The ‘Land of the Rising Sun’ can often feel like a world of its own in East Asia, separated from the mainland as an island nation and taking pride in a largely autonomous culture. Get ready for an exciting adventure abroad.

For much of Japan’s history, it remained isolated from the outside world. In the 19th century, however, the small island country opened its doors to trade and an active foreign policy, and it has never looked back in emerging as a major global power. Making the leap to study abroad in Japan will be the opportunity to immerse yourself within a top-notch academic environment and a vibrant, autonomous culture which has stood the test of time and globalization to remain true to its roots.

With nearly 40 million people living in the metropolitan area, Tokyo is the first choice for many international students of where to study abroad in Japan. The country’s capital and largest city is a major hub of culture, technology, finance, and global innovation. Home to nearly one-third of Japan’s population, this massive metropolis can often feel like a small world in itself!

Other popular cities where you might look to study abroad in Japan include Kyoto, Nagoya, and Fukuoka. There are nearly 800 universities located throughout the Japanese islands, so take the time to look into as many different options as possible to decide where feels like the best fit. The country is also very efficiently connected by high-speed rail, so you’ll have easy access to everywhere else!

The language barrier has always been a limiting factor for students looking to study abroad in Japan. While local universities are making a push to accommodate for international students (including a national target of 300,000 foreign students in the country by 2020), the fact remains that the bulk of courses at major Japanese universities are taught in the local language, limiting the scope of opportunity for those who do not speak Japanese.

So while major universities are beginning to offer more courses taught in English, it is also very common for foreign students to study abroad in Japan at a satellite university or international school, where English-taught programs are designed from the ground up for a global student body. Japanese language courses are often also an integral part of these study abroad programs in Japan, which can be a big help in life outside the classroom.

Some other popular subject areas which are commonly pursued by students who study in Japan include economics, international relations, history, and Asian studies. Study abroad programs in Japan are offered year-round, giving students the flexibility to enroll for summer term, fall or spring semester, or even full year.

Embarking to study in Japan will be an unforgettable global adventure, during which you come to experience a country and culture which has been vitally influential in the shaping of our modern world. Think you’re up to it?