Tokyo has it all: culture, food, night life, nature... and so much more.
Japan is a land of endless contrasts and extremes, where you’ll have the opportunity to explore a unique, refreshing, and incredibly exciting side of the world. Study and live in Tokyo, the world’s most populated greater metropolitan area, a vibrant and bustling city, yet impressively orderly and clean. Make your home base at Toyo University, a local Japanese university with a global focus.
What to Expect
Language(s):
English, Japanese
Average Courseload:
5-6 courses (15+ U.S. credits)
GPA Requirement:
3.00
Visa Requirement:
YES - Pre-departure
Highlights:
Program based in the heart of Tokyo, the capital of Japan and the world's most populous city
Intensive Japanese language courses, one of the world’s top in-demand languages
Japanese cultural events and interactions with Japanese students organized by the university
Variety of courses taught in English, combining local, regional, and global contexts
Exceptional student support from both university and on-site staff
Learn More About This and Other Programs
Program Details
Toyo University
Founded in 1877, Toyo University aims to foster "globally talented individuals" through their three pillars: Philosophy education, internationalization, and career education. Toyo University's founder, Dr. Inoue Enryo, is one of Japan's most celebrated philosophers. With nearly 32,000 students it is easy for international students to feel like getting a real Japanese university experience with opportunities to interact with local students at every turn.
Toyo University is one of the largest private universities in Japan, with its student body spread across five campuses. The campus that CIS Abroad students study at, Hakusan, is located in a central location of Tokyo. The Hakusan campus offers easy access via public transit to some of Tokyo's most iconic neighborhoods - Shibuya, Akihabara, Ikebukuro and Shinjuku. While the city can be a sensory overload, students at Toyo University can escape the hustle and bustle of the city for the calm, refined and picturesque Hakusan campus. Toyo University's Hakusan Campus was designed to be conducive for learning and thinking. Students have access to the university's sleek and modern buildings surrounded by lush greenery. Sky Hall is the tallest building on campus and offers students a spectacular view of Mt Fuji during the day and iconic Tokyo cityscape views in the evening.
Toyo University offers students a vibrant and extensive student life. Students have the opportunity to join one of Toyo's 100+ student organizations, volunteer programs, and other extracurricular activities. The university hosts a multitude of events to provide international students with firsthand experience of Japanese culture, some of which include sumo lessons, weekend homestay, language exchange partner program, and Japanese calligraphy experiences.
Areas of study with 3 to 7 classes available
Art & Design
Education
Areas of study with 8 or more classes available
Business
Communications
Humanities
Natural & Applied Sciences
Social Sciences
World Languages
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.
Semester in Tokyo - Toyo University Housing: AI House International Dormitory
Location
This unique housing arrangement combines great amenities, support, privacy, and community. Residents enjoy modern amenities including communal kitchens, studios (music and multi-purpose), study rooms, and appliances. On hand are Resident Assistants (RA) who will support your daily life as residents. In addition to helping you feel comfortable and supported, RAs also organize various programs, including seminars and field trips. You'll also have plenty of spontaneous interactions with fellow residents, half of whom are international and half local. Each dorm room is single occupancy and is fully furnished. Bathrooms and shower rooms are shared among each gender-specific dorm floor.
Meals
Breakfast and dinner are provided on weekdays in the dormitory dining hall. Enjoy tasty and nutritious meals created by professional chefs to fuel both brain and body. A variety of freshly cooked Japanese, Western, and Chinese dishes are available. Vegetarian and halal options are available for an additional fee.
Program fees are in U.S. dollars and include the following:
Welcome dinner
Housing in university dormitory: single room and partial meal plan
Full-time tuition and fees
Toyo University transcript
Japanese traditional tea ceremony
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
The Local Life cultural program
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, we'll head out to explore nearby neighborhoods and get a feel for 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 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.
Yokoso to Tokyo!
