<p><strong>CIEE – Kyoto, a Top Destination for American High School and College Students</strong></p>

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<p>CIEE Kyoto has recently gained attention for its hands-on programs that allow students to experience authentic Japanese culture. In addition to courses on Japanese language and culture, participants can join the <em>“Japan Hands-On”</em> program, where they learn traditional arts such as tea ceremony, calligraphy, origami, and taiko drumming. The program also offers field trips to UNESCO World Heritage sites like Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion), and Ryoan-ji Zen rock garden, giving students a chance to explore Japan’s history and artistic heritage.</p>

<p>As a <em>“World Culture Free City,”</em> Kyoto actively promotes intercultural understanding and multicultural coexistence. At CIEE Kyoto, students participate in volunteer activities that connect them with local schools and communities — including disaster preparedness workshops and regional events — fostering meaningful engagement with Japanese society. These experiences not only enrich the lives of international students but also open doors for local residents to enjoy genuine cultural exchange.</p>

<p>CIEE’s flexible programs range from short-term to long-term options, with strong support for homestays and language development. Students don’t just study Japanese culture — they live it, expanding their global perspective through daily interactions with the people of Kyoto. In this city where tradition and modern life harmoniously blend, true international education comes to life.</p>
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<p>According to Mr. Connor, Director of the CIEE Kyoto Center, Kyoto ranks as the <strong>6th most popular study-abroad destination worldwide</strong>. Interest among American students has expanded beyond anime and manga to include Japanese cuisine, automobiles, and hands-on cultural experiences. While many CIEE students come from major U.S. cities, Kyoto has become even more popular than Tokyo for those seeking the heart of Japanese culture.</p>

<p>CIEE Kyoto also offers public lectures and workshops open to both students and the general public. Programs such as the <em>“Yokai Workshop”</em> invite participants — including local residents and international visitors — to explore the depth and charm of Japanese folklore and traditions. These bilingual sessions, available in Japanese and English, provide a fun, accessible way to discover Japan’s cultural heritage.</p>

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<p>In collaboration with local educational institutions and organizations, CIEE Kyoto also organizes seminars on topics ranging from traditional arts to contemporary social issues and global exchange. Serving as a hub for lifelong learning, the center continues to enrich the cultural and educational landscape of Kyoto.</p>

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<p>You can read an American student’s personal account of a tea ceremony experience, <em>“Ichigo Ichie — A Once-in-a-Lifetime Encounter,”</em> here:</p>

<p><a href="https://www.ciee.org/go-abroad/college-study-abroad/blog/tatami-floors-neon-nights-how-japan-became-my-home-away-home">https://www.ciee.org/go-abroad/college-study-abroad/blog/tatami-floors-neon-nights-how-japan-became-my-home-away-home</a></p>

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<p>For more information about CIEE Kyoto programs, visit:</p>

<p><a href="https://www.ciee.org/go-abroad/college-study-abroad/locations/japan/kyoto"><span style="font-size:14px;"><strong>https://www.ciee.org/go-abroad/college-study-abroad/locations/japan/kyoto</strong></span></a></p>

<p>Kyoto is now one of the most exciting and popular study-abroad destinations for American high school and college students — and its global appeal continues to grow.</p>

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