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Program Highlights for Nishinomiya (Osaka/Kobe), Japan

The city

Language spoken:
Japanese

Currency:
Japanese Yen (JPY, ¥)

Climate:
Tropical

City type:
Large city (Population 500,000-200,001)

Passport & Visa requirements

The program

Program type:
Partnership

Host university:
Kwansei Gakuin University

Language of instruction:
English, Japanese

Terms offered:
Spring, Fall, Yearlong

Program capacity:
20 students

Credit type:
Overseas credit

Deadline to apply

Fall or Yearlong 2025-26:
February 15

Spring 2026:
September 15

Eligibility:

  • Minimum GPA 3.0
  • Minimum class standing: Junior
  • Open to degree-seeking students attending a 4-year institution at time of application
  • Live in Nishinomiya, between culturally rich Osaka and Kobe in central Japan, near the former capital of Japan, Kyoto
  • Enjoy a relaxing campus setting surrounded by nature.
  • Immerse yourself in the local culture by living in homestays with traditional and non-traditional local families
  • Savor the “food capital” of Japan

Why Study in Nishinomiya?

Downtown Osaka, Japan.

The Nishinomiya program allows students to concentrate their studies on Japanese language, culture, and society. The program aims to promote a better understanding of the cultural, religious, social, economic, and political aspects of Japan and its neighbors. Classes are small, the semester homestay program is well-established, and a variety of activities both on and off campus are readily available. You may choose to stay for a semester or a full year.

Japan is a fascinating country rich in culture, history, and a diverse environment; the combination of which produces one of the most distinctive societies in the world. Enjoy the “food capital” of Japan with shopping, historical sites, beaches, festivals and other celebrations, outdoor performances, and fireworks. The Kwansei Gakuin Contemporary Japan Program (CJP) is designed to explore this fascinating country within the larger context of East Asia. USAC students attending this program have the unique opportunity to study and live in a culturally rich city.