Gap Year Programs in Japan

Japan offers a wide variety of options for the gap year traveler, from the ancient ruins of the Shinto areas and the awe-inspiring temples in the rural tropics to the bustling chaos of the Tokyo street life. In a single day, you can experience over 1,000 years of jaw-dropping artistic and cultural history. Clear your mind with some Buddhist meditation or be overstimulated by the neon flashing lights of the major cities. Japan illuminates every aspect of human growth, all within an island smaller than California!

From Sapporo, a beautiful island just north of Japan (with lovely greenery in the summer and even better snow in the winter) to Osaka’s down-to-earth people and its hearty cuisine, Japan is a marvel of modern technological and scientific achievement mixed with a unique blend of ancient traditions, including some of the most vibrant architecture in the world. Visit this stunning country and be blown away by its people, culture, and awe-inspiring beauty!

Volunteering

Most volunteer organizations in Japan will help you with Japanese lessons and arrange a multitude of opportunities to meet people and enjoy many cultural activities. Japan is arguably one of the most technologically advanced countries in the world. However, there is still a demand for volunteers. Work with medical organizations, shelters for the elderly, half-way homes, and help repair any damaged infrastructure from a recent tsunami. You can also be involved with educational administrative and English teaching programs. It isn’t easy to choose when there are so many options!

Adventure Travel

The cities (primarily Tokyo) are filled with dance clubs, a nightlife scene that is almost unparalleled throughout the world. But an extravagant nightlife and Tokyo’s technological wonders are not the only things to see in Japan. While visiting the country, make sure to see Kyoto, a thrilling step back in time, where you can partake in traditional tea ceremonies, go to temples, shrines, and classic performances of kabuki. While in Japan, make sure to visit Okinawa, a beach resort paradise. Don't forget to dine at amazing restaurants with futuristic interior designs and incredible delicacies!

Internships

With the largest metropolitan economy in the world, Tokyo is known for its automobile, electronic, and chemical industries. Home to several of the world’s largest investment banks and insurance companies, Tokyo is the hub of Japan’s transportation, publishing and broadcasting businesses. Summer, spring, and fall programs are always available, and interning in Japan is the perfect way to build an impressive portfolio, become proficient in another language, and demonstrate your ability to adapt and think quickly in the workplace.

Cost of Living in Japan

Although one Japanese yen is about 0.0093 U.S. dollars, the cost of living in Japan is high. In Tokyo, for example, a single bedroom can cost an average of $850 per month in the city center. Food, groceries, and taxicabs are no less expensive but are of superb quality. Transportation is abundant, including subways, buses, and high-speed trains that travel throughout the country. It’s wise to save up some money if you plan on staying in a metropolitan area, so you can have the full experience; Japan is world-renowned for its bustling nightlife.

Visa for Your Gap Year in Japan

The kind of visa you'll need for Japan depends on the type of gap year program you choose to do. If you choose to teach abroad, you'll need a work visa. Many schools will help you with the visa paperwork and may even sponsor it, meaning you won't have to pay the fee! If you choose to volunteer you may just need a tourist visa. If you're hired for an internship in Japan, you may need a Designated Activities visa. Each activity may have its own regulations, so make sure to check with your program, volunteer organization, or employer. Or, if you're taking a gap year independently, make sure to check with the Japanese Embassy for the most up to date information regarding visas.

Culture and Etiquette in Japan

Saving face is crucial in Japan. The Japanese believe that turning down a request causes embarrassment for the other person. You must have high standards with your peers but always be kind and honest when rejecting an offer, as the Japanese pride themselves with their work ethic and honesty. The Japanese try not to openly criticize, insult, or put anyone on-the-spot.

Harmony is also highly valued in Japanese society. Harmony, the guiding philosophy for many, means that Japanese children are raised to cooperate with others from the time they go to pre-school. These relationships are meant to form a great loyalty between family members and fellow citizens. As a result, the Japanese place great emphasis on politeness, personal responsibility, and working together for the universal, rather than the individual, good. They always attempt to present facts (that might be disagreeable) in a gentle and indirect fashion. Humility is a must! For the Japanese, unity + harmony = productively. Everyone deserves a bow and respect.

Knowledge about Japan’s health and safety is vital for every student and traveler. Since Japan is one of the most developed countries in the world, the medical facilities are excellent. While medical care in Japan is exquisite, the English-speaking physicians are expensive and limited. Luckily, Japan has established a national health insurance scheme for foreigners staying with long-term visas.

Japan does not suffer from widespread disease. In fact, it is one of the cleanest countries in the world. Hygiene standards are high and medical facilities (although expensive) are widely available. Japan has strong regulations on local businesses, so the food is almost always safe to eat, and the tap water is crystal clear.

Japan is also one of the safest countries in the world. The crime rate is extremely low but still prevalent (as with all countries). Stay away from dark alleyways at night and always avoid illegal substances (punishments are extremely severe in Japan). If the Japanese Mafia “makes you an offer that you can’t refuse,” call the police ASAP!