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Kyoto, Japan

High School Semester in Kyoto

Tentative Dates

-

15 weeks

Tentative Dates

TBD

Overview
Spend a semester abroad in Japan’s ancient capital, where centuries-old temples meet manga shops and neon-lit streets.

Kyoto is a city that feels like stepping into two worlds at once. One moment you’re wandering through lantern-lit alleys past centuries-old shrines, the next you’re in a buzzing shopping arcade or a serene bamboo forest. Live with a welcoming host family, connect with your cohort, and boost your Japanese skills in this iconic city.

You’ll begin your semester in London, spending the first three weeks with fellow students in CIEE’s Global Gateway Academy. Prepare for a successful semester by forming lasting friendships, building strong intercultural communication skills, and connecting with the local community through impactful service projects.

ASU Prep Global

In Kyoto, you’ll take in-person classes like Smart Cities, Mixed Media Arts, and Japanese Language & Culture alongside online courses through ASU Prep Global. Classes are small and collaborative, and weekly activities take learning beyond the classroom—into local markets, parks, and beyond. Japanese immersion happens naturally through day-to-day life, community engagement, and conversations with your very own language buddy.

Two unforgettable excursions take you deeper into Japan’s history and culture. At Hiroshima’s Peace Park, you’ll walk through memorials that tell a story of resilience and a call for peace. Then travel to Miyajima Island, where the UNESCO World Heritage Itsukushima Shrine, with its bright red gate, is among the most photographed views in Japan. From language growth to lasting friendships, you’ll take home experiences that last long after the semester ends.

Why Choose This Program?

INDEPENDENCE & RESILIENCE

Experiencing life abroad shifts how you see the world—and yourself. You’ll return home with a broader perspective that shapes how you approach challenges and opportunities.

COLLEGE READINESS

Studying abroad gives you the kinds of life skills that can’t be learned in a classroom — and shows college admissions reps that you’re already one step ahead in terms of initiative, maturity, and independence.

GLOBAL CITIZENSHIP

After immersing yourself in unfamiliar practices and customs, you’ll become better equipped to interact with people from other cultures — in school, on the job, or in your personal life.

93%

said their experience made them more aware of global issues.

79%

said their experience with CIEE helped shape their college applications.

96%

said they regularly use the knowledge and skills they acquired while abroad with CIEE.

Destination
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The Destination

Welcome to Kyoto—the heart of historic Japan.

The imperial capital of Japan for more than 1,000 years, Kyoto is the ultimate place to experience the country’s culture and traditions. The city holds over 1,600 temples, historical wooden machiya townhouses, and the golden gates of the Imperial Palace. Its narrow streets—once the domain of samurai and geisha—still feel steeped in history, even as modern life hums all around.

Kawaii (cute) cafés serving matcha spill onto busy corners, neon-lit arcades thrum with the latest games, and street markets tempt you with mouth-watering aromas. Nature weaves through the city, too. Surrounded by mountains and crossed by the Kamo River, you might wander beneath the soaring stalks of the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest or spend a quiet afternoon in the Kyoto Botanical Garden, where glasshouses shelter rare orchids and koi ponds shimmer under the sun.

For food, head to Nakagyo’s Nishiki Market, “Kyoto’s Kitchen,” where stalls overflow with sizzling yakitori, steaming ramen, and hot-off-the-griddle taiyaki cakes. Then slow down with sit-down traditions: a serene tea ceremony, a riverside sushi dinner, or the artistry of kaiseki, Japan’s iconic multi-course feast. With its rich history, vibrant culture, and culinary delights, Kyoto is the perfect place to create unforgettable memories that last a lifetime.

 

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Itinerary

Sample Itinerary

Spend your first three weeks abroad in London for CIEE’s Global Gateway Academy. Before arriving in your host country, you’ll begin your semester abroad with a group experience to build community and camaraderie with fellow CIEE students. Together, you’ll prepare for your semester abroad through our meaningful Leadership, Service, & Intercultural Communication course, forging lifelong friendships along the way. 

