The Japan Foundation carries out "KAKEHASHI Project - The Bridge for Tomorrow" as part of the Youth Exchange Program with North America promoted by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan (MOFA). Starting from 2013, the Project has given and will give 4,600 Japanese and U.S. students and young people the opportunity to go to the United States and come to visit Japan.

In July, a total of 221 junior high school and high school students, from six selected schools across the U.S., will be invited to a 10-day study tour in Japan. During their stay, the participants will learn about and deepen their understanding in various aspects of Japanese culture at first hand. They will experience unique regional cultures, such as udon noodles making and green tea tasting, and will visit hot springs for their first time. They will also participate in the school exchange and homestay programs, too.