STUDY IN JAPAN
- Why Japan?
- Student Visa Requirement
- Tuition Fees and Scholarships
- Education in Japan
- Best Courses in Japan
- Culture and Social Demographics
- Language and Religion
- Popular Job Sectors
- Geography and Best Places
Japan is known as the Land of the Rising Sun because Japan is the first place in the world where the early sunrise of the day is observed. It is a nation consisting of islands located in East Asia. There are five primary islands: Hokkaido, Honshu, Shikoku, Kyushu, and Okinawa. It boasts the eighth biggest exclusive economic zones globally. The Emperor and Empress of Japan hold the position of the head of the state.
Japan has various Colleges and Universities offering higher education opportunities to both domestic and international students. In Japan, there are a total of 86 national universities, 95 local public universities, vocational schools, technology colleges, and special training institutes specifically for students with disabilities.
Japan offers cultural immersion to numerous international students. Students establish both academic and professional networks during their academic program studies. The distinctive approach to teaching incorporates traditional, modern, and societal demands, continental models and changes, and input from the aging population to enhance the teaching methodology for a more comprehensive comprehension. In Japan, there is a culture of mutual respect in interactions between students and professors.
In Japan, education is mandatory. Japan ranks highly in Mathematics, Science, and Literacy among OECD countries. The Japanese education system is divided into different levels based on:
- Elementary Schools
- Junior High Schools
- High Schools
- Junior Colleges
- Four years Colleges and Universities
Japan is home to some of the best universities in the world according to the QS rankings. Japanese individuals are just as skilled in activities such as martial arts, video games, and anime.
Important information for Nepali students to learn in Japan
Following are some key motives for pursuing education in Japan:
Cutting-edge and progressive educational methods offered by top Japanese universities
QS and other top universities in Japan provide opportunities for students to pursue Bachelor, Master, Doctoral, and professional degrees in higher education. Japan is most suitable for pursuing studies in disciplines such as Science and Technology, Data Science, Humanities, Japanese Language, and Liberal Arts.
Country of accomplished academics, wealthy entrepreneurs, and innovators
Japan is the birthplace of academics, scientists, and industry leaders. Prominent academics included Minoru Hara, Ogyu Sorai, and acclaimed researchers Shizou Akira, Yusuke Nakamura, and Tadamitsu Kishimoto. Masayoshi Son, Tadashi Yanai, Shigenobu Nagamori are among the top business tycoons.
Top producer of cars, electronic products
Japan is home to the top ten manufacturing companies globally. We have utilized the product with various brand names such as Sony, Sharp, Toshiba, TDK, Mitsubishi electric, NEC CORP, Panasonic, among others. In the Automotive industry, there are companies like Toyota, Suzuki, Honda, Daihatsu, Nissan that originated from Japan.
The combination of stunning nature, vibrant Japanese traditions, and beloved cuisine
Japan's authentic cuisine is as abundant as its rich traditions and cultures. Green tea is considered one of Japan's most famous exports. Sushi, tempura, ramen, and miso soup are the most pleasurable foods. Some elements of popular Japanese culture and traditions include dressing in Kimono, participating in tea ceremonies, watching movies and kabuki, practicing bowing, and visiting Japanese gardens.
A country that is secure and tidy with the most excellent public transportation system globally
Japan is considered one of the cleanest countries due to its culture and modern infrastructures. The wastewater treatment rate is 74.8 percent. Japan currently holds the title of the safest country in the world, with a violent crime rate of only 0.3 per 1000. There are certain precautions that should be taken in nightlife, such as never leaving drinks unattended. Natural disasters such as typhoons, earthquakes, and avalanches occur. Similarly, caution is necessary for individuals requesting personal information in Japan.
Great job prospects and part-time employment options available for students as well
In Japan, students' skills and academic knowledge determine whether they can work full-time or part-time jobs that are available. Part-time jobs are commonly found in warehouses, factories, restaurants, hotels, and cleaning services. Employment opportunities for skilled professionals include roles such as English teacher, business development team assistant, high-end Uber driver for Tesla, executive assistant, quality management, teaching assistant, senior sales executive, customer service representative, and travel designer.
Price of educational courses
A lot of Japanese Universities provide affordable tuition costs. Certain institutions offer affordable tuition, yet private international degrees in Japan can be costly. Scholarships in Japan are available for international students to support their postgraduate studies and research with a monthly stipend. International students also have the opportunity to pursue part-time job options. In addition to education, Japan also offers a cost-effective, yet high quality of life.
