Building Global Citizens Through Running,

Friendship, and Ocean Stewardship

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The Monterey–Nanao Cross Country Exchange Project is a student exchange between Monterey High School in California and Nanao High School in Ishikawa Prefecture, Japan. While running provides the initial connection, the project's larger purpose is to foster international friendship, environmental stewardship, and youth leadership through shared experiences in two coastal communities.

 

Monterey and Nanao have been Sister Cities since 1995. Despite being separated by the Pacific Ocean, the two communities share many similarities. Both are historic coastal cities whose identities and economies have been shaped by fishing, tourism, and their relationship with the sea. Both are home to aquariums that help educate future generations about the importance of healthy marine ecosystems.

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The exchange comes at a particularly meaningful time. In January 2024, a devastating earthquake struck Japan's Noto Peninsula, causing significant damage throughout the region, including the city of Nanao. As Monterey and Nanao celebrate the 30th anniversary of their Sister City relationship, this project seeks to strengthen community bonds through youth engagement, cultural understanding, and acts of service.

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Ocean Stewardship at the Center

The ocean serves as a natural bridge between Monterey and Nanao.

Students participating in the exchange will explore how coastal communities depend on healthy marine environments and how local actions can have global impacts. Service projects on both sides of the Pacific will focus on environmental stewardship and community resilience.

While visiting Monterey, Japanese students will participate in a conservation project in partnership with California State Parks and the Monterey Academy of Oceanographic Science. When Monterey students travel to Nanao, they will work with the Nanao Aquarium on a community service project connected to the recovery and stewardship of local coastal resources.

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Through these experiences, students will learn that caring for the ocean is not simply an environmental responsibility—it is an opportunity to build international partnerships and strengthen communities.

Exchange Highlights

Nanao Students Visit Monterey
August 13–20, 2026

• Homestays with Monterey High School runners

• School attendance and cultural immersion

• Joint cross-country training and competition

• Coastal stewardship project

Monterey Students Visit Nanao
October 1–10, 2026

• School attendance and cultural exchange

• Joint training with Nanao High School runners

• Community service project in partnership with the Nanao Aquarium

• Photojournalistic exploration of earthquake damage and recovery efforts

• Exploration of Japanese culture and history

 

Lasting Impact

This project is designed to create far more than a memorable trip.

Students will develop lifelong friendships, gain a deeper understanding of another culture, and experience firsthand how communities can come together in the face of environmental and natural challenges. By connecting young people through running, service, and stewardship, the Monterey–Nanao Cross Country Exchange Project aims to inspire the next generation of leaders committed to protecting both our oceans and our shared humanity.

Contact:
Peter Jordan
Monterey High School Cross Country
Monterey–Nanao Cross Country Exchange Project
runcoach@gmail.com
(408) 309-9280