Highlights
- Learn practical lifesaving & safety skills
- Ocean conservation & climate awareness
- Global friendships in a safe coastal setting
- Learn resilience from tsunami recovery stories
Overview
Atlantic Pacific Summer Camp Japan offers a transformative coastal learning experience in Nebama, Kamaishi City, a beautiful Sanriku shoreline community shaped by resilience and recovery following the 2011 tsunami.
Now an Approved Activity Provider for The Duke of Edinburgh's Award — this course counts towards your DofE Gold Award residential section.
Designed for globally minded students aged from 13 to 18 years old, the camp brings together participants from Japan and around the world to learn, collaborate, and grow in a safe and supportive environment.
What sets this camp apart is its unique integration of ocean-based experiential learning, disaster resilience education, and global citizenship development. Participants engage directly with the natural environment while gaining a deeper understanding of climate change, marine conservation, and the human impact on coastal ecosystems.
Through interaction with local residents, students learn firsthand about disaster recovery, community strength, and the importance of preparedness. These experiences help participants connect global challenges to their own lives and future responsibilities.
The program emphasises practical action and personal growth. Students develop real-world skills to protect themselves and others in emergencies, build leadership and teamwork abilities, and learn to communicate and collaborate across cultures. Working in English within an international group, participants gain confidence, independence, and a broadened worldview.
Delivered by internationally trained instructors and conducted in small groups, the camp ensures individualised support, strong safety standards, and a high-quality learning experience.
Part of the United World Colleges (UWC) X Initiative, the camp encourages young people to challenge themselves, form meaningful friendships, and discover their potential. Alumni frequently describe the experience as life-changing — fostering resilience, initiative, and a sense of purpose that continues long after camp ends.
13-18 yo
From July 27 to July 31, 2026
1 week
From $1,610
Max 48 campers
Co-Education
Shared
Activities
Participants engage in a dynamic range of ocean-based, environmental, and leadership activities designed to build confidence, practical skills, and global awareness. Participants will experience a range of activities including:
– Enjoying our Oceans: Sailing, Swimming, Beach Lifeguarding
– Protecting our Oceans: Problems of Plastics
– Disaster preparedness and survival techniques
– First Aid / Psychological First Aid
– Search & Rescue at Sea / Swift Water Rescue
Sessions are delivered in both English and Japanese.
Atlantic Pacific is on of the UK’s best providers of Search & Rescue Training. At our Camp, our team will teach you essential skills in order to b sae in and around water and how you can help in an emergency.
– Search & Rescue: Teaching core skill like ropes & knots, navigation, tides & weather and sea safety, you will also be able to learn about our lifeboat located in the bay, a small ‘RhIB’ boat.
– Swift Water Rescue: Working with the local fire brigade to learn some rope techniques for swift water rescue.
– First Aid: Working with the AP Medical team, you will learn key elements of first aid and what to do in a medical emergency.
– Psychological First Aid: AP will introduce you to some core elements of how to maintain and protect your own mental health as well as those around you.
Nebama Bay is an idyllic place, with a fantastic beach and the Pacific Ocean filling the protected bay. Subject to weather conditions, you will experience a combination of fun on the water activities as part of your time with us.
– Beach Lifeguarding: Working with the Kamaishi Lifeguards, you will learn different methods of lifesaving (paddle board, jet ski, etc.) in the sea, key elements of first aid and what to do in emergeny. You will get to practice various rescue techniques at the Nebama beach.
– Sailing: Working with Kamaishi Yacht Club, you will learn the mechanisms of sailing, wind, wind direction, wind speed, and the structure of the yacht. You will also go out in the bay and learn how to sail on a laser, windward/leeward, sail angle, steering, and hike out.
Atlantic Pacific aims to educate people on the dire impact plastic is having on our environment, especially out planets. Environmental learning activities explore marine ecosystems and the global challenge of ocean plastic pollution. Through hands-on exploration and coastal observation, you will deepen your understanding of human impact on the ocean and identify practical actions you can take in daily life.
– Ocean Revival Workshop: We will investigate the exponential growth of plastic in our oceans, the different scales of impacts of plastics on our oceans, the marine lie in it and the people who rely on the ocean for survival. s a team we will look at how we need to STOP using plastic, rather than reuse or recycle it, Atlantic Pacific challenges you to consider what you can do to spread the word around plastic use and to change your own behaiours to reduce plastic consumption.
