Summer in JAPAN (SIJ) will be held this year from July 26 to August 10, 2026 in Oita, Japan. SIJ is a non-profit annual English summer school program which was  founded by Hirotsuru Mari and her daughter Hirotsuru Sumire in 2012.

SIJ is a collaboration between Harvard University students, alumni, and students from three international-focused Japanese universities: Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University, Oita University Medical School, and Akita International University. Together, they are creating a global educational environment in Oita, Japan. Serving students aged 7-18 from across Japan and the world, they teach computer science, public speaking, composition, and performing arts in English. 

For participating students: SIJ creates an all-English environment where you can learn with dynamic instructors, and also study with other students who are talented, highly-motivated, and ambitious.  Participants have invaluable opportunities to learn communication skills, intercultural competence, and critical thinking while also pursuing their own interests in courses and workshops of their choice.

For instructors: By joining SIJ, you can have a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore Japan while making lifelong connections and developing your talents and leadership abilities.  In addition to teaching, you will be given four days of travel in Japan before the seminar to orient yourself; lots of Japanese lunches and dinners such as ramen and sushi during the seminar; and attend cultural events and have unique experiences. You will also guide enthusiastic youth and inspire them to pursue their studies abroad.

If you are interested in participating in SIJ as either a student or an instructor, please follow the links below: