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Study Abroad Programs in Japan

For much of Japan’s history, it has remained isolated from the outside world. In the 19th century, however, the small island country opened its doors to trade and an active foreign policy, and it has never looked back since. Japan's culture, an excellent blend of tradition and innovation, provides a vibrant place for academic and personal growth.
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99 Study Abroad Programs in Japan

Featured
Student learning Japanese writing
KCP International Japanese Language School logo

KCP International Japanese Language School

9.63

62

Learn Japanese in Tokyo, Japan

KCP International Japanese Language School, a non-profit educatio...

Japan
WorldStrides logo

WorldStrides

0

0

Semester in Tokyo, Japan - J.F Oberlin University

Live and study in Japan, surrounding yourself with the country’s ...

CIEE Japan
CIEE College Study Abroad logo

CIEE College Study Abroad

8.5

4

CIEE Open Campus Block in Kyoto, Japan

Your Open Campus Block program in Kyoto lasts 6, 12, or 18 weeks ...

See All 20 Programs
Language Programs in Japan - Meiji Academy
Meiji Academy logo

Meiji Academy

9.84

105

Meiji Academy - Summer Course in Hokkaido

There’s no better time to see Hokkaido’s breathtaking natural sur...

See All 4 Programs
KCP students on a weekend trip in Japan
KCP International Japanese Language School logo

KCP International Japanese Language School

9.61

33

Learn Japanese in Tokyo, Japan

KCP International Japanese Language School, a non-profit educatio...

See All 4 Programs
study abroad students in Japan
World Campus International, Inc. logo

World Campus International, Inc.

9.68

96

Top Rated Program Study Abroad in Japan 2025
The World Campus - Get Unique Access to Japan!

Take part in short-term summer study programs in different region...

USAC students participating in Japanese festival.
University Studies Abroad Consortium logo

University Studies Abroad Consortium

9.33

15

USAC Japan: Nagasaki - Japanese Language, Society & Culture

Japan is a fascinating combination of rich history, interesting c...

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CIS Abroad logo

CIS Abroad

9.01

277

Affordable, Comprehensive Study and Intern Abroad Programs

CIS Abroad Study and Intern Abroad programs are some of the most affordable, comprehensive program packages available. We also don't cut any corners by offering everything you would expect from an overseas program: tuition, housing, support, insurance, excursions, social and cultural activities, and airport pick-up – all considered the core of our package. Some programs also include all or most meals, extensive off-site orientations/excursions, transportation passes, and more. Whether you want to study for a year, semester, or summer, intern for a month to a year, or take an intensive foreign language course for a couple of weeks, CIS Abroad has the perfect program for you at the best value! "You're Going Places with CIS Abroad!"

See All 7 Programs

EF Education First

7

2

EF - Language Abroad

Step beyond the classroom and into the world with EF Language Abroad. Our immersive programs combine academic excellence with life-changing cultural experiences in 11 stunning global destinations across 8 countries and 7 languages. Whether you’re a high school student eager to explore the world, a college student preparing for international studies or simply seeking global fluency, EF offers customizable programs that meet your goals and fit your schedule. You will learn a new language better and faster in fun and interactive classes alongside new friends from around the globe. After class, explore the city through planned activities like cooking classes, city tours, student parties, and more. Over the weekend, travel with EF staff to neighboring cities and countries to practice your language skills with locals and see the sights. You have the power to tailor your journey—whether you’re testing your limits in an intensive track, earning career credentials, or preparing for major exams. You’ll develop language skills faster, gain global experiences, and return equipped for the next step. Earn transferable college credit through our partner in education, The University of Montana.

