Summer in Tokyo (Sophia University)
Unique Experiences
See the latest fashion trends
in world-renowned fashion districts such as Harajuku and Ginza
Learn about traditional Japanese culture and spirituality
at historical site such as Meiji-Jingu Shringe and Sensō-ji Temple
Take a walk through Akihabara's Electric Town, heartland of "Otaku" culture
where anime, manga, video games, and electronics abound
4
UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE SITES WITHIN 2 HOURS TRAVEL FROM TOKYO, INCLUDING THE OGASAWARA ISLANDS, THE NATIONAL MUSEUM OF WESTERN ART, MOUNT FUJI, AND THE UNIQUELY VIBRANT SHRINES AND TEMPLES OF NIKKO
220+
MICHELIN-STARRED RESTAURANTS ARE LOCATED AROUND THE CITY
90
COUNTRIES REPRESENTED BY SOPHIA UNIVERSITY STUDENT BODY
Your Destination
With a population of more than 13 million people, Tokyo is the world’s most populous city and also ranks in the top five safest cities globally (The Economist: "Safe Cities Index" 2019). Tokyo, one of the most dynamic modern cities, has become home to some of the world’s most popular trendsetters. Along with the futuristic areas, you will also find pockets of deeply traditional culture as well.
The city boasts two of Japan’s tallest buildings: Tokyo Tower and Tokyo Sky Tree, where visitors can ascend more than 2,000 feet to catch some of the best views of the city’s expansive landscape. Brimming with art and historical museums, shopping centers, and several large parks where locals and tourists alike come to escape the urban hustle and bustle, you will find a plethora of things to do and see while living and learning in Tokyo.
Dive into Japanese culture through CIEE activities and excursions to enhance your educational experience. While these vary by year, past activities have included tea ceremonies, taiko drumming workshops, visits to historical temples, shrines, museums, and more. You and your friends can also venture out into areas such as Akihabara, the heartland of manga, anime, and otaku culture; Harajuku, where kawaii fashion reigns supreme; and Shibuya, where shopping opportunities abound.
CIEE wants all our students to feel welcomed, supported, and empowered to succeed while studying abroad. Local CIEE staff have provided details about conditions and cultural attitudes that students with specific identities might encounter in Tokyo.
The Culture
Excursions & Activities
Excursions and activities may include:
- Heading to the ballpark to see how baseball is enjoyed Japanese style
- Touring Asakusa and getting a glimpse into traditional Tokyo with the historic Senso-ji Temple and its surrounding Nakamise shopping street; students can enjoy traditional Japanese snacks, shop for souvenirs, and experience the cultural heritage of Tokyo
- Visiting the "Electric Town" of Akihabara, heaven for tech enthusiasts, gamers, and anime/manga fans; it's a great place for students interested in Japan's pop culture and technology
- Exploring the latest fashion trends at Harajuku and Takeshita Street, the epicenter of youth culture and fashion in Tokyo
- Experiencing a peaceful retreat from the city hustle at Yoyogi Park and Meiji Shrine, popular spots for picnics, outdoor activities, socializing, and learning about Shinto traditions
- Expanding your food taste at Tsukiji Market, a popular destination for food lovers; students can explore a variety of fresh seafood, try delicious sushi and other Japanese delicacies, and experience the lively atmosphere of one of Tokyo's most famous markets
- Visiting the Ghibli Museum, where Totoro is waiting at the entrance
Program Blogs
Top 6 Places to Explore While Studying in Japan
By: Helena Shimeles During my experience studying overseas in Tokyo I was exposed to an array of adventures, across Japan. Each destination I explored offered a unique blend of traditions... keep reading
Study Abroad in Japan: FAQs
If you’re about to embark on a study abroad adventure to Japan or considering this fascinating country a study abroad option, read on as we dive into some of our... keep reading
7 Best Japan Study Abroad Programs
Passionate about ancient history, a diverse culture, modern advancements, and incredible natural landscapes? Then a study abroad adventure in Japan is the perfect opportunity for you. Read on as we... keep reading
Housing & Meals
Housing
CIEE Tokyo provides convenient housing to ensure you’re comfortable in your home away from home. All housing is within walking distance of train stations, granting you easy access to Tokyo’s numerous sites and attractions through one of the most efficient and comprehensive transportation networks in the world.
Standard Housing: Includes a double room at a hotel with a private bathroom. Hotels are located within the Greater Tokyo area. The commute time to campus is approximately 40-60 minutes.
Meals
Students are responsible for their own meals. Tokyo boasts an amazing array of restaurants and eateries to satisfy any palate and diet.
Academics
The Summer in Tokyo at Sophia University program allows students to take two courses for a total of four credits, gain access to the university’s facilities, and participate in CIEE’s cultural events and weekend activities.
