Kyoto, Japan

Summer Ancient + Modern Japan

Click to scroll down and read more

Information for term Summer Ancient + Modern Japan

Application deadline, and cost information.

Application Deadline

The application deadline has passed.

Program Deadlines and Pricing Info

  • Dates: May 15 – Jun 24, 2023 (6 weeks)
  • Credit: 6 - 7 per Block semester hours / 9 - 10.5 per Block quarter hours
  • Eligibility: 2.5 Overall GPA

Application Deadline

The application deadline has passed.

Program Deadlines and Pricing Info

  • Dates: Jun 26 – Aug 5, 2023 (6 weeks)
  • Credit: 6 - 7 per Block semester hours / 9 - 10.5 per Block quarter hours
  • Eligibility: 2.5 Overall GPA

Application Deadline

The application deadline has passed.

Program Deadlines and Pricing Info

  • Dates: May 15 – Aug 5, 2023 (12 weeks)
  • Credit: 6 - 7 per Block semester hours / 9 - 10.5 per Block quarter hours
  • Eligibility: 2.5 Overall GPA

Overview

Click to Open

Considered the cultural capital of Japan, Kyoto is world-renowned for its historical sites and rich experiences. Spend your summer living in and exploring Kyoto on your terms by spending one six-week block (or up to two) in this fully customizable program. You will immerse yourself in downtown Kyoto where you will be nearby historic landmarks, hone your Japanese language skills, and get the experience you need to launch an international career in the creative industries.

When class is in session, you will learn from instructors at CIEE Kyoto in courses across a wide range of subject areas, including business, communication, community health, international relations, STEM, and more. With instructors or on your own, you will have ample opportunities to explore the Kyoto Imperial Palace, the city's rich food scene, and visit the Manga Museum, right next to CIEE Kyoto!

Build Your Summer Adventure
Select one or two six-week blocks at any CIEE Open Campus Block location. Stay in Kyoto for both blocks or go mobile and spend your second block in Berlin, Buenos Aires, Cape Town, Copenhagen, Dublin, London, Madrid, Monteverde, Paris, Rome, Santiago, Shanghai, Singapore, Sydney, or Yucatan. 

Unique Experiences

  • BE ENTRANCED BY THE ZEN ROCK GARDEN OF RYOANJI TEMPLE

    when you stroll the Philosopher's Walk, paying special attention to the dazzling Golden Temple and serene Silver Temple

  • IMMERSE YOURSELF IN THE “CULTURAL CAPITAL” OF JAPAN

    where rich cultural, religious, and artistic traditions date back 1,200+ years

  • INDULGE IN KYOTO’S FAMOUS “UJI” GREEN TEA

    which can be enjoyed as a drink or in flavored pastries, ice cream, and other desserts

  • UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE SITES WITHIN KYOTO

    17
  • NUMBER OF YEARS KYOTO WAS JAPAN’S CAPITAL

    1,200+
  • NUMBER OF MINUTES BY TRAIN TO REACH NEARBY OSAKA, KOBE, AND NARA

    30

Location & Culture

Click to Open
Japanese women in traditional garb
River boats in Kyoto, Japan

 Dating back to 794 AD, Kyoto has been the symbolic and imperial capital for more than 1,000 years. Widely acknowledged for its cultural legacy, Kyoto is a dynamic entrepreneurial hub and home to the world’s first Manga Museum, just minutes from the CIEE Kyoto Center.  

Imagine a “cultural iceberg” stretching over a thousand years deep, where residents embrace traditional societal norms of harmony through mutual respect, cooperative efforts, helping others, and a mindful “reading of the air” (figuring out problems without having to ask). Now imagine exploring Kyoto in many of its deeply cultural traditions, from its synergistic Buddhist and Shinto religions to its artistic aesthetic gardens to its highly refined textile, pottery, and arts. Kyoto residents appreciate visitors who show sincere interest in Japanese (and uniquely Kyoto) culture. Friendships will blossom like the cherry trees along the Kamogawa river that flows gently through the city. 

CIEE wants all our students to feel welcomed, supported, and empowered to succeed while studying abroad. Local CIEE staff have provided details about conditions and cultural attitudes that students with specific identities might encounter in Kyoto.

