The Rikuzentakata Project, Tokyo
Program Overview
US university students are invited to join a seven-day project-based learning program with students from Rikkyo University (Tokyo, Japan), the University of Hong Kong, and the National University of Singapore to explore the city of Rikuzentakata, which was devastated by the 2011 earthquake and tsunami. Through guest speakers, site visits, immersive activities, and team projects, participants will learn about the community’s journey of recovery and vision of creating a more sustainable future. Participants will discuss the United Nations’ Global Goals for Sustainable Development (SDGs) and collaborate cross-culturally to present their reflections on sustainable community development.
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Program Highlights
What's Included
Quick Details
- Summer
- Asian Studies
- International Relations
- Japanese
- Service Learning
- Sustainable Development
Updated Jan 28, 2026
Program Details
Learn all the nitty gritty details you need to know
Locations
- Tokyo, Japan
Fields & Subjects
- Asian Studies
- International Relations
- Japanese
- Sustainable Development
- Service Learning
Available Terms / Availability
- Years Offered: 2026
- Terms Available: Summer
Eligible Nationalities
- All Nationalities
Education Levels & Language
- Language: English
- Education: University Freshman (1st Year)
- Education: University Sophomore (2nd Year)
- Education: University Junior (3rd Year)
- Education: University Senior (4th Year)
- Education: University 5th Year or More
- Education: Some college credit, no degree
- Education: Trade/technical/vocational training
- Education: Associate degree
- Education: Bachelor’s degree
- Education: Master’s degree
- Education: Professional degree
- Education: High school graduate, diploma or the equivalent (for example: GED)
- Education: Doctorate degree
Accommodation Options
- Other
Application Procedures
- Online Application
- Essay
- Phone/Video Interview
Age Requirement
18+
Starts At
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FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
Get answers to all the most common questions about Volunteers in Asia (VIA).
Do I need to speak Japanese?
No. Program sessions will be conducted in English. However, if you are studying Japanese, this is a great opportunity to practice with native speakers in both formal and informal settings.
Who leads the program activities?
VIA staff and Rikkyo University faculty, as well as on-site coordinators and guest speakers from the local community.
Can I travel somewhere else before or after the program?
Yes! You are welcome to go somewhere before and after the program, as long as you arrive in Tokyo on the first day of the program and depart no sooner than the final day of the program.
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