International students must first obtain a student visa in Japan before applying to any school/university in the country. They will require proof of their qualifications, including:
- Completing the visa application and personal history form for the school.
- Essay explaining reasons for wanting to study in Japan
- Certificate or academic record from the most recent educational institution you completed.
- Documentation showing prior completion of Japanese language courses.
- A duplicate of your passport
- History of health and medical background
- Remittance Letter
- A document verifying the balance of money in a bank account.
- Verification of job status
- A written promise or commitment from your sponsor
- Obtain your CoE (Certificate of Enrollment)
- Submit your application to the embassy of Japan in your nation with following documents:
- Your CoE
- Passport
- 2 photos
- An application form for a visa
(Requirements may differ depending on the applicant's country)
- Complete the necessary paperwork.
Once you have handed in these papers, they will be checked. Following that, a determination will be reached regarding your admission to Japanese educational institutions. You will then be informed of your eligibility status.
A student VISA is available for short-term courses lasting 90 days maximum. Another period is between ninety days and twenty weeks. In the case of extended courses, they typically range from twenty weeks to two years in duration.
The annual tuition fees for University graduates, undergraduate, junior College and Japanese Language Institutions in Japan are as follows for international students seeking education in Japan.
- University (Graduate):
- National Colleges - Around 820,000 yen
- Local Public – Around 930,000 yen
- Private – Around 1,000,000 yen
- University (Under-Graduate):
- National colleges – Around 820,000 yen
- Local Public – Around 930,000 yen
- Private – Around 1,000,000 yen
- Junior college :
- Local Public – Around 6,100,000 yen
- Private – Around 960,000 yen
- Japanese Language Institution: Around 610,000-1,050,000 yen
Even though Japan is famous for its expensive education and living expenses, there are also some affordable options available. Listed below are scholarships that are widely popular among international students:
- Scholarship provided by MEXT.
- Scholarship provided by Japan Educational Exchanges and Services (JEES)
- Scholarship provided by the Japanese Government at Waseda University.
- The Japan Foundation at the United Nations University
- Scholarship for undergraduates at KUAS
Numerous Japanese educational institutions offer financial aid opportunities for students from abroad. Scholarships provide financial support for various types of students, including those in research, teacher training, undergraduate studies, Japanese studies, technology colleges, and specialized training programs. This includes a monthly stipend of approximately 146,000 Japanese Yen, as well as coverage for travel expenses such as transportation to and from Japan, and overall school fees.
Furthermore, organizations like the government and private companies offer a variety of scholarships. Tsukuba scholarships are offered in a restricted number and include a monthly living allowance alongside a travel stipend (only available in the first year). Different scholarships are offered, with some specifically for particular ethnic groups, women, minorities, or those with high proficiency in Japanese.
The educational system in Japan is known for being one of the most competitive in the world. This has been true since the inception of the nation, and the educational system has consistently evolved to ensure that students from all backgrounds can succeed. The Japanese educational system provides the best example of this. International students need to submit applications to and gain acceptance from a Japanese institution in order to study in Japan. The majority of Japanese universities mandate that applicants must have completed their education at a local high school or have the equivalent amount of high school education completed.
In Japan, the education system mainly includes six-year elementary schools, three-year junior high schools, and three-year high schools, followed by two- or three-year junior colleges or four-year colleges. In Japan, the education system consists of a nine-year process, starting from elementary school and ending in junior high school. During Japan Educational Travel, school partnerships primarily occur in elementary and secondary schools. A system known as "Special Needs Education" supports students with physical or mental disabilities in developing their personalities and enhancing their social engagement.
In Japan, a high number of students, 56.2 percent, go on to attend universities (for undergraduate studies) and junior colleges (for regular courses). This data shows the advanced levels of education in Japan. Numerous higher education institutions, like universities and community colleges, provide top-notch research, computer, and library amenities for students to learn in a peaceful setting. The reputation of education in Japan is primarily based on its strong emphasis on Information Technology and its supportive atmosphere, leading to remarkable innovations and breakthroughs. Additionally, taking Japanese language classes for a set period of time benefits them for future ease. After finishing their language course, they have the opportunity to register for academic programs at various Japanese colleges and universities. Japan has more than 700 universities, with 10 of them included in the top 200 worldwide, leading us to believe that the country offers excellent education.
Popular study programs
Economics and Business: In Japan, numerous universities offer business economics as a major subject for their programs. Due to its complexity, Business Economics is split into five focus areas: Entrepreneurial Business, Economics, Management, Marketing, and Finance. Students will learn different methods to assess economic activity that transcends international boundaries, such as global trade and financial transactions, and how to analyze and prioritize the allocation of scarce resources.
Science and Technology: It is common knowledge that Japan has had a significant impact in the field of science and technology. There are more than 50 top universities that have a robust foundation in science and technology. This consists of the University of Tokyo, JAIST Japan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, Tokyo University of Science, and more.
Education or Humanities: It includes topics such as Philosophy, history, culture, ethnicity, journalism, and more.
What are the reasons for studying in Japan?
Japan is the ideal place in the technology-driven 21st century to gain experience and brainstorm new concepts. Japan is the 7th worldwide for education quality and has the most Nobel prize winners of any Asian nation. Studying in Japan has numerous benefits. Various students are attracted to Japan due to its high academic standards, while others are drawn to Japan because of its extensive cultural heritage. Japan is a favored choice for many foreign students, attracting more than 150,000 students from around the world. Studying in a foreign country gives you a unique chance to experience, work, and immerse yourself in a different culture. You can gain knowledge about the people, culture, history, and language of one of the most unique cultures in the world, providing you with equally valuable exposure and experience.
Important factors to consider when deciding to pursue studies in Japan
- Great food at a reasonable price.
- Excellent standard of living
- Outstanding system of education
- Employment prospects
- Acquire one of the most beneficial languages
- Reside in a country that is both clean and secure.
- Conveniently available fantastic educational programs.
- Easy to access and convenient for traveling.
- Immerse yourself in Japanese cultural traditions.
International students who come to study in Japan typically adapt to the teaching standards of Japanese Colleges and Universities in the land of the rising sun. Taking inspiration from Japan's culture and ancient teachings has enabled the country to provide top education and produce the highest number of Nobel laureates globally. Economics, Business, Natural Sciences, Humanities, Language, Agriculture, Architecture, and Anthropology are among the favored subjects for many international students studying in Japan. In Japan, there are vocational schools that offer brief training programs. In Japan, individuals who have completed a Bachelor's degree have the opportunity to obtain two Master's degrees concurrently. Polytechnic schools provide a five-year academic program starting from the third year.
Some of the degrees available for international students in Japanese Universities are:
- Master of Arts in Public Management
- Master of Engineering
- Master in Liberal Studies
- Master of Business Studies
- Master in International Business
- Digital transformation program
- Master of Arts in Communication studies
- Master of Arts in Global Studies
- Master of Science in Finance Management/Human Resource Management.
- Master in International relations
- Bachelor in Computer Science and Information systems
- Bachelor in Media and Communication studies
- Bachelor of Science in Business Management with Marketing
- Bachelor of Law and legal studies
Japan is abundant in culture and population, with a total of 126,476,461 people. Japanese men can expect to live up to 81.9 years, while Japanese women typically live up to 88.1 years. Tokyo and Yokohama are the most densely populated cities, while Utsunomiya is the least populated. In the era of empire, socialism thrived in Japan. Japanese individuals are recognized for their diligent work ethic. They possess a culture, traditions, and ways of life that differ from those of Western societies. The sunrise that can be seen from Japan is the first one of the day. Japanese people wear their traditional clothing like Kimonos, festive attire, and specific shoes known as tabi. They possess unique language skills and stand out in sports such as judo and martial arts. Japanese culture is further enriched by the inclusion of sushi, tempura, noodles, and teriyaki in Japanese cuisine. The majority of Japanese individuals adhere to their traditional customs and standards of behavior. Japanese individuals enjoy commemorating their age-old traditional cultures and festivals.
The festivals that are most widely recognized are:
- Sapporo Ice and Snow Festival features ice sculptures and tower artistry as the main attractions during the month of February.
- Omizutori: Massive torches were raised to the highest point of Todaiji temple to commemorate Buddhist festivals.
- Hanami is a traditional Japanese festival celebrating cherry blossoms in Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto.
- Kanda Matsuri involves a procession in Japan's Capital City, with 100 portable shrines carried by 300 people.
- Tenjin Matsuri is a traditional Japanese boat festival that includes Kagura music and people wearing Japanese costumes to honor Shinto gods.
- Awa Odori Matsuri is a dance festival in Japan featuring drums, flutes, and bells held on the streets of Japan.
- Jidai Matsuri is a celebration that honors the 1100th anniversary of Kyoto.
