International Relations

Ikata believes very strongly that an active presence in the international community is an essential part of life in the 21st century. We strive to widen our citizens' horizons through a variety of grass-roots internationalization efforts.

Sister city

Red Wing logo

On August 8, 1995, Ikata signed a Sister City Pact with the city of Red Wing, USA. Since then our two cities have sent diplomatic delegations, as well as student exchange groups, back and forth many times.

More about Red Wing

Exchange program

Almost every year, Ikata and Red Wing hold a student exchange program in which a handful of high school students from each city visits the other for a period of 10 days. During their stays the students learn about life in the other country through homestays, sightseeing, and various cultural events.

Participants

If you are, will be, or are interested in being

Please take a look at the IkataWiki for useful information and tips!

JET

Ikata participates in the Japan Exchange and Teaching Programme (JET). JET recruits young people from abroad to work as Assistant Language Teachers (ALTs), teaching English at public schools, and Coordinators for International Relations (CIRs), who help manage sister city relations and promote cultural exchange.

Ikata has four JETs: One ALT in each of Misaki, Seto, and the old Ikata area; and one CIR who services the entire town.

In the community

JETs are involved in many aspects of the community, such as:

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