Michigan 4-H’ers who traveled abroad to Japan in the summer of 2025 share their experiences.
States’ 4-H International Exchange Programs is one of the pioneers of international youth exchange, with over 50 years of experience helping youth and families discover a global perspective while having an unforgettable experience. Michigan 4-H’s International Exchange Programs have partnered with the States’ 4-H Summer Outbound (OB) programs for many years, providing 4-H youth with the opportunity to travel to foreign countries for a cultural immersion experience.
OB delegates live with volunteer host families and engage in experiential learning about a new way of life and different culture. Delegates experience aspects of daily life that allow them to more deeply understand both their host culture and their own culture.
With the summer now behind us, Michigan 4-H’ers who traveled abroad this summer are sharing their experiences in Japan. Read on to hear about this once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Nicholas D., of Lenawee County 4-H, shared the following about his eight-week stay in Japan:
“I had tons of fun in Japan! There is nothing like international travel. If I had to give one piece of advice to future 4-H travelers, it is that it’s important to form bonds and appreciate the culture, not just focus on pre-existing interests. Spending time with Kaito (whom we hosted at our house in the summer of 2024) and meeting new friends (both American and Japanese) has been a very positive, life-changing experience.
One day, I traveled with one of my host brothers, Zen, to a hot springs near Oita. As you can tell from the steam, it is very hot – too hot to swim! However, this is a very popular sightseeing spot!”
Stella I., of Oceana County 4-H, shared this about her experience traveling to Japan for four weeks:
“This summer, I was lucky enough to travel to Japan through the 4-H cultural exchange program. It was a once-in-a-lifetime experience that I will never forget. I was able to see so many beautiful landscapes, try amazing foods, and take part in festivals and traditions that are so important to Japanese culture. Visiting historic sites and learning about Japan’s history helped me see the country in a whole new way!
What made the experience even more memorable was my magnificent host family. I stayed with a wonderful mother, father and three sisters who welcomed me with open arms. They were so kind and patient, especially when I was adjusting to all the new things around me. They took the time to show me their favorite places, foods, explain traditions, and make sure I felt comfortable throughout my stay. By the end of the month, I felt like I had truly become part of their family.
This trip showed me how valuable it is to connect with people from different cultures. I am so thankful to my host family for their kindness and to 4-H for giving me this amazing opportunity to enlighten me with an extraordinary, eye-opening experience. I truly can’t thank you enough.”
Want to learn more about Michigan 4-H international exchange experiences? Look for a future article about two Michigan 4-H’ers, Audra A. of Washtenaw County 4-H and Mitia W. of Lenawee County 4-H, who traveled to South Korea in 2025. Or read the story of Jillian R. of Macomb County, was Michigan 4-H’s first LEX Academic Year Program (AYP) delegate who spent nearly a year in Japan attending high school!
Want to have your own 4-H international exchange experience? In 2026, the 4-H OB program will travel to Argentina, Costa Rica, Japan (four- or eight-week options), South Korea and Taiwan! Applications are open now and due by December 15. Check out the States’ 4-H International Exchange Program website, the Michigan 4-H International Exchange Programs Facebook page, and the States 4-H International Exchange Programs Facebook page for more future updates about other experiences! Michigan 4-H can’t wait to see the international connections made, life-changing experiences had and cultural learning developed as more youth travel abroad in the summer of 2026!
MSU Extension and the Michigan 4-H Youth Development program help to prepare youth as positive and engaged leaders and global citizens by providing educational experiences and resources for youth interested in developing knowledge and skills in these areas. To learn more about Michigan 4-H’s international exchange programs, read “Michigan 4-H International Exchange Programs 50th anniversary partnering with States’ 4-H International Exchange Programs.” For more information about 4-H learning opportunities and other 4-H programs, contact your local MSU Extension office.
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