High School Abroad - Immersion in Japan
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.
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.
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.
93%
said their experience made them more aware of global issues.
96%
said they regularly use the knowledge and skills they acquired while abroad with CIEE.
79%
said their experience with CIEE helped shape their college applications.
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.
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Sample Itinerary
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.
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.
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.
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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
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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
- 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 3.0.
- Demonstrate, through the application process, their flexibility, maturity, adaptability, and readiness to face the challenges of living in a new culture.
- All classes are taught in Japanese. Based on your level of experience, CIEE will determine if private school placement is a requirement. Those with limited or no experience with the language will be placed in a private school, which comes at an additional cost. Japanese private schools offer additional levels of support and flexibility that are necessary for success. We recommend staying in close contact with your Enrollment Coordinator throughout the process to discuss the private school environment and the additional cost involved. Schedule a call
- Students must be enrolled in a high school or an accredited online learning program
High school abroad participants are NOT authorized to volunteer, take jobs, or seek employment during their stay.
For more information, refer to the detailed Program Essential Eligibility Criteria.
Dates & Fees
Application Fee
$50
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.
Additional information about insurance can be found on the FAQ page.
Program |
Application Due |
Start Date |
End Date |
Costs |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Program Fall 2025 14 weeks | Application Due Deadline Passed | Start Date | End Date | Costs $17,750 |
| Program Spring 2026 15 weeks | Application Due Deadline Passed | Start Date | End Date | Costs $17,750 |
| Program Academic Year 2025 38 weeks | Application Due Deadline Passed | Start Date | End Date | Costs $20,250 |
| Program Academic Year 2026 38 weeks | Start Date * | End Date * | ||
| Program Fall 2026 14 weeks | Start Date * | End Date * | ||
| Program Spring 2027 15 weeks | Start Date * | End Date * |
*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.
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