FANCY experiencing firsthand the Blade Runner cityscape of modern Tokyo? Ever hankered after that authentic sushi experience, or longed to see Kyoto, the old capital?

All of these things are within your grasp, thanks to those nice people at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Japan, which has announced details of its 19th essay contest. The winner will participate in a study tour of Japan later this year, with all travel, accommodation and meals paid for.

The competition is open to Irish citizens resident here and aged from 18 to 32, inclusive, on April 1st. This year's topic is, quite simply, "What measures should be taken to deepen the mutual understanding and to strengthen relations between Japan and Ireland as we approach the 21st century?

Entries should be written in English and previous winners cannot apply. The essays should be 2,000 to 3,000 words long, six to eight pages typed on A4-size paper and stapled, not bound. The cover page should contain all personal details, including name, sex, date of birth, home address, telephone number, nationality, occupation, place of work/study and a contact number; it should also state wh&ther you have previously participated in the competition and where you heard about it. A brief summary of the essay should appear on the second page, before the essay begins.

Three copies should be submitted to Essay Contest Desk, Embassy of Japan, Nutley Building, Merrion Shopping Centre, Dublin 4. Closing date is March 31st. Interviews will follow the first screening of essays and the winner will be announced in July.