Japan celebrates various national holidays throughout the year, including New Year's Day, Coming of Age Day, National Foundation Day, Emperor's Birthday, Vernal Equinox Day, Showa Day, Constitution Memorial Day, Greenery Day, Children's Day, Marine Day, Mountain Day, Respect for the Aged Day, Autumn Equinox, Sports Day, Culture Day, and Labor Thanksgiving Day.
The Japanese are recognized for their unique culture and customs. They possess their own faith and indigenous languages as well. Japanese language, with influences from Chinese and English, is the most widely spoken. Japanese writing uses a combination of syllabic phonography and ideography. Amami, Kyukyu, Kikai, and Miyako are among the less commonly spoken languages in Japan. Japanese is frequently referred to as a language isolate, with its only connection being to the Ryukyuan languages, an indigenous language of the Ryukyu islands.
Shinto is the primary religion in Japan, with Buddhism being another faith practiced alongside it. Some sects also adhere to the beliefs of Confucianism, Christianity, and Islam. Shrines and temples in Japan are commonly used for both worship and playing. 80% of the Japanese population follows Shintoism, while 69% adhere to Buddhism.
One of the most technologically advanced nations in East Asia is Japan, where products, services, handicrafts, silken fabrics, and textiles are exported globally.
Foreign students have the option to work either on a full-time or part-time basis in Japan. Possible job options for these groups include teaching English to non-native speakers, working as English language reporters, bartending, conducting research, working in cafes/restaurants, sorting and packaging items, working in convenience stores, translating and interpreting, providing service, working in sales, and working in call centers.
The job industries in Japan that are most favored and offer the highest salaries are:
- Service Staff
- English Teacher
- Recruitment Consultant
- Engineer
- Marketing and Sales Officer
- Business Analyst
- Investment Banker
- IT Professionals
Japan consists of 6852 islands, with Hokkaido, Honshu, Kyushu, Shikoku, and Okinawa being the main ones, while the rest are classified as remote islands. There are three oceanic trenches in the archipelago of Japan. Japan experiences typhoons, earthquakes, and tsunamis. Japan is surrounded by the Sea of Japan to the West, the North Sea of Okhotsk to the North, the East China Sea to the South West, and the Pacific Ocean to the East.
Japan has a forested area of 251,000 square kilometers, with agricultural land covering 48,400 square kilometers, residential space occupying 18,100 square kilometers, and water surfaces totaling 13,500 square kilometers. The roads cover an area of 13000 sq. km, the wilderness spans 2600 sq. km, and other surface areas make up 31,300 sq. km.
Japan possesses abundant natural resources. Coal, oil, iron, and minerals can be found in deposits, and rice ensures food self-sufficiency. It boasts the sixth highest tonnage of fish caught and a variety of energy resources including coal, petroleum, natural gas, nuclear power, and hydropower.
The most popular places in Japan are determined by their customs, culture, and history
- Sapporo: Sapporo is famous for its clock tower, Goryokaku fort, Tsukino, and the Sapporo snow festival.
- Yokohama Minatomirai: Yokohama Minatomirai is famous for its mix of shopping areas, including a commercial complex, shopping centers, Yokohama Landmark Tower, Yokohama red brick warehouse, and Cup Noodles Museum.
- Nikko: Nikko is famous for its attractions including Nikko Toshogu, Kegon Falls, and Lake Chuzenji.
- Mount Fuji: summit of a mountain, taking a boat tour around picturesque lakes.
- Shirakawago: Shirakawago features traditional Japanese houses and villages known as Gassho zukuri.
- Snow Monkey Park: Snow Monkey Park offers hot springs for visitors to enjoy.
- Osaka Dotonbori: city center, canal in Dotonbori, traditional Japanese bars.
- Kyoto: exploring Arashiyama, Kiyomizudera, and Fushimi Inari shrine.
- Nara Park: Nara Park includes Todaiji temple, Kofukuji, and Nara National museum.
- Miyajima: Itsukushima Shrine - a famous landmark.
- Okinawa: Okinawa offers marine activities, Shurijo Castle, Kokusaidori street, and driving across Irabu Ohashi bridge.
- Naoshima: islands known for modern art installations
- Yakushima: An island dominated by mountainous terrain and dense forests.
- Seto Inland Sea: Shimanami Kaido cycling path on the Seto Inland Sea.
- Hida Takayama: Hida Takayama features restaurants, shops, and merchant houses from the Edo period.
- Nakasendo: Historic post towns, scenic hiking areas, and traditional Japanese architecture
- Original Castles: Castles in Hyogo prefectures like Himeji Castle, Shirasagijo
- Unique Theme Parks: Tokyo Disney resorts and Universal Studio Japan
