Intern in Tokyo

Gain professional experience in enchanting Japan

Jump start your career path in the vibrant capital of Japan during this summer internship experience! With a wide variety of placement fields, your customized internship will provide experience in your chosen area of interest and help you gain relevant skills to build toward future success. Tokyo is a city that has everything, from bustling industry, to vibrant arts, iconic and world renowned cuisine. Explore your genki side and find your ikigai on our Intern in Tokyo program!

What to Expect

Language(s):

English, Japanese

Average Courseload:

U.S. credit may be available

GPA Requirement:

2.80

Visa Requirement:

NONE Required!

Highlights:

Internships available in English and any level of Japanese from beginner to fluent

Professional development, networking, and mentorship opportunities help you connect with your host industry

Custom internship placements in education, media, marketing, fitness, IT and computer science, hospitality, and more!

Day trips to places such as Kamakura, Akihabara, Mt. Fuji, and more!

Earn a CIS Abroad Working Across Cultures Micro-credential

While studying in Tokyo for a semester, I aimed to live by the quote: "Life begins at the end of your comfort zone." Because of that, I have gotten to experience incredibly fascinating things and meet amazing people. Tokyo almost feels like a second home to me now. I am immensely thankful for the opportunity to have experienced the beauty of Japan and its rich culture.

Kenae Turner

The CIS program was truly a one of a kind experience. I was able to meet many students from all across America, attend several events (such as food tours or a trip to Kyoto), and make many friends. I would not trade it for anything. I am thankful I decided to study with CIS Abroad. Before this, I was thinking about just plowing through my degree, getting my master's and PhD, and immediately entering society. However, this experience changed my life. Through meeting many people from many places, and living in a new area for an extended period of time, my view of my own philosophies, culture and place of living, changed. This would not have happened if I stayed in the States. I would say if you are able to go, you should go. There is no time like the present.

Lexington Whalen

CIS Abroad allowed me the opportunity to explore new places and ideas, and make some great friends at the same time! I really enjoyed my time in Japan as it let me explore both new and old aspects of Japanese culture.

Mads Muraoka

internships available in Japan

Below are a few sample placements undertaken by past participants. There are many more possibilities, as each placement is customized. Contact an advisor to learn more!

Program Details

Intern for Credit

Want credit for your internship? We can do that for you!

Coursework & Credit

You can earn between 3-12 credits through our partnership with Jacksonville University. Internship credit through Jacksonville University will be reflected as JU 390 - Global Internship on your official Jacksonville University transcript. Most interns select the 3 or 6 credit options. Interns who need 9 to 12 credits must be enrolled in a 12-16 week long program to meet the necessary contact hours. Learn more about interning for credit through Jacksonville University here.

Micro-credential

All participants in this program are eligible to earn a Working Across Cultures Micro-credential at no extra charge! If you are completing the coursework for credit, you will also automatically earn the Working Across Cultures Micro-Credential.

Life in Tokyo

Huge, stylish, exciting, bold, and incredibly fun, Tokyo is a one-of-a-kind city. The Tokyo metropolitan area is the most populous place in the entire world, and it's home to absolutely everything. You can step from a bustling market into a quiet park, from a frenetic dance club to a serene temple. The best thing to do in Tokyo is to embrace it all, including the food, the festivals, and the karaoke. It would take several lifetimes to explore all that Tokyo has to offer, but CIS Abroad will show you some of the best sites during your time in Tokyo. Every day will be filled with unforgettable sights and scenes, Tokyo style.

You can spend your free time visiting world-famous markets, shrines, and museums. For a more low-key experience, ride a bike around a quiet neighborhood, where you can interact with street vendors, food cart owners, and friendly residents. Your time in Tokyo will fly by, and we guarantee you'll always want to come back. The city is that special!

Live the Local Life

Japanese Gardens in Tokyo

The Imperial Palace Higashi (East) Gyoen (garden), Shinjuku Gyoen, Kiyosu Teien, Hamarikyu, Rikugien. Asianesque garden beauty is laid out and provides a serene feeling of Japan and Asia.

Mt. Fuji

Ride the fastest Japanese train, the Shinkansen (Bullet Train) from Tokyo station to Shin Fuji station. At the station, you can see a dynamic view of Mt. Fuji. Climb up to the top of the mountain to see more amazing views of Japan. Take the Bullet train further to Kyoto city. Stay overnight in a Japanese inn, and walk around the ancient capital city.

Largest Fish Market in the World

Be sure to go to Toyosu Fish Market in Tokyo. It is the largest fish market in the world. Try to get to the market early so you can watch the auction for freshly caught giant tuna fish. Enjoy the freshest sushi possible and/or the market's exceptional ramen!

Japanese "Onsen" (Hot Spring)

Take a train to Hakone and Atami, less than one hour ride from Tokyo. In Hakone and Atami, there are a number of traditional Inns where you can enjoy hot springs and authentic Japanese cuisine. Tokyo has some good spots too.

Tokyo Sky Tree

The world highest free-standing broadcasting tower. The height of the tower is 645m. Take the elevator up to the top "TEMBO DECK" (observatory deck) so you can have a complete panorama view of Tokyo.

Intern in Tokyo

Location

Enjoy the experience of a share house in bustling Tokyo, a residence designed for visiting students and interns just like you! Step out of your bedroom into a shared apartment environment, with living and lounging spaces, dining areas, and a cozy kitchen. Share a meal or conversation with your apartment mates, find a quiet nook of your own, or head to one of the nearby restaurants or cafes in the neighborhood.

Housing will be allocated based on your program, term, and availability. In general, you can expect a 30-40 minute commute to your internship location. The options shown here give you a great idea of the type of residence where you'll be placed.

Meals

You'll have access to a kitchen shared among your apartment mates stocked with basic cooking supplies, but there is also a variety of restaurants, cafes, and other eateries within walking distance.

Inclusions and Amenities

Wi-Fi Kitchen Equipment Bathroom - Shared Double Room

What's Included

Inclusions

Program fees are in U.S. dollars and include the following:

Internship placement and support
Housing
Medical and accident insurance
CIS Abroad support services before, during, and after the program
Academic advising
Financial aid counseling
Assistance with travel arrangements
Student Guide with comprehensive information and resources specific to Japan
Airport pickup
CIS Abroad orientation
On-site support
The Local Life cultural program

Welcome & Orientation

After a long flight, you'll be warmly greeted by our on-site staff. We'll help you settle in, ensuring you are mobile- and wifi-connected and have you check in with home. We'll get a quick lay of the land, touring our apartments and visiting local convenience stores and markets for anything you may need. On your first full day, we'll explore nearby neighborhoods, familiarizing ourselves with the subway and train systems.

Farewell & Re-Entry Program

Though you’re not an astronaut returning from space, re-entering your home culture after being abroad can be shocking to the system, especially after having lived in the vibrant metropolis of Tokyo! We’ll walk you through some of the things to expect when readjusting to whatever you're going back to (if you can actually pry yourself away from Japan!) and rehash your time abroad so that you can remember the highlights. We love to stay in touch, so although it is farewell for now it is not goodbye.

Program Excursions

While participating on a CIS Abroad program, you'll be able to take part in built-in day trips at no additional cost. These trips are subject to change from term to term; listed below are excursions that have run in the past.

Trip to Kamakura

Let's go to the most famous city outside of Tokyo, Kamakura, during the beautiful fall season! This city is a very popular destination for its temples, shrines, and historical monuments. We'll fall into colors such as red Japanese Momiji maple trees as we visit the most famous shrine: Tsuruoka Hachimangu. Then, we'll have lunch at Komachi Street. We'll then go to the famous Hase Temple (Hase Kannon Temple). Finally, we'll visit and enter the Great Buddha statue.

Japanese Tea Ceremony

Experience and learn about the tradition of the tea ceremony with fellow University students where you can perform some of the traditions, enjoy the pure form of Japanese tea and sweets in the traditional Japanese Tea Ceremony room on campus.

Akihabara Food Tour

Unlock the best of Akihabara, Tokyo's Electric Town, on this special Tokyo City Tour. Perfectly planned for a public holiday. We start with an array of delightful street foods that cater to all taste buds, move on to Akihabara's cutting-edge tech scene, and a dive into the heart of anime culture.

Known as Electric Town, Akihabara is the go-to spot for anime, manga, and tech enthusiasts. It's a colorful district with neon lights, exclusive merchandise, and a wide array of food options from sweet to savory. There are also a number of random hidden gems scattered throughout the town. This is the ultimate destination to experience authentic Japanese pop culture and modern tech.

