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CIEE Summer Ancient + Modern Japan in Kyoto, Japan (Outgoing Program)

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Program Description:

Summer Ancient + Modern Japan

Kyoto, Japan

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Program Overview

Considered the cultural capital of Japan, Kyoto is world-renowned for its historical sites and rich experiences. Spend your summer living in and exploring Kyoto on your terms by spending one six-week block (or up to two) in this fully customizable program. You will immerse yourself in downtown Kyoto where you will be nearby historic landmarks, hone your Japanese language skills, and get the experience you need to launch an international career in the creative industries.

When class is in session, you will learn from instructors at CIEE Kyoto in courses across a wide range of subject areas, including business, communication, community health, international relations, STEM, and more. With instructors or on your own, you will have ample opportunities to explore the Kyoto Imperial Palace, the city's rich food scene, and visit the Manga Museum, right next to CIEE Kyoto!

Build Your Summer Adventure
Select one or two six-week blocks at any CIEE Open Campus Block location. Stay in Kyoto for both blocks or go mobile and spend your second block in Berlin, Buenos Aires, Cape Town, Copenhagen, Dublin, London, Madrid, Monteverde, Paris, Rome, Santiago, Shanghai, Singapore, Sydney, or Yucatan. 

Unique Experiences

BE ENTRANCED BY THE ZEN ROCK GARDEN OF RYOANJI TEMPLE

when you stroll the Philosopher's Walk, paying special attention to the dazzling Golden Temple and serene Silver Temple

IMMERSE YOURSELF IN THE “CULTURAL CAPITAL” OF JAPAN

where rich cultural, religious, and artistic traditions date back 1,200+ years

INDULGE IN KYOTO’S FAMOUS “UJI” GREEN TEA

which can be enjoyed as a drink or in flavored pastries, ice cream, and other desserts

Read more about Kyoto

Activities & Excursions

Ample activities and day trips will enliven your life in Kyoto and its surrounding cultural destinations. Sample excursions include: 


  • A hike up Mt. Hiei (cable car/ropeway and bus trip are easier options!) to World Heritage Site Enryaku-ji – the head temple of the Tendai Sect of Buddhism – with vistas of Lake Biwa and the whole Kyoto valley. 
  • A one-car train ride north of town to Kurama or a bus ride to nearby Ohara village, with two breathtaking temples (Jakko-in and Sanzen-in), after a hot footbath, traditional meal, or relaxing hot spring dip. 
  • A day trip to Nara – Japan's capital before Kyoto – to visit Todai-ji Temple (home to a 500-ton sculpture of the Buddha), Kasuga-taisha Shinto shrine (home to thousands of stone lanterns), and Deer Park (where animals will "bow" in thanks as you offer the deer biscuits). 
  • A thought-provoking day trip to Hiroshima to see the Atomic Dome, explore Peace Park, and visit the museum, combined with a visit to the White Heron Castle in Himeji.  
  • A walk through Kyoto's exquisite gardens of two Imperial Villas – Katsura & Shugakuin – and of the historical Imperial Palace itself. You can also hear the squeaking "Nightingale Floors" as you walk through Nijo Castle (after crossing its moat, of course!).  
 
  • Each block includes two day trips. 

Please note this list of activities is based on past programs and subject to change at CIEE's discretion to both adapt to local circumstances and participant feedback. Our goal when revising itineraries is always to enhance your experience. Every activity is designed to provide you with a deep immersion in your topic, local culture, and sights. 

 

Projects

Volunteering. Give back and create a deeper connection to Kyoto. Opportunities are being developed for students to volunteer at local organizations, youth centers, schools, and more. As long as the local health and safety regulations permit, in-person volunteering will be offered. 

 

1 out of 3 CIEE students receives a scholarship - get yours!

GAIN Travel Grants - up to $2,000 toward travel costs guaranteed to all Pell-elgible students.

Gilman Go Global Grants - $2,500/semester and $1,000/summer, guaranteed to all Gilman applications.

Merit-Based Scholarships - $2,500/semester and $750/summer, awarded to students deomonstrating high academic achievement.

Minority Serving Institutions (MIS) Grant - $2,000/semester and $500/summer, guaranteed to all students attending MSIs.

Learn more

Why CIEE

  • 200+ study abroad programs in 40+ countries
  • $8 million in scholarships offered each year
  • 1 in 3 students receives a scholarship
  • Study tours and cultural activities included
  • Internships and volunteering opportunities
  • Rigorous academics
  • Cultural immersion
  • iNext travel insurance included

Questions?

Our highly experienced staff have extensive knowledge of all CIEE programs and services. If you are a student with questions about completing your application, or you want to sign up to receive program updates and news, our staff are happy to help.

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Dates / Deadlines:
Dates / Deadlines:
Term Year App Deadline Decision Date Start Date End Date
Summer 2025 03/01/2025 ** Rolling Admission 05/15/2025 07/10/2025

** Indicates rolling admission application process. Applicants will be immediately notified of acceptance into this program and be able to complete post-decision materials prior to the term's application deadline.