East Asian Odyssey

12-week gap semester in Asia

Embark on a 12-week cultural deep dive into two of Asia’s most electrifying cities. In Seoul, you’ll explore the pulse of K-pop, centuries-old palaces, and vibrant street food scenes. In Tokyo, tradition meets innovation, from serene shrines to neon-lit neighborhoods. With immersive language learning, hands-on cultural activities, and weekend getaways, this program is your gateway to understanding Japan and Korea from the inside.

Upcoming travel dates:

Spring 2026:
Session 1: Jan. 4–Mar. 28, 2026
Session 2: Feb. 1–Apr 25, 2026
Fall 2026:
Session 1: Aug. 16–Nov. 7, 2026
Session 2: Sep. 13–Dec. 5, 2026

Don't see what you're looking for? Ask us about flexible departures and durations.

Live in two global hubs

This program is anchored at EF’s campuses in Seoul and Tokyo, each a lively home base where students take daily language classes and immerse themselves in local culture. Beyond the classroom, campuses serve as social hubs for making friends, joining activities, and experiencing the city together.

EF Seoul

Set in the lively Gangnam area, EF Seoul combines sleek, contemporary classrooms with easy access to Korea’s trendiest shops, restaurants, and K-pop culture landmarks. Students can balance language learning with evenings in bustling markets or tranquil walks along the Han River.

Gap Year program in Japan

EF Tokyo

EF Tokyo places students at the heart of the city’s fashion and pop culture hub. Modern classrooms overlook bustling streets lined with cafés, boutiques, and karaoke bars, while nearby shrines and gardens offer a quiet escape from the neon energy.

Gap Year program in Japan

EF Tokyo

EF Tokyo places students at the heart of the city’s fashion and pop culture hub. Modern classrooms overlook bustling streets lined with cafés, boutiques, and karaoke bars, while nearby shrines and gardens offer a quiet escape from the neon energy.

EF Seoul

Set in the lively Gangnam area, EF Seoul combines sleek, contemporary classrooms with easy access to Korea’s trendiest shops, restaurants, and K-pop culture landmarks. Students can balance language learning with evenings in bustling markets or tranquil walks along the Han River.

Program highlights

Note: This program features required, interactive Korean, and Japanese learning classes Monday-Friday in each city. This itinerary is subject to change based on local availability and conditions at the time of departure.

Seoul

Weeks 1-6

Weeks 1 - 3 in Seoul

Seoul, South Korea

Stroll through Seoul’s historic heart from Gwanghwamun to Sungnyemun, step back in time wearing a traditional hanbok at Gyeongbokgung Palace, and learn to craft classic flavors in an authentic Korean cooking class.

EF Gap Year in Seoul

Weeks 4 - 6 in Seoul

Seoul, South Korea

Ride a cable car up to Namsan Tower for sweeping city views, channel your inner star during a high-energy K-pop dance class, snack your way through the bustling stalls of Gwangjang Market, and hike the historic Seoul Fortress Wall all the way to the futuristic Dongdaemun Design Plaza.

Seoul

Highlight Getaway

Weekend Trip to Busan

Busan, South Korea

2-day trip to Busan, Korea’s second-largest city and a coastal hub. Explore the city’s heritage and culture, from beaches to temples to markets.

Tokyo

Weeks 7-12

Weeks 7 - 9 in Tokyo

TOKYO, JAPAN

Step back in time at Tokyo’s historic Asakusa district and the iconic Sensoji Temple, roll your own sushi with the help of a local chef, and dive into the colorful, trendsetting streets of Harajuku.

Gap year ideas in Japan

Weeks 10 - 12 in Tokyo

TOKYO, JAPAN

Find peace beneath the towering torii gates of Meiji Shrine, then turn up the energy with an unforgettable night of karaoke.

TOKYO

Highlight Getaway

Weekend trip to Kyoto

Kyoto, Japan

Travel by bullet train on a two-day adventure to Kyoto, where you’ll explore Japan’s most celebrated temples and shrines.

Start planning today

Program inclusions

Our gap programs are built around a close-knit cohort, giving students the chance to learn and travel together. The program includes a wide range of amenities including:

Interactive language classes
Korean in Seoul and Japanese in Tokyo, offered at all learning levels.
Activities & excursions
2-3 cultural activities per week, and 1 overnight weekend excursions or extended day trip per location.
Flights & transportation
All flights, on-the-ground transfers, and airport pick-up upon arrival.
Room & board
Accommodations in an EF Student Residence with other members of your cohort.
EF Global Support Network
One-on-one mentorship and 24/7 travel support before and during your program.
Travel protection
Enrollment and cancellation protection fees included.

EF Education First global presence

Our commitment to safety

When you need us most, we’re always close: EF Gap Year students are supported by multiple layers of staff throughout their experience abroad.

Optional college credits

You will have an option to receive college credits for your language coursework through an accredited US university. For more information, please talk with your Program Advisor.

Stack and save

The world is too big for just one stop. Extend your adventure by stacking two back-to-back programs into a full year abroad. You’ll unlock more destinations, more experiences, and more memories—plus, save $2,000 when you do.

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