This is a WCCCSA program. For how to start the application, please refer to “How to Apply” page.
Program dates
Sep 26 – Dec 6, 2023
Application Timeline:
- Apply by June, 2023
- Payment due: June, 2023
Course Information
This is a study program. Students must carry a 15-credit load and are expected to fully participate in all class activities. The courses offered are specially chosen to give participants interesting, valuable and relevant instruction that exposes students to the cultural, history, fauna and geological differences that are unique to Japan.
HUMAN 205 Peoples of the World-Japanese Language and Culture (5 cr.)
This course is co-taught by Green River College faculty and local Japanese Faculty. The course offers students an introduction to Japanese society and culture by examining its history, people and traditions. Students will engage in critical discussions about the differences between American and Japanese cultures. This course aims to facilitate student orientation to Japan and will provide students with essential conversational Japanese language skills needed to communicate in basic daily life.
Beginning Digital Photography (5 cr.)
this course is taught by Green River College faculty member. The course introduces the aesthetic and technical theories and techniques of digital photography. This course requires a digital camera and laptop computer. Rental cameras may be available through the GRC photo department.
Creative Writing (5 cr.)
this course is taught by Green River College faculty member. This course is offered online during the program. The course provides a discussion and application of the principles and techniques used in writing fiction and poetry. development of analytical skills to enhance the writing of fiction and poetry. students will write fiction and poetry and peer review each other’s work.
You can be part of a cohort group of 20-30 students from Green River College and other Colleges to live and study in Tokyo, Japan in this 10-week study abroad program. Earn 15 Bellevue College credits in Digital Photography, Creative Writing, Japanese Language and Culture.
Experienced Community College faculty members will lead the group and teach the curriculum along with local Japanese faculty members. Japanese students will assist as language partners and to help with customs and cultural adjustments.
Japan offers a rich environment of arts, culture and history where centuries-old traditions exist in contrast with ultra-modern life-styles. Experience Sumo wrestling, Kabuki Theater, ancient castles and temples dating back to the days of the Samurai warriors. How about some trendy Tokyo street fashions in the Harajuku district, the latest in high technology, electronics and gadgetry, anime, and a city that never sleeps. Tokyo has many faces and each neighborhood is unique and has its own distinct character. From the elegant Ginza shopping district, historical Asakusa, to the trend-setting Harajuku and Shinjuku wards, the fascination is endless.
Program Activities at a Glance
- Harajuko: Meiji Shinto-Jingu (Shrine), Yoyogi Park, Takeshita-Dori (Avenue) and Omotesando Street
- Shibuya
- Shinjuku, Shinjuku Koen, Photgraphy galleries
- Asakua: Senso-Ji (Shrine), Asakusa-Jinja (Temple) and strolling Nakamise-dori (Avenue)
- Ueno: Ueno-Koen, Tokyo National Museum and the Ameya-Yokocho
- Ebisu: Tokyo Metropolitan Museum of Photography, Dainen-Ji
- Roppongi: Roppongi Hills, Mori Art Museum
- Akihabara Electric Town
- Mt. Takao, Kamakura
Additional Optional Activities: Other field trips are optional and may require an additional fee. There will also be plenty of opportunity to do your own exploring using convenient public transport or tour specialists.
Program Fee
Program Fee: $6,975
Program Fee Includes
- Round trip group airfare on program dates from Seattle/Tokyo/Seattle
- Group transfers to/from Narita airport
- Student housing accommodations while at Kogakuin University (Hachioji Campus)
- Some cultural activities and excursions
- Pre-departure and arrival orientations
- Welcome and farewell parties
- Student basic medical insurance
Program fee does not include
- COVID housing surcharge:$715 (for a possible upgrade to single-bedroom occupancy per student if required)
- College tuition and books, including $300 books and photoshop software purchase;
- must have a digital camera and laptop
- Passport and visa fees
- Local transportation
- Meals
- Curriculum activities admissions
- Personal and entertainment expenses
- Independent travel and expenses
- US and Japanese airport fees and taxes
- Anything not specified as included in the program
Program Location
While in Japan, the group will be hosted by Kogakuin University, at the Hachioji campus, a university focused on teaching engineering and architecture to first and second-year students.
Hachioji is known as a college town, boasting many large colleges and universities. It is a scenic area surrounded on three sides by mountains, forming the Hachioji Basin. It’s about 40 minutes west of downtown Tokyo and is easily accessible by bus or train, providing an ideal location for student life and exploration.
Program Accommodation
While at Kogakuin University, students will be accommodated in shared apartments contracted by the university. These are small Japanese-style lodgings with futons, a kitchenette and bathroom. Students will generally share an apartment with other students in the group. Housing accommodations are subject to change depending on availability (alternate arrangements provided).
Students can find many food choices right at the Hachioji campus, while the town of Jachioji offers many additional food options, including grocery stores and familiar chains such as Starbucks and Burger King. Pizza is widely available, or try a French-style pastry shop for delicious baked goods. While Japan has the reputation of being expensive, one can make the same inexpensive and everyday food choices that are enjoyed by the local population. Small noodle shops offer delicious and very reasonably priced dishes while others offer Tempura, Sushi and Bento-box lunches.
Last Updated March 8, 2023
