Short-Term Program

Journey to Japan

Live like a local in Tokyo, the world’s most populous metropolis, while learning Japanese.

Immerse yourself in Japanese culture and language: discover Tokyo, learn at EF’s International Language Campus in the bustling Shibuya ward, and spend the weekends exploring the city on your own. Travel to the iconic cities of Kyoto and Osaka with your cohort. Feel more at home in the world, gain confidence, and level up your language skills. 

Upcoming travel dates:
Fall 2024: October 15–November 13, 2024
Spring 2025: March 12–April 9, 2025

How you'll grow

GROWTH MINDSET

Gain independence, adaptability, and a growth mindset—skills that will set you up for success in our ever-changing, increasingly globalized world.

GLOBAL PERSPECTIVE

Explore the cultural diversity and uniqueness of Japan through guided travel to different cities and regions of the country. Get a sense of what it is like to live in Japan, emerging with leveled-up language skills and a deeper understanding of Japanese culture.

PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT

Foster the confidence and skills you’ll need to travel independently and navigate large cities abroad.

ACTION & IMPACT

Emerge from the program feeling prepared for what’s next, whether that’s more travel, college, or a career!

Program itinerary
Note: This itinerary is subject to change due to availability and local conditions at the time of departure.

Japan 29 Days

Tokyo: Introduction to Japan

3 Days Kyoto, Japan

Fly across the International Date Line and meet your cohort in Tokyo. Get your bearings with a guided sightseeing tour of the city's diverse neighborhoods, then take a sushi making class.

Tokyo: Getting Settled

2 Weeks Tokyo, Japan

Settle into the student accommodations in Tokyo and start your Japanese language immersion! You’ll take a language placement test and begin your courses at the EF campus.

Kyoto: Japanese Culture & History

3 days Hakone, Japan

Put your new language skills to the test with a weekend in Kyoto, the cultural and spiritual hub of Japan. Learn about the country's culture and history as you visit some of the stunning castles, shrines, and temples the city is famous for.

Tokyo: Living Like a Local

2 weeks Tokyo, Japan

Return to Tokyo after your weekend away to continue your courses and independent exploration of this vibrant city. You’ll be surprised how much your Japanese has improved, even after just three weeks! Celebrate your progress with a graduation ceremony.

Osaka: Castles, Food & Farewells

4 days Osaka, Japan

During your last week of the program, travel to Osaka, Japan’s foodie city, to explore the most famous food market. Wrap up your experience by reflecting on all you’ve learned and enjoy a farewell dinner with your cohort.

Program fee

Tuition for this 4-week program is $9,400, and payment plans are available. A detailed budgeting guide for this program can be found here.

Your program tuition includes:

  • Flights & transportation

    Round-trip flights and on-the-ground transportation for all your travel.

  • Accommodations & meals

    All housing and some meals are included.

  • Activities & workshops

    Language school tuition included, as well as excursions and travel throughout Japan.

  • EF global support network

    One-on-one mentorship and 24/7 travel support before, during, and after your program.

  • Guided learning

    Program leadership and direction by your EF Student Life Coordinator, EF Language Campus Staff, and an EF Tour Director during your travels throughout the country.

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.

Learn more about on-program Safety & Support, from our on-the-ground Student Life Coordinators and Tour Directors to our 24/7 Safety & Incident Response team.

Ready to get started?

Our Gap Year Consultants are ready to answer any questions you have and to help find the perfect program for your family.

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