CIEE College Study Abroad in Kyoto, Japan

Kyoto was amazing! I already had some brief knowledge about the city and the country going into this trip because I had gone the year prior for a little under two weeks, but nothing could have really prepared me for what it would be like! I absolutely loved it. While being there during the months of July and August was tough because of the intense heat and humidity, I come from a city that is also crazy hot (actually, even hotter!) so it was not a dealbreaker for me. Kyoto is so much fun, there is tons of stuff to do, and getting around with public transportation is pretty easy once you get the hang of it (Google or Apple Maps works pretty well). The food options are delicious, and the scenery is gorgeous. Despite being in a big city, there was nature everywhere, and you could see beautiful structures and parks anywhere you go. It was also very clean, and everything was very convenient and easy to figure out, even without a lot of Japanese language knowledge. As for CIEE in particular, I loved being a part of the program. All of the excursions were amazing and helped me to see parts of the city that I might not have otherwise gotten to. I was able to meet the others in my program and make some new friends, and the staff were incredibly kind and generous :)

This was honestly one of the highlights of my summer. The environment was so welcoming, and I made friends with people from all over. If you're thinking about joining next year, definitely do it! My only advice for future participants is to get involved in the group activities early on, it's the best way to get the full experience. The teachers were incredibly supportive and always willing to help. Future participants should definitely come ready to ask questions and collaborate! Overall I really enjoyed my experience.

Going abroad is one thing, but going to a country that I don't know the language, nor do most people here speak it, is another thing. Going to a country that is so different than the few that I've been in was a change. It was a lot of fun though, I got to learn how other cultures go about their every day lives. I learned to be more independent and how to get around without knowing the language. I got to experience life a whole new way. One of the best experiences I have had. I never thought I would even go to Japan, my whole plan falls under my 4 year plan and getting all my requirements done, so being able to get it done in Japan was so nice.

My study abroad in Kyoto has been an incredible journey of self-discovery and finding life long friends. In just two and a half months, I've explored every major city and made amazing experiences. The food was a highlight, each meal a new adventure. My solo trip to Tottori was unforgettable. From relaxing on the beaches to exploring the majestic sand dunes and kayaking in the crystal-clear waters. This experience has truly helped me find myself, and I'm leaving with memories that will last a lifetime.

I had an amazing time here in the Open Campus Block Kyoto location. There were so many activities that were fun and inspiring, such as kimono textiles printing, shrine and temple visits and Wagashi making workshops. Our courses included co-curricular activities that enriched our understanding of the courses and invited us students to become more local in Kyoto. The flexibility of the program allowed so much time to do solo trips around Japan. I really had the best study abroad trip of my life!!!

Super grateful for all the friends I met along the way. If you are outgoing enough, I was able to meet a fluent Japanese speeker. Which made my trip exponentially better. Lots of introverts in Japan.

The CIEE team there puts in a lot of effort to make sure you have the best experience. Super helpful staff.

I stayed in the Oakwood hotel, since the dorms were full. Best housing choice you can have, Kinda a bubble since it was a 10 minute walk from the other dorms, but made friends with all the people there! Go, go, go, only young once! wont regret it.

Kyoto is arguably the best city you can be in. It has a major office for any business you could hope for hut is also an old city. Not only is the architecture old but the religion of ancient Japan shines through and the city is unique in culture and logistics like travel. Kyoto is the best city I could've ever visited and the classes I took only make it better. My study abroad was a dream come true and I would not have changed anything. These six weeks have been some of the best six weeks. Not only have i grown academically with some. Of the best teachers I've ever had but the connections I've made are long-term friends and I could not be happier.

The classes offered through the Ancient and Modern Japan program were incredibly fitting with the theme of the program and also incredibly fascinating. I really enjoyed learning the content of all the classes, although I particularly loved the history courses. Additionally, all of the chosen teachers were fantastic at helping ups learn their subject and facilitating debates and general classroom participation. I feel like I have made not only lasting connections with my fellow classmates, but also academic connections for letters of recommendation and the like with all of my teachers as well.