INTERNSHIP OPPORTUNITY

2026 Fall Internship

The Japan Information & Culture Center (JICC), Embassy of Japan is seeking one unpaid, part- to full-time in-person intern (14-35 hours/week) for Fall 2026. Internship start/end dates are aligned with the academic schedule of the chosen candidate (but must cover at least a one-month period).

The JICC is part of the Public Affairs section of the Embassy of Japan in Washington, D.C. Our primary goal is to promote a better understanding of Japan and Japanese culture by providing a wide range of information and events to the public, particularly in the Washington metropolitan area. We strive to build bridges between Japanese and American culture through activities such as film screenings, exhibitions, lectures, workshops, educational programs and digital content. The JICC is a gateway for connecting the American public to Japan, and interns are expected to participate in these efforts.

REQUIREMENTS

Nationality:

- This position is open to Japanese and American citizens. The JICC, Embassy of Japan does not sponsor visas for Japanese citizens.

Education:

- Enrolled in a four-year degree program and must have completed at least two years of undergraduate study. Graduate students may also apply.

- Enrolled in a U.S. accredited university throughout the duration of the internship.

- Candidates must be either (a) eligible to receive credit for the internship, or (b) have the internship noted on their academic transcript.

- Studies focused on International Relations, Communications, Asian/Japan Studies, or related fields are highly preferred.

Languages and Skills:

- English: Proficient to fluent in speaking, reading, and writing.

- Japanese: Conversational to fluent in speaking. Reading and writing skills are encouraged but not required.

- Excellent writing, public speaking, and organizational skills.

- Superior interpersonal communication skills.

- Ability to take initiative and work successfully both independently and in a team.

Availability:

- Interns are required to work in-person at least 14 hours per week. Generally, these hours are between 9AM-5PM, Monday through Friday. On occasion, interns are asked to help during evening or weekend events.

- Ideal candidates are able to commute to the JICC.

- Internship start and end dates are flexible based on the candidate’s academic schedule. See below for specific information about the Internship Term under Application Instructions.

Other:

- Successful candidates must provide a state or federal background check.

INTERN JOB DESCRIPTION:

Interns at the JICC contribute to and participate in cultural programs and events by assisting diplomats and Embassy staff. Specific duties may include:

- Participating in the JICC’s Educational Program, including cultural presentations about Japan for local students and adults.

- Conducting research and drafting letters in response to inquiries from the public.

- Creating resources to educate the public on Japanese culture and further organization goals.

- Preparing for and assisting with events including registration and survey analysis.

- Creation of flyers and promotional materials through image editing and graphic design.

- Assisting Japanese diplomats and JICC staff with public outreach including social media.

- Assisting the Exhibition Coordinator and JICC staff installing/deinstalling exhibitions in the gallery space.

- Other responsibilities as needed.

- At the conclusion of the internship term, interns must submit a capstone project of their choosing.

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:

The application language is English.

1. Applications are only accepted during the application period stated below:
   Internship Term: Fall 2026 (September - December)
   Application Period Deadline: Friday, July 3, 2026
2. Email your resume, cover letter, capstone project proposal and copy of U.S. or Japanese passport as a PDF file to the Intern Coordinator, Dr. Helen Swift at jicchr@ws.mofa.go.jp. Due to the high volume of applications, participants will not be considered if submission instructions are not properly followed. Capstone project proposals should be no more than 250 words and detail a project or set of goals the applicant hopes to achieve by the internship's completion.
3. Candidates chosen to be interviewed must submit all the following documents via email by the day of their interview. Due to the volume of applications, incomplete applications cannot be considered. Interviews are conducted virtually via video call.
   
   a. Document(s) certifying that the candidate will either (a) receive credit, or (b) have the internship noted on their academic transcript;
   
   b. Copy of Student ID;
   
   c. Copy of the US student visa for the Japanese citizen;
   
   d. College Transcript – unofficial transcripts are acceptable;
   
   e. Recommendation letter from Dean, Department Head, Professor, or Student Advisor.
   
   
4. Background checks can be submitted at a later date.

If you have any questions, please contact the Intern Coordinator, Dr. Helen Swift at jicchr@ws.mofa.go.jp.