Japanese Language & Culture
In Kyoto, enjoy the perfect balance of structure and independence, allowing you to explore Japan and yourself before college.
Imagine a study experience where you can focus on one of your favorite subjects—Japanese—while living a lifestyle devoted to exploring this passion along with meaningful moments set aside to reflect and dream about your future.
During weekdays, take 15–20 hours of Japanese language classes in lively classrooms with supportive peers and native instructors. Afternoons and weekends invite you to uncover the magic of Kyoto, where the richness of history—the vermilion gates of Fushimi Inari Shrine, the breathtaking views from Kiyomizu Temple, the serene Arashiyama bamboo grove—blends seamlessly with modern energy in arcade cafes, restaurants with experimental cuisine, and the bustling Nishiki Market.
On a daily basis, your warm host family will welcome you into their home, sharing meals and introducing you to the rhythms, traditions, and customs of Japanese life.
Why Choose This Program?
Live the Language
Take 15-20 hours per week of Japanese language classes designed to improve real world skills. A final proficiency test (STAMP) will showcase your rapid language growth.
Strike a Balance
Benefit from CIEE's global support and cultural expertise, while exploring the world at your own pace.
Develop Skills
Build a strong foundation in the core components of intercultural learning. Come home with a better understanding of the world and skills for a globalized workforce.
96%
of alumni said their language skills improved
94%
said they learned to interact with different cultural backgrounds
89%
said their level of independence increased
The Destination
Take in winding stone streets lined with traditional machiya houses, serene temples nestled among pristine gardens, and glowing lanterns illuminating quiet alleys—Kyoto’s timeless beauty will envelop you the moment you arrive.
The essence of Kyoto lies in its ability to harmonize old and new. At landmarks like the Golden Pavilion of Kinkaku-ji Temple, you can marvel at centuries of tradition, while modern attractions like the International Manga Museum showcase contemporary culture. Whether strolling through the sweet shops and cafés of the Gion district or enjoying hanami (flower viewing) under the cherry blossoms in Maruyama Park, Kyoto’s enchanting charm will capture your heart.
Despite being one of Japan’s bigger cities, Kyoto feels approachable and welcoming. Its peaceful neighborhoods, narrow streets, and warm atmosphere create an environment that is both exciting and inviting. You’ll feel at home in no time, comfortably practicing Japanese and confidently embarking on independent adventures to uncover the city's countless treasures.
Sample Itinerary
Top Rated Activities
A Day Trip to Japan’s Ancient Capital: Nara
Amid the lush greenery of Nara Park, you and your friends giggle and pose for photos while feeding crackers to the famous sika deer—once revered as divine messengers in Japanese culture. Nara is also home to the Great Buddha of Todaiji Temple, a colossal bronze statue standing over 15 meters tall and weighing nearly 500 tons. No visit is complete without strolling through Kasuga Grand Shrine with its stone lanterns and towering five-storied pagoda. Japan’s rich past adds greater meaning to your daily experiences and deepens your appreciation of Japanese culture.
An Overnight Excursion to Historic Hiroshima
The skeleton structure of Genbaku Dome was the only building left standing when the first atomic bomb exploded on August 6, 1945. Walking through the Peace Memorial Museum, you witness haunting exhibits that still echo with grief. Hearing directly from a hibakusha—a survivor or descendant—adds a deeply personal dimension. You reflect on the incredible recovery of Japanese society since and how, from this immense tragedy, came a global commitment to prevent such devastation from happening again.
Later, the mood shifts as you board Hiroshima’s streetcar to Miyajima Island. A serene ferry ride brings you to the iconic floating Torii gate and Itsukushima Shrine, where the harmony of nature and spirituality offers a peaceful contrast to the day’s earlier reflections. This unforgettable journey deepens your understanding of Japan’s history, bonding you with your gap year abroad peers in this unique experience.
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Eligibility
- Program open to recent high school graduates (no more that 1 year post-graduation) who:
- Are at least 17 years old at the time of their departure
- Are in good academic standing
- Demonstrate—through the application and interview process—flexibility and maturity.
- No previous language experience is required but self-study is strongly encouraged.
- Please note that participants may volunteer at local organizations with prior authorization from CIEE. Participants are not authorized to take any job or seek employment during their stay.
For more information, refer to our detailed GAP eligibility criteria.
Dates & Fees
Application Fee
$50
Priority deadline discount
Apply to a fall semester or academic year program by June 1 and automatically get a $400 discount. Apply to a spring semester by October 1 and get a $400 discount. Discounts are deducted from the final balance.
Insurance
The program fee includes iNext travel insurance. Additional information about insurance can be found on the FAQ page.
Program |
Application Due |
Start Date |
End Date |
Costs |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Program Fall 2025 12 weeks | Start Date | End Date | Costs $14,000 | |
| Program Spring 2026 11 weeks | Start Date | End Date | Costs $14,000 | |
| Program Academic Year 2025 24 weeks | Application Due Deadline Passed | Start Date | End Date | Costs $26,500 |
| Program Academic Year 2026 29 weeks | Start Date * | End Date * | ||
| Program Fall 2026 12 weeks | Start Date * | End Date * | ||
| Program Spring 2027 11 weeks | Start Date * | End Date * | ||
| Program Spring 2025 11 weeks | Application Due Deadline Passed | Start Date | End Date | Costs $18,500 |
*Dates for this program are provided as tentative dates. Please consult with your study abroad advisor to confirm dates before purchasing your flights.
Ready to change your life?
Our Staff
Conor Aherne
Center Director
Conor’s passion for Japan began 12 years ago when he studied abroad in Tokyo. He holds an MA in Japanese & Asian History from Saitama University and is a specialist in Kyoto history.
