Project Reach: Japan

The Nippon Foundation, in order to help Japan’s elderly maintain a vibrant lifestyle, conducts many welfare-related projects. Examples include such work as the creation and renewal of facilities for the elderly, and the distribution of specially-equipped vehicles for privately-run welfare services. We led the development of hospice in Japan, enabling people to face the end of their lives with dignity and relative ease. We have built up social programs such as a national gateball network and a drive for young people to record the stories of the elderly.

In line with this field of work, and in celebration of national Respect for the Aged Day (September 21), the foundation is organizing a photo contest entitled Respect for the Aged. The contest is open to anyone living in Japan with at least a basic ability to read and write Japanese. It carries a top prize of 100,000 yen, ten second place prizes of 10,000 yen in gift certificates and 30 honorable mentions that carry 3,000 yen book coupons. Entries will be accepted throughout the month of September, though it must be stressed that residency in Japan and Japanese language ability are prerequisites. Interested parties are encouraged to visit thesubmission information provided on our Japanese website