Yokoso means "Welcome" in Japanese! So in this first activity, we will be doing our Tokyo Orientation and welcome meal while exploring both traditional and famously fashionable modern parts of the city! Let's first show you how to take the famous Tokyo trains and travel to the popular Harajuku station and walk over to Meiji Shrine, one of the most well-known and peaceful Shinto Shrines in Tokyo and all of Japan! Let's relax in the middle of the city at the most peaceful place at the Shrine, the Meiji Shrine Inner Japanese Garden which features a teahouse, bonsai tree display, lots of nature paths, a koi pond, and some traditional gazebos where we can chill out while digitally going over the Orientation PowerPoint. After this, let's walk through the famous and fun Takeshita street in Harajuku and through the fashion district of Omotesando , and then over to the most famous fashionable area of Japan - Shibuya where we will cross one and only Shibuya Crossing and embark on a walking tour of central Shibuya - especially the dynamic Shibuya Center gai area- while also stopping at various places to eat delicious Japanese food. What's on the menu? Let's visit a standing sushi shop and try some of our own choices, then let's make and eat okonomiyaki and learn about the importance of katsuo and dashi in Japanese cuisine, then let's try some street food that everyone loves like kushiage - Japanese fried chicken, and various types of yakitori - different kinds of food on a grilled skewer. Finally, we will finish with obanyaki sweets for dessert while touring the underground food area of Shibuya station - Shibuchika! Let's eat while learning and going around Shibuya!
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.
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, step into the enchanting world of Studio Ghibli's "Spirited Away," and discover a side of Japan that remains a hidden gem. Highlights:
Ginzan Onsen: The Real-world Studio Ghibli Inspiration: Experience the magic of Ginzan Onsen, a charming hot spring town known to have influenced the iconic visuals in Studio Ghibli's films. As you stroll through its quaint streets lined with wooden edifices, it's hard not to see the resemblance to scenes from "Spirited Away." It's a real-life animation set waiting for you to explore.
Hijiori Onsen Soak: Hidden deep within the mountains, Hijiori Onsen is a secluded hot spring town. The therapeutic waters promise relaxation and rejuvenation far from the stresses of academic life.
Okura Wasabi Processing Experience: Delve into the art and science behind wasabi cultivation at Okura Wasabi farm. A hands-on experience awaits as you learn about this potent condiment.
Taste Authentic Tohoku Delights: Relish traditional Japanese meals crafted from the finest rice in Japan. It's not just about eating; it's about savoring the culture with every bite.
Support and Connect with Local Communities: On this journey, you're playing a part in supporting local communities grappling with population decline. Dive deep into the heart of regions less-traveled, understand their unique stories, and play a role in preserving their invaluable traditions.
Odawara Castle
Odawara Castle was long ago a central stronghold of the clans controlling the castles of the Kanto Region. Near the tail-end of Japan's "warring states" period (Late 1500's), a pivotal battle here between the retaining Hojo clan and the attacking forces of Hideyoshi Toyotomi saw Odawara castle fall. The holdings and assets were then entrusted to Tokugawa Ieyasu, who, as you may know, would go on to be the first Shogunate of a newly unified Japan in the "Edo", or Tokugawa, Period. One could say the battle here was one of the most crucial in leading to Japan's history as we know it.
Similar to many castles in Japan, Odawara Castle is a reconstruction, but still retains its signature architecture, castle walls, and moats, which made it one of the toughest castles to breach back in the day. The inside is a museum with various artwork, relics, and literature, and will give you a glimpse into the vast complexity of Japan's warrior past, wrought with epic battles and complex, generational chains of command.
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.
Alumni Ambassadors
×
Travel Tip!
My Stories:
Dates & Prices
Additional Information:
Program Deposit
There is a non-refundable program confirmation deposit of $1,000. This deposit will be deducted from the total cost of the program. Paying the deposit secures your spot on the program.
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.
Hear what students, interns, and alumni have to say
BOLDLY COMMITTED to providing the best experiences abroad