Japan


Welcome to Japan, a unique blend of old culture and modernity. Here, centuries-old temples and traditional festivals exist alongside cutting-edge technology and vibrant city life. This harmony between the past and present makes Japan a truly fascinating and memorable place to explore.

Before the SIJ program begins, you have 3 nights, 4 days to freely explore Japan with accommodation fully funded. You can experience the culture, try local cuisine, visit historical sites, or simply relax and enjoy the surroundings. After this period, you travel to the program location to begin the Summer in JAPAN activities.

Fushimi Inari Shrine (Kyoto)
Biei Flower Fields (Hokkaido)
Higashiyama District (Kyoto)
Scuba spot in Izu (Shizuoka)
Sensoji Temple (Asakusa, Tokyo)
Mt. Fuji (Shizuoka)
MoN Takanawa Museum (Tokyo)

Oita

Located in the Kyushu Island of Southern Japan is Oita, SIJ location. Nestled among many places of scenic beauty and Buddhist lifestyles, Oita has had a long history of adopting foreign cultures. SIJ extends a warm welcome to university students hailing from all over the world and invites you to enjoy the natural sites, culture, traditions, and cuisine of the region.

Temple in Kunisaki Peninsula
Monkey Sanctuary
Summer Fireworks Festival (photo by Goro Nagao)
Sushi making
Delicious Authentic Matcha
Try out beautiful Kimonos

Japanese Culture Lesson


On the first day in Oita, Harvard students will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in Japanese culture through hands-on experiences such as flower arrangement, Japanese language lessons, and calligraphy. 

Basic Japanese lesson
Japanese Calligraphy
Flower Arrangement

Please see the movie below: