AFS Intercultural Programs: High School Abroad in Japan

by AFS-USA

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AFS Intercultural Programs: High School Abroad in Japan

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VerifiedProvider

4.5 / 5Student rating

2Reviews

68Programs

1947Year established

Contact ProviderProgram Costs

VerifiedProvider

4.5 / 5Student rating

2Reviews

68Programs

1947Year established

Program Overview

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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Program Highlights

Immerse yourself in the Japanese language—the best way to become fluent.

Live with a host family to deepen your immersion and connection to Japanese culture, and if you’re like most AFSers, you won’t want to leave this second family and home.

Explore Japan’s stunning landscapes, cityscapes, arts, and cuisine—savor sushi and umami flavors like ramen.

Make connections and memories you'll never forget with other AFS exchange students from all over the world.

Become a global citizen with intercultural communication skills, helping to build your college and career résumé as well as create a more peaceful, understanding world.

What's Included

Tuition & Fees

Accommodation / Housing for Program Duration

Travel Insurance

International Airfare

On-Site / In-Country Staff Support

Pre-Departure Orientation

Emergency Support

Quick Details

Location

Tokyo, Japan

Starts AtContact Provider for Cost Details

Availability

Duration:

3-6 Months
7-12 Months

Age Requirement14-17

Types & Subjects

Focus Areas:

Experiential Learning
Homestays
Language Immersion
Student Exchange

Guidelines

Nationalities:

American

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Updated Jul 14, 2026

Program Details

Learn all the nitty gritty details you need to know

Locations

Tokyo, Japan

Available Terms / Availability

Duration: 3-6 Months, 7-12 Months

Eligible Nationalities

American
This Program is also open to Solo

Education Levels & Language

Any/All Education Levels Accepted

Accommodation Options

Home-stays

Application Procedures

In-Person Interview Required
Physical Exam/Health Records
Transcript
Online Application

Age Requirement

14-17

Duration

3-6 Months, 7-12 Months

Starts At

Contact Provider for Cost Details

AFS Intercultural Programs: High School Abroad in Japan — video 1

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AFS Intercultural Programs: High School Abroad in Japan — video 3

Program Reviews

Hear what past participants have to say about AFS-USA

4.5

2 reviews

Rating breakdown

Top categories

Living Situation

4.5

Cultural Immersion

4.5

Health & Safety

4.5

Program Administration

4.5

Personal Development

4.5

Program Opportunities

4.0

Participated in this program? Share your experience now.

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Showing 2 of 2 reviews

Maggie MUnited States · October 2018

A year of growth and experience

I would like to start by saying that studying abroad is not for the faint of heart. While on your exchange you will meet a multitude of struggles, with friends, language barriers, and host families. The most important thing is openness and flexibility. Although I had some difficulties, I would never take it back because in the end I gained such wonderful friends and family. I really do feel that I grew from my experience with Afs. Going there is hard, and coming home can be even harder. However, out of all the exchange programs I felt that Afs had ample resources and support. I really comes down to your host family and your chapter leaders. Regardless, do not let the potential hardships deter you from having a beautiful time in a beautiful country. I love my host family and the people I met, and it was well worth the trip.

Sarah JacobsUnited States · October 2018

Best summer ever

I did the Summer language and culture immersion program in Japan. I was placed in a Kuwana, which is around an 1 1/2 away from Nagoya, where I went to language school everyday. AFS Japan and USA both did an amazing job preparing me at the orientation, both in America and in japan. My host family was amazing and truly made my exchange. At language school I learned so much (which I frankly did not expect) and made many close friends that is till keep in touch with. To anyone wanting to go abroad, do it! If anyone had any questions, feel free to email them to me at [email protected]

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FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

Get answers to all the most common questions about AFS-USA.

Where will I live when I'm abroad?

For most AFS programs, you’ll live with a carefully screened, volunteer host family. AFS families come in all different shapes and sizes, but every one of them is supported by local AFS volunteers and has gone through an orientation.

What will it be like going to school in a different country?

Your school in Japan will vary based on your region, and most classes will be taught in the local dialect, which is a very effective way to learn a new language. It may be difficult at first, but adapting to a new culture is all part of immersion!