Toji Temple

Excursions & Activities

Ample activities and day trips will enliven your life in Kyoto and its surrounding cultural destinations. Sample excursions include:  

  • A hike up Mt. Hiei (cable car/ropeway and bus trip are easier options!) to World Heritage Site Enryaku-ji – the head temple of the Tendai Sect of Buddhism – with vistas of Lake Biwa and the whole Kyoto valley. 
  • A one-car train ride north of town to Kurama or a bus ride to nearby Ohara village, with two breathtaking temples (Jakko-in and Sanzen-in), after a hot footbath, traditional meal, or relaxing hot spring dip. 
  • A day trip to Nara – Japan's capital before Kyoto – to visit Tōdai-ji Temple (home to a 500-ton sculpture of the Buddha), Kasuga-taisha Shinto shrine (home to thousands of stone lanterns), and Deer Park (where animals will "bow" in thanks as you offer the deer biscuits). 
  • A thought-provoking day trip to Hiroshima to see the Atomic Dome, explore Peace Park, and visit the museum, combined with a visit to the White Heron Castle in Himeji.  
  • A walk through Kyoto's exquisite gardens of two Imperial Villas – Katsura & Shugakuin – and of the historical Imperial Palace itself. You can also hear the squeaking "Nightingale Floors" as you walk through Nijo Castle (after crossing its moat, of course!).  
  • Each block includes two day trips. 

Please note this list of activities is based on past programs and subject to change at CIEE's discretion to both adapt to local circumstances and participant feedback. Our goal when revising itineraries is always to enhance your experience. Every activity is designed to provide you with a deep immersion in your topic, local culture, and sights. 

Projects

Volunteering. Give back and create a deeper connection to Kyoto. Opportunities are being developed for students to volunteer at local organizations, youth centers, schools, and more. As long as the local health and safety regulations permit, in-person volunteering will be offered. 

Daily Life

Click to Open
  • Housing

    Dormitory Rooms: Most students live in rooms with ensuite bathrooms including bath/shower facilities in a CIEE-maintained dormitory, either within the same building as CIEE Kyoto or in the immediate neighborhood. CIEE Kyoto’s student lounge offers opportunities for music and movie nights. 
     

    Homestay: With advanced notice, arrangements may permit a culturally enriching homestay with a local Japanese family. Priority will be given to those with some prior Japanese language skills. 

  • Meals

     Dormitory rooms are equipped with a single-burner range, microwave, and fridge kitchenette. Students can prepare simple in-house meals with basic cooking utensils and cleaning supplies. Students can also explore affordable restaurants in the immediate neighborhood or explore the city for a full range of cuisine and prices.   

Kyoto, Japan

Where You'll Study

  • A

    CIEE Kyoto Center

    Our home in Kyoto

  • B

    Kyoto Train Station

    Kyoto is home to Japan's second-largest station building, housing a shopping mall, hotel, and movie theater.

  • C

    Nishiki Traditional Market

    Historic marketplace for Japanese wares

Academics

Click to Open

Academics

Students take two credit-bearing courses per summer block. This program provides opportunities to enroll in courses from a variety of academic tracks. Students will learn the intercultural skills needed to succeed in an increasingly globalized and interconnected world. In-class work is augmented with co-curricular visits to the city’s rich variety of cultural institutions and organizations relevant to the course offering. 

GPA

2.5

Language Prerequisites

There are no specific language requirements for this program.

Individual courses may have additional prerequisites; for CIEE courses, these are listed in the syllabi below. Students are responsible for having their own course approval conversations with their advisors.

Program Requirements

All students must enroll in two credit-bearing CIEE courses per block. 

Program Credit

  • One block: 6-7 U.S semester/9-10.5 quarter credits 
  • Two blocks: 12-14 U.S. semester/18-21 quarter credits 

Course Credit

  • CIEE courses: typically, 3 U.S. semester/4.5 quarter credits; 45 contact hours 
  • language courses: 3 U.S. semester/4.5 quarter credits; 60 contact hours 
  • lab courses: 4 U.S. semester/6 quarter credits; 60 contact hours 

Individual courses may have additional prerequisites; for CIEE courses, these are listed in the syllabi below. Students are responsible for having their own course approval conversations with their advisors.

