High School Semester in Kyoto
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.
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.
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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Sample Itinerary
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.
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.
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.
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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
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.
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.
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
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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