Site Director

Steve Hamade

Tokyo, Japan Site Director

About:

Hailing from Toronto, I spent the first part of my life in Canada. Armed with a BA in Philosophy, I eventually joined the JET Programme as a Coordinator for International Relations (CIR) to explore my Japanese-Canadian heritage. I anticipated a brief 2-3 year stint, aiming to pursue an MBA thereafter, but shifted course and transitioned from rural Japan to Tokyo. My trajectory encompassed two roles in private education companies. I'm thrilled to be partnering with CIS Abroad. Family inspires me, and I'm a sports enthusiast who cherishes karaoke and onsen - major factors that tied me to Japan, along with meeting my wife and starting a business.

Travel Tip:

I always try to adjust to the time difference prior to arrival by pulling an all-nighter either the night before my flight or during the flight as required. I used to always pick up a good book or two as well, but now I just carry my kindle.

Your Support Staff

Britni Purcell

Program Enrollment Coordinator - South Korea & Japan

Travel Tip:

Find ways to connect with your host community – the language, everyday activities, common gathering places. You'll discover that you can gain the most genuine and life-long friendships just by trying to immerse yourself into the culture.I highly recommend learning some of the language, even a few phrases, before going abroad for an extended amount of time. Don't be afraid to mess up speaking – though you will likely say something wrong and hilarious (I've got too many instances in Korean to count), that's part of the process and the locals will definitely appreciate the genuine effort!

Alexandra Woolner

Director of International Operations

Travel Tip:

Expect the unexpected! Sometimes culture shock is stronger in countries where you expect things to be more similar to your home country and environment. Traveling abroad is an excellent way to learn more about your own culture, habits, style, and adaptability.

Kaylee Klinger

Communications & Alumni Relations Coordinator

Travel Tip:

The best travel tip I always share is, if possible try to catch a redeye flight. That has helped me tremendously fight jet-lag and it allows you more time to explore the extraordinary unfamiliar place!

Serenah Quiroga

Advising & Communications Coordinator

Travel Tip:

Always find a reason to talk to a local or someone you may not know. Whether it's a simple hello, compliment, or question, there is always something to learn from every person you meet. Some of my best experiences and favorite memories were formed because of these interactions.

Dates & Prices

Additional Information:

As with all study abroad programs, you should count on a few additional expenses.

CIS Abroad reserves the right to alter fees at any time due to currency fluctuations and/or fee changes made by our partner universities.

ADVISOR TIP:

Please WAIT to book flights until you have received confirmed dates in your acceptance paperwork. Dates posted here are subject to change.

I knew I wanted to study abroad, particularly in Japan, because it was on my bucket list. Thanks to CIS, I was able to go to Tokyo! Even now, it is surreal to me that I got to go! I can't put it into words how much fun I had in Tokyo. I enjoyed every second of my time there, from walking around the bustling streets of Shibuya and Shinjuku, to going to class, eating delicious Japanese cuisine, and even going to the convenience store. Even the simplest things were incredibly fun to me. I was initially anxious about being homesick, my Japanese skills and traveling alone, but I'm happy to say that I very quickly made lovely, lifelong friends and was met with nothing but kindness from the locals. I learned not to let my worries get in the way of an opportunity of a lifetime. Thank you, CIS Abroad. I am eternally grateful for the opportunity I had to go to Tokyo.

Intern in Tokyo

Gain professional experience in enchanting Japan

What to Expect

Highlights:

Learn More About This and Other Programs

Kenae Turner

Lexington Whalen

Mads Muraoka

Internship Placements

internships available in Japan

Program Details

Intern for Credit

Coursework & Credit

Micro-credential

Life in Tokyo

Live the Local Life

Japanese Gardens in Tokyo

Mt. Fuji

Largest Fish Market in the World

Japanese "Onsen" (Hot Spring)

Tokyo Sky Tree

Intern in Tokyo

Location

Meals

Inclusions and Amenities

What's Included

Inclusions

Welcome & Orientation

Farewell & Re-Entry Program

Program Excursions

Trip to Kamakura

Japanese Tea Ceremony

Akihabara Food Tour

Site Director

Steve Hamade

About:

Travel Tip:

Your Support Staff

Britni Purcell

Travel Tip:

Alexandra Woolner

Travel Tip:

Kaylee Klinger

Travel Tip:

Serenah Quiroga

Travel Tip:

Dates & Prices

ADVISOR TIP:

Hear what students, interns, and alumni have to say

BOLDLY COMMITTED to providing the best experiences abroad

Kenae Turner

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Casey Ferguson

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Lexington Whalen

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