gap year abroad in japan for U.S. high school graduates

Japan is a study in contrasts between the old and the new, and Tokyo ranks among the world's most energetic and fascinating cities. In addition to being the economic and political heart of Japan, Tokyo balances its present-day modernity with its traditional past. This provides a landscape that may allow one to see a kimono-clad woman talking on a cell phone, an old man selling baked yams from his homemade cart to a group of "salarymen" on a crowded business district ,and a 200-year old portable shrine being carried through the streets, all on a single day.

Today's metropolis, sprawling on the western shores of Tokyo Bay, began life as a humble fishing village called Edo (mouth of the estuary). While Kyoto was still officially the capital, in 1590 the ruling Shogun established his center of power in Edo. The town developed quickly into one of the largest cities in the world. Destroyed twice in the 20th century, first by an earthquake and later by Allied bombings, Tokyo has risen again to become the modern metropolis that it is today.

As the financial nerve center of Japan, Tokyo has long set the pace for the rest of Asia. It is the reigning capital of Asian pop art, fads and trends. Yet Tokyo is nothing more than a series of small towns and neighborhoods clustered together; each with its own atmosphere, narrow, winding streets, mom-and-pop shops, fruit stands and stores.

what will your story be in japan?

Experience the flurry and enchantment of daily life in Tokyo, the economic and political heart of Japan. In this energetic city of contrasts, consumer culture collides with older traditions. You may see a woman in a traditional kimono talking on her cell phone or a man selling yams from a homemade cart in a crowded business district. You'll live and take classes in Japan's most vibrant city!

 

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