student experience 
student experience
Here’s a brief description of the itinerary for your summer experience in Tokyo:
- Day 1: Late afternoon arrival at Narita Airport. From there you’ll transfer by bus to the National Youth Center (NYC) in the heart of downtown Tokyo.
- Day 2: Rest and unpack. Orientation and walking tour.
- Day 3-21: Language class begins. Classes will be held three hours a day in one of the classrooms on the campus of the National Youth Center. Throughout the remaining time, excursions will be planned along with periods of free time. Below are some highlights of the planned excursions.
Planned Excursions:
The Imperial Palace
The current Imperial Palace (Kokyo) is located on the former site of Edo Castle, a large park area surrounded by moats and massive stone walls in the center of Tokyo, a short walk from Tokyo Station. It is the residence of Japan's Imperial Family.
Akihabara
Be prepared to be dazzled by the latest electronics, computer games, and technology! Akihabara, with its multitude of superstores and tiny stalls, is a dream-come-true for techies!
Ghibli Museum
Spend an afternoon in this “playfully designed fine arts museum” devoted to the Japanese animation work of Studio Ghibli.
Taiko
Experience wa-daiko (big Japanese drums). You might be inspired to find a taiko dojo upon your return home after this introductory lesson!
Calligraphy Practice
Is it penmanship or is it a form of meditation? You decide, after learning how to handle ink and brush to write Chinese characters.
Kyoto
Take the bullet train to Kyoto for a three day/two night visit to this World Heritage Site filled with magnificent temples and shrines. Follow the pilgrims’ walk to Kiyomizu- dera—will you be able to resist the traditional souvenirs and snacks along the way? Visit Ginkaku-ji and Ryoan-ji, with its famous rock garden. In the evening, stroll the Gion. You’ll likely spot some geisha on their way to a restaurant or private party. As elsewhere in Japan, Kyoto is a mix of ancient and modern—it’s also the home Kyoto International Manga Museum.
