At a glance
Japan, by the numbers
#2
Tokyo — top 2 of the World's Best Student Cities, two years running
QS Best Student Cities 2026 & 2027
336,708
international students — an all-time record, +20.6% in one year
JASSO, May 2024
#10
Most peaceful countries in the world
Global Peace Index 2026
#39
The University of Tokyo
QS World University Rankings 2027
Field notes
- Over 4 million vending machines — the densest network on Earth, roughly one per 30 people
- Tokyo holds more Michelin stars than Paris
Highlights
Why Japan
Japan offers a rare blend of ancient tradition and cutting-edge innovation, all wrapped in one of the safest, most efficient societies on earth. With world-renowned universities, generous scholarships for international students, and a quality of life that is hard to match, studying here is an investment in both your career and your perspective.
Where tradition meets tomorrow
Study robotics by day, wander 1,000-year-old temples by night.
A global leader in tech & design
Learn inside the country that invents what's next.
The safest major country on Earth
Japan's safety record lets everyone relax.
Every season is a new country
Cherry blossoms, summer festivals, autumn maples, powder winters.
Programs
Programs in Japan
Arts and Design in Japan Program at I.C.NAGOYA
I.C.NAGOYA
Learn Japanese while preparing for a creative future in art and design.
Core Japanese Course at GenkiJACS
Genki Japanese and Culture School
Build real Japanese confidence in small classes across five unforgettable destinations in Japan.
I.C.NAGOYA Japanese Language 1-Year Course
I.C.NAGOYA
Build practical Japanese from beginner to advanced in central Nagoya.
Okinawa Chura Green Course
Genki Japanese and Culture School
Learn Japanese through environmental action, community engagement and sustainability projects in Okinawa.
Seasons of Japan: Autumn in Kyoto
Genki Japanese and Culture School
Study Japanese through Kyoto’s autumn colours, seasonal traditions, cultural activities and a guided day trip.
Budget planning
Cost of living in Japan
Typical monthly costs for an international student.
*Prices are estimates based on available sources and may vary by location, lifestyle, and availability.
Dive deeper
Detailed breakdowns, housing, and money-saving tips for students.
Visa Information
Visa at a Glance
Visa type
Student Visa (College Student status)
- Processing time
- CoE 1-3 months + ~5 business days
- Work rights
- 28 hrs/week in term (permit required)
- 8 hrs/day in long vacations
- Funds needed
- ≈ ¥1.5M / ~$10,000 (6-month language) to ¥2.0–2.5M / ~$13,500–17,000 (1 year)
- Bank balance certificate + sponsor income proof + source-of-funds explanation. Thresholds vary by school and program length.
Key requirements
- Application form — Language-school form
- Academic records — High-school diploma or equivalent
- Proof of language — Often none — beginner welcome
- Statement of purpose — Short motivation letter
- Financial proof — ~$10,000 (¥1.5M for 6-month program)
- Passport copy — Valid ≥6 months
- Photos — Per school spec
- Application fee — $33–$135 (¥5,000–¥20,000)
Verified 2026-09-02 · Sources: Study in Japan (Government Portal) · Immigration Services Agency (ISA) · MOFA — Student Visa Page · MEXT — Enrollment Management Notice (Apr 2026)
Guides & Articles
Guides & articles for Japan
Complete GuideStudy Abroad in Japan
Your complete guide to studying in Japan — universities, costs, visas, and cultural immersion.
Read the guide
Student LifeLooking for a Job in Japan? This Nagoya Fair Is a Real Route In for Foreign Students
GuidesJapan's New Language-to-Degree Pathway Opens for April 2027 (and How to Get Ready)
LanguageJapanese Keigo
Master Formal & Polite Speech
Scholarships