What to Expect When Studying in Japan as an International Student?
July 28, 2023
Japan is considered one of the major destinations for international students seeking academic excellence with a unique blend of ancient tradition and multicultural society. Moreover, Japan has great contributions in the field of innovation and technology all over the world. You can get to experience that high-end technology in your academic journey too which will foster your growth.
As an international student in Japan, you will get exceptional hospitality during your entire stay in Japan. If you are considering Japan for pursuing your academic journey, you will have many things to experience.
This blog intends to provide you with some of the glimpses of things that you could experience in Japan as an international student are listed below:
Language Barrier
One of the major problems you may face as an international student in Japan could be the language barrier. You can experience that Japan’s daily life is greatly influenced by the Japanese language as they use their own Japanese language for almost everything.
Only a few universities and colleges in Japan offer the English language on their premises. So it is crucial and important for every student to learn the basic Japanese language in order to survive in Japan at ease.
We recommend students willing to pursue an academic journey in Japan take a language course before arriving in Japan to deal with locals which is required in their daily life.
Academic Excellence
Japanese universities and colleges offer academic excellence for what they have earned a reputation in the educational field all over the world. Japanese educational institutions have been providing a wide range of programs or majors in various fields like science, business, robotics, artificial intelligence, and many more which make it desired destination for students from across the world.
Being at the forefront of technology and innovation, Japanese institutions provide research opportunities across various disciplines for students with cutting-edge technology and advanced labs.
The education system of Japan focuses on discipline and hard work. For this, you have to be disciplined and dedicate yourself to your studies.
Cultural Immersion
Japan has a unique blend of cultural traditions and history. The ancient traditions and cultural values of Japan will amaze you. As an international student in Japan, You can experience unique ceremonies, traditions, norms, festivals, and customs.
Moreover, it is essential for you to have positive respect for Japanese culture, norms, and values. Having knowledge of Japanese culture and traditions could be beneficial for you for sustaining in the Japanese community without any hindrances.
Supportive Campus Environment
Japanese educational institutions are well known for their student support service. They provide international students with varieties of services like language assistance, cultural exchange programs, guidance on academic journeys, and many more in order to make you feel comfortable on university premises.
Being an international student, don’t hesitate or get awkward to ask for help whenever you have doubts. Every staff members and students are there for you to assist and deal with any problems that may incur during your academic journey.
Living Accommodation
Japanese universities often offer international students with in-campus facilities. You can reside in universities or college dormitories which could be beneficial for you as you won’t have problems with fooding and living. Moreover, it helps you to make friends inside university dormitories and immerse yourself in campus life.
In addition, you have to be aware of seat availability for in-campus facilities as it could be limited. You should make an early appointment as soon as possible.
Moreover, you may also have off-campus facilities depending on universities and colleges. Off-campus may be the best option if you want to live freely without any restrictions from universities. But you should manage fooding, transportation, housing, and other different aspects on your own.
Cost of Living
The cost of living could be one of the crucial factors that you should keep in mind before heading to Japan. In urban cities like Tokyo, living costs could be higher. Budgeting is the main key to survival in Japan in order to manage your expenses in such a way that you won’t have to deal with financial instability.
Various factors like tuition fees, accommodation, transportation, and other miscellaneous expenses will cost you a huge amount of money. You can get a part-time job with certain restrictions and limitations which you can take consideration into for managing your expenses during your stay in Japan.
Note: You should be aware of limitations and rules and regulations for work as illegally doing the job or work may even result in the cancelation of your visa and huge punishment.
Social Life Networking
Japanese universities not only emphasize academic excellence but also supports making their students socially interactive. Students organization and club is available for international students where they can seek any kind of help and join them which could be a great way to get socialized. In addition, working with groups and clubs could provide you valuable insights into a global market too.
Moreover, Local students are of a very friendly nature and they are eager to make international friends. It helps international students to immerse themselves in invaluable cultural insights and even lifelong friendships with native locals students which could be memorable experiences.
Respect for Rules and Etiquette
Being a country rich in culture and tradition, Japan gives high priority to honoring and respecting each other. Every person should stick to their rules and regulations for integrating better into Japanese society.
It is very necessary for outsiders to be aware of Japanese traditions, norms, and values. Tradition in Japan includes bowing down, removing your shoes indoors, and addressing and talking with each other using polite and respectful terms and language as part of respect. If you can stick to these habits, it will be easier for you to sustain yourself in the Japanese community without any obstacles and problems.
Conclusion
Being an international student and studying in Japan can be a wonderful opportunity that fosters both academic and cultural growth. You have the responsibility to make your stay in Japan a memorable journey withstanding every obstacle and challenge. Japan will undoubtedly leave an ongoing effect on your academic journey, from the warm hospitality of the Japanese people to the academic excellence of its educational institutions.
To conclude this blog, always keep in mind that preparation is the key to your success. Being an international student you should learn some Japanese Language and explore your university and its support services that it offers before heading to Japan. Studying in Japan could be a life-changing experience. So dedicate your full interest and passion while pursuing your academic journey in Japan to get exceptional results for your career growth. You will surely get to have unforgettable memories during your entire academic journey or stay in Japan.
