Bizen, Japan Student Exchange

Bizen, Japan Student Exchange

The Menlo Park-Bizen program is a student exchange program between the Cities of Menlo Park, California and Bizen, Japan. Its purpose is to promote and expand cross-cultural relationships.

The sister city exchange isn’t just a trip — it’s an adventure full of fun, learning, and unforgettable experiences! Our student delegates get to take part in exciting activities hosted by the amazing community of Bizen and live with local families who love sharing their culture. While Bizen students get a taste of life in Menlo Park, our students experience what everyday life is really like in Japan. Every year, these exchanges spark friendships that often turn into lifelong connections and make the bond between our two cities even stronger.

  • It’s a chance to be part of a real Japanese family and experience life from a totally new perspective.
  • It’s a chance to make friendships that could last a lifetime.
  • It’s a chance to see how diverse and connected our world can be.
  • It’s a chance to broaden your understanding of different lifestyles and values.
  • And most of all, it’s a way to help promote peace and understanding — one friendship at a time.

Each year alternates between Menlo Park sending students to Japan and hosting students from Bizen in Menlo Park.

July 2026 host families will have a special opportunity to apply to send their child to Japan next summer (2027) through our program. Host families will receive priority consideration in the selection process, and we encourage interested students to apply next spring.