The Hakuho Foundation Japanese Research Fellowship 2025 presents an exceptional opportunity for international researchers who are passionate about Japanese language, literature, culture, and education. This fully funded program enables scholars from across the globe to conduct advanced research in Japan at prestigious institutions. The fellowship aims to foster deep international understanding of Japan and contribute to the development of Japanese studies worldwide. If you are a researcher looking to immerse yourself in Japan’s rich academic environment, the Hakuho Foundation Fellowship could be your gateway to success.
About the Hakuho Foundation Japanese Research Fellowship
The Hakuho Foundation, a prominent organization in Japan, launched the Japanese Research Fellowship to promote international understanding of Japanese culture and society. Since its inception, the fellowship has supported many distinguished researchers in the fields of Japanese language, Japanese literature, Japanese language education, and Japanese culture.
Selected fellows are invited to Japan for a period of either six or twelve months to conduct residential research in collaboration with one of the top universities and research institutes in the country. Fellows are expected to produce significant academic work during their stay while also participating in seminars, lectures, and workshops to disseminate their research findings.
Financial Coverage
The Hakuho Foundation Fellowship is fully funded and covers all the essential expenses for the fellows during their research stay in Japan. The benefits include:
- Airfare: Round-trip economy class airfare from the fellow’s country of residence to Japan.
- Relocation Allowance: A one-time payment to assist with initial relocation costs.
- Monthly Stipend: A generous monthly allowance to cover living expenses, research materials, and other necessities.
- Housing Support: Assistance in locating accommodation, with rent expenses fully covered.
- Insurance: Comprehensive medical and accident insurance throughout the fellowship period.
- Research Support: Access to facilities, libraries, and academic resources at host institutions.
This extensive financial support ensures that researchers can fully concentrate on their academic work without financial stress.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the Hakuho Foundation Japanese Research Fellowship 2025, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Field of Study: Must specialize in Japanese language, Japanese literature, Japanese language education, or Japanese culture.
- Academic Qualification: Hold a doctoral degree or possess equivalent professional research achievements.
- Language Proficiency: Must have sufficient proficiency in the Japanese language to carry out research and engage with the academic community in Japan.
- Nationality: Must be a non-Japanese national residing outside of Japan, or a Japanese national who has lived abroad for at least 10 years and is actively engaged in international academic activities.
- Institutional Affiliation: Must be affiliated with a university or a research institution outside of Japan.
Meeting these eligibility criteria is essential for a successful application.
Fellowship Duration
Applicants can choose between two types of research stays:
- Short-term Fellowship: 6 months (from September 2025 to February 2026)
- Long-term Fellowship: 12 months (from September 2025 to August 2026)
Applicants must clearly indicate their preference for the fellowship period when applying.
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Host Institutions
Fellows will be affiliated with leading universities and research institutes in Japan. Some of the prominent host institutions include:
- Kyoto University
- Waseda University
- Tokyo University of Foreign Studies
- National Institute for Japanese Language and Linguistics
- Ochanomizu University
- Ritsumeikan University
- International Research Center for Japanese Studies
- The Japan Foundation Japanese-Language Institute, Urawa
These institutions provide an excellent academic environment, extensive resources, and strong mentorship support to the fellows.
Important Dates
- Application Period Opens: June 3, 2024
- Application Deadline: October 31, 2024
- Notification of Results: March 2025
- Start of Fellowship: September 2025
It is essential to adhere to these deadlines. Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.
Application Process
The application process for the Hakuho Foundation Japanese Research Fellowship 2025 is straightforward but requires careful preparation:
- Prepare Documents: Applicants must prepare a detailed research proposal, a curriculum vitae (CV), a copy of their doctoral degree certificate or equivalent, and two letters of recommendation.
- Online Application: Fill out the online application form available on the Hakuho Foundation’s official website.
- Submission: Upload all required documents through the online portal before the deadline.
- Selection: Applications will be reviewed by an expert selection committee. Final decisions will be based on academic merit, relevance of the research topic, and the potential contribution to the field of Japanese studies.
- Notification: Successful candidates will be notified in March 2025.
The selection process is highly competitive, so it is crucial to present a strong and well-structured application.
Tips for a Successful Application
- Clear Research Proposal: Clearly define your research objectives, methodology, and expected outcomes. Explain how your research will contribute to Japanese studies.
- Strong Recommendations: Choose recommenders who are familiar with your academic work and can attest to your research capabilities.
- Demonstrate Language Skills: Showcase your proficiency in Japanese to indicate your ability to conduct independent research in Japan.
- Show Impact: Emphasize how your research findings will foster cross-cultural understanding and international collaboration.
Conclusion
The Hakuho Foundation Japanese Research Fellowship 2025 is an unparalleled opportunity for researchers committed to deepening their knowledge and understanding of Japanese culture, language, and literature. With comprehensive funding, access to world-class institutions, and the chance to work alongside leading academics, this fellowship can significantly enhance your academic and professional career.
If you meet the eligibility requirements and are passionate about Japanese studies, do not miss this chance to immerse yourself in Japan’s rich academic environment.
Official Website for Application:
https://www.hakuhodofoundation.or.jp/en/program/