Summer in Tokyo (Sophia University)

Tokyo, Japan

Study Program

Select a Term...

Tentative Dates

Jun 24 - Jul 19, 2025

4 weeks

Costs

$5,450 See Full Breakdown

Credit

4 semester hours

6 quarter hours

Eligibility

2.8 Overall GPA

Application Deadline

March 1, 2025

Request Information

Spend three weeks of your summer studying abroad in Tokyo, Japan’s bustling capital that balances the ultramodern with the traditional from its neon-lit skyscrapers to its historic temples. The Summer in Tokyo program is thoughtfully designed for students from all academic backgrounds who want to immerse themselves in Japanese culture, participate actively in the local community, and who want to earn credits toward their degrees.

When class is in session, you’ll enroll in two courses at Sophia University, a particularly well-known institution for their International Studies, Asian Studies and Liberal Arts courses. You will have full access to the university’s many facilities while participating in cultural events and weekend activities organized by ��911to explore Tokyo’s rich culture, world class cuisine, and urban and technological innovations.

In your free time, you'll have every opportunity to stroll through Ueno Park, visit the observation deck at Tokyo Skytree skyscraper for a fantastic view of the city, and venture to the outer skirts of the city to enjoy the serenity and beauty of Japan’s famous natural sites. Get ready to make Tokyo your classroom this summer!

Unique Experiences

See the latest fashion trends

in world-renowned fashion districts such as Harajuku and Ginza

Learn about traditional Japanese culture and spirituality

at historical site such as Meiji-Jingu Shringe and Sensō-ji Temple

Take a walk through Akihabara's Electric Town, heartland of "Otaku" culture

where anime, manga, video games, and electronics abound

4

UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE SITES WITHIN 2 HOURS TRAVEL FROM TOKYO, INCLUDING THE OGASAWARA ISLANDS, THE NATIONAL MUSEUM OF WESTERN ART, MOUNT FUJI, AND THE UNIQUELY VIBRANT SHRINES AND TEMPLES OF NIKKO

220+

MICHELIN-STARRED RESTAURANTS ARE LOCATED AROUND THE CITY

90

COUNTRIES REPRESENTED BY SOPHIA UNIVERSITY STUDENT BODY

Your Destination

With a population of more than 13 million people, Tokyo is the world’s most populous city and also ranks in the top five safest cities globally (The Economist: "Safe Cities Index" 2019). Tokyo, one of the most dynamic modern cities, has become home to some of the world’s most popular trendsetters. Along with the futuristic areas, you will also find pockets of deeply traditional culture as well.

The city boasts two of Japan’s tallest buildings: Tokyo Tower and Tokyo Sky Tree, where visitors can ascend more than 2,000 feet to catch some of the best views of the city’s expansive landscape. Brimming with art and historical museums, shopping centers, and several large parks where locals and tourists alike come to escape the urban hustle and bustle, you will find a plethora of things to do and see while living and learning in Tokyo.

Dive into Japanese culture through ��911activities and excursions to enhance your educational experience. While these vary by year, past activities have included tea ceremonies, taiko drumming workshops, visits to historical temples, shrines, museums, and more. You and your friends can also venture out into areas such as Akihabara, the heartland of manga, anime, and otaku culture; Harajuku, where kawaii fashion reigns supreme; and Shibuya, where shopping opportunities abound.

��911wants all our students to feel welcomed, supported, and empowered to succeed while studying abroad. Local ��911staff have provided details about conditions and cultural attitudes that students with specific identities might encounter in Tokyo.

The Culture

Excursions & Activities

Excursions and activities may include:

Heading to the ballpark to see how baseball is enjoyed Japanese style
Touring Asakusa and getting a glimpse into traditional Tokyo with the historic Senso-ji Temple and its surrounding Nakamise shopping street; students can enjoy traditional Japanese snacks, shop for souvenirs, and experience the cultural heritage of Tokyo
Visiting the "Electric Town" of Akihabara, heaven for tech enthusiasts, gamers, and anime/manga fans; it's a great place for students interested in Japan's pop culture and technology
Exploring the latest fashion trends at Harajuku and Takeshita Street, the epicenter of youth culture and fashion in Tokyo
Experiencing a peaceful retreat from the city hustle at Yoyogi Park and Meiji Shrine, popular spots for picnics, outdoor activities, socializing, and learning about Shinto traditions
Expanding your food taste at Tsukiji Market, a popular destination for food lovers; students can explore a variety of fresh seafood, try delicious sushi and other Japanese delicacies, and experience the lively atmosphere of one of Tokyo's most famous markets
Visiting the Ghibli Museum, where Totoro is waiting at the entrance

