Exchange Student Adventures in Japan: School Experiences and Insights

Every year, numerous exchange students travel to Japan to experience its unique culture and education system. This journey through time takes us back to the early 1980s, with personal accounts from an exchange student who shares insights from his or her experiences.

Introduction to Japanese High Schools for Exchange Students

Japan houses a variety of high schools catering to international students. This article dives into the experiences of an exchange student who attended several schools in Japan during the 70s and early 2000s, offering a comprehensive look at the educational landscape and the challenges faced by foreign students.

A Personal Journey Through Japanese High Schools

During my stay in Japan from 1979 to 1980, through an organization called AFS, I had the opportunity to attend multiple high schools. Let's explore these educational journeys, starting from the start of my time in Japan.

First School: Kikai High School

Kikai High School, located on Kikaijima in Kagoshima-ken, was my first stop. This single high school serves the entire island and provides a taste of rural Japan. However, its remote location made it less accessible after leaving.

Second School: Daiwa-cho High School

After the first school, I was transferred to Daiwa-cho High School in Hiroshima-ken. This school, despite being quite small with only 200 students, boasted a rural and isolated atmosphere, as the town of Daiwa-cho was subsequently abolished in 2005.

Third School: Baika High School

Another unique experience was at Baika High School in Toyonaka, Osaka. This all-girls, private school offered a structured and rigorous academic environment, but it was welcoming and full of friendly people.

The Prestigious Hida Takayama High School

The most notable school I attended was Hida Takayama High School located in Takayama City, Gifu. My experience here was both challenging and memorable. This was possibly my first ever exchange student experience from the United States. The school's reputation was high, but there were no specific programs for foreign students, making the academic journey demanding.

Current Educational Policies and Challenges

Education for foreigners in Japan has evolved over the years, but the early experiences of the author highlight the importance of language proficiency and support programs. Despite the prestige of the school, the lack of JSL (Japanese as a Second Language) programs and comprehensive support made the academic journey challenging. Schools in cities like Tokyo, Yokohama, Kyoto, and Osaka are better suited for foreigners due to their higher concentrations of international students and dedicated support systems.

Real Life Location of "Your Name"

This area, particularly the Hida region, inspired the film "Kimi No Na wa," or "Your Name," giving a real-life glimpse into the beauty and culture of the region. It was a refreshing change from the bustling cities and offered a more serene environment for study.

Advice and Tips for Future Exchange Students

For anyone planning to become an exchange student in Japan, the author offers some valuable advice:

Choose a school with a strong history of accepting foreign students. Affiliation with programs specifically designed for foreign exchange students, such as JSL programs, can greatly enhance the learning experience. Ensure to have fallback plans, as accessing schools without JSL programs can be very challenging.

Adapting to life in Japan, especially in a school environment, requires a willingness to embrace new cultures, languages, and ways of life. While the journey can be difficult, the rewards of personal growth and cultural understanding are immeasurable.

Conclusion

Japan's high schools provide a wealth of opportunities for international students, each with its own unique challenges and rewards. Whether you are striving for academic excellence or looking for a quiet residential experience, there is a school in Japan for you. Remember, the key to success is preparation, support, and an open heart and mind.