
Camp Onward
Iwanai · Adventure · 6–18 yrs
Typically open in June — 2027 dates coming soon














Atlantic Pacific runs this residential lifesaving camp in Kamaishi, Japan. The camp welcomes children aged 13–18, with sports, languages, and adventure on the programme. Typically open July — new dates coming soon. Sessions last 1 week. Activities run in English.
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.
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Ask a questionSpecial focus
Lifesaving & sea rescue · Water Activities
Other included activities
Hattie Marson
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.
Mar 2026
Participant safety is our highest priority. The camp operates under comprehensive safety protocols, including: - Detailed emergency response and evacuation plans - Tsunami and earthquake preparedness procedures - 24-hour staff supervision and on-call support - Participant insurance coverage - Health monitoring and incident response procedures - Risk assessments for all activities - We maintain close coordination with local authorities and community partners to ensure a safe environment.
Arrival
Dinner
Dinner
Dismissal
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.



Where your child sleeps
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.
Campus facilities
Dai 21 Chiwari-23番地1外 Unosumaicho, Kamaishi, Iwate 026-0301
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Getting your child there
Hanamaki Airport (or Haneda/Narita)
Pickup service · 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.
Dai 21 Chiwari-23番地1外 Unosumaicho, Kamaishi, Iwate 026-0301

Same ages, same season — in case this one is full
Where this camp lives, and what's around it
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Jul
2027 dates not open yet