Japan

WHY STUDY LANGUAGE IN JAPAN?

Land in Tokyo for orientation, where you will begin Japanese classes and practice writing systems like hiragana and kanji. Your language skills will develop through 60+ hours of direct exposure in formal classes, with host family interactions, peer-to-peer practice, and more. Because English is not widely spoken in Japan, you will have countless opportunities for immersion. You’ll also enjoy sushi and indulge in handmade noodles at the city’s famed ramen shops. You will learn what Tokyo’s exciting and unique districts have to offer, including anime and manga in Akihabara and the colorful fashion scene in Harajuku. 

Continue practicing your Japanese and deepen your understanding of culture and family life during your host community visit. Learn to cook homemade soba noodles or roll your own sushi with a family. Participate in cultural activities such as the art of Japanese calligraphy, learn Zen meditation, or experience a traditional tea ceremony. 

At the conclusion of this program, students will earn a language certificate noting the number of hours of language training completed through formal classes and experiential learning. 

LEARN BY DOING

The Experiment’s programs are designed to build skills that will help you succeed. In Japan, you will learn: 

TECHNICAL SKILLS

• Japanese language  
• Japanese calligraphy 
• Japanese cooking 

INTERPERSONAL SKILLS

• Resourcefulness 
• Intercultural communication and understanding  
• Problem-solving  
• Adaptability  
• Relationship-building  

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

• Physical activities may include hiking.
• Explore urban life by foot (lots of walking!) and learn to navigate the public transit system.
• Meat, seafood, rice, and noodles are staples of Japanese cuisine and may require some planning ahead for vegan and vegetarian diets.
• Access to the internet is limited and internet speeds and connectivity will vary.
• The diverse personal and social identities of participants may, in part, shape their experience abroad. In-country partners will discuss cultural norms and the local context during orientation. Please read our approach to Diversity, Equity,  and Inclusion for further information. All students will have a safe space within the program spaces and with the local staff and group leaders.
• The Experiment program structure is rooted in experiential learning and cohort-based learning. The participant group experience is a major source of learning for Experimenters and is facilitated by trained Experiment group leaders.