1. Study Abroad at Kanazawa University Japan

2. Private Accommodations  You get to stay in an inexpensive private room in the Universities International House.  It has everything someone needs for living and studying comfortably, also laundry facilities are on every floor.  It’s a short walk to your classes so it’s very convenient.  You’ll be living with people from all over the world as well as Japanese Students that act as resident assistants.  If you are someone that would have preferred home stay, there are several opportunities over the year you can take part in if you want.  The International house hosts many activities to meet with Japanese students for study or conversation.  Rent is less then half of UB dorms so it’s very economical indeed.

3. Meet New Friends  It’s an International Dorm so you can meet students from all over the world which can be a great experience in itself.  There are so many activities, that you are sure to mingle at some point.  Many require you just check out the Common Area to see what’s going on.  The Common Area also doubles as an optional study room and movie area.

4. Included Activities  Throughout the months you will enjoy many program related activities presented on your behalf, with little or no cost.  This includes a overnight trip to the historical city of Kyoto, an International banquet and Ski trip.  It’s a great way to see Japan and meet people with very little expenditures.

5. Enjoy Kanazawa  Not far from the university are many historical area of Kanazawa including Kanazawa Castle and One of the three famous Japanese Gardens.  Remember Kanazawa is also a city of 500,000 so there is a lot to do even though it’s not Tokyo or Osaka.  Public transportation is great and bicycling is a viable option. Also there is a major train and bus terminal to access other parts of Japan if you like. There’s even a travel agency right on campus.

6. Simple Pleasures  So there is a lot of exploring to do right in Kanazawa, if you enjoy a modern city or a stroll through some of the oldest districts in Japan.  Keeping busy should never be a problem.  BBQs and Fireworks by the river are not uncommon activities.

9. Festivals Galore  There are all sorts of festivals throughout the year. You will see the sights and sounds of the old and new Kanazawa.  A great thing is that you’ll be able to participate in many of these festivals and experience them first hand.  Taiko drumming was a favorite.

10. Food Fun  It’s always fun to try the local cuisine, sometimes you might have to be a bit adventurous but that part of the thrill.  Don’t worry you can also find foods your more accustomed to if desired.  You have many choices for dining, shop and cook for yourself, dine out, or take a stroll to the on campus cafeteria. A good meal is never far away.  Cooking parties are also a frequent occurrence, so try something new.

11. More Activities  Besides learning Japanese you will also have the chance to delve deeper into Japanese and Kanazawa culture by experiencing it first hand.  Examples here are A Tea Ceremony and the making of pottery by the local and internationally renowned Ohi master.

12. Activities Continued  There are so many things you can take part in on campus or off, that your sure to find something that interests you.  There is always someone available to guide in the right direction if your not sure what you want to do, as well as frequent postings of events.  In general there is always someone available to help you with any matter that my come up, so don’t hesitate to ask the staff or resident assistants.

13. Even More  You might want to learn how to make Japanese Sweets, Traditional Flower Arrangement, or learn about Traditional Lacquer ware techniques.  Or you might want to check out Japanese Martial Arts.  There are many school clubs available if you wish to participate.  This just a part of the experience I have had in Kanazawa, yours could be similar or different depending on what you find interesting. All I can say is that It was an unforgettable year that has greatly enhanced my life.

14. Kanazawa Japan For More Information Contact Study Abroad