SKIP 2026
Japan Unveiled:
"Wa"-nder the Roots of the Japanese Spirit
"和" (Wa) is widely known as a word that symbolizes Japan. However, in Japanese, "Wa" has more than one meaning.
和 (harmony), 笑 (humor), 輪 (connection), 葉 (nature and land), 話 (storytelling)— sharing the same pronunciation "Wa", encompasses many different meanings, reflecting the depth of Japanese culture and the language.
Using the sound "Wa" as a guiding hand, we will explore Japanese culture not at surface level, but three dimensionally through words, ideas, and experiences.
We will see, walk, feel, and talk.
Over the course of two weeks, we will not just "learn" the roots of "Wa", but actually "discover it through experience."
Japanese spirituality cannot be described with just one single definition. It is the process in which countless meanings of "Wa"s come together and emerge through interconnectedness.
SKIP 2026 will use the homonym "Wa" and the kanjis related as clues to deepen understanding of Japanese culture, language, and philosophy, and provide an opportunity to discover a previously unknown side of Japan.
Date: Aug 30 〜 Sep 12 2026
Contents
Food culture
Traditional Culture
Short Trip
Company visit
Hayama Day
Participation Fee
$1,500
Includes
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transportation
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exursions
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activities
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homestay
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meals provided by host family and lunch during the program
Does NOT include
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transportation during your free time and on host family days
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lunch during host family days
About the Host Family System
Where will I be staying?
We will assign you to a Japanese host family. These homes will be located approximately 45 minutes from Shibuya (centre of Tokyo).
What kind of families will I be staying with?
Our host families mainly consist of Keio alumni or current students related to SKIP. (A thorough check will be done beforehand).
Voices from Past Participants
SKIP 2025
I had such a great time during SKIP. I will never forget this program and I am so appreciative to all of you for putting so much work into it.
This program was so much fun—like literally the most fun 2 weeks of my life! Thank you guys for all the work you put into the program!
Thank you so much - this summer was amazing because of SKIP!!!
Thank you guys for another great year. I hope we can keep in touch and congratulations on a great program!-- I could tell a ton of work was put into organizing it!
This was such an amazing experience. I truly enjoyed my time and was super happy to meet and get to know everyone. Your guys rock. Japan is awesome! Thank you so much!!