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Japan

High School Immersion in Japan

Tentative Dates

-

38 weeks

Costs

$19,500

Priority Deadline

Enroll Now

Request Information

Tentative Dates

-

14 weeks

Costs

$15,500

Priority Deadline

Enroll Now

Request Information

Tentative Dates

-

15 weeks

Costs

$15,500

Priority Deadline

Enroll Now

Request Information

Overview
Improve your Japanese significantly as you live and study in this unique and wonderful culture. 

A land of four main islands (and more than 6,000 smaller ones), Japan has beautiful natural views as well as vibrant mega-cities. It also boasts amazing cuisine such as sushi, ramen, and sweet curry; efficient and reliable public transportation; and friendly locals. 

On program, you'll experience life at a public or private high school, taking classes taught in Japanese. Fully immersed in teen life, lingo, and both traditional and pop culture, you’ll make huge strides in language proficiency before you know it. On weekends, enjoy the company of your homestay by doing things like playing games, eating delicious home-cooked food, and visiting local shrines and temples.

Why Choose This Program?

Language Proficiency

Our program provides students with 150 language contact hours in just a few weeks.

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

Buddhist temples, imperial palaces, and the hustle & bustle of vibrant cities—study, live, and learn in Japan for an unforgettable life experience!

Get a feel for Japanese slang during lunch with new classmates and spend time with your host family. No matter where you’re placed, you’ll advance your Japanese language skills through intensive study and casual conversation, and build practical, real-world skills that will serve you in college and beyond.

If you’re placed in the greater Kyoto area…

You’ll live close to the ancient capital of Japan, where bustling shopping districts contrast with serene bamboo forests, providing the perfect mix of old and new. Here, you’ll walk lantern-lit streets, enjoy a vibrant food scene, and explore iconic destinations like Nijo Castle and the Fushimi Inari Shrine.

If you’re placed in the greater Tokyo area…

You’ll live close to Japan’s fast-paced capital, where unique shops, arcades, karaoke, and playful excitement are everywhere. Explore popular areas, such as Akihabara, the heartland of otaku, and landmarks like Sensō-ji, the oldest temple in the city.

CIEE wants all our students to feel welcomed, supported, and empowered to succeed while studying abroad. No matter where you choose to study abroad with CIEE, our staff will be on hand throughout your program to provide advice, resources, and support. 

 

Social feed above may feature posts from all CIEE Study Abroad programs, including college programs.

Itinerary

Sample Itinerary

Immerse yourself in the Japanese way of life by taking classes alongside local high school students in a wide range of subjects. Beyond the classroom, your evenings and weekends will be filled with opportunities to explore the vibrant city you are placed in and the stunning natural beauty of Japan. 

Highlights: 

  • Visit to Miyajima and Itsukushima Shrine, UNESCO World Heritage Site
  • Participate in a traditional tea ceremony in Asakusa
  • Experience Japanese Taiko drumming in a hands-on lesson
  • Explore Sensō-ji, Tokyo’s oldest and most significant Buddhist temple

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.

Monday–Friday

Each day offers a balance between classes and cultural activities with time on your own, too. A sample day might include:

  • Breakfast at your homestay
  • Classes with local teachers and students at your high school
  • Lunch in the community or in your school's cafeteria
  • Dinner at your homestay

Weekends

  • Overnight or day excursions to top destinations
  • Quality time with friends

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

Japan is a country of dramatic contrasts and a fascinating place to study. From the historical center of Kyoto to the high-tech capital of Tokyo, the “Land of the Rising Sun” is rich in culture (both pop and traditional) as well as natural beauty. You’ll have plenty of opportunities to visit places that suit your taste: museums, anime or manga studios, kitschy cat cafés, imperial palaces, and famous shrines and temples.

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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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Traditional Japanese Indigo Dyeing

Bring a piece of Japanese history home with you. Join a traditional Japanese indigo dyeing lesson, learning about the history of dyeing and the importance of the industry to the area. Explore a local shop with its own indigo plants before making your own dyed hand towel using the techniques and styles you learned. You’ll leave with both a one-of-a-kind souvenir and a deeper appreciation for this century-old art.

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.

Testimonials
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

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

The Eye-Opening Differences Between American and Japanese High Schools

By High School Semester Abroad at CIEE

Post written by Ambassador Abroad , Luna, who is currently participating in our High School Semester Abroad program in Kyoto, Japan ! Read more to learn about her experience thus... 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.
  • No prior Japanese language experience is required for this program.
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 Academic Year 2026 38 weeks Start Date * End Date * Costs $19,500
Program Fall 2026 14 weeks Start Date * End Date * Costs $15,500
Program Spring 2027 15 weeks Start Date * End Date * Costs $15,500

*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.

Ready to change your life?

Staff

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.

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