YBICSE, or Young Buddhist International Cultural Study Exchange, is a Hongwanji-sponsored educational trip to Japan for young people in 9th grade through age 25. The YBICSE 2017 trip will be July 10-22 and the application deadline is April 30, 2017.
Participants visit Jodo Shinshu historical sites including the Hongwanji (mother temple) in Kyoto and experience fellowship with new friends from the U.S. mainland, Canada, South America, and Japan. The trip includes a homestay program, learning about and experiencing Japanese culture, sharing the joy of living in the Nembutsu Teachings, and many other life-changing experiences.
The program seeks applicants who:
- appreciate Jodo Shinshu Buddhism
- are currently in 9th grade through age 25
- are in good health
For more information, see http://hongwanjihawaii.com/ybicse/.