students who are accepted into the program will need to join sister cities (a two year membership) and participate in activities before and after the trip.
Along with the application, students must submit an essay of 500 words or more and attend an interview about why he/she would like to visit Japan. The students selected will be required to attend orientation meetings and participate in fundraising activities prior to the departure date.
Applications are due December 2nd. Interviews will be scheduled shortly after.