Introduction:

Modern Japanese culture and society consist of a diverse mix of the old and new, the East and West, and the natural and artificial. These seemingly contradictory elements coexist in harmony in Japan. For example, it is not unusual to see an old Buddhist temple and a modern skyscraper standing next to each other. Japan is a country with rich nature, diverse topography, and beautiful turns of the seasons. Japan also boasts extraordinary skills and techniques in the production of arts and crafts.

The greatest appeal of studying in Japan is its academic environment where one can study state-of-the-art technology. Whether it is electronics, Japanese literature, medicine or international business administration, Japanese universities and other institutes of higher education can offer course studies or research programs of almost any field. Some good reasons to study in are;

* Japan has the 2nd largest economy in the world.
* Knowing Japanese brings business opportunities.
* You will be part of world class education.
* You will feel welcomed and desired by schools and universities.
* You will be truly valuable in the job market.
* You will live amazing cultural experiences.
* You can both study and save money.

Accommodation & Cost of living:

Housing doesn’t come cheap. Even tiny apartments in the city centre are very expensive (¥40,000-¥80,000 in Tokyo). However, housing costs are distinctly lower in Tokyo's suburbs and in other regions and cities of Japan.

While some schools run dormitories for foreign students; some simply offer assistance in finding private accommodations. Though the renting conditions vary greatly, private accommodations are usually leased through a real estate agency in the chosen area. If you experience problems in finding accommodations after you arrive in Japan, we suggest that you first consult with those in charge at your school.

Living costs in Japan and especially in Tokyo are famous to be among the worlds highest. However, if you live outside of central Tokyo, adjust to a Japanese lifestyle and do not depend too heavily on food and products from your home country. 100-yen shops and budget stores abound in Japan and sell extremely affordable necessities and reasonably priced gifts, and inexpensive restaurants serve meals that cost 1,000 yen or less. Utilities such as gas, water and especially electricity are expensive, and phone rates are high. The average monthly cost for a student to live in Japan is about US $925/-, including tuition.

Language, Culture & Climate:

There is only one official language spoken in Japan, which is of course Japanese. However, many Japanese are able to understand English to a certain extent since English is the foreign language that everyone must learn as part of compulsory education. The general case of studying in Japan begins with a student first enrolling in a Japanese-language institute. The student takes an entrance exam and enrolls in a university or other institute of higher education after they study Japanese and other subjects at a Japanese language institute for one to two years

Diverse blend of ancient eastern traditions and modern western society. Wide range of cultural expressions, qualities of Japanese animation, poetry, dance and music are recognized throughout the world.

The country generally experiences four seasons. Average temperature in Tokyo is 27 degree Celsius in August and about 5 degree Celsius in January.

Working while studying:

Many foreign students choose to do part-time work to help pay their tuition or living expenses. In fact, seven out of ten foreign students are engaged in some type of part-time work in Japan. However, please note that because your status of residence is that of College Student or Pre-college Student, you are fundamentally prohibited to work in Japan without getting the necessary permit. Therefore, before you do any part-time work, please make sure to get a "Permit to Engage in Activity other than that Permitted by the Status of Residence Previously Granted" from your regional immigration bureau. There is also a limit on your working hours according to your status of residence. Please make sure that you stay within the prescribed limit.