Semester in Japan - Meiji Gakuin University

Study in serenity on the outskirts of Tokyo with clear views of Mt. Fuji

Looking for a quiet campus setting but with easy access to bustling Tokyo? Our Semester at Meiji Gakuin University program offers all this and more! Enjoy a learning setting with spa-like vibes, including wooded paths, views of Mt. Fuji, and free access to the full health center. But no cultural #FOMO for you! With a quick 1-hour train ride, you’ll be in Tokyo city center, with close access to all the excitement you desire. It’s also the most affordable Japan semester option we offer.

What to Expect

Language(s):

English, Japanese

Average Courseload:

12-18 U.S. credits

GPA Requirement:

2.50

Visa Requirement:

YES - Pre-departure

Highlights:

Idyllic suburban setting with wooded paths on a green, sprawling campus

Take in crisp and clear views of Mt. Fuji while you cozy up & study in the campus library

Choose from both Japanese-style and Western-style cuisine in the campus cafeteria at a very reasonable price

Enjoy an accommodating library with silent floors for optimal studying practice

During my time in Japan, CIS Abroad helped with anything and everything I needed. If they couldn't help, then they found people that could. There were plenty of things to discover, plus CIS Abroad prepared their own excursions for us.

Ben Sowell

CIS Abroad was super organized. They had a portal where I could see the paperwork I had to complete. I was immediately connected with an advisor I could contact super easily throughout the whole process. This was extremely helpful during visa applications!

Krystal Sousley

My bestie Krystal and I had a great time in Kyoto and made so many friends! CIS Abroad provided fun activities for us to do in the Kansai region that I would've missed if I hadn't done this program.

Jennie Rosario

Program Details

Semester in Japan - Meiji Gakuin University

Meiji Gakuin University

Established in 1863, Meiji Gakuin University is one of the oldest Christian universities in Japan. Over its history, Meiji Gakuin University has maintained a global perspective with a local focus, placing a strong emphasis on international education and exchanges. Based on its philosophy of "Do for Others," Meiji Gakuin University supports a variety of student life clubs and societies, volunteer opportunities, and cultural exchanges.

Meiji Gakuin University encourages curiosity through social, cultural, and academic exploration. The university's faculty consists of unique individuals who are ready to listen to your thoughts and doubts, encouraging an interactive learning-teaching exchange. Expect a supportive environment where you can learn and practice Japanese while also leaning on English when you may need it. With around 12,000 students across two campuses in Tokyo and Yokohama, Meiji Gakuin University provides a comfortable academic and social base. Want to get involved on campus? Choose from rugby, soccer, break dancing, judo, fencing, competitive dance, sailing, lacrosse, karate, aikido, figure skating, Red Cross Society, tsunami relief, UN-NGO academy, and more.

Course Information

Browse Courses

Course listings are for exploratory purposes, final course availability is determined during the enrollment process.

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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.

Off-Campus Student Accommodations in Yokohama

Overview

Students will stay in student housing in the Totsuka/Higashi Totsuka area of Yokohama, within a 20-30 minute commute from their academic buildings. Rooms are single occupancy, include an ensuite bathroom, with a shared dining room and laundry facilities. Rooms come equipped with a desk, chair, closet, bed, linens, and internet access.

Meals

Included in the program is a partial meal plan at the dormitory cafeteria. The meal plan includes breakfasts and dinners.

Inclusions and Amenities

Air Conditioning Commute - Public Transportation Desk Laundry - Onsite Microwave Bathroom - Ensuite Wi-Fi

What's Included

Inclusions

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

Welcome dinner
Excursions, like visiting famous shrines and temples and a traditional Tea Ceremony
Housing
Full-time tuition and fees
Meiji Gakuin University Transcript
Medical and accident insurance
CIS Abroad support services before, during, and after the program
Academic advising
Financial aid counseling
Assistance with travel arrangements
Predeparture orientation
Airport pickup
On-site support
Homestay Program (optional; one night with local Japanese family)
Buddy Program (optional)
The Local Life cultural program
CIS Abroad Micro-credential

Welcome & Orientation

You will be picked up at the airport upon arrival, get a lay of the land, touring apartments and visiting local convenient stores and markets for anything you may need. Shortly after you've settled in, explore nearby neighborhoods, familiarizing yourself with the subway and train systems. Orientation continues with an excursion and a welcome dinner the first week in the fun fashion district of Shibuya!

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.

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 ...

