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High School Study Abroad in Tokyo, Japan

Tokyo, where ancient tradition meets futuristic innovation, is an incredible destination for high school students eager to explore a vibrant culture and dynamic academic environment. Studying abroad in Tokyo offers a perfect blend of learning and adventure. Whether you want to improve specific skills, immerse yourself in cutting-edge technology, or dive into the world of Japanese art and culture, Tokyo offers endless opportunities for growth and discovery.
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12 High School Trips to Tokyo, Japan

AFS-USA

9.5

2

AFS Intercultural Programs: High School Abroad in Japan

In Japan, ancient gods and centuries-old customs meet cutting-edge modern life and innovative society. From the ritual tea ceremonies, graceful gardens, and sacred shrines to the world's first high-speed train, Shibuya crossing, and sparkling cityscapes, Japan has a wide range of timeless and timely experiences to explore. Immerse yourself and develop fluency in the Japanese language and culture by living with a host family and studying at a local high school. While culture shock is real, it won't take long before you feel at home with your host family and navigate your new life easily. In time, you’ll become a cultural insider. Although academics are challenging and social harmony is a cultural priority, the Japanese aren’t quite the perfectionists they’re made out to be. Wabi-sabi, for example, is a zen aesthetic and idea roughly translated as an acceptance of life’s imperfections. Still, Japan is a perfect place to expand your cultural horizons, language skills, and understanding of where the world has been and where it’s going.

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CIEE High School Abroad

10

1

CIEE High School Summer Abroad: Japanese Language in Tokyo

Dive into the Japanese language and pop culture. Are you fascinated with anime and manga? Are you looking to learn the Japanese language or improve your proficiency? In this highly immersive program, you'll spend time each day after your language classes interacting with community members. You can explore areas rich in popular culture, such as Akihabara – the heartland of "otaku" culture where anime, manga, video games, and electronics abound – and youth fashion districts such as Shibuya and Harajuku. Tokyo has one-of-a-kind sights and sounds, with endless shopping opportunities, animal-themed cafes, and lively video game arcades. You will live on campus for most of your stay and spend a weekend with a Japanese family. In your homestay, you will practice your language skills while sharing meals and taking part in local family routines and recreation. It all adds up to an experience you'll never forget. As you use and build on your new Japanese language skills, you'll be able to apply an insider's knowledge of Japan's cultural trends throughout your education, travels, and career.

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Travel For Teens

9.57

7

Travel For Teens: Japan Discovery and Service

Join Travel For Teens on this journey to Japan, the Land of The Rising Sun. Japan is a country of ancient cultures, strong traditions, and the technology of the future. Perform meaningful community service in Tohno – an area devastated by the 2011 Tsunami. You will enjoy a cultural exchange with teens from a local high school, spend a day in the rice fields, and get to know the people who call Tohno home. In addition to our service work, you will visit the evocative sites of Hiroshima, try your hand at the ancient art of karate, taste the best sushi of your life, and experience the scramble at the world-famous Shibuya crossing. From the flashy cityscape of Tokyo to the peaceful temples of Kyoto and the majesty of Mt. Fuji, Japan will astonish even the most well-traveled students.

LanguBridge Education Centre

9

6

Summer Japanese Immersion Program

Our Tokyo summer programs offer students an immersion experience in Japan with intense language learning and cultural exploration. Our Japan programs combine premium quality with unmatched value — delivering the same depth of learning and cultural engagement as other programs, but at a much lower cost. From intensive classes conducted by experienced instructors and a broad spectrum of culture and trip activities to living with our warm-hearted host families (alternative housing such as dormitory can be arranged), we make sure that all students get a rich and smooth experience. The airport pick-up is included in all the programs for peace of mind upon your travel.

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World Class Programs

9.77

31

Japanese Immersion Summer Program

Our Japanese summer program allows students to experience the Land of the Rising Sun through hands-on courses in the heart of Osaka and day trips to Tokyo, Kyoto, Kobe, Nagoya, and Hiroshima! They explore Japan from the feudal to the modern period with courses individually selected to appeal to most of them! Our instructors are experts in Japanese culture and language and are committed to providing them with a safe and unique abroad experience they will remember for a lifetime! World Class Programs is a study abroad program that gives high school students safe, educational, and worldly experiences. This is designed for teens from all academic backgrounds excited about immersing themselves in Japanese culture and lifestyle. This pre-college program will offer various course study options, including Art History, Fine Arts, Philosophy, and Japanese language and cuisine.

Westcoast Connection

0

0

Tokyo Digital Assets, AI & Fintech Experience 9 Days

Developed in collaboration with the New York Institute of Finance (NYIF), this immersive summer experience in Tokyo is an outstanding opportunity for ambitious high school students to pursue their passion and gain practical insights into the ways that emerging technologies are transforming global finance. Dynamic sessions led by NYIF experts will cover topics from digital assets to AI-driven investments, while collaborative innovation labs and a competitive Fintech Pitch Challenge helps students develop both the insight and confidence to become the next generation of financial innovators. Beyond the classroom, students will visit major financial institutions and other industry sites for a behind-the-scenes look at how they shape the global economy. Beyond the classroom, students will experience the dynamic culture of Tokyo while visiting iconic sights including the Shibuya Crossing, Asakusa Temple, and TeamLab’s digital art exhibit, experiencing the energy and creativity that define Japan’s capital.

