A Transformative Experience in Japan

By: Lena Lawal

My six weeks in Kyoto, Japan, were nothing short of transformative. Heading there, I had no expectations—just a mix of curiosity and uncertainty, as I knew very little about Japanese culture. This blend of nervousness and intrigue made the experience even more impactful.

From day one, CIEE Kyoto welcomed me warmly, with an incredible staff and a community of professors who were both friendly and supportive. I've traveled to over 30 countries, but Kyoto remains, without a doubt, the most captivating city I’ve ever visited.

The city’s rich cultural tapestry was brought to life through CIEE’s efforts, making every activity accessible and immersive. They offered resources and guidance that allowed me to fully engage with Kyoto’s unique heritage, making my time there genuinely unforgettable.

Taking Intro to Japanese Language and Japanese Pop Culture allowed me to combine my travels and curiosity about Japanese culture with formal learning, which made the experience incredibly enriching. Practicing ordering food in Japanese at Daimaru, exploring the Nishiki Market on walking tours, and joining scavenger hunts made our co-curricular activities both engaging and fun.

Traveling to other cities like Tokyo, Hiroshima, Okinawa, Osaka, Nara, and Uji expanded my experience and deepened my understanding of Japanese culture. Each place offered something unique, and while Japan might seem small, it can feel overwhelming—especially without knowing the language. Luckily, the recommendations from CIEE staff and professors made navigating Japan much easier.

My most memorable experience was visiting Universal Studios Japan in Osaka, a trip generously sponsored by CIEE. It felt like the entire cohort bonded deeply during this adventure, and it’s a memory I’ll always cherish. From early mornings filled with excitement to late nights filled with laughter, we discovered so much about each other while exploring the vibrant city of Osaka. Experiencing the thrilling rides, unique attractions, and lively atmosphere of Universal Studios together made our time unforgettable and created friendships that I know will last a lifetime.

I can’t express enough gratitude for the support and kindness from CIEE Kyoto. Thanks to them, I never felt homesick during my six weeks there, as they made me feel like I was part of a family. I’ve made lifelong friends through this program who I still keep in touch with to this day. Taking the leap to visit a country I knew little about has been one of the best decisions I’ve made; I grew immensely as a person, a student, and a global citizen.

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