Japan’s Friendship Ties Program “MIRAI” 2026 Application is Now Open

2026/8/3
Participants are invited to spend a week in Japan to connect with experts, scholars, and peers, expanding their international perspectives and fostering cross-border cooperation. Applications for Japan’s Friendship Ties Program "MIRAI" 2026 are now open.
 
Key Details at a Glance
Target Participants: Individuals 20+ years old, students, or young professionals aiming to make an impact in a connected world.
Topic for Estonian Participants: "Diplomacy and Security"
Application Deadline: August 31st, 2026, at 1:00 AM (UTC)
 
About the Program
Through intellectual exchanges with Japanese experts, academics, and students, participants will:
Gain deeper insights into Japan.
Build meaningful international connections.
Become part of a network that promotes mutual understanding and future cooperation.
 
Note: All participants are expected to share Japan's diplomacy and its charm proactively through social media and other media during and after the program. (The name "MIRAI" comes from the Japanese word for "Future".)
Although there are five thematic groups for 2026, participants from Estonia can only apply for one of them – "Diplomacy and Security".
 
Links & Resources
 
Want to know more?
Read the story of Rodion Krupin, who took part in the program previously!