Capture the World: Join the 11th Hokkaido Youth Photo Festival Exchange Project!

Are you passionate about photography and eager to explore new horizons? Here’s your chance to showcase your talent on an international stage!

Background: Partnering with Higashikawa City in Hokkaido, the UCD Centre for Japanese Studies presents an exciting opportunity for secondary school students in Ireland. As part of Higashikawa’s cultural exchange funding program, Ireland has been invited to participate in the prestigious Youth Photo Festival, uniting 23 countries in a celebration of artistic expression.

Selection Process: Stand out as your school’s representatives! Our selection committee, comprising professionals in the field, will choose one team to represent Ireland at the festival in August 2026.

Eligibility: Gather your creative crew! Teams of three students from secondary schools are eligible. Students must be currently in 4th or 5th Year in an Irish Secondary School (for the academic year 2025/26). With a teacher as your advisor, dive into the world of international cultural exchange through the lens of photography.

Theme: “The Charm of Your Region” – Unveil the beauty and uniqueness of your surroundings through your photographic storytelling.

Submission Rules: Submit a series of six digital photos reflecting your interpretation of the theme. Follow the submission guidelines closely for your chance to shine on the global stage.

Summary: The winners will pack their camera and embark on an unforgettable journey to Higashikawa, the Town of Photography, from August 17th to 23rd, 2026. Departing Dublin during the week of the 10th August. Immerse yourself in captivating landscapes and cultural exchanges as you participate in photo sessions and engage in enriching activities including sessions on Japanese language and culture. This is an unparalleled opportunity to expand your artistic horizons, foster cross-cultural connections, and leave your mark on the world stage. Don’t miss out on this transformative experience!

11th International High School Students’ Photo Festival Exchange [HIGASHIKAWA Youth Fest.]
For more information visit (opens in a new window)higashikawa-youth-fest.jp.

Details of the 2024 Irish Section Winners

Application Form [for entries from Ireland] Application Form for the Hokkaido Photo Festival Project

Application Deadline for Irish Entries:
5:00 pm on Monday, April 20th, 2026 [Irish Standard Time]

Google Form for (opens in a new window)Submitting the Work [and the Application Form] to the Coordinator

Any queries please direct to (opens in a new window)Japan@ucd.ie
Coordinator: Nobuko IJICHI, UCD Centre for Japanese Studies

See the application form for details. It is important to ensure you meet all requirements.

The winners will be informed in the first week of June.

Let your creativity illuminate the world!