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Yokoso to Tokyo!

Yokoso means "Welcome" in Japanese! So in this first activity, we will be doing our Tokyo ...

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Akihabara Food Tour

Unlock the best of Akihabara, Tokyo's Electric Town, on this special Tokyo City Tour. Perfectly ...

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Spirited Away in Tohoku: A Magical Journey to the Heart of Japan

Far from the bustling crowds, offering a rich tapestry of traditions, cultures, and landscapes, ...

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Odawara Castle

Odawara Castle was long ago a central stronghold of the clans controlling the castles of the Kanto ...

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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

International Operations Senior Director - Asia Pacific (Australia, Thailand, Japan, South Korea)

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

Advising & Alumni Relations Manager

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.

Alumni Ambassadors

Kaily Khin

University of Massachusetts - Lowell

Semester in Japan - Meiji Gakuin University

Ask me about my experience

How can studying abroad help one develop important life skills such as problem-solving, independence, and resilience?

Studying abroad not only helped me physically but mentally as well. I went from being a very dependent, shy person to an outgoing, independent traveler. And this is all thanks to the experiences that I had in Japan. Not only was Japan's culture so rich, but the people within Japan taught me a lot about resilience and problem-solving. Many of the people you meet in Japan will tell you their stories about how they started with nothing, but despite challenges, they worked towards a better life, and that is something that I will always carry with me. Japan is also the perfect place to travel alone because it is so safe. As a woman studying abroad, I was fearful of navigating alone, eating alone, or even just walking the streets alone, but Japan made this transition effortless. Although it does not hurt to be cautious, Japan is an extremely safe place for individuals looking to have new experiences by themselves or with others. Being abroad really pushes you out of your comfort zone, allows you the space to make those decisions on your own, and allows you to gain that sense of individuality and independence that many struggle to find in their hometowns.

Charlie Owusu

Worcester State University

Semester in Japan - Meiji Gakuin University

Ask me about my experience

How can studying abroad help one develop important life skills such as problem-solving, independence, and resilience?

Studying abroad placed me in a completely new environment. In a world painted in Japanese in a dorm with people I’ve never met, I was definitely not the most comfortable I’ve been in life. Talking to new people has never been one of my strongest qualities, so the thought of having to interact seemed extremely daunting. Especially, while speaking the very limited amount Japanese that I know. To my surprise, I was able to become friends with someone… on the first day! I'm still grateful for that friendship. I then went on to make a few more friends that I will cherish for years to come.
What I’m trying to describe is that studying abroad can help to push you out of your comfort zone in more ways than one. Doing so can also help develop important life skills like problem-solving, independence, and resilience. Problem-solving: Being in a new environment with different cultural norms and languages forces you to think on your feet. Whether it’s figuring out how to navigate public transportation, managing your finances, or dealing with unexpected challenges, you learn to approach problems creatively and resourcefully. Independence: Living away from home, often for the first time, teaches you to rely on yourself. You become responsible for your daily needs, from cooking and cleaning to managing your schedule and making important decisions. This independence builds confidence and self-reliance. Resilience: Adapting to a new culture and overcoming language barriers can be tough, but these experiences build resilience. You learn to cope with homesickness, cultural misunderstandings, and other challenges. Each obstacle you overcome makes you more resilient and better prepared for future difficulties.

Dates & Prices

Additional Information:

Program Deposit

There is a non-refundable program deposit for all CIS Abroad programs. Paying the deposit secures your spot on the program! The deposit deadline and amount can be seen above in the Dates & Prices section.

Price Range

FALL 2025

Off Campus - Single Room (with meal plan): $14,990

ACADEMIC YEAR FALL 2025 & SPRING 2026

Off Campus - Single Room (with meal plan): $28,990

Please note: 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.

Semester in Japan - Meiji Gakuin University

Study in serenity on the outskirts of Tokyo with clear views of Mt. Fuji

What to Expect

Highlights:

Learn More About This and Other Programs

Ben Sowell

Krystal Sousley

Jennie Rosario

Program Details

Meiji Gakuin University

Course Information

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

Off-Campus Student Accommodations in Yokohama

Overview

Meals

Inclusions and Amenities

What's Included

Inclusions

Welcome & Orientation

Farewell & Re-Entry Program

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:

Alumni Ambassadors

Dates & Prices

ADVISOR TIP:

Hear what students, interns, and alumni have to say

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Semester in Japan -
Meiji Gakuin University