HAKUBA INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL PRESENTS
SUMMER PROGRAM 2027
Make this summer your own.
Explore, create and grow in the Japanese Alps!
June 28 – July 9, 2027 | Grades 6-9 | Hakuba, Japan
¥575,000 EARLY BIRD
Save ¥25,000 when you apply by Dec 31, 2026
Your Summer at HIS
The details
June 28- July 9, 2027
JPY 600,000 - including all accommodation, meals and program activities
Early bird fee - JPY 575,000 for applications received by Dec 31, 2026
What you’ll get up to
Your summer is packed with adventure. You will hunt for hidden treasure on a GeoCache challenge, get creative in a Vegan Cooking Challenge, and camp at Lake Aoki with paddleboarding, a campfire, and fireworks. You will also hike to Happo-ike Pond for views of the Northern Alps and take on an EX Adventure day, learning by doing every step of the way.
Who is this for?
The Summer Program is open to students in Grades 6–9 who love being outdoors, enjoy trying new things, and want to learn alongside students from around the world.
No previous outdoor experience is needed. Whether it’s a student’s first time paddleboarding or their tenth hike, everyone is welcome. Our small group of 24–30 students means every participant gets support, encouragement, and room to grow.
What Makes HIS Unique?
Project-Based Learning
Students tackle real challenges in small teams and learn by doing, not just watching. Instead of memorizing from a textbook, they design, test, and improve their ideas, like building a rocket that has to land an egg safely. When learning is hands-on and shared with friends, it’s more fun and it sticks.
Outdoor Adventure
At HIS, nature is our first teacher. Days in the Japanese Alps, paddling alpine lakes and hiking mountain trails, build confidence, resilience, and a willingness to try new things. Students also grow a real connection to the natural world and a reason to care for it.
Systems Thinking
Drawing on MIT’s Compassionate Systems Framework, students learn to see how people, places, and problems connect. Hakuba’s forests, rivers, and mountains become a living classroom for understanding how systems work. Along the way, students build empathy, curiosity, and the skills to tackle complex problems together.
Program Details
Dates: Monday, June 28 – Friday, July 9, 2027
Age Group: Grades 6–9
Location: Hakuba International School, Hakuba, Nagano, Japan
Format: 12-day, 11-night residential program
Group Size: 24–30 students
The following costs are not included in the program fee:
Transportation to and from Hakuba
Personal outdoor gear, e.g., hiking boots, rain jacket, etc.
Personal spending money and other individual expenses
Early Bird Fee: ¥575,000
Available for applications received by December 31, 2026.
For applications after December 31, 2026
Standard Fee: ¥600,000
The program fee includes:
11 nights’ accommodation & all meals
Outdoor adventures in the Japanese Alps
All Project-Based Learning, Systems Thinking & residential activities
Students will stay at Hakuba International School and experience life as part of our international residential community.
With accommodation, meals, learning activities, and mountain adventures included in the program, students can focus on making the most of their summer in Hakuba.
The Summer Program is open to students in Grades 6–9 who are excited to explore the outdoors, take on new challenges, and learn alongside students from different backgrounds.
No previous outdoor experience is needed. Whether it’s your first time hiking or you’re already adventurous, every student will find a way to push themselves.
A look back…
2026 - Week 1
2026 - Week 2
FAQ’s
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The program is conducted in English, so we only accept students who can communicate and participate in workshops comfortably. Students who are unsure of their level are welcome to contact us.
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No, HIS does not provide transportation to or from locations outside Hakuba, such as Nagano Station. Families are responsible for arranging their child's travel to and from Hakuba.
However, for students traveling independently without a parent or guardian, HIS will arrange transportation between a train station or bus stop within Hakuba and the program location.
If a student is accompanied by a parent or guardian, we kindly ask that they bring the student directly to the program location.
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Lunch on the first day is not provided. Please have lunch before you arrive.
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Students are allowed to bring and use their devices. Devices are collected before bedtime and returned in the morning. They are also collected during the camping trip.
How to apply
Spaces are limited, and applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. We encourage families to apply early!
For questions about the program or application process, please contact summer@hakuba-is.jp
We look forward to welcoming students to Hakuba for an unforgettable summer!