Deadline: 01-Dec-2025
The Japan Foundation is inviting applications for its Japan Foundation Fellowship to support the development of professionals specializing in the study of Japanese visual arts by providing an opportunity for curators and researchers from abroad to conduct research in Japan.
The fellowship supports research projects in Japanese visual arts that require short-term intensive study in Japan, focusing mainly on contemporary Japanese art, with priority given to proposals that plan to share results publicly through exhibitions or publications.
The fellowship duration ranges from 21 to 59 days, and the research period must begin between June 20, 2026, and March 31, 2027. Fellows will receive a per diem of 17,000 yen per day, round-trip economy-class airfare via the most direct route, overseas traveler’s insurance, and a research allowance of up to 100,000 yen depending on the fellowship duration.
Eligible individuals include curators, researchers, educators, conservators, and others living outside Japan who meet specific criteria. Applicants must hold nationality or permanent residency in countries maintaining diplomatic relations with Japan, be in good physical and mental health, and demonstrate proficiency in either Japanese or English.
They must be able to stay continuously in Japan for the fellowship term and must not violate any laws of their own country by receiving a Japan Foundation fellowship. Individuals who have previously received any Japan Foundation Fellowship are eligible to reapply only if, by April 1, 2026, three full years have passed since the termination of their most recent fellowship. Those applying for other Japan Foundation grant programs are not eligible.
Selection will be based on several factors, including the clarity and achievability of research goals within the proposed fellowship term, the necessity of conducting research in Japan, and the practicality of the proposed framework.
Applicants’ past achievements, potential future contributions to the field of Japanese art, and the likelihood of sharing research outcomes with the public through exhibitions or publications will also be evaluated.
Preference will be given to applicants who are expected to present their research results soon after completing the fellowship and those contributing to the development and infrastructure of the research field.
The deadline to apply is 8:00 PM (PST), December 1, 2025.
For more information, visit The Japan Foundation.