From The Field | 2013-18

One of the main reasons why many students chose to do an undergraduate course in Japanese Studies is because of the opportunity it gives them to study abroad in Japan. I was no different, and looked forward to the experience of not only studying a language and culture that I had a deep interest in, but doing so whilst experiencing the country in ways that no book can teach. As part of my undergraduate course at Oxford Brookes University, I partook in a compulsory exchange year in Japan during my third year. During this time I was lucky enough to receive the JASSO Scholarship, which helped a lot with the expense of doing a year abroad.

As for my Japanese University, I had many choices, but chose to study at Obirin University for a few reasons. The first was due to its proximity to Tokyo. Being on the edge of the border with Kanagawa Prefecture, this was perfect for me, as 30 minutes on the train east would take you to the heart of Tokyo, and 30 minutes West, into the countryside and mountains. This balance was great, as it was close enough to meet with friends in the hustle and bustle of the city when you wanted to, but far enough away to escape for some more peaceful days admiring the beautiful scenery.

I also chose the university due to the large amount of classes it offers to foreign students, ranging from academic- based classes, such pre-modern Japanese history, to more activity based classes, allowing you to partake in some traditional Japanese arts. Obirin University offers exchange programmes for students from foreign countries, not only those majoring in Japanese Studies programmes in their home university, so this meant there were students around from all walks of life. Having this diversity was a great opportunity to mix with people from all different backgrounds.

Whilst at Obirin University, I lived in the International Dormitory. This was only a few minutes’ walk from the nearest station, and a free 10 minute bus ride from the University, making it very convenient. It was also a community based living, and although each student had their own private en-suite room, with a small kitchen, there were larger group kitchens and communal rooms on each floor, to allow for meet-ups and other group activities. The staff also regularly held celebratory events which all were encouraged to join.

One of the most difficult aspects of living in Japan can be the bureaucratic system and the official procedures that need to be undertaken, such as sorting out health insurance and pension, especially if your language is not so good. The offices can be rather daunting, but fortunately the university organised trips for all the foreign students to go and get these things done together, under the guidance of someone who knew the procedures and facilitate them properly.

I spent much of my free time exploring the sights of Tokyo, the museums, and historical sites, as this is where my main interests lie. The whole country is steeped in history, and wherever you go, you can always find something of interest. Having access to the university library and the National Diet library provide me with the resources in Japanese that I would later utilise for my undergraduate dissertation, which has inspired me to continue my studies and pursue a post-graduatecourse at Tokyo University. I will be starting as a research student there for April 2016, with the support of the MEXTPost-Graduate Scholarship, and am very excited for what the future holds.