The JICC Educational Program is designed to give visitors a fun and informative introduction to Japanese culture and traditional practices. Since 1981, our multi-faceted program has introduced thousands of elementary, middle, and high school students to Japan. We also offer tailored sessions for university students and adults who want to improve their understanding of Japanese culture and customs, as well as learn proper business etiquette before traveling to Japan. These programs are free to the public by reservation request, making them great for school field trips and groups interested in learning about Japanese culture and etiquette. The length of the program may vary from 1-2 hours depending on the inclusion of a hands-on cultural activity. All educational programs must take place during JICC business hours, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Experience Japan in our interactive program:

• Video: a captivating introduction to Japan provided by the Japan National Tourism Organization
• Interactive PowerPoint: an engaging overview of the country's geography, traditions, and everyday life with trivia
• Authentic Artifacts: a presentation of a Japanese wedding kimono, authentic dolls, traditional Japanese toys and more
• Activities: learn basic Japanese phrases, meet a robot, learn origami and more! (Activities may vary depending on time allotment of the program)

We hope that our programs leave students and adults alike interested in learning more about Japanese culture.

If you are interested in requesting an educational program, please follow the instructions below. In addition, any questions can be directed to the Educational Programs Coordinator.

1. Download the EP Reservation Form (Word File) and fill it out completely.
2. Email the completed form (as an attachment) to the Educational Programs Coordinator at least a week prior to the requested program dates.
3. Await a reply and retain the confirmation letter as it contains important information about the JICC's location and facility guidelines*.

Please direct all educational program-related inquiries to the Educational Programs Coordinator, Ms. Gabrielle Headly: gabrielle.headly@ws.mofa.go.jp or 202-238-6945.

The Embassy Adoption Program is an educational program operated in partnership with the Washington Performing Arts Society and the District of Columbia Public Schools. The Program pairs embassies with fifth- and sixth-graders for a year-long immersive global education, creating a "bond" between local and international communities.

The JICC works with teachers and liaisons throughout the year to organize classroom sessions, cultural immersion programs at the JICC, and field trips for hands-on experience with Japanese history and culture. Often, our classes get to meet diplomats, heads of state, and special embassy guests. They also learn traditional Japanese games, songs, clothing, food, and more, in conjunction with the long and vibrant history of the relationship between Japan and Washington D.C.

The program culminates in a final class presentation at the Old Residence of the Ambassador of Japan, and a mini-United Nations with other EAP schools.

We look forward to welcoming and working with our EAP groups every year. To learn more about the EAP program and how to apply, please visit the District of Columbia Public Schools website.