The Experiment: Japan: Japanese Language & Culture

Learn or expand your Japanese through this language- and culture-focused summer abroad program for high school students.

Study Japanese, live with a host family, and explore the cultural and historical sights of Tokyo, Sapporo, and Kyoto on this immersive high school summer abroad program. While in Sapporo, receive 30–35 hours of formal language instruction—provided at three language levels—in small-group, interactive formats. Practice reading and writing hiragana and kanji with Japanese teachers. Participate in language exchanges with local students while practicing communication skills for everyday life in Japan and your upcoming homestay. Take time to sample local delicacies, order gyoza and sushi at local restaurants, explore Japan’s natural beauty, and learn about the indigenous Ainu culture of Hokkaido. Visit the homes of local college students to learn about Japanese home life and cook together.

You will further enhance your Japanese and deepen your understanding of culture and family life in Japan through the program’s homestay. Learn to cook homemade soba noodles or to roll your own sushi with your host parents, and hang out with your host siblings. Take advantage of opportunities to learn the art of Japanese flower arrangement or the tea ceremony. Activities during this time could also include visiting a local school, practicing Zen meditation, or participating in a traditional festival.

Your exploration through Japan continues as you spend several days exploring the temples, markets, and shrines of ancient Kyoto. Hike to Nijō Castle, home to the ancient imperial court, and visit the golden-walled Kinkaku-ji temple. The program begins and ends in Tokyo, where you and your group will explore the famous sites, museums, and diverse neighborhoods of one of the world’s most populous cities.

Language Certificate: At the conclusion of this program, participants will earn a language certificate noting how many hours of language classes they completed.