Program Details
| Program Length | Start | End | Program Cost | Age on Departure |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Exchange Year | Late March | Early February | US$7,000 | 15-18 |
| Jenesys Short-term Program for Teachers | 8 December | 21 December | None | 15-18 |
| Jenesys Short-term Program for Students | 8 December | 21 December | None | Any |
Age Explanation: Age on Departure reflect both the years and month(s) of the age of the applicant at the start of the program. For example, if the age is listed as 16.1 the applicant should be 16 years and 1 month at departure.
Japan Details:
Japan is where ancient gods and centuries-old customs meet cutting-edge modern life and an innovative society. From the ritual tea ceremonies dating from the 14th century and graceful gardens and shrines to the world’s first high-speed train and modern skyscrapers, you’ll discover your own Japan. You might already know about some aspects of Japanese culture, such as legendary samurai and ninja masters, intricate Shinto shrines, karaoke, or sumo wrestling, but there is a whole lot more waiting for you in Japan.
Did you know that the islands of Japan are actually the exposed tops of huge undersea ridges that rise out of the Pacific Ocean? Or that the world’s oldest novel, The Tale of Genji, was written in the 11th century in Japan? Or that Japan’s most recognized national holiday is New Year’s and is celebrated with three to four days of well-wishing among families and friends?
From Osaka’s lively Shinsaibashi shopping district, to the expansive Yokohama Bridge connecting Tokyo to Yokohama, to kendo (Japanese fencing), to kabuki and Noh theater, to a passion for baseball, Japan never ceases to amaze. Sakura (cherry blossoms) are often associated with Japan, and represent new beginnings for the Japanese. Studying in this unique island nation can be your own new beginning.
Year and Semester :
With an adult literacy rate exceeding 99 percent, Japanese society highly values education and students are expected to work hard. Most schools adopt a trimester system (April to July, September to December, January to March), but some adopt a semester system (April to September, October to March). You’ll receive an orientation in Japanese culture and life upon arrival and then start your more challenging courses. At the end of the school day, all students take part in souji, the cleaning of the school, so be ready to pitch in. However, you’ll still have plenty of time to make new friends and get involved with school clubs and extracurricular activities including baseball, soccer, judo, kendo, swimming, volleyball, rugby, calligraphy, science, and more.
Summer Homestay Language Study :
After the introductory orientation, you’ll attend language classes (80 hours) and live with a host family. You’ll be placed in Japanese classes according to your skill level. Outside of that, there’ll be plenty of cultural and social events you can enjoy with many new friends. You’ll also have the opportunity to participate in activities arranged by the school and AFS Japan.
JENESYS Program: 2 weeks in December
The beneficiaries of the programme will be the youths of 15 to 17.8 years old and School teachers & Principals. Japanese youths, families, organizations and institutions who will interact with the East Asian youths will also be the beneficiaries, in that they will have the opportunities to broaden their views on international relations and cooperation as a member of East Asian community. Youths participating in this project are expected to disseminate their knowledge/experiences in their own countries, and to contribute in the future development of the region. The future generation will also indirectly be the beneficiaries.
