Japan-U.S. Friendship Commission

Up to five five-month residencies, each of which includes a monthly stipend of 600,000 yen (approximately $6,650) for living expenses, housing, and professional support, are awarded annually to published U.S. poets, fiction writers, and creative nonfiction writers to live in Japan and pursue creative projects. The residencies are sponsored by the Japan-U.S. Friendship Commission in conjunction with the National Endowment for the Arts. The residencies also each include a travel grant of up to $6,000. Submit 10 pages of poetry or up to 15 pages of a long poem, short story, novel excerpt, or essay, two letters of recommendation, a resumé, and proof of publication by February 1. There is no entry fee. Send an SASE, call, e-mail, or visit the Web site for the required entry form and complete guidelines.