World Campus International, Inc.

Hi, I am Sterre. This review comes rather late, but after returning to Japan two years later, I felt it was still worth writing. I went to Japan with World Campus in Session 3 of 2024. During those three weeks, I stayed in Abiko, Mito and Tama. The actual World Campus programme included a wide range of activities: tours, museums, school visits, company visits, workshops such as karate and kendo, and all kinds of interactions, activities and games with local communities, students, clubs and host families. At the end of every week there was an Arigatoo event. In my case, this involved eating a lot of good food, talking to everyone and anyone, and dancing the Kabouter Plop dance. The Arigatoo event can be scary or a bit daunting at first, but I enjoyed them very much. One thing worth knowing is that WorldCampus is not a typical travel organisation. You follow a structured programme, so there isn't a lot of free time for sightseeing. For me, this wasn't a bad thing, as I got to experience Japan in ways I probably wouldn't have as a regular tourist. My fondest memories are connected to the people I spent my time with. One of the biggest values of World Campus, in my opinion, is that it connects people from all over the world. On the one hand, you spend three weeks travelling with people from different countries. Some of these people have become good friends, and even after two years we still meet up in different countries whenever we happen to be in the same place. On the other hand, you get to spend time with host families. For me, these families have become my people in Japan: people I could reach out to when I was there. And that is something I appreciated even more after returning to Japan two years later. In the two years between my World Campus trip and my return to Japan, we didn't stay in constant contact, but the connection was never completely gone either. I sent a letter to my host families after about a year, and with one family in particular, I also stayed in touch through occasional messages. Then, when I came back to Japan for a five-month exchange, I made sure to visit all three host families I had met through World Campus. Just like two years ago, I was invited to stay with them, and we went to different places, had barbecues and dinners, visited museums, and simply spent time together. One family in particular, the family that lived closest to where I was staying during my exchange, has come to feel like much more than just a host family. They are people I can reach out to when something happens, people I can visit when I'm in Japan, and people I would also do a lot for. That, to me, is what made World Campus so special. I didn't just get three weeks of experiences in Japan. I made connections that lasted beyond those three weeks. I had a blast with World Campus. I would have loved to go again, maybe even for all 3 sessions at once, but unfortunately my schedule doesn't allow it in the near future. Even so, I am very happy that I was able to spend at least one session with World Campus. Two years later, I can honestly say that I am still grateful I went.

Spending a week in Isa City with World Campus International was one of the most memorable parts of my time in Japan. Staying with a local host family gave me the opportunity to experience Japanese culture in a way that simply wouldn't have been possible as a tourist. From sharing meals together to learning about everyday life, every moment felt authentic and meaningful. Each day brought a new experience, whether it was planting rice, visiting local schools and meeting students, exploring historic shrines, learning about traditional wine-making, or taking part in community activities. Every experience helped me better understand the culture while creating memories I'll never forget. The food was incredible, the people were unbelievably welcoming, and the unique experiences were amazing. I would highly recommend this program to anyone looking for an immersive, hands-on cultural experience that they'll remember for years to come.

I came into the homestay program a little nervous what to expect and if I would even enjoy it. However on the first night when I was assigned my family and walking up to greet them I know that I would love every second of it. I truly can not express in this review how dear to me my host family is. Every night we sat down at the dinner table I felt like one of their own children and I am sincerely grateful for everything they shared with me. I had travelled around Japan for 2 weeks with prior with the Shirane Foundation and experience the culture of Japan for a touristy perspective but this homestay opened me up to see the true beauty of Japan in a way very few visitor get to see. From the simple thing of the unique bathroom to the everyday mannerism. All in all this review does not give justice to the wonderful experience I had and the amazing people I had the honor of meeting and share a few days of my life with.

