About us

Overview
In 2012, Sumire Hirotsuru and Mari Hirotsuru had a radical idea: invite Harvard University students to spend their summer teaching youth in Oita, a quiet, beautiful city in southern Japan. Despite having endless, lucrative corporate options worldwide, our inboxes were flooded with brilliant applicants. Why? Because we proved a universal truth: People gather where they are truly appreciated and valued. For over a decade, SIJ has thrived on this mutual appreciation. We bring the brightest minds to Japan, not just to teach English, but to engage in authentic, barrier-free mentorship that transforms both the students and the mentors forever.

Impact
SIJ connects the world and brings diverse talents and expertise to Japan. We bridge the distances, making sure that the exchange of ideas, cultures and learning is continuous and seamless. 

SIJ develops and implements workshop curricula that have a meaningful impact on younger generations’ future and their communities. Since the inaugural year 2013, we have been a platform where the youth can grow as future leaders for the good of society and personal fulfillment.

SIJ’s Mission:

Make the world a place where everyone can happily pursue what they love doing.

Core Values

1.

SIJ creates a space where genuine human connections transcend differences, empowering participants to collaborate toward a more peaceful and inclusive world.

2.

We proudly provide a safe, well-structured, and engaging learning platform where young leaders from diverse backgrounds come together to work together for a better future.

3.

Our programs blend language, culture, and the arts to deliver engaging, transformative learning experiences that are as enjoyable as they are impactful.

SIJ Summer School 2026

An immersive summer experience where participants develop their strengths, pursue their passions, and exchange ideas in English within an international community.

We welcome motivated students to be part of this shared journey!

SIJ motto

The best way to predict the future is to invent it.