EU–Japan Fest — Mobility Support 2026 (2nd Semester)

Travel money, not project money. This scheme pays part of the airfare for trips that build working relationships between Japan and Europe — going out to plan a collaboration, research a partner scene, meet a festival or join a network — rather than funding whatever the trip leads to.

Musicians apply as artists or project organisers; curators, designers, cultural researchers and social entrepreneurs are also eligible. Routes covered are Europe to Japan, Japan to Europe, travel within Europe, and travel from other regions into either. Priority goes first to European Capital of Culture and Culture Next city projects, then to work on youth empowerment, coexistence with nature, diversity or social regeneration, then to new Japan–Europe collaborations generally.

Support is ¥150,000 for a first trip between Japan and Europe and ¥100,000 for later ones, or ¥50,000 for travel inside Europe. It is partial by design: you submit airfare receipts totalling at least the award, so the rest of the trip falls to you or a co-funder. Europe-to-Japan awards are handed over in cash on arrival; the others come by bank transfer.

Apply online at least six weeks before you travel, within the current semester window, and expect windows to close early once capacity is reached. You need a high-resolution headshot; an invitation letter from the host is optional but helps. Shortlisted applicants are interviewed, by video call if based outside Japan, with a decision about a week later. Afterwards you owe a report within 30 days, with photographs and receipts, plus a credit to the committee in your materials.