The Ambassador’s Youth Council Program visited Yokota Air Base, Japan on April 20, 2023, to tour the base and learn more about U.S.-Japan relations. 

Twenty university students from the Kansai and Tokyo regions participated in the program to augment their studies of international relations, political science, and allied relationships between the U.S. and Japan, as they aspire to one day join the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan. 

“Giving these students a first-hand opportunity to interact with members of the U.S. military is such an eye-opening experience for them,” said Neal Murata, director of public engagement and communication at the U.S. Consulate Osaka-Kobe, Japan. “They get to see exactly the good work in a partnership that we’re doing and why it’s so important.”

The tour consisted of briefing students on Yokota’s mission, U.S. Forces Japan, YokoWorx, and featured static displays of a C-130J Super Hercules and UH1-N helicopter. The students were encouraged to ask questions throughout the event to help expand their understanding of the U.S. Air Force’s role in Japan, and encourage interaction with military personnel.

“This program is very helpful for my career,” said Yosuke Tanigo, Ritsumeikan University student. “It makes me very excited to study our military and our relationships.”

Tours like this help strengthen the bond between the U.S. and Japan, as well as help students get a better perspective of U.S. Air Force roles in Japan.