Academic Culture

Each course is a full semester in content, covered in a six-week block, so the pace is accelerated, and the workload is demanding. Courses are designed to follow U.S. academic culture and standards. The class environment typically features a combination of traditional lecture and discussion with co-curricular excursions and activities. Heavy emphasis is placed on student participation. To avoid falling behind, students should not plan personal travel away from the city when classes are in session and plan trips for the weekends in between blocks. 

Class Format

Courses are typically for CIEE students only. Classes are scheduled Monday-Friday and meet two, three, or four times per week. Attendance is strictly enforced both for classes and required co-curricular excursions. Students should expect an average of two hours of preparation required for each hour in class. Instruction is supported and augmented online with our learning management system, Canvas.   

Grading

The U.S. grading scale of A-F is used. Students are graded on the basis of attendance, class participation, homework, project work, presentations, and midterm and final examinations. Learning outcomes assessment is continuous through personal reflections, evaluation feedback, self-assessment, and requirements as set out in course syllabi. 

Individual courses may have additional prerequisites; for CIEE courses, these are listed in the syllabi below. Students are responsible for having their own course approval conversations with their advisors.

Language of Instruction

English and/or Japanese 

Individual courses may have additional prerequisites; for CIEE courses, these are listed in the syllabi below. Students are responsible for having their own course approval conversations with their advisors.

Courses

Click to Open

Course Information

Course Notes

  • Courses are listed below by block and track; course list subject to change. Courses are in English unless otherwise noted. “GI” denotes courses that are offered at multiple CIEE locations. 

Language Classes 

  • During course selection, students interested in a non-introductory language course will be required to take a language assessment to determine their proficiency level. Enrollment will be finalized on site and is based on assessment outcomes. 
  • Students can also enroll in an optional Survival Japanese course (non-credit) during a single block. 

Summer 2023 CIEE Courses

Click to Open

Summer Block I

Course
Language
Semester Credit

Summer Block II

Course
Language
Semester Credit

Note: This course listing is for informational purposes only and does not constitute a contract between CIEE and any applicant, student, institution, or other party. The courses, as described, may be subject to change as a result of ongoing curricular revisions, assignment of lecturers and teaching staff, and program development. Courses may be canceled due to insufficient enrollment.
"(GI)" denotes courses that originated at CIEE's Global Institutes and that are offered at multiple CIEE sites.

Scholarships

Click to Open

Scholarships & Grants

CIEE offers scholarships and grants annually to help students like you make your study abroad dream a reality.

Students who apply to this program are eligible for the following scholarships and grants:

  • Wollitzer Merit Scholarships in Area or Comparative Studies
  • Ping Scholarships for Academic Excellence
  • Global Access Initiative (GAIN) Grants
  • CIEE Gilman Go Global Grant
  • The Stephen M. Lew Lifetime Friendship Award
  • CIEE Stem Scholarship

To be considered, submit the CIEE Scholarships & Grants application within your CIEE program application. Learn more at the Scholarships & Grants section of our website.

See more scholarship info

Dates & Fees

Click to Open

Dates & Fees

Program

Application Due

Start Date

End Date

Fees & Housing

Summer Block I 2023 6 weeks Deadline Passed May 15, 2023 Jun 24, 2023
$6,650
Click to Close

Program Fees

CIEE offers the most student support of any provider in its program fee, including an airport greeting, full-time leadership and support, orientation, cultural activities, local excursions, pre-departure advising, and CIEE iNext travel insurance with benefits.

Participation Confirmation = $300 *

Educational Costs = $4,797 **

Housing = $1,356

Insurance = $197

Total Fees = $6,650

Estimated Costs

Students are responsible and manage costs related to travel, meals, books, and personal expenses. Below are estimates for consideration.

Meals not included in program fee = $768

International Airfare = $1,700

Local Transportation = $150

Books & Supplies = $100

Visa Fees = $0

Potential travel to consulate for visa = $0

Local government registration/entrance fees = $0

Personal expenses = $175

Round trip airfare between locations = $0

Other = $150

Domestic Airfare = $0

Total Estimated Costs = $3,043

Financial Aid

CIEE offers the most grants and scholarships of any study abroad organization, including $8 million/year in travel grants, merit-based scholarships, institutional and MSI grants, and Gilman Go Global Grants.

