This seminar is open to all students interested in developing and expanding their Japanese studies through focused and immersive study and daily interaction with native speakers. In a variety of informal discussions, language drills, and hands-on activities, students engage in Japanese study that is informative and fun. Classroom-style instruction is kept to a minimum in favor of an immersive experience that allows students to practice Japanese throughout the city—at local markets, museums, and restaurants—where effective language skills are required. With a small group size (fewer than 10 students per instructor), this curriculum can adapt to a variety of Japanese language skills and prior experience, scaling excellently with each student’s individual language goals. Practice traditional Kanji calligraphy at a temple with a monk, take the newest grammar you’ve learned out into the city to try with locals, and prepare & present oral presentations on a topic of your choosing entirely in Japanese.

All levels of Japanese are welcome. A short placement quiz and Japanese learning experience survey are required to enroll in this course.