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I came into the home-stay completely unsure of what to expect but that aspect made this experience so great. As a first time visitor to Japan I was super nervous to immerse myself into Japanese culture and a brand new host family. It seemed like something I would never do and honestly it felt unreal. However, as soon as I met my host family I was showered with so much care and comfort. They made me feel like family from day one. I actually met most of my host family's sisters and brothers day one then later I met a lot of their friends and their families. It was amazing to be able to speak to such a wide variety of people! I was learning so much about Japanese culture and customs. Everyday was so unique and my host family always did their best to make my time as enjoyable as they could. For example, other than taking me to meet so much of their family, they took me to shrines, parks, and different cities in the area. It truly felt like I was in a new world and my host family was giving me the opportunity to experience it all. I can not recommend this experience enough. Being with my host family was such an invaluable experience I will never forget. Additionally, another aspect that made this experience so great was the activities I did with World Campus International. Everyday morning after an afternoon with my host family we were taken to do different activities in the home-stay area - immersing myself deeper in Japanese culture. Some of my favorite activities were going to an OSEN (Japanese bath house) . I have never been so relaxed after taking a bath. It was an experience I can not imagine having anywhere else. Furthermore, going to a Junior-High school was such a great experience. I got to meet students such as myself and learn what it meant to live and learn in Japan. I made a lot of friends that I still talk to today. Then I had a lot of fun at a Park Golf activity we did. We had the chance to golf with Japanese locals that were REALLY GOOD at golf. The locals were super nice and it was great to learn a little about the golf world from a different perspective. The locals I played with gave me a lot of tips to improve my game and like everything on this trip it was just amazing to do this experience. Firstly, none of this would be possible without World Campus International so Thank you to them. All the staff made me feel involved and immersed in every activity. Making sure everyone knew exactly how what we were doing that day contributed to Japanese culture. A lot of thanks goes to them as well for making sure we were in the right places when we needed to be. Secondly, this experience may be scary at first but it is truly remarkable. I can not recommend this program enough. I have gained a better understanding of Japanese culture than I would of just visiting cities. I was taught more things then I can count and I feel I gained the understanding required to come back on my own! If you are looking for the experience of your life then please apply for this experience. Lastly, I recommend to anyone applying to the program to be very open minded. This program will challenge you to step completely outside your comfort zone. If you embrace this fact it will elevate your trip, without a doubt. Thank you World Campus International!

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Spending a week in Isa City with World Campus International was easily the highlight of my time in Japan.Staying with a local host family allowed me to experience the culture on a deeply personal level. Every single day was packed with unforgettable experiences: planting rice in the local fields, visiting schools to connect with local students, exploring historic shrines, and learning about the fascinating traditional wine-making process The food was delicious, the cultural immersion was unmatched, and I left with incredibly close friends from all over the world. I cannot recommend this program enough to anyone looking for a unique, hands-on, and heartwarming adventure

Thanks to my experience with World Campus Japan I created life-long connections, not only with the other participants, but also with the local Japanese communities encountered during the trip. The constant and active cultural exchange is what makes this program deeply unique. On the one hand, the fellow participants and staff members all proved to be caring, responsible, interesting, and like-minded people, and therefore enabled me to feel safe and at home, despite being on the other side of the world. On the other, the Japanese host families revealed their kindness and availability, by welcoming us all in their lives and treating us like family. The days were all full of stimulating activities, and their variety allowed us to experience the Japanese culture in all its aspects. It is for these reasons that I wholeheartedly recommend this program to anyone who is looking for a way to familiarize with Japan, its people, language, landscape, and traditions. The amount of gratitude (mixed with a lot of nostalgia) I felt after completing the program further highlighted the impact it had in my life. I will never forget my days in Japan with World Campus.

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World Campus International (WCI) was a fantastic experience and a major highlight of my summer. I signed up for the last session which was a three week program, held in Inzai, Abiko and Tama. Having had the unique opportunity to live with an actual Japanese family as opposed to a hotel, I came to see a completely different side of the country than what I initially had in mind. This experience later motivated me to start a beginner course in Japanese to hopefully be able to better maintain the relationships I made while there. Even while not spending time with my foster family, the rest of the program gave me ample opportunities to immerse myself in not only the culture but also the history and lifestyle that Japan had to offer. WCI staff were understanding of participants needs, and constantly made efforts to make the entire participating group feel welcome. I can comfortably say that there were no issues I ran into that I couldn't either discuss or outright solve with the help of the staff team. I wholeheartedly recommend WCI for anyone looking to intensify their experience in Japan, and get a more lively experience that just roaming around cluelessly. My trip has not only improved my understanding of the country but also given me a reason to come back. I'd rate the experience 5/5 on any day, ありがとうございます WCI。

The World Campus - Japan Programme met and exceeded my expectations. It is a one of a kind experience that allows you to visit numerous cities, connect with a range of host families and meet like-minded people from around the world who want to make a positive impact! The staff are attentive, knowledgeable and friendly. They provide support to participants, encouraging them to step outside their comfort zones and try something new everyday. You have the opportunity to visit schools, communities and businesses whilst exploring each city! The programme has changed me and enabled me to see the world from a different perspective, which I highly value, appreciate and cherish. Thank you World Campus family!

