Dates
May 17 – June 16, 2026Subjects
Japanese Language & Culture, Architecture, Design, Drawing, Asian StudiesDeadlines
Dec. 1: Apply Early & Save $100Feb. 5: Regular Deadline
Program Overview
The KIIS Japan program offers students an opportunity to discover the multidimensional images of Japan to gain insight into its complex and dynamic culture and society. The program will visit Takamatsu, Nara, Kyoto, Osaka, Gifu, Nagoya, and Tokyo. In addition to regular classes, students will attend ancient accessory making workshops, tea ceremony, and visit educational institutions and historical sites.
Note: Studying abroad likely is more physically strenuous than you are used to at home. KIIS study abroad programs typically involve approx. 5-10 miles of walking (approx. 10,000-20,000 steps) or the like in a day, including the possibility of walking, hiking, and climbing stairs in heat and humidity, over elevations at higher altitudes, and over rocky terrain. See Health & Wellness for more information.
Program Director
I have been teaching the Japanese language and culture in America since 2007. As a volunteer, I also had a unique opportunity to teach Japanese in a maximum-security prison in Auckland, New Zealand; an experience no one else seems to have. Now, as the Director of KIIS Japan, I look forward to sharing Japan’s long cultural traditions with you.Prof. Makoto Nakamura
Photo Gallery
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Courses
Courses are taught in English except JAPN 210. All courses are 3 credit hours. You may enroll in 1-2 courses.
A course designed to develop the vocabulary and oral communication skills of the student with a background of one year of college Japanese or equivalent. Emphasis will be placed on bringing the student into contact with the Japanese people and various aspects of their culture.
This is a studio course open to all students, focused on developing observational drawing skills. Participants will sketch and document their experiences amidst Japan’s beautiful landscapes, unique traditions, and vibrant visual culture, from bustling city streets to tranquil gardens, enhancing their creativity through on-location drawing.
Yokai refers to legendary ghosts, monsters, and spirits from Japanese folklore. Yokai have been a part of Japanese mythology for centuries, and their stories are often passed down through generations. Yokai was used to describe supernatural events in ancient times when science did not exist. Today Yokai have a significant presence in numerous forms of entertainment especially anime in Japan.
This is a studio art course for all students interested in producing a thematic art project inspired by Japan’s culture and natural beauty. Students may explore various mediums while drawing inspiration from customs, philosophy, gardens, festivals, and traditional craft and calligraphy. This course is ideal for students of all majors to develop their artistic expression while studying in Japan.
You have seen replicas of Asian architecture, such as those found in Chinese restaurants or pagodas in amusement parks. But do they actually look like those? The students will learn the distinctive architectural styles, construction techniques, functions, and cultural influences of Japan by visiting authentic sites such as temples and castles but not limited to traditional sites.
All KIIS course credit is awarded by Western Kentucky University. Prior to your KIIS program, please speak with your home campus academic advisor and/or study abroad office to determine course equivalencies. Grades will be transferred to your home institution in mid-August after the completion of the program. Course offerings are subject to change according to enrollment. For more information, visit Transcripts & Grades.
Program Excursions
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Gifu City
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Nagoya City
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Takamatsu City
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Ritsurin Park
Group Flight
ESTIMATED COST $2,100 - $2,200
The Japan program offers a group flight option where you can travel to/from Japan with other students and faculty. If you choose this option, KIIS will purchase a round-trip flight ticket on your behalf. The flight cost will be added to your final program fee on April 1. The group flight will depart from Cincinnati or Louisville. Visit flights for more information.
If not selecting the group flight, you are responsible to purchase your own round trip airfare.
The flight to Japan is overnight arriving the following day. On the return, the flight from Japan to the USA departs and arrives on the same day. Visit Flights and Passports & Visas for more information.