Program Blogs

From CIEE

Top 6 Places to Explore While Studying in Japan

By College Study Abroad at CIEE

By: Helena Shimeles During my experience studying overseas in Tokyo I was exposed to an array of adventures, across Japan. Each destination I explored offered a unique blend of traditions... keep reading

From CIEE

Study Abroad in Japan: FAQs

By College Study Abroad at CIEE

If you’re about to embark on a study abroad adventure to Japan or considering this fascinating country a study abroad option, read on as we dive into some of our... keep reading

From CIEE

7 Best Japan Study Abroad Programs

By College Study Abroad at CIEE

Passionate about ancient history, a diverse culture, modern advancements, and incredible natural landscapes? Then a study abroad adventure in Japan is the perfect opportunity for you. Read on as we... keep reading

Housing & Meals

Housing

��911Tokyo provides convenient housing to ensure you’re comfortable in your home away from home. All housing is within walking distance of train stations, granting you easy access to Tokyo’s numerous sites and attractions through one of the most efficient and comprehensive transportation networks in the world.

Standard Housing: Includes a double room at a hotel with a private bathroom. Hotels are located within the Greater Tokyo area. The commute time to campus is approximately 40-60 minutes.

Meals

Students are responsible for their own meals. Tokyo boasts an amazing array of restaurants and eateries to satisfy any palate and diet.

Housing

Double hotel room (single room pictured)

Meals

Yuba Teishoku (a meal of tofu skin)

Academics

The Summer in Tokyo at Sophia University program allows students to take two courses for a total of four credits, gain access to the university’s facilities, and participate in CIEE’s cultural events and weekend activities.

Courses are delivered by Sophia University as part of their Summer Session in East Asian Studies program, through which students from around the world have the opportunity to take part in a three-week academic program exploring and gaining knowledge on various aspects of East Asian culture and society as well as reflecting on Japan’s role as a member of the East Asian region in the world.

Sophia University was founded by Jesuits in 1913, and today, is one of the leading universities in Japan. It welcomes more than 13,000 students, including international students from more than 90 countries. Located in central Tokyo, the Yotsuya campus includes a library, computer labs, faculty and administrative offices, classrooms, and sports grounds.

GPA

2.8

Additional Requirements

Please refer to the detailed Program Essential Eligibility Criteria.

Individual courses may have additional prerequisites; for ��911courses, these are listed in the syllabi below. Students are responsible for having their own course approval conversations with their advisors. Your study abroad advisor and ��911staff can help you understand your course options if you don't see a recommendation that fits your course needs.

Requirements

All students enroll in two 2-credit Sophia University courses

Program Credit

Total credit: 4 U.S. semester/ 6 quarter credits

Course Credit

Sophia University Courses: 2 U.S. semester/3 quarter credits; 23-24 contact hours

Academic Culture

��911students will join approximately 100-160 local and international students from a variety of backgrounds and educational areas to participate in 2 courses during the term. Applicants will be placed on a first-come-first-served basis

The typical course schedule consists of daily 100-minute class sessions Monday through Friday. Attendance and daily academic participation are graded by the instructors with expectations that students will thoroughly engage with required materials and homework both in and out of class.

Class Format

Classes are in-person and are lecture or discussion-based seminar formats. Instructors are approachable and willing to discuss class material and concerns outside of course periods; however, the course's accelerated nature means it is recommended to contact them beforehand to set up meetings. Students are expected to commit at least 100 minutes outside of class to prepare for each course meeting. The Sophia University uses its proprietary LMS system, Loyola, for course registration and management, but uses Moodle for individual course management on a day-to-day basis.

Grading

Sophia University courses are graded using a standard A-F scale, and assessments are based on in-class participation, exams, short form responses, long form essays, and individual or group projects. Attendance is compulsory in Host Institution classes. Student absences are closely tracked and significant absences impact student abilities to complete the courses.