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I always knew that Japan was one of my top travel destinations, but I wanted a unique cultural experience. My summer in Japan was truly unforgettable thanks to World Campus! I was able to meet so many kind and friendly people during my 3 weeks in Japan. I developed strong connections with my host families and continue to stay in touch with them all! With World Campus, I was able to experience true day-to-day Japanese life and culture in a way I could have never experienced as a tourist on my own. Our activities ranged from receiving exclusive tours, visiting cultural heritage spots and fun school visits. Being able to try authentic home cooked meals alongside popular restaurants, attending festivals and wearing traditional kimonos are only a few of the activities I was able to enjoy. We also had free days to explore Japan in addition to the fun activities prepared on the programme!

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My three weeks at World Campus International was nothing I have experienced before, nor probably will again. Due to a lack of word count, I will try to summarise my thoughts below in a somewhat concise manner: I applied for the program since I had previously visited Japan as a tourist, but craved a deeper understanding of Japanese values shaped society, family and industries - in an effort to come closer to the ”in-between-the-lines-culture”. What a tourist never sees. And let me tell you, I was not disappointed. It was my first exchange outside of academia, and my first time staying at host-families houses, so I really had no idea or expectation coming into experience. I will admit I was a bit nervous about staying at someones house, anticipating having to put s lot of effort in keeping up appearances and remaining respectful. While this is of course part of the exchange, the result was something else entirely. All three families opened their arms for me, welcoming me as their daughter for a week. We cooked together, we played together - we even went to the hospital together! They cared so well for me when I got sick, something I am so thankful for. They made me feel safe in a foreign environment, guiding me through the do’s and dont’s of Japanese day-to-day life. Most of all, I am so grateful for the exchange of values, etiquette and thoughts during my host stays. Furthermore, the host families were always highly engaged in what the Local Organising Committee had planned for us in each city - schedules that you could tell were specifically thought out prior to our arrival. One could also tell that the local staff in each city were so eager and keen on caring for each participant - all while showing their city’s proud achievements. While the schedules were most often packed, so much care had been put into it, to give us the best image and experience of Japan. Do not get me wrong, this program challenged me in ways I did not expect. But, as I started to reflect, it also made me grow as a person. Putting oneself in uncomfortable situations, what with a language barrier, in an environment one is not entirely familiar with, does tire you after a bit. However, pulling through, and reaping the rewards of the hard work was perhaps one of the most fulfilling things, now that I have finished it. I think what surprised me the most was how close one could become both with locals, but also the attending staff and participants during the course of three weeks. It is truly bittersweet that I will not meet everyone in the same context again (…never say never!), since I really enjoyed the time we spent together during the activities. Whether it was practicing the thank-you event for the host families and LOCs, or to chatting around during lunch, or goofing off while folding origami. I came into this program with a lot of personal ambitions, but left with a much broader, comprehensive understanding of not only Japanese society, but about myself, others and how to work together as a team. So, if anything, I would recommend World Campus International not only for the exclusive insight one gets behind the curtains of the otherwise highly glamourised and touristy Japan , but also for the amazing friends you make along the way - whether its your host families, or fellow participants! And to the incredible people I met - see you in October!

I had already visited Japan three times before joining this program, and felt like I was lacking in crucial experiences. I took a risk with applying to this program and attending. I had very few expectations for what my experience would look like. This program completely changed my idea of Japan and allowed me to live with various families and become part of the family. That in itself is something special. When I signed up, I didn’t have huge expectations. I just wanted to practice my Japanese and maybe discover a few places tourists would not know about. But what I got was so much more. From the unique and engaging curriculum to the unforgettable host family experience and the incredibly warm, welcoming community, every part of the program made me feel like I truly belonged. If you’re on the fence or unsure about what your experience might look like, take the leap. Trust the process. The staff and community volunteers go above and beyond to make it meaningful, fun, and unforgettable. Whether it’s your first time in Japan or your fourth, this program offers a whole new perspective that you just won’t get as a tourist. I joined for one reason and left with memories, friendships, and a deeper connection to Japan.

My goal for this program was to immerse myself into the Japanese culture, and get to know it from this inside out. I achieved this and so much more. I loved the time i spent with my host family. They taught me so much about Japanese culture, especially about the cuisine. I asked questions about the food and recipes, and they took me to the store to buy them together and give information about the ingredients. The activities were also really fun. I got to see parts of Japanese culture that I wouldn’t have seen if i had planned my trip to Japan myself again. I especially loved the summer festival experience, and afterwards doing fireworks with my hostfamily.

