Ritsumeikan University
-Faq-
Last updated: October 17, 2022
Q. Do I need a visa to join this program on-site?
This program is a 2 ~ 5 weeks program so you can enter Japan as a tourist and not by obtaining a student visa. However, the need to apply for a visa depends on which citizenship or passport you have. If you are of a nationality from countries that require a visa, please see the below link for visa application. For other visa related inquiries, please contact your embassy.
Q. Is there visa support?
Yes, we offer visa support for those wishing to join our on-site programs and it (visa) will be issued by the Japanese government.
Q. Is accommodation designated by the university?
Yes, due to safety issues we ask all participants to stay at our designated accommodation. Transportation and meal fee are not included in the accommodation fee. To get to the university from the accommodation you can take the bus which is about a 15 minute bus ride.
Q. Is transportation fee included in the program fee or accommodation fee?
No, it is not included in the program fee nor the accommodation fee. Kyoto city bus provides a one month free pass ticket which can be purchased for 9,660 JPN yen.
Q. Is there any free shuttle bus from the airport to the accommodation or from the accommodation to the university?
No, there are no free shuttle buses. We kindly ask participants to use public transportation for all trips. Kyoto city bus provides a one month free pass ticket which can be purchased for 9,660 JPN yen. For access to the campus please see here.
Q. When should I arrive in Japan before the program?
You are free to choose when to arrive in Japan. However, please arrive at our designated accommodation by the day before the program starts which is the check-in day. As for housing for those of you arriving before the designated check-in date, we ask all participants to reserve on their own.
Q. When should I leave Japan after the program?
The check-out date is the next day after the program ends. You may choose to leave the accommodation or Japan anytime after the check-out date. As for housing for those of you staying in Japan after the designated check-out date, we ask all participants to reserve on their own.
Q. Can I receive any credits from this program?
No, we do not provide credits since this is a non-degree program. However, some universities may be able to issue credits so please contact your home university beforehand.
Q. Which diseases do I need to prove in the Health Certificate (one of the required documents for application)?
If you have any disease or allergy or any medications you have, please have a doctor write on the Health Certificate for you with a doctor signature. Please note that some medicine cannot be brought into Japan by law.
Q. What is the level of the online Japanese program?
Our online program is for zero beginner to N2 level Japanese learners. For details check here.
Q. What is the level of the on-site Japanese program?
Our on-site program is for zero beginner to N2 level Japanese learners. For details check here.
Q. What can I experience in the online program?
You will have Japanese language class where you study Japanese everday with our Japanese teachers. You will also get to interact with our students and practice speaking Japanese in the collaborative learning class. Details
Q. What can I experience in the on-site program?
You will be enrolled in an intensive Japanese language class and also participate in Japan Studies classes to learn about Japanese culture. In Japanese Studies, you will have chances to take part in field works in the city of Kyoto and go around World Heritage Sites. Details
Q. Where is the campus located at?
Our campus is located in Kyoto City, Japan. It is of walking distance to World Heritage Site Kinkaku-ji and Ryoan-ji Temple. There is everything you need from shopping areas, karaoke, neko-cafe, restaurants, and much more all within 30 minutes by bus. There are also 17 World Heritage Sites and more than 2,500 temples and shrines within the city. See here for a map.
Q. Is the certificate of enrollment same as certificate of registration?
Yes, they are the same thing. Please have it issued by your home university and submit during application.
Q. Can I join the program alone?
Yes, you are welcome to join alone! Joining with your friends is also welcome!