Study Abroad in Japan

Students interested in Buddhism are encouraged to spend a semester or year abroad at one of our partner schools, Taisho University and Ryukoku University. Both universities offer programs for undergraduate and graduate students based on the student’s proficiency in Japanese. Students interested in the exchange program should contact their advisor for information on which courses will apply to their degree. Students can apply for the programs on the Mānoa International Exchange Website.

Taisho University

Taisho University is a metropolitan humanities university based in Nishi-sugamo, Toshima, Tokyo, Japan. The school’s precepts are based on the Tendai school of Buddhism. Taisho University offers Buddhist Studies and possesses an Institute for Comprehensive Studies of Buddhism. The program is open to undergraduate and graduate students who possess an advance proficiency in Japanese, as no courses are taught in English.

Ryukoku University

Ryukoku University is a university with campuses based in Kyoto and Shiga. The university was founded on the principles of Jodo Shinshu Buddhism. The school offers three exchange programs: Japanese and Asian Studies Program (JAS), Japanese Culture and Language Program (JCLP), and the regular Ryukoku University faculties. JAS and JCLP are only open to undergraduate students. The regular Ryukoku University faculties are open to undergraduate and graduate students who have advanced proficiency in Japanese.