We proudly present しおくん (shio-kun), our official yuru-chara for 2021-2022!

In Summer 2021, the nine participants created their original yuru-charas of Hakodate with the local supporters. Then we held the Yuru-chara Championship (online voting by people in Hakodate and anyone who is interested), and Shio-kun won the first prize by getting 60 votes out of a total of 259!

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Shio-kun has turned into a button badge. He will cross the sea and disseminate information about Hakodate and the HIF Japanese Language and Japanese Culture Program around the world!

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Comments from Alumni

  • Name:
    John Geitner
    University:
    University of
    Notre Dame
    John Geitner photo

    The HIF program was super fun and a great learning opportunity! Getting to meet so many new people who all share the same goal of ... more

  • Name:
    Marcella Houston
    University:
    University of
    Michigan
    Marcella Houston photo

    There are lots of different ways to enjoy your study abroad and they're all valid! Lots of students choose to travel lots or visit lots of attractions ... more

  • Name:
    Helen Liu
    University:
    University of
    Pennsylvania
    Helen Liu photo

    HIF is extremely rewarding and truly a once-in-a-lifetime chance. I think it's easier to be integrated into a host family as a younger college student ... more

  • Name:
    Nicole Lu
    University:
    Emory University
    Nicole Lu photo

    I loved the HIF program! I was able to learn so much - not only the Japanese language but also the culture and background of people ... more

  • Name:
    Kaitlyn Milleret
    University:
    University of
    Notre Dame
    Kaitlyn Milleret photo

    I'm very grateful I got the opportunity to stay in Hakodate since it's such an underrated part of Japan. My favorite part was visiting landmarks like ... more

  • Name:
    Sofia Pan Xian
    University:
    University of
    Michigan
    Sofia Pan Xian photo

    If you feel you are struggling to speak, this program will make sure you go back feeling confident. You'll be only speaking Japanese - during class ... more

  • Name:
    Julian Schempf
    University:
    University of
    Kansas
    Julian Schempf photo

    It might be difficult, but you will have the experience of a lifetime, something you will cherish for years to come. more

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