Other Activities (Compulsory)

Special Lectures
Onuma Field Trip
Speech Contest

Special Lectures

Participants will attend three lectures introducing diverse aspects of Japanese culture.

2019 Special Lectures

Mr. Niraku Hayashiya (Kamikiri Performer) and Prof. Kazumi Hatasa (Purdue University)

Kamikiri (Paper Cutting)

Dr. Takako Aikawa (Massachusetts Institute of Technology)

Meaningful Language Learning by Virtual & Augmented Reality Technologies: Vision for Future Language Learning

Prof. Seiichi Makino (Princeton University)

Some Interesting Things about Japanese Language and Culture

Former Special Lecturers:

Prof. Wesley M. Jacobsen (Harvard University)
Prof. Mutsuko Endo Hudson (Michigan State University)
Mr. Sankyo Yanagiya (Professional Rakugo Performer)
Mr. Ichiro Kataoka (Benshi)
etc.

Onuma Field Trip

This overnight trip is scheduled on the third weekend after the program begins, to establish rapport among the participants. Onuma Park is located 30km away from the city of Hakodate. It is known for its picturesque lakes dotted with islands and the majestic dormant volcano, Mount Komagatake. Students enjoy outdoor activities, dinner accompanied by a talent show, karaoke, and more.

Speech Contest

All participants write drafts and make a speech in class in Week 5. Two representatives from each class will present their speech at the speech contest held in Week 6. This contest is open to the public to attend.

2019 Awarded Speeches

Here are the posters that student volunteers created for the contest in Summer 2018.
(Click the image or name to enlarge.)

Name:

Emily Branam

University:

Swarthmore
College

This program for me was about self discovery more than anything. I was given the opportunity to ...
Name:

Ismail Can

University:

Swarthmore
College

Throughout my time at HIF, I feel that I made many wonderful memories, whether that be with my ...
Name:

Dabbour, Jawad

University:

Franklin & Marshall
College

HIF was one of the most incredible experiences ever. Being immersed in a homestay in Japan, ...
Name:

Ernestina Hsieh

University:

Yale
University

I feel so lucky to be here. From the fluidity of transportation from home to school or culture classes to ...
Name:

Plearn Janvatanavit

University:

Wesleyan
University

At HIF, I was able to not only improve my Japanese, but gain a better understanding of the culture.
Name:

Keanna Lundy

University:

University of
Denver

The HIF program has exceeded all my expectations and has become one of my most valued experiences.
Name:

Randy Tran

University:

University of
Washington

HIF gives you the tools, resources, and support to help you not just succeed, but to exceed!
Name:

Michelle Wan

University:

Emory
University

HIF has been a great experience for me. The program provides you with lots of opportunities to get involved with ...
Name:

Yiyang Zhong

University:

University of
Washington

TThe HIF program is wonderful in respect of not only improving your Japanese language skills, but also on ...