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IES Abroad

10

4

IES Abroad Nagoya Summer – Language & Culture

What better way to practice your Japanese language skills and immerse yourself in Japanese life and culture than by studying in Nagoya? This 8-week summer program offers you intensive Japanese courses at The Center for Japanese Studies (CJS) at Nanzan University, renowned in the field of Japanese language education. IES Abroad Nagoya will organize a two-day field trip to Kyoto, plus other cultural activities exclusively for IES Abroad students. In addition, you will have the opportunity to participate in CJS-organized field trips and activities. We want you to feel at home in Nagoya, so we do everything we can to help you integrate into life in the city. From housing to cultural events, our job is to make sure you have the most authentic study abroad experience possible.

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JaLS GROUP

9.65

51

Short-term Japanese Course & Cultural Activity in Hokkaido

Hokkaido Japanese Language School, located in the center of the bustling and modern city of Sapporo, offers students the chance to study Japanese conversationally and culturally. No previous experience is necessary and classes are offered for all levels and age groups. Courses begin every Monday and students have the choice between our nine different programs, including: - Standard Course - Standard + Private Course - Traditional Culture Course - Pop Culture Course - Fashion Culture Course - Travel Japanese Course - JLPT Preparation Course - Winter Course - Summer Course Our certified teachers teach standard Japanese, and interaction with local Japanese during school activities creates the perfect environment to improve your Japanese speaking abilities and learn about Japanese culture. Come join us in beautiful Hokkaido!

See All 7 Programs

Santa Barbara City College

9.94

31

Communication, Film Studies in Tokyo, Japan

This summer program is designed to provide a broad introduction to Japanese culture that is relevant to the field of Communication and Art History. The students will learn the concepts and principles of Intercultural Communication and study the Art of Japan, which will be enriched through their interactions with peers and locals, visits to architectural/cultural sites, museums, and cultural activities. Through their study abroad experience, the students will gain valuable knowledge and skills to become global citizens.

LTL Language School

9.93

15

LTL Language School | Learn Japanese in Japan

LTL Language School is a perfect fit for students looking to improve their Japanese quickly. Everyone is welcome to our schools, from beginner to advanced students, of all ages and nationalities. Our schools are based ideally in central areas of both Tokyo and Osaka. You can choose to learn in one or both of our schools and get a truly immersive, Japanese experience. Our comprehensive Japanese programs allow students maximum flexibility. You can study at LTL for a week up to a full year. Our group classes are kept small, with no more than six students per class, to ensure you get plenty of attention from the teachers and time to ask questions. However, most groups only include 2 or 3 students to maximize your ability to learn Japanese fast. Tailored 1-on-1 classes are also available, and accommodation with carefully selected Japanese host families is encouraged to maximize each participant's exposure to the language and culture. Here at LTL, we have welcomed thousands of students since 2007 and are one of Asia's most trusted and premier language schools.

Academic Programs International

8.67

3

API: Experience Tokyo, Japan (Scholarships Available)

Come and join API and study in one of the most dynamic and populated locations in the Asian Pacific—Tokyo, Japan! Study at Lakeland University Japan in Ryogoku, conveniently located in the heart of Tokyo and minutes away from the train station. From skyscrapers to ancient temples to bustling food markets, the capital city offers exciting cultural experiences for visiting students. Enroll in coursework alongside local Japanese students in various subject areas, including biology, business, arts, hospitality, and more—all taught in English. Fall 2023 and Spring 2024 have limited spots available, so apply early to secure your spot in Tokyo!

LanguBridge Education Centre

10

1

Short and Long Term Programs with Homestay

This program provides students a great chance to experience "real Japan" and improve their Japanese language skills rapidly. They achieve this by studying intensive courses with 20 classes per week, staying with our carefully selected host families, and participating in various cultural activities. With programs located in several different countries, LanguBridge Education Centre is one of the leading language education providers on Asian Languages in the world. The Japanese language courses have over 10 years of history. We also provide airport pickup and visa/travel information to give you peace of mind on your travel. Our programs are renowned for the quality, affordability, and homestay option.

How to Study Abroad in Japan

Prepare to Study Abroad

Set goals

Whatever you’re looking to achieve, use ours as a guide or the base of what you want from your trip!

