TOMODACHI Inouye Scholars Program: Students from the University of Hawaii at Manoa Travel to Japan and Share their Learnings from the Program

From March 23 to March 31, twenty-three students and two chaperones from the University of Hawaii at Manoa traveled to Japan as part of the TOMODACHI Inouye Scholars Program. Part of the broader Government of Japan’s KAKEHASHI Project, the TOMODACHI Inouye Scholars Program promotes mutual understanding between the U.S. and Japan, develops a network among the leaders of the next generation, and aims to broaden the participants’ perspectives. The TOMODACHI Inouye Scholars Program was established to honor the life and legacy of Senator Daniel K. Inouye, and offers participants a unique opportunity to learn about Senator Inouye’s state and country, and his contributions to U.S.-Japan relations, to which he devoted his life.

During the program, the students visited historical landmarks in Yokohama and Tokyo. They also learned about traditional Japanese culture through Umegae Mochi making, a traditional tea ceremony, and attending a Kyogen play in Fukuoka. The students also visited Kyushu University, where they compared the education systems in Japan and the United States with local students.
At the program’s debriefing session on March 30, the students presented their learnings and discoveries. They also had an opportunity to discuss their experiences with TOMODACHI alumni, who also participated in study abroad programs through the TOMODACHI Initiative.

With the new knowledge and experiences they acquired from this program, the students are expected to greatly contribute to U.S.-Japan relations as leaders of the next generation.