See Scholarships

This breakdown has been prepared from the program budget for the purpose of calculating eligibility for financial aid. During the course of program operations, actual figures may vary. It should not, therefore, be used as a basis for calculation of refunds. CIEE reserves the right to adjust fees at any time.

Students required by their US home institution to study abroad via CIEE's School of Record will be charged a $500 administrative fee in addition to the Program Fees listed.

* non-refundable

** direct cost of education charged uniformly to all students

Sim card requires one time fee of 25

Summer Blocks I, II 2023 12 weeks Deadline Passed May 15, 2023 Aug 5, 2023
$13,300
Click to Close

Program Fees

CIEE offers the most student support of any provider in its program fee, including an airport greeting, full-time leadership and support, orientation, cultural activities, local excursions, pre-departure advising, and CIEE iNext travel insurance with benefits.

Participation Confirmation = $300 *

Educational Costs = $10,091 **

Housing = $2,712

Insurance = $197

Total Fees = $13,300

Estimated Costs

Students are responsible and manage costs related to travel, meals, books, and personal expenses. Below are estimates for consideration.

Meals not included in program fee = $1,536

International Airfare = $1,700

Local Transportation = $300

Books & Supplies = $200

Visa Fees = $0

Potential travel to consulate for visa = $0

Local government registration/entrance fees = $0

Personal expenses = $350

Other = $300

Domestic Airfare = $0

Total Estimated Costs = $4,386

Financial Aid

CIEE offers the most grants and scholarships of any study abroad organization, including $8 million/year in travel grants, merit-based scholarships, institutional and MSI grants, and Gilman Go Global Grants.

See Scholarships

This breakdown has been prepared from the program budget for the purpose of calculating eligibility for financial aid. During the course of program operations, actual figures may vary. It should not, therefore, be used as a basis for calculation of refunds. CIEE reserves the right to adjust fees at any time.

Students required by their US home institution to study abroad via CIEE's School of Record will be charged a $500 administrative fee in addition to the Program Fees listed.

* non-refundable

** direct cost of education charged uniformly to all students

Sim card requires one time fee of 25

Summer Block II 2023 6 weeks Deadline Passed Jun 26, 2023 Aug 5, 2023
$6,650
Click to Close

Program Fees

CIEE offers the most student support of any provider in its program fee, including an airport greeting, full-time leadership and support, orientation, cultural activities, local excursions, pre-departure advising, and CIEE iNext travel insurance with benefits.

Participation Confirmation = $300 *

Educational Costs = $4,797 **

Housing = $1,356

Insurance = $197

Total Fees = $6,650

Estimated Costs

Students are responsible and manage costs related to travel, meals, books, and personal expenses. Below are estimates for consideration.

Meals not included in program fee = $768

International Airfare = $1,700

Local Transportation = $150

Books & Supplies = $100

Visa Fees = $0

Potential travel to consulate for visa = $0

Local government registration/entrance fees = $0

Personal expenses = $175

Other = $150

Domestic Airfare = $0

Total Estimated Costs = $3,043

Financial Aid

CIEE offers the most grants and scholarships of any study abroad organization, including $8 million/year in travel grants, merit-based scholarships, institutional and MSI grants, and Gilman Go Global Grants.

See Scholarships

This breakdown has been prepared from the program budget for the purpose of calculating eligibility for financial aid. During the course of program operations, actual figures may vary. It should not, therefore, be used as a basis for calculation of refunds. CIEE reserves the right to adjust fees at any time.

Students required by their US home institution to study abroad via CIEE's School of Record will be charged a $500 administrative fee in addition to the Program Fees listed.

* non-refundable

** direct cost of education charged uniformly to all students

Sim card requires one time fee of 25

To help you budget, keep in mind that students are responsible for the cost of international airfare, local transportation, books and supplies, visas, and personal expenses. In addition, your college or university may charge additional fees for study abroad, or may require you to receive a transcript via CIEE's School of Record, which carries an additional fee of $500.

Looking for funding?

Get Started

Here's what you need to do to take the next steps:
  • 1

    START AN APPLICATION
    You're one step closer to an amazing study abroad experience! 

    Apply Now
  • 2

    CONNECT WITH YOUR CAMPUS STUDY ABROAD OFFICE 
    Share your plans and confirm you're on track to meet all required steps to go abroad. 

  • 3

    Contact Us

    Send us an email if you still have questions or need information about applying to this program.