Hokkaido International Foundation (HIF) is a non-profit organization that promotes international understanding and contributes to the advancement of world peace through Japanese language study programs and cross-cultural activities in Hokkaido.
Main Homestay Programs
Japanese Language and Japanese Culture Program
HIF has offered this eight-week summer program since 1986. It is an intensive, university level Japanese language study course that focuses on proficiency-oriented instruction. Homestay is a compulsory component of this program.
Detailed Information(English)
International Cultural Exchange Programs*Exclusively for foreign students living in Japan.
Tsudoi, Summer
HIF has offered this two-week program every summer since 1979. It is a grassroots cultural awareness program where students learn about Japanese culture through school visits, cultural experiences like tea ceremony, and homestay (cultural experiences differ depending on which town will accommodate you).
Detailed Information(Japanese)
Tsudoi, Winter
HIF started this one-week program in 2004 to provide international students in Japan with winter experiences unique to Hokkaido. Activities include skiing, ice fishing,etc. Participants can also enjoy homestay.
Detailed Information(Japanese)
Farm Experience
HIF started this one-week program in 2003 to provide farming experiences like poultry growing, charcoal burning, dairy husbandry, fishery, forest industry, etc. Participants can also enjoy homestay.
Detailed Information(Japanese)
Cross-cultural Understanding Activities
Workshops and Events
HIF delivers workshops and coordinates events to promote international understanding in cooperation with Japan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA), Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), and a number of other NGOs.
Detailed Information(Japanese)
Language Classes
HIF offers language classes of English, Korean, Chinese and Thai.
Detailed Information(Japanese)
Hands-on Program
HIF offers a variety of programs like cooking classes, music concerts and workshops to introduce foreign cultures to a diverse range of people.
Detailed Information(Japanese)
Services to NPO's, NGO's, and Volunteers
Information Magazine Publication: Volut
HIF issues the quarterly magazine Volut, which features NPOs, NGOs, and volunteer groups in the Southern Hokkaido area, and to recruit volunteers for various activities. Also, this magazine includes daily information about movies, recipes for ethnic cuisine, and slow life reports.
Detailed Information(Japanese)
Volunteer Support Service
HIF supports volunteer groups and activities by offering training in planning skills, marketing, and management.
Detailed Information(Japanese)
Counseling Counter: Global Challenge
HIF provides a counseling counter for individuals who are interested in studying, working and volunteering in foreign countries.
Detailed Information(Japanese)
Civil Society Organization (CSO) Networking
HIF aims to network with local governments, business organizations, NPOs, and NGOs, to promote local revitalization projects.
Detailed Information(Japanese)
Sightseeing Information Blog for Foreigners
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HIF provides information for living and sightseeing in Hakodate via our web Magazine.