Immerse yourself in Japan’s rich arts and traditions through a series of hands-on experiences with the support of language lessons.
From a serene meditation bell ringing out a Koyasan monastery to the cacophony of foot traffic at the Shibuya crossing, Japan is a fascinating merger of old and new.
Amidst the push toward cultural globalization in the internet age, Japan continues to uniquely blend long held traditions with innovative trends in technology and art. Through immersive workshops, interactive cultural experiences, and language lessons, students will delve into the fascinating history, refined elegance, and cutting edge modernity that define Japanese culture.
Amidst the push toward cultural globalization in the internet age, Japan continues to uniquely blend long held traditions with innovative trends in technology and art. Through immersive workshops, interactive cultural experiences, and language lessons, students will delve into the fascinating history, refined elegance, and cutting edge modernity that define Japanese culture.
Our journey starts in Tokyo where we plug-in to the electric atmosphere of Japan’s largest city. From the frenetic activity of globally renowned fish markets to the street corner of the busiest intersection in the world, we get a taste of this diverse mega-city. We hop on the ever punctual and speedy bullet train line to take us southward to Osaka. Known for its incredible street food, bustling markets, and 16th-century castle, Osaka is a perfect place to explore on foot.
Our bellies full with delicious tako-yaki, we head to the more rural region of Wakayama. Here students immerse themselves in language classes to help better facilitate interactions with the welcoming local community. We also attend interactive workshops focused on traditional arts and crafts. Working alongside expert mentors, we gain an appreciation for the depth of craftsmanship and societal pride in these long held traditions. Our immersion in the community helps us better understand how Japanese culture and customs manifest in daily interactions.
Excursions take us to the sacred hills of Koyasan, a religious hub of Japanese Buddhism, where we learn about Buddhist practices and sit in meditation alongside monks for a retreat. The final leg of our program takes us to Nara and Kyoto where we explore historic temples, and quintessential Japanese culture, and reflect on the hospitality and many lessons learned during our travels.
Click on the gallery below to browse photos, videos and quotes from our participants and instructors.
Exploring the preservation and promotion of traditional arts, cuisine, and culture in modern Japanese society.
A short-term homestay (3-7 days) with a carefully selected local family. Depending on the community, students may be an individual homestay, or placed with a student peer.
Mentorship options may include Japanese tea ceremony, Buddhist painting and art, Zen meditation, flower arrangement, drumming, lacquerware, and other selected topics.
Regular small-group language lessons with professional Japanese instructors as well as ample opportunities for daily language practice with locals.
Meeting with community leaders, NGOs, and guest speakers to better understand pressing contemporary issues.
Introduction to Zen Buddhism, Shintoism, and various faith traditions prevalent in Japanese culture.
Travel on subways, buses, and regional high speed trains.
Exploration of political, environmental, and social issues impacting Japanese society.
Numerous day hikes, urban trekking, and possible overnight trek depending on group interest.
To deepen your experience abroad, you may elect to enroll in college-level courses while participating on this program. Those who enroll in optional courses will be invoiced an additional fee on top of the land cost. To learn more, click here.
Students who take a for-credit course will receive an official transcript from a School of Record after successful completion of the program.
Through our School of Record, you may take one-two (1-2) of the following courses for-college credit:
See full Course Offering descriptions.
One of the coolest and most meaningful life experiences I’ve had thus far.
Past Student