School Blog | Japanese School Asahi Nihongo

University Life in Japan

A less well known way of living and studying in Japan is by engaging in an exchange program with a Japanese university. I have found that living in Japan as a student (on a student visa) has many benefits which are not accessible to someone who lives here semi-long term on a landing permit (3-6 months).

For example: guaranteed study of the Japanese language. Attending a Japanese university provides an ideal environment for studying the language, as you are immersed in the language in both an academic and a social way. As these courses are for learners of Japanese, many programs will also have cultural based classes taught in English, therefore making the experience accessible to more people.

On a student visa it is possible to work up to 28 hours a week. There are many jobs out there for students, such as working in restaurants or teaching. The opportunity to work, even for a few hours a week, allows you to gain new skills and to meet new people. It also gives you more of a taste of ‘living’ in Japan.

Although, as a university student you perhaps won’t be as immersed in ‘general’ Japanese life as a standard resident, the experience itself and the community atmosphere of the campus is enough to make the opportunity both noteworthy and unique. If you have the opportunity, I recommend it.