I think this was the best trip I ever had in my life! I got to do almost everything I ever wanted to do in Japan. Experiencing Japanese culture and history, eating the best food, making new friends and family, seeing the beautiful country that is Japan and so much more!! I very much recommend applying for World Campus to everyone!!

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When Hiro Nishimura came and visited my school I knew that this was something that I must do at least once. After the program I felt fulfilled in some way. I have aspired to travel to japan for several years and in person it was even better. The staff is wonderful and I made really good friendships with them aswell as the participants of course. The activities and schedules are a bit overwhelming at first but later u get used to it. You get to do so many things, only planning them + booking by yourself would take forever and cost a fortune. But world campus have already done those stressfull stuff for you. The admission fee is worth it all and especially if you bring a friend or two (like I did). I still have contact with my host family and participant friends. We have even planned to meet up again in our home country. So going with world campus is not only those sessions you're paying for, its also potentinally life long friendships.

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This program is much more than just a visit too Japan. This program shows you a completly different angle than a regular tourism trip ever could. I had the privilage to be a part of this program during the summer of 2024 and loved it so much i decided to apply for the next summer too. This program lets you interact with Japanese, talk Japanese and live under the same roof as a Japanese. This program is a must for all Japanese lovers out there and remember this , you are not a foreigner during this program, you are Japanese

I’m not really sure what I expected when coming to Japan, but I was definitely pleasantly surprised. I travelled to Japan with hopes of experiencing the culture from a different point of view than other tourists usually do, and to make new connections with people from all over the world. Easy to say I was not disappointed. In each city, staff was so friendly and welcoming. I always looked forward to seeing what the next place would have to offer. My host families were all so kind and I still message them. Being able to experience their homemade food was amazing, and learning about each family members life was so interesting. Though, I think the absolute best part of the entire trip, was getting to know the other participants. I can’t describe how incredibly lucky I feel to have met these people. Most of us still talk and see each other when possible. I would recommend World Campus to anyone who is keen on learning about Japan and it’s beautiful culture while making irreplaceable bonds with wonderful people.

I was lucky enough to get the experience to join world campus the summer of 2017, and I had one of the best summers of my life. Getting to experience Japan together with amazing fellow participants, leaders and host-families was truly an unforgettable experience. I joined the program with very limited Japanese skills, and this proved to be a non-issue, as even the host families that spoke limited English proved extremely friendly and helpful, and we found that communication still worked. As of writing this review, my stay with world campus helped change the trajectory of my studies into Japanese and Japan studies, and because of the unique window you get into Japanese culture and living, joining a program like this is truly special, and something I can recommend wholeheartedly to everyone with an interest in going abroad to Japan.

I participated in session 2 this summer along with my two friends. I have always liked, and in a way admired the Japanese culture and this program gave me everything I was looking for. At the time of the program, I was only 17 years old and didn't really know what to expect. But from the moment I met the other participants, I knew that I was in for a treat. From that point and on, everything was more than I could have expected. During the three weeks I spent in the program, I made sure that the trip would be worth it. I am still in touch with not only the friends I made but also my host families. I also got to experience more parts of the Japanese culture than I ever would have been able to as a normal tourist. I strongly recommend it for anyone looking for a experience of what Japan truly is. It was and will remain an unforgettable journey.

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I was a part of the last session in the program during the summer. It was an incredible experience, especially meeting new people a part of the program and connecting with my wonderful host families, all of whom I still message. The program was well-paced with each day filled with activities or trips to historical sites along with bonding activities for the group. I learned so much during the trip and I’m thankful to have had the opportunity to have traveled through an informative and fun program. I highly recommend this program to those interested in living abroad in Japan.

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I just wrapped up an incredible 9-week program, and I can’t recommend it enough! From the very beginning, I made unforgettable memories as I travelled Japan, experiencing the culture, meeting the locals and to understand Japan in a way I didn't before. Diving right into World Campus' Summer Program was a truly unforgettable experience. I built lasting relationships with both the local families that hosted me and my fellow participants learning not only about Japan but about what brought others to Japan. The schedule was packed with fun, interactive activities that kept every day exciting. We did things most tourists never do, with each week bringing new challenges and adventures all across the country. If you’re looking for a summer full of adventure and cultural immersion, this program is definitely the way to go! It was an amazing way to spend my summer, and I hope you get the chance to experience it too!

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