Tokyo cityscape at sunset
1 Week Tokyo Homestay Lakeland University Japan

Tokyo Language & Culture Immersion Week

Study Japanese, live with a host family, and experience authentic Tokyo culture.

Program Overview

This one-week immersive program combines structured Japanese language learning at Lakeland University Japan with authentic cultural experiences in Tokyo. Participants stay with carefully selected Japanese host families, providing daily immersion into Japanese home life and culture. The program includes morning micro-credential courses, hands-on cultural activities each afternoon, and exploration of Japan's modern capital alongside its historic roots. Designed for adult learners, culture enthusiasts, and partner schools, this program offers academic rigor, cultural depth, and practical language use in a globally oriented environment. Private residence accommodation is available as an optional alternative upon request.

Program Snapshot

Essential Information

Duration:
1 week (Monday - Sunday) or 2 weeks
Location:
Lakeland University Japan campus, central Tokyo
Language:
English-supported instruction
Group:
Minimum 15 people

Program Highlights

Accommodation:
Homestay in Tokyo
Micro-Credential:
Elementary/Intermediate Japanese / Manga & Anime
(other programs available)
Cultural Activity:
Daily hands-on experiences (Mon - Fri)
Excursion:
Saturday full-day trip to Kamakura

Who This Is For

Designed for Japanese-language learners and culture enthusiasts who want a structured yet enjoyable week in Tokyo.

Adult Learners

Adults interested in Japanese language and culture who want to learn through immersive, real-life experiences.

Japan Culture Enthusiasts

People interested in Japanese culture and society who want to explore Japan beyond tourism through authentic, on-the-ground experiences.

School & University Groups

Cohorts from universities, language schools, or academic programs seeking a short-term, immersive cultural and educational experience.

Morning Academics

All morning classes run 9:00 - 12:15 at Lakeland University Japan. Students complete two micro-credential courses over the week.

Elementary/Intermediate Japanese
Core Micro-Credential

Elementary/Intermediate Japanese

Conversation Daily expressions Hiragana & katakana Culture & etiquette
Manga and Anime Studies
Specialty Micro-Credential

Manga & Anime Studies

Story & characters Visual storytelling Pop-culture insights Creative workshop

Micro-credentials are issued digitally by Lakeland University Japan and can be shared on LinkedIn and other digital portfolios.

Where You Study & Stay

Campus & Accommodation

Classes are held at Lakeland University Japan's central Tokyo campus, with easy access to major stations and cultural sites.

βœ“ Homestay

Participants stay with carefully selected Japanese host families in safe, welcoming Tokyo neighborhoods. Homestay provides authentic daily immersion, home-cooked meals, and cultural exchange opportunities.

  • Breakfast and dinner included with host family
  • Private room in family home
  • 30 - 45 minute commute to Lakeland campus
  • Cultural exchange and language practice at home

Private Residence (Optional)

For participants who prefer independent accommodation, private residence rooms managed by LUJ partners are available upon request (subject to availability and season).

Afternoon Cultural Activities

Daily hands-on activities (14:00 - 17:00) connect classroom learning with real-world Japanese culture.

Japanese tea ceremony with matcha

Tea Ceremony

Matcha, etiquette, and the philosophy behind omotenashi.

Japanese calligraphy brush and ink

Calligraphy

Brush, ink, and your own name in Japanese characters.

Sushi making experience with fresh ingredients

Sushi Making Experience

Learn traditional sushi preparation techniques from expert chefs.

Tokyo street with traditional and modern architecture

Tokyo City Walk

Architecture and neighbourhoods that mix old and new.

Saturday Full-Day Excursion

Spend Saturday on a guided trip to Kamakura, the historic coastal town famous for the Great Buddha, temples, and quiet streets. Transport, entrance fees, and lunch are included.

πŸ—ΊοΈ Highlights

Great Buddha (Daibutsu), Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, Komachi-dori shopping street.

πŸ“Έ Experience

Learn history and local stories while enjoying scenic photo spots by the sea.

🚍 Logistics

Round-trip from Tokyo with English-speaking guide and scheduled free time.

Sample Weekly Schedule

Each day follows a balanced rhythm: mornings are dedicated to academics and learning at LUJ, afternoons feature hands-on cultural activities, and late afternoons to evenings are free time - usually spent with your homestay family.

Day Morning (Academics 9:00 - 12:15) Afternoon (Activities 14:00 - 17:00)
Mon Part 1: Elementary/Intermediate Japanese - introductions, survival phrases
Part 2: Manga & Anime Studies - introduction to visual storytelling
Tea Ceremony experience
Tue Part 1: Elementary/Intermediate Japanese - daily-life expressions & etiquette
Part 2: Manga & Anime Studies - character design basics
Calligraphy workshop
Wed Part 1: Elementary/Intermediate Japanese - reading & writing basics
Part 2: Manga & Anime Studies - narrative techniques
Kimono experience & photo walk
Thu Part 1: Elementary/Intermediate Japanese - practical conversation
Part 2: Manga & Anime Studies - cultural context & pop culture
Manga drawing workshop
Fri Micro-Credential Final Assessments & Awarding Ceremony Sushi Making Experience
Sat Full-day Kamakura excursion (lunch included)
Sun Free day to explore Tokyo or depart (optional self-guided activities)

The sample weekly schedule is subject to change.

What's Included

These items are included in the program fee:

8Γ— morning classes at LUJ
Daily cultural activities (Mon - Fri)
1 week of accommodation in homestay
Full-day Kamakura excursion with lunch
2 LUJ-issued micro-credentials
On-site support from Eduvel coordinators

What's Not Included

These items are not included in the program fee:

International flights to/from Japan
Travel insurance (required)
Weekday lunch (many local restaurants are available near campus)
Airport transfers (unless arranged separately)
Personal expenses (souvenirs, snacks, shopping, laundry, etc.)

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is this program designed for?
Adult learners, Japan culture enthusiasts, and partner schools or universities looking for a structured, immersive week in Tokyo.
Do participants need prior Japanese language experience?
No. The program is English-supported, and the Japanese class is designed to be accessible while still engaging for learners at different levels.
What are the accommodation options?
Homestay is the standard option because we believe true cultural immersion happens through everyday life - sharing meals, conversations, and routines with a local Japanese family. Private residence accommodation is available upon request (subject to availability and season).
Can we choose different classes instead of Elementary/Intermediate Japanese or Manga & Anime Studies?
Yes. Other micro-credential course options are available. Eduvel can share the current list and help you select the best fit for your group.
What level of support is provided during the week?
Eduvel coordinators provide on-site support throughout the program, including guidance for daily logistics and smooth program delivery.
What is a typical day like during the program?
Mornings focus on academic classes, followed by cultural activities, workshops, or guided experiences in the afternoon. Evenings are generally free or reserved for light group activities.
Is the program physically demanding?
No. Activities are designed to be accessible and balanced. Most involve light walking and everyday movement around Tokyo.
What language is the program conducted in?
The program is primarily conducted in English, with Japanese used as part of the learning experience during classes and cultural activities.
How many participants are in each cohort?
Group sizes are kept relatively small to ensure a high-quality learning experience and meaningful cultural interaction.
Are meals provided during the program?
Breakfast and dinner are typically included with homestay accommodation. Weekday lunches are not included, allowing participants to explore local restaurants near campus.
What happens if I need help during the program?
Eduvel staff and local coordinators are available throughout the week to support participants with logistics, communication, and any unexpected issues.

Ready to Experience Tokyo?

Request detailed program information, pricing, and available dates for your group.