Language of Instruction

English

Course Information

SOPHA UNIVERSITY SUMMER SESSION IN EAST ASIAN STUDIES COURSES

Course information may be .

The following list of courses constitutes a representative sample of course offerings through Sophia University’s Summer Session in East Asian Studies program and is subject to change. In some cases, prior background knowledge may be required or recommended to enroll in a class.

Education in Japan
Global Sustainability Outlook and Practice in Japan
Japanese Literature and the City
Japanese Theatre
Chado, the Way of Tea and Japanese Culture
Food and Social Issues in Japanese Literature and Film

Note: This course listing is for informational purposes only and does not constitute a contract between ��911and any applicant, student, institution, or other party. The courses, as described, may be subject to change as a result of ongoing curricular revisions, assignment of lecturers and teaching staff, and program development. Courses may be canceled due to insufficient enrollment.
"(GI)" denotes courses that originated at CIEE's Global Institutes and that are offered at multiple ��911sites.

Scholarships & Grants

��911offers scholarships and grants annually to help students like you make your study abroad dream a reality.

Students who apply to this program are eligible for the following scholarships and grants:

Wollitzer Merit Scholarships in Area or Comparative Studies
Ping Scholarships for Academic Excellence
��911Gilman Go Global Grant
MSI Grant
��911STEM Scholarship
Trailblazer Grant

To be considered, submit the ��911Scholarships & Grants application within your ��911program application.

Learn more about scholarships

Dates & Fees

You get more for every dollar when you study abroad with CIEE, because our high-quality programs include everything from excursions to insurance. There are no hidden charges, and no disappointing surprises when you arrive.

Program	Application Due	Start Date	End Date	Fees & Housing
Program Summer 2025 4 weeks	March 1, 2025	Start Date June 24, 2025 ^*	End Date July 19, 2025 ^*	Fees & Housing $5,450

^*Dates for this program are provided as tentative dates. Please consult with your study abroad advisor to confirm dates before purchasing your flights.

To help you budget, keep in mind that students are responsible for the cost of international airfare, local transportation, books and supplies, visas, and personal expenses. In addition, your college or university may charge additional fees for study abroad, or may require you to receive a transcript via CIEE's School of Record, which carries an additional fee of $500.

Program Fees

��911offers the most student support of any provider in its program fee, including an airport greeting, full-time leadership and support, orientation, cultural activities, local excursions, pre-departure advising, and ��911iNext travel protection with benefits.

Participation Confirmation = $300^*

Educational Costs = $4,220^**

Housing = $730^***

Insurance = $200

Total Fees = $5,450

Estimated Costs

Students are responsible and manage costs related to travel, meals, books, and personal expenses. Below are estimates for consideration.

Meals not included in program fee = $315^†

International Airfare = $1,700

Local Transportation = $50

Books & Supplies = $100

Personal expenses = $145^†�Ġ

Total Costs = $2,310

Financial Aid

��911offers the most grants and scholarships of any study abroad organization, including $8 million/year in travel grants, merit-based scholarships, institutional and MSI grants, and Gilman Go Global Grants.

See Scholarships

^*non-refundable

^**direct cost of education charged uniformly to all students

^***Housing fees listed are for financial aid purposes only and should not be considered a basis for calculation of refunds.

^†For groceries if you plan on making your own meals, budget more money if you plan on eating out regularly.

^†�Ġ$100 emergency fund + cell phone expense + toiletries

What's Included

Tuition

Housing

Pre-departure Advising

Advising before you depart to set goals and answer questions

Optional on-site airport meet-and-greet

Orientation

Introduction to your program plus practical information about living in your host city

On-site Staff

Full-time program leadership and support in your city

Cultural and/or Co-curricular Activities

Excursions and/or Study Tours

Travel Protection

��911iNext travel protection

24/7 emergency on-site support

Our Staff

Saya Nishina

Director of Operations

Starr Miyata

Academic Manager

Starr has several years of experience working in education equity and international education in both the U.S. and Japan.

Get Started

Here’s what you need to do to take the next steps:

Start an Application

You're one step closer to an amazing study abroad experience!

Connect With Your Campus Study Abroad Office

Share your plans and confirm you're on track to meet all required steps to go abroad.

Contact Us

Send us an email if you still have questions or need information about applying to this program.