– Precious Plastic: Atlantic Pacific has 3 Precious Plastic Machines based in Nebama. Our technician will introduce you to the project, the machines and how we can collect waste plastic and reform it into useful and valuable items.
Disaster resilience learning connects you with local residents to understand the region’s recovery following the 2011 tsunami. You will explore preparedness, community resilience, and the importance of readiness in disaster-prone regions.
Team challenges and leadership exercises encourage collaboration, communication, and problem-solving in an international setting. Participants work together in English to design solutions, share ideas, and build lasting friendships across cultures.
Dates & Pricing
Dates:
July 27–31, 2026 (5 days / 4 nights)
Meeting Time & Place:
14:15 at JR Kamaishi Station on the 27th July
Dismissal:
14:00 at JR Kamaishi Station on the 31st July
Participation Fee:
JPY 250,000 (tax included)
The fee includes activity costs, meals, accommodation, and domestic travel insurance. Please note that round-trip transportation to and from Kamaishi is not included.
Payment Method:
Bank transfer
From July 27 to July 31, 2026
From $1,610
Academics
Atlantic Pacific Summer Camp Japan is designed for junior high and high school students who are eager to grow through real-world experiences, international friendships, and meaningful learning in nature. Set along the beautiful Sanriku coastline in Nebama, Kamaishi City, the programme combines ocean-based activities, environmental education, disaster resilience learning, and leadership development in a safe and supportive environment.
Our camp goes beyond recreation. Its core focus is to help young people develop confidence, independence, and practical life skills while gaining a deeper understanding of global challenges such as climate change, marine conservation, and community resilience. Participants learn not only about these issues, but also how they can take action in their own lives and communities.
[Ocean & Outdoor Learning]
The ocean is our classroom. Students experience the richness and power of the sea while learning water safety, coastal awareness, and responsible decision-making in marine environments. Activities such as sailing, coastal exploration, and ocean safety training help participants build confidence, resilience, and respect for nature.
[Environmental Awareness & Global Responsibility]
Through hands-on learning and guided discussions, participants explore marine ecosystems and the impact of ocean plastic pollution and human activity. The programme encourages students to think critically about environmental challenges and identify practical actions they can take to protect the planet.
[Disaster Resilience & Community Learning]
Kamaishi is a community shaped by recovery and resilience following the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake and tsunami. Through respectful engagement with local residents and community stories, participants gain insight into disaster preparedness, recovery, and the importance of strong communities. This helps students connect global risks to real-world experiences and understand the value of preparedness.
[Leadership, Teamwork & Global Perspective]
Participants collaborate in small, diverse groups and communicate in English within an international environment. Team challenges and shared experiences build leadership, initiative, problem-solving skills, and cross-cultural understanding. Students develop the confidence to express ideas, work with others, and take initiative.
[Safe, Supportive & Individualised Learning]
Internationally trained instructors guide participants in small groups, ensuring strong safety standards and personalised support. We prioritise each student’s well-being while encouraging them to step outside their comfort zones and discover their strengths.
[Lasting Impact]
By the end of the programme, participants return home with:
– increased confidence and independence
– practical safety and teamwork skills
– greater environmental awareness
– leadership and communication abilities
– meaningful international friendships
– a broadened global perspective
Atlantic Pacific Summer Camp Japan offers more than a summer experience — it is an opportunity for young people to grow, gain purpose, and discover their potential while learning how to contribute to a safer, more sustainable future.
Language lessons
All the activities are delivered bilingually in English and Japanese.
