**This course fulfills the Global Affairs and Cultures (GLAFC) requirement in the Challenge Curriculum.
***Applicants to this program may be eligible for the Charles and Emily Kelley Asian Travel Scholarship. The scholarship application deadline is May 1, and you can find the application here:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdcmWZADM8RuNdi8v6g7PmDR5E4iGZ5ofXEPV_kxGNlQL7NZQ/viewform?usp=sf_link
Gain or improve your Japanese language skills and delve into Japanese culture in vibrant and dynamic Tokyo!
Highlights
- Participate in Japanese Language and Culture Program at Hosei University, one of the oldest private universities in Japan, located right in the center of Tokyo. (No previous Japanese language experience is required.)
- Explore both super modern (e.g., Shibuya) and very traditional (e.g., Asakusa) parts of Tokyo.
- Travel outside of Tokyo: Kyoto, Osaka, Kamakura, and Mt. Fuji.
- Have some NOT typical tourist experiences to gain deeper understanding of Japan, such as an introduction to traditional Japanese musical instruments.
- This course is approved for the GLAFC requirement in the Challenge Curriculum. It also can count toward Japanese Studies requirements and fulfills one of the two required January credits.
Overview
This course is designed for students interested in Japanese culture. By participating in Hosei University Japanese Language and Culture Program and interacting with local people, students who have no previous experience in Japanese language study will develop basic communication skills while more advanced students will further improve their proficiency. All the students will have opportunities for exploring their special areas of interest in Japanese culture such as history, art, and pop culture. In addition to getting a taste of living in Tokyo, the students will also travel to Kyoto, Osaka, Kamakura, and Mt. Fuji.
Locations
Tokyo is one of the largest cities of the world with the population of over 13 million in its metropolitan area. Despite being such a densely populated city, it is remarkably clean and safe. (The crime rate in Japan is among the lowest in the world.) Winter weather in Tokyo is mild with the average January temperature of High 9.5C (49F) – Low 0.9C (34F). Hosei University, where Japanese language classes take place, is located right in the center of Tokyo; its campus is adjacent to what used to be the moat of Edo Castle. Students will stay at National Olympics Memorial Youth Center. Places within walking distance from the Center include Yoyogi Park (a great place for jogging), Meiji Jingu (the largest Shinto shrine in Tokyo), and Harajuku (the center of youth culture and fashion in Japan). Tokyo has one of the most advanced public transportation systems in the world, and students will learn to explore this amazing city by train, subway, and bus.
Academic Calendar
Expected dates:
On-campus orientation: TBD Fall 2023
Study away departure date: Approx. January 8, 2024
Study away arrival date: Approx. January 9, 2024
Study away return date: Approx. January 29, 2024
Faculty Leader
Toshiyuki Sakuragi, Japanese Studies Program, MLLC
Dr. Sakuragi teaches Japanese language and film (Japanese Film and Intercultural Film) courses. His has published two books and various journal/magazine articles in the fields of intercultural communication, film studies, and cognitive linguistics.
Accommodation
Anticipated accommodations will include the National Olympics Memorial Youth Center in Tokyo and hotel accommodations in Kyoto.
Program Costs
The expected program fee will be between $3,750 and $3,950 (updated 5/15) depending on final arrangements and student enrollment. The fee will cover Japanese language instruction at Hosei University, accommodations, a pre-paid debit card for meals, ground transportation in Japan, excursions and admissions, and international travel health insurance.
Please note that international airfare is not included. Students will be responsible for meeting the program in Tokyo, but CICE can help advise students who want to travel together about flight options. Students should confer with Professor Sakuragi before booking their air tickets. Please plan to budget approximately $1,400 to $1,800 for international plane tickets and personal expenses.
Scholarships
Students with significant financial need or other barriers to participation may apply for a j-term scholarship here:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdcmWZADM8RuNdi8v6g7PmDR5E4iGZ5ofXEPV_kxGNlQL7NZQ/viewform?usp=sf_link
J-term scholarships are very limited in number and typically offer modest support of $500-$750.
The deadline to apply for a j-term scholarship is May 1st.
Eligibility
All Gustavus Adolphus College students who meet the general study away requirements are welcome to apply.
Application Deadline
Students must complete the online application by May 1, 2023.
Entry visas and passports
US citizens can stay in Japan visa free for up to 90 days. All students who are not U.S. citizens should contact Mathew Hirman about possible additional visa needs. All program participants must have a passport that is valid through at least July 31, 2024, by the start of Fall 2023 semester.
The information in this online brochure is subject to change. Please contact CICE with questions.