Join other high school students from across the country to take courses from a wide range of subjects while enjoying the benefits of studying abroad. Led by local CIEE instructors, a sample semester might include courses like: 

  • Science: Smart Cities
  • Mixed Media Arts: Local Life in Kyoto
  • World Languages: Japanese Language & Culture 

You will also take online courses through our partner, ASU Prep Global. This allows you to stay on track with your home school’s requirements and choose from a variety of subjects, including:

  • Math
  • English
  • Elective of your choice in a subject like Fine Arts, Social Studies, and more! Explore ASU’s course catalog for examples.

Please 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.

  • Spend 15-20 hours per week in classes with fellow students at the CIEE Kyoto center.
  • Foster friendships that last a lifetime with fellow students. 
  • Immerse yourself in Japanese culture through community activities and club sports opportunities. 
  • Explore the Himeji Castle, a stunning example of Japanese castle architecture.
  • Visit a tea house to learn the art of matcha during a traditional tea ceremony.
  • Experience the art of taiko drumming as you practice and perform together with your peers.

Please note: Activities are based on past programs and subject to change at CIEE's discretion to adapt to local circumstances and participant feedback. Our goal when arranging activities is always to enhance your experience.

Activities

Top Rated Activities

Your semester in Kyoto is filled with activities including hands-on history lessons, interactive exhibits, and culture-rich experiences. Whether exploring the city with new friends or slowing down to enjoy Japan’s natural beauty, you’ll make connections and memories that last long after your trip.

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Samurai Kenbu Lesson

Step into the world of the samurai at Samurai Kenbu Theater. Dressed in traditional robes, you’ll learn kenbu basics with a real katana sword. This striking sword-and-fan performance combines martial skill with elegance. The wooden stage, soft light, and quiet intensity of the practice make it feel like stepping back in time. By the end, you’ll have more than just photos in costume—you’ll carry a deeper connection to Kyoto’s warrior traditions. 

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Day Trip to Nara and Its Bowing Deer

Hop on a train to Nara Park where over 1,200 sika deer wander its lawns and tree-lined paths, mingling freely with visitors. When you bow, many deer bow back before taking the special crackers straight from your hands! Beyond the park, visit the Great Buddha Hall at Tōdai-ji, home to one of the largest bronze Buddha statues in the world, and the giant orange gates of Kasuga-taisha Shrine.  

Testimonials
From CIEE

Why Kyoto? My Decision to Go from Washington State to High School Abroad in Japan 

By High School Semester Abroad at CIEE

This post was written by CIEE Global Navigator alum Carolina P. from Washington who participated in the Global Navigator Marketing Internship in spring of 2025. More often than not, people... keep reading

From CIEE

Top Places Visited In Japan During My High School Semester Abroad

By High School Semester Abroad at CIEE

Post written by Ambassador Abroad, Gavin F., who completed a High School Semester Abroad in Japan. Sure, here’s your revised text with subheadings included, all in the same formatting: Living... keep reading

From CIEE

9 Ways to Fund Your High School Semester Abroad Program

By High School Semester Abroad at CIEE

Attending high school abroad as a U.S. teen is a fantastic opportunity to experience a new culture and broaden your perspectives. Though your high school semester abroad program covers all... keep reading

Eligibility

Eligibility

  • Be between the ages of 15 and 17 when the program starts and cannot turn 18 while on program.
  • Be in the 9th, 10th, 11th, or 12th year of schooling.
  • Have a minimum GPA of 2.5.
  • Demonstrate, through the application process, flexibility, maturity, adaptability, and readiness to face the challenges of living in a new culture.
Dates & Fees

Dates & Fees

Priority deadline discount: Apply to a fall semester or academic year by February 15 and get a $400 discount. Apply to a spring semester by July 15 and get a $400 discount. Discounts are deducted from final balance.

High school abroad participants are NOT authorized to volunteer, take jobs, or seek employment during their stay.

Additional information about insurance can be found on the FAQ page.

Program

Application Due

Start Date

End Date

Costs

Program Fall 2026 15 weeks Start Date * End Date *
Program Spring 2027 Start Date TBD* End Date TBD*

*Dates for this program are provided as tentative dates. Please consult with your study abroad advisor to confirm dates before purchasing your flights.

*Dates for this program are tentative. Please consult with your study abroad advisor to confirm dates before purchasing your flights.

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 protection with benefits.

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

Estimated Costs

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

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 protection with benefits.

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

Estimated Costs

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

Ready to change your life?

Staff

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.

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