  • Academic goals are one of the most important things to consider! Determine which subjects or fields you want to examine more closely or push yourself in.
  • Being aware of and participating in cultural practices is important. What kind of things do you hope to learn from or participate in?
  • Having the unique experience of studying abroad changes people, and rightfully so! Is there a part of you that you’re pushing out of your comfort zone to grow?

Understand the benefits

Studying in Japan offers high-quality education and unique cultural experiences, allowing you to learn from leading experts and gain a global perspective to enhance your career prospects.

  • Academic excellence. Japan is home to many prestigious universities known for their rigorous academic standards.
  • Cultural immersion of new and old. Experience Japan's rich traditions and modern innovations firsthand.
  • Networking opportunities abound. Build connections with students and professionals from around the world.

Things to know

There are many things to learn about Japan when visiting. A few essentials that will be helpful anywhere you will be are:

  • Logistics and safety. Prepare important documents ahead of time and create a flexible, practical packing list to suit the trip. This will help avoid unnecessary stress during your stay.
  • Social and cultural etiquette. Bowing is a crucial gesture in Japan, showing respect, gratitude, and apology. Understanding social and cultural norms, especially regarding the respect for elders, is important in fostering positive interactions.
  • Visa requirements. If staying for an extended period, you’ll likely need a visa, so it's essential to check the latest requirements with your embassy or academic program.
  • Language. Learning basic Japanese phrases will be helpful in daily conversations, improving your ability to communicate effectively.

Frequently Asked Questions

Japan is a good place to study abroad for so many reasons. High-quality study abroad programs, valuable cultural exchange, and meeting people from all over the world all make the experience totally worth it.

No, you do not need to know Japanese to study in Japan! There are many English-language study abroad programs hosted in Japan, but picking up new language skills is one of the many perks of studying in Japan. Try out a beginner class when you get there if you don’t speak any Japanese.

It’s not any more expensive to study abroad in Japan than elsewhere in the world. Depending on where you live, though, the flight could get pricey. You can expect to spend up to $6,000 for a summer in Japan, and up to $11,000 for a semester program, not including flights, insurance, and visa expenses.

It’s easy enough to study abroad in Japan if your college has a study abroad program there. Otherwise, you’ll want to explore study abroad providers based on your field of study, and ask if they provide transfer credit (they almost always do).

If you’re studying abroad in Japan for less than 90 days, a tourist visa will suffice, depending on your program and host institution. If you plan to study in Japan for three months or longer, then you’ll need to apply for a student visa.

Latest Program Reviews

Disfrutar Sapporo al máximo

February 20, 2026by: Laura González - Spain

Program: Study Japanese in Hokkaido

10

Desde el primer día en Sapporo supe que había elegido el lugar correcto para estudiar japonés. La combinación de una ciudad dinámica, naturaleza impresionante y un ambiente acogedor hizo que mi experiencia en Meiji fuera realmente especial. Las clases estaban muy enfocadas en el japonés práctico y conversacional. Practicábamos situaciones reales como pedir en un restaurante, hablar con compañeros de trabajo o hacer preguntas en una tienda. Gracias a eso, pude comunicarme con japoneses en mi vida diaria mucho mejor de lo que esperaba. Las profesoras siempre estaban atentas y nos daban muchos ejemplos reales, lo que hacía que las clases fueran dinámicas y útiles. Las actividades culturales fueron una parte esencial de mi experiencia. Participé en talleres tradicionales, probé comida típica de Hokkaido y visitamos lugares históricos y templos. Estas actividades me ayudó a comprender mejor la cultura japonesa y a sentirme más integrada en la comunidad local. Y por supuesto, la vida social en Sapporo fue divertidísima. Salir por Susukino con otros estudiantes, descubrir izakayas y pequeños bares, y celebrar después de los exámenes fue algo que nunca olvidaré. La ciudad tiene un ambiente muy animado pero al mismo tiempo acogedor. La gente son muy amable y siempre estaban dispuestos a ayudar cuando tenía dudas o necesitaba indicaciones.

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