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When we explore the options of pursuing higher education in another country, many times, Japan does not surface in our thoughts. One of the reasons is the perception that one needs to know Japanese to be able to study in Japan.
The good news is that the language barrier is not present in many university programs in Japan. However, before diving deeper into the various available options for pursuing higher education in Japan, let’s explore the advantages of studying in Japan:
1. High-Quality Education
2. Cultural Enrichment
3. Global Career Opportunities
4. Safety and Quality of Life
5. Scholarship Opportunities
6. Networking and Global Connections
Perceptions about the Cost of Living in Japan
Japan is famous—or should we say infamous—for its high cost of living. However, this perception is also not completely true.
Whenever we, as a foreigner, talk about the cost of living in a country, we tend to make the following mistakes:
Generally, the number of ex-pats is higher in the capital city, followed by the other major metropolitan areas. This simple fact exposes foreigners to the cost of living in these major cities, and that cost is always higher. The same thing happens when foreigners think about the cost of living in Tokyo to represent that of Japan.
Many times, even after living in a country for a long time, foreigners fail to explore the options to optimize the cost of living the way natives can. The reason is that most of the time, we are slaves to habits. When we move to a new country, we start our lives based on limited knowledge. However, the way we live, including where we purchase things and other factors, turns into habits, and we may ignore exploring options.
There are multiple ways to optimize the cost of living in any country. However, the biggest factor in that direction is the selection of cities and areas we choose to live in, and Japan is no exception.
While there are many English-speaking university programs in Tokyo, you can significantly cut your costs if you target universities in other Japanese cities with much lower living costs.
Pursuing higher education away from Tokyo can significantly lower your cost of living and, hence, the overall cost of studying in Japan, even for the same or similar quality of education. However, as with everything, there will, of course, be pros and cons to this option, also.
Let’s dive deep into the pros and cons:
Pros:
Lower Cost of Living:
One of the most significant advantages of studying in cities outside Tokyo is the lower cost of living. Rent, food, transportation, and other daily expenses are generally cheaper in smaller cities and rural areas. This can make your overall study experience more affordable, allowing you to manage your finances more comfortably or allocate resources to other opportunities, like travel or extracurricular activities.
Cultural Immersion and Authentic Experience:
Smaller cities and rural areas often provide a more authentic experience of Japanese culture and traditions. You may have more opportunities to interact with locals, participate in traditional festivals, and experience the slower-paced lifestyle that characterizes much of Japan. This can lead to a deeper understanding of the country's culture, language, and history.
Closer Community and Personalized Education:
Universities outside Tokyo often have smaller student populations, leading to a more close-knit community and personalized education. Professors may have more time to dedicate to individual students, and you might find building relationships with faculty and peers easier. This can enhance your academic experience and provide more opportunities for mentorship and collaboration.
Less Stressful Environment:
Life outside Tokyo is typically less hectic and stressful. The reduced hustle and bustle can lead to a more relaxed and balanced lifestyle, allowing you to focus more on your studies and personal well-being. The cleaner air, greener surroundings, and less crowded public spaces can also improve mental and physical health.
Access to Nature and Outdoor Activities:
Of course, Tokyo, the largest metropolis in the world, boasts the highest level of options for things to do and major attractions for both locals and foreigners.
However, many universities outside Tokyo are closer to Japan’s natural attractions, such as mountains, hot springs, and beautiful coastlines. This proximity to nature offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking, skiing, and exploring natural parks, providing a refreshing break from academic life.
Cons:
Limited Access to Opportunities:
Tokyo is Japan's economic and cultural hub, offering numerous opportunities for internships, part-time jobs, networking, and career development. Studying in a more remote area may limit your access to these opportunities. While there are still chances to gain experience, the variety and frequency might be less compared to Tokyo.
However, if you wish to pursue a career in Japan, you will always have opportunities in major metropolitan areas, including Tokyo.
Fewer International Communities:
Tokyo has a large and diverse international community, making it easier for foreign students to find support networks and socialize with other international peers. Outside of Tokyo, these communities may be smaller or less active, which could make it more challenging to connect with others who share your language or cultural background.
Potential for Isolation:
While a close-knit community can be a positive, it can also lead to feelings of isolation, especially if the local population has limited English proficiency. The language barrier might be more pronounced, and adjusting to a smaller, less cosmopolitan environment might be difficult for some students, especially those with big urban backgrounds.
Transportation and Accessibility:
Tokyo’s public transportation system is world-renowned for its efficiency and reach. In contrast, public transport in smaller cities and rural areas may be less frequent and cover fewer routes. This could make getting around more challenging, especially if you are used to the convenience of city life. It might also be harder to travel to other parts of Japan or back to your home country without the extensive transport links available in Tokyo.
Limited Extracurricular and Social Activities:
While smaller cities offer a peaceful environment, they may also have fewer entertainment options, social activities, and extracurricular opportunities. The variety of clubs, events, and cultural experiences may be limited compared to what is available in Tokyo, potentially leading to a less dynamic student life.
Following is a list of some Japanese universities in cities with a lower cost of living than Tokyo that offer English-speaking programs:
Undergraduate Programs:
Postgraduate Programs:
Conclusion:
Studying in areas away from Tokyo offers unique advantages, including lower living costs, deeper cultural immersion, and a more personalized educational experience.
However, it also comes with challenges, like fewer career opportunities if you wish to continue living in the same cities or nearby.
You may also feel potentially isolated and have limited access to certain amenities and activities. The choice between studying in Tokyo or elsewhere in Japan depends on your preferences, career goals, and lifestyle. Balancing the pros and cons will help you determine the best environment for your academic journey.
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