Schedule
Day 1:
14:15 Arrival
Orientation and Team building
Day 2:
9:00-12:30 Activity 1/2
12:30-13:30 Lunch
13:30-17:00 Activity 3/4
18:00 Dinner
19:00-21:00 Free Time
Day 3:
9:00-12:30 Activity 5/6
12:30-13:30 Lunch
13:30-17:00 Activity 7/8
18:00 Dinner
19:00-21:00 Free Time
Day 4:
9:00-12:30 Activity 9/10
12:30-13:30 Lunch
13:30-17:00 Activity 11/12
17:00-20:00 Evening Activity (BBQ and cultural experience)
20:00-21:00 Free Time
Day 5:
9:00-12:30 Visit to rugby stadium, tsunami memorial museum, closing ceremony
12:30-13:30 Lunch in the town and sightseeing
14:00 Dismissal
Accommodation & facilities
Atlantic Pacific work with our partners, Nebama Mind, who provide us with a very special and unique place for our participants. Staying in traditional Japanese rooms, sharing with 3 others, you will be staying at Houraikan Hotel or Minshuku Maekawa, where you are looked after with the best Japanese 'Omotenashi.'
On arrival, you will be fully briefed on evacuation procedures bytheir accommodation and what theyshould do in the event of an earthquake and a tsunami.
Video
Reviews
Atlantic Pacific Japan Summer Camp (DofE Approved Activity Provider)
| 5 star | 100% | |
| 4 star | 0% | |
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Q&A
Our international leadership team oversees all aspects of the programme. Participants are placed in small groups led by trained staff who provide guidance, mentorship, and supervision throughout the camp. This structure ensures:
– individual attention and support
– strong group cohesion
– consistent supervision and safety oversight
Our staff are experienced professionals with backgrounds in areas such as:
– outdoor and water safety
– education and youth development
– environmental science and marine safety
– leadership training and facilitation
– first aid and emergency response
All staff are selected for their expertise, professionalism, and commitment to youth safety and wellbeing.
Yes. All staff undergo appropriate background screening and safeguarding checks in accordance with international best practices to ensure a safe environment for young participants.
Staff receive training before and during the programme, including:
– safeguarding and child protection
– emergency and risk management
– water and environmental safety
– leadership facilitation and student wellbeing
– intercultural communication
Ongoing professional development ensures our team maintains high safety and educational standards.
We welcome participants from diverse cultural, linguistic, and social backgrounds. Our programme promotes:
– respect and mutual understanding
– inclusive communication practices
– culturally sensitive facilitation
– equitable participation opportunities
Students learn to collaborate across cultures and perspectives in a supportive environment.
All participants agree to a code of conduct designed to ensure safety, respect, and cooperation. Key expectations include:
– respecting others and the local community
– following safety instructions at all times. (Curfew is at 21:00 every night)
– participating responsibly in activities
– maintaining a supportive group environment
Clear safety procedures are explained at the start of camp and reinforced throughout the programme.
To encourage engagement and meaningful interaction:
– phones may be used during designated free times
– use is restricted during activities and learning sessions
– staff may limit use if it interferes with participation or wellbeing
This policy helps students stay present, build friendships, and fully engage in the experience.
Location
The nearest airport to Atlantic Pacific Japan Summer Camp (DofE Approved Activity Provider) is Hanamaki Airport (or Haneda/Narita). Airport pickup is available upon request. We offer pick-up service at the airports for an additional fee. Details are to be confirmed. Please contact us if you would like to be picked up at the airport.
I decided to join the summer camp after thoroughly enjoying doing a course with Atlantic Pacific in England. My first impression was everything was very organised and brilliantly coordinated. I was slightly nervous for the travel coming from the UK but we were met and collected at the station and immediately very well looked after. From the very first day the atmosphere was warm and welcoming, and it was very exciting meeting students from different countries.
From day one the instructors were incredibly supportive and friendly, going out of their way to make me feel comfortable. Everything we were taught was made fun and engaging, with extra care around the more sensitive topics surrounding natural disaster awareness and what to do. The instructors didn’t hesitate to help and support participants who were a little uncomfortable with trying new things and supported us to push our boundaries, ultimately creating a brilliant learning environment. We participated in activities like first aid and emergency response, team challenges and plastic workshops, outdoor games and ocean activities as well as cultural experiences in Japan.
The experience helped my confidence to grow both through meeting new people and learning new life skills. The camp is held on the coast in an absolutely stunning area which allowed me to experience a new side of the world, with the gorgeous trees and sea.
I would definitely recommend this program to any students who want to challenge themselves, meet new people with new ideas and learn vital life skills. It’s an adventure that has stayed with me and helped shape my confidence and interest in learning about the complex issues in the world.