The Experiment in International Living

8.64

11

The Experiment: Japan: Language & Culture

Immerse yourself in Japanese language and culture with intensive classes, hands-on practice, and exciting cultural experiences. Begin in Tokyo, where you’ll develop your skills in hiragana, kanji, and conversational Japanese through 20+ hours of formal classes, peer practice, and daily immersion. Explore Tokyo’s vibrant districts, from anime and manga in Akihabara to fashion in Harajuku, and enjoy authentic cuisine like sushi and ramen. Deepen your understanding of Japanese daily life during a 3-day homestay with a local family, learning to cook traditional dishes, participating in school activities, and exploring shrines and museums. Depending on the group size, students may also have the opportunity to visit other cities, such as Osaka, for a broader perspective. Conclude your journey in Tokyo with a reflection on your growth and receive a language certificate documenting your hours of formal and experiential Japanese learning.

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MEI International Academy

0

0

MEI International Academy - Spring Semester in Asia

This program is for anyone interested in learning how the world works and exploring the global issues impacting our lives.  In the spring semester, students will learn the workings of communist and capitalist economies and gain insight through on-site assignments and case studies. As the program progresses, we explore how the world is handling issues like global warming, immigration, terrorism, globalization, and the uses of artificial intelligence while immersed in Eastern cultures. We will visit Bangkok, Siem Reap, Phnom Penh, Mui Ne, Ho Chi Minh City, Sydney, Blue Mountains, Singapore, Tokyo, Kyoto, and Hiroshima. Dates: mid-January — late April 2026 The High School Study Abroad Program – Spring Semester in Asia is open to all secondary school students registered in public, private, or separate schools worldwide.

How to Study High School Abroad in Tokyo

Prepare for a High School Study Abroad

Set goals

Before embarking on your high school study abroad experience in Tokyo, it's important to set clear goals to ensure you make the most of your time.

  • Academic focus. Identify subjects you want to dive deeper into. Studying abroad in Tokyo will give you access to world-class academic institutions.
  • Cultural engagement. Set a goal to engage with Japanese culture, whether through food, festivals, or local customs.
  • Personal growth. Make personal development a key goal. Whether it’s boosting independence, expanding global perspectives, or improving communication skills through language immersion.

Understand the benefits

Studying abroad in Tokyo provides numerous benefits that go beyond academics. The city offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in one of the most fascinating cultures in the world.

  • Language immersion. Living in Tokyo allows you to practice your Japanese language skills daily, significantly improving your fluency. Engaging with locals will help reinforce your classroom lessons and accelerate your learning.
  • Networking opportunities. Studying in Tokyo gives you the chance to build an international network with students and professionals across different sectors. These connections can be valuable for future internships or job prospects.
  • Increased global awareness. Living in a city as diverse as Tokyo expands your understanding of global issues, allowing you to develop a broader perspective. You’ll learn to appreciate different cultural viewpoints and problem-solving methods.

Things to know

When preparing for your high school study abroad in Tokyo, there are a few important things to keep in mind to ensure a smooth experience.

  • Language barrier. While many people in Tokyo speak English, learning basic Japanese will significantly enhance your experience. Try to practice common phrases before you arrive.
  • Cultural etiquette. Tokyo is known for its polite and respectful culture, so learning about local customs is essential. Understanding practices such as bowing, gift-giving, and public behavior will help you integrate better.
  • Public transportation. Tokyo’s public transportation system is one of the best in the world. Familiarize yourself with how the metro and bus systems work, as they’ll be your primary mode of transport.

Popular Providers

Latest Program Reviews

Japanese Summer!

August 31, 2025by: Laila Kim - United StatesProgram: The Experiment: Japan: Language & Culture
8

Going to Japan was something I had dreamed about for a long time. I was introduced through anime and manga, but quickly became fascinated with their history, language, and culture. Participating in the Experiment gave me the opportunity to experience the things I had admired and researched independently. Going to historical sites like Hiroshima Castle, viewing art at the Osaka National Art Museum, and eating cultural cuisine like Takoyaki were memories that I will always treasure. I learned so much about Japanese people by talking to the college students who accompanied us and observing people in everyday settings. This was especially true during the Homestay. Spending time in a Japanese home I got to experience a typical weekend for my family, allowing me to have an authentic perspective of what life is like in a different culture. With my homestay family I got to dress in Yukata and go to a local festival, or Omatsuri. This was the highlight of my trip! Watching Taiko and talking with local residents was such a unique experience. I’m so glad the Experiment matched me with such welcoming and lovely people! Everything from the quiet bullet train rides to the bustling area of Dotonburi were thoughtfully planned by the experiment to give greater understanding of Japan. This program was great for people who want to be introduced to Japanese culture!

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