Courses are delivered by Sophia University as part of their Summer Session in East Asian Studies program, through which students from around the world have the opportunity to take part in a three-week academic program exploring and gaining knowledge on various aspects of East Asian culture and society as well as reflecting on Japan’s role as a member of the East Asian region in the world.
Sophia University was founded by Jesuits in 1913, and today, is one of the leading universities in Japan. It welcomes more than 13,000 students, including international students from more than 90 countries. Located in central Tokyo, the Yotsuya campus includes a library, computer labs, faculty and administrative offices, classrooms, and sports grounds.
Course Information
SOPHA UNIVERSITY SUMMER SESSION IN EAST ASIAN STUDIES COURSES
Course information may be found online.
The following list of courses constitutes a representative sample of course offerings through Sophia University’s Summer Session in East Asian Studies program and is subject to change. In some cases, prior background knowledge may be required or recommended to enroll in a class.
- Education in Japan
- Global Sustainability Outlook and Practice in Japan
- Japanese Literature and the City
- Japanese Theatre
- Chado, the Way of Tea and Japanese Culture
- Food and Social Issues in Japanese Literature and Film
Note: This course listing is for informational purposes only and does not constitute a contract between CIEE and any applicant, student, institution, or other party. The courses, as described, may be subject to change as a result of ongoing curricular revisions, assignment of lecturers and teaching staff, and program development. Courses may be canceled due to insufficient enrollment.
"(GI)" denotes courses that originated at CIEE's Global Institutes and that are offered at multiple CIEE sites.
Scholarships & Grants
CIEE offers scholarships and grants annually to help students like you make your study abroad dream a reality.
Students who apply to this program are eligible for the following scholarships and grants:
- Wollitzer Merit Scholarships in Area or Comparative Studies
- Ping Scholarships for Academic Excellence
- CIEE Gilman Go Global Grant
- MSI Grant
- CIEE STEM Scholarship
- Trailblazer Grant
To be considered, submit the CIEE Scholarships & Grants application within your CIEE program application.
Dates & Fees
You get more for every dollar when you study abroad with CIEE, because our high-quality programs include everything from excursions to insurance. There are no hidden charges, and no disappointing surprises when you arrive.
Program |
Application Due |
Start Date |
End Date |
Fees & Housing |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Program Summer 2025 4 weeks | Start Date * | End Date * | Fees & Housing $5,450 |
*Dates for this program are provided as tentative dates. Please consult with your study abroad advisor to confirm dates before purchasing your flights.
To help you budget, keep in mind that students are responsible for the cost of international airfare, local transportation, books and supplies, visas, and personal expenses. In addition, your college or university may charge additional fees for study abroad, or may require you to receive a transcript via CIEE's School of Record, which carries an additional fee of $500.
Program Fees
CIEE offers the most student support of any provider in its program fee, including an airport greeting, full-time leadership and support, orientation, cultural activities, local excursions, pre-departure advising, and CIEE iNext travel protection with benefits.
Participation Confirmation = $300*
Educational Costs = $4,220**
Housing = $730***
Insurance = $200
Total Fees = $5,450Estimated Costs
Students are responsible and manage costs related to travel, meals, books, and personal expenses. Below are estimates for consideration.
Meals not included in program fee = $315†
International Airfare = $1,700
Local Transportation = $50
Books & Supplies = $100
Personal expenses = $145††
Total Costs = $2,310Financial Aid
CIEE offers the most grants and scholarships of any study abroad organization, including $8 million/year in travel grants, merit-based scholarships, institutional and MSI grants, and Gilman Go Global Grants.
*non-refundable
**direct cost of education charged uniformly to all students
***Housing fees listed are for financial aid purposes only and should not be considered a basis for calculation of refunds.
†For groceries if you plan on making your own meals, budget more money if you plan on eating out regularly.
††$100 emergency fund + cell phone expense + toiletries
What's Included
Tuition
Housing
Pre-departure Advising
Advising before you depart to set goals and answer questions
Optional on-site airport meet-and-greet
Orientation
Introduction to your program plus practical information about living in your host city
On-site Staff
Full-time program leadership and support in your city
Cultural and/or Co-curricular Activities
Excursions and/or Study Tours
Travel Protection
CIEE iNext travel protection
24/7 emergency on-site support
Our Staff
Saya Nishina
Director of Operations
Starr Miyata
Academic Manager
Starr has several years of experience working in education equity and international education in both the U.S. and Japan.
Get Started
1
2
Connect With Your Campus Study Abroad Office
Share your plans and confirm you're on track to meet all required steps to go abroad.
3
Contact Us
Send us an email if you still have questions or need information about applying to this program.
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