Japan Semester: Arts, Food, & Culture (5-week sample itinerary)
The following is a sample itinerary based on past courses; actual itineraries may vary.
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Week 1
Upon our arrival in Osaka, we will proceed to Wakayama, where we will settle into a guesthouse. Here, we’ll begin to build connections with one another, familiarize ourselves with the health and safety protocols for the course, and get acquainted with the environment where we’ll spend the next three weeks together. Following our orientation, we will transition into our homestays and commence our daily Japanese language classes. -
Week 2-3
Our time in Wakayama is thoughtfully organized to include morning Japanese language classes, followed by afternoon Independent Study Projects (ISPs) guided by local mentors and organizations. Students will engage in both group and solo activities, allowing them to explore the city and deepen their cultural understanding. As our time in Wakayama draws to a close, we will journey to Koyasan, a serene mountain retreat, where students will immerse themselves in the teachings of Buddhism and practice Zen meditation. -
Week 4
Next, we will journey to Japan’s ancient capital, Nara, where we will spend several days exploring its historic Buddhist temples and treasured artworks. Following our time in Nara, we will continue to Kyoto for our homestay experience. During the day, students will explore Kyoto’s rich heritage, delving into traditional arts and crafts through visits to local artisans and participating in hands-on workshops. Evenings will be spent with their homestay families, providing a deeper immersion into Japanese culture and daily life. -
Week 5
Now with more experience of living abroad under your belt, students embrace more ownership over the final week of the program. With the mentorship of instructors, the student group will plan a few days of activities in Osaka. This Student Led Travel, or Expedition Phase, is an amazing chance to build confidence and put into practice all of the travel skills gained over the past weeks. After this final student-led adventure, we will arrive at a quiet guesthouse outside Osaka to spend our last few days together reflecting on everything we’ve learned and experienced over the past 5 weeks.
