Culture Programs

High School Ambassadors: Live with a host family in Japan

Our High School Ambassador Program is a cultural exchange with Toyonaka rooted in the People to People program begun under President Eisenhower. In previous years, two San Mateo high school students spend about 10 days in Toyonaka, living with host families, joining cultural events, and representing San Mateo at public appearances.

Toyonaka students visit San Mateo too, and our host ambassadors help plan their stay here.

The goal is friendship and understanding between the United States and Japan. Many lasting friendships have grown out of past exchanges, among students, host families and the volunteers who run the program.

How it works

We select up to four students: two travel to Toyonaka, and up to two alternates serve as host ambassadors here in San Mateo.

The two travelers spend about 10 days in Toyonaka during the summer, living with host families who treat them as part of the family.

Trip dates are set each spring based on Toyonaka's schedule and flight availability.

Travelers attend an orientation before they leave, and an English-speaking guide is with them throughout the trip. The orientation covers traveling in Japan and the events the ambassadors will take part in.

The San Mateo City Council supports the program, and the Association raises funds to help cover travel costs.

Host ambassadors join the committee that plans the Toyonaka students' visit and take part in San Mateo city events connected with the Association.

How to apply

Applications will be made available when the next program is announced.

Questions? Email smsistercity@gmail.com.

Past Group Exchanges

Girls softball exchange (2018)

In 2018, the Association sent its first-ever girls softball team to Toyonaka: 17 high-school-age players coached by Vince DeFriese and Nick Dykes. Like our baseball players, the team attended Japanese culture classes alongside their practices.

Band exchange (2015)

The Borel Middle School Band from the San Mateo-Foster City School District took part in musical exchanges with Toyonaka, with student musicians serving as ambassadors.