My Study Abroad Experience in Kyoto, Japan

Written by Seth Baker

Studying abroad in Kyoto through CIEE was one of the most meaningful experiences of my life. Before arriving in Japan, I expected beautiful temples, amazing food, and exciting travel opportunities, and I was not disappointed.  

One of the highlights of my time abroad was the relationships I built with the people around me. The teachers and staff at CIEE were welcoming and supportive from the very beginning. They helped students adjust to life in Japan and made Kyoto feel far less intimidating. I also met many amazing friends through the program, and together we explored cities, tried new foods, and made unforgettable memories. 

Living with my homestay family was another important part of my semester. From the moment I arrived, they welcomed me with kindness and patience that immediately made me feel comfortable despite being far from home. Staying with them gave me a deeper understanding of daily life in Japan than I could have experienced otherwise. Whether we were eating dinner together or talking about cultural differences through our day-to-day lives, they always made an effort to include me and make me feel like part of the family. Even with occasional language barriers, their warmth and generosity left a lasting impression on me, and by the end of the program, my homestay truly felt like a second home. 

Collecting Goshuin (red stamps) from shrines and temples became one of my favorite hobbies while traveling across Japan. What started as a small souvenir quickly turned into a passion during the trip. By the end of the semester, I had completely filled two Goshuin-cho (red stamp books). Collecting Goshuin encouraged me to slow down and appreciate each place I visited instead of rushing through tourist attractions. I found myself paying closer attention to the architecture, atmosphere, and traditions connected to each shrine and temple. Looking through my Goshuin-cho now feels like flipping through a visual diary of my time abroad. 

Each city I visited had its own unique atmosphere. Kyoto felt peaceful and historic, with beautiful temples, shrines, and traditional streets. Osaka was energetic and modern, while Nara offered unforgettable moments walking among the rambunctious deer near ancient temples. Wakayama had quiet spiritual sites that felt hidden away from the crowds. Tokyo amazed me with its endless movement and contrast between old and new Japan. I also traveled to Kobe, Hiroshima, and Okinawa, each leaving a completely different impression on me. Hiroshima especially left a deep emotional impact because of its history and message of peace, while Okinawa’s tropical scenery and slower pace made it feel almost like a different country compared to mainland Japan. 

Studying abroad in Kyoto helped me grow personally by pushing me outside of my comfort zone and teaching me how to adapt to unfamiliar environments. The friendships I made, the places I explored, and the memories I created are things I will carry with me for the rest of my life. Kyoto will always hold a special place in my heart.