7 Myths About Studying Abroad in Japan — Busted

Choosing to study abroad in Japan is a great and highly recommended way to explore the country's unique culture, challenge yourself and make friends from diverse backgrounds and nationalities. But watch out! Many of the most common myths about studying in Japan aren't entirely accurate. Read on for the facts to help you decide.

Myth #1: You need to speak fluent Japanese.

Some universities in Japan offer programmes taught entirely in English, along with language courses to help international students learn Japanese. For example, Waseda University in Tokyo offers fully English-taught programmes across 7 schools and 12 graduate schools. Its Centre for Japanese Language is also one of the best and largest Japanese-language institutions in the country, so you can develop your Japanese alongside your studies.

Myth #2: You'll eat sushi every day.

Unless you're cough very boring, you definitely won't. While sushi is delicious and easier to find — and cheaper — than anywhere else in the world, there's a huge range of other Japanese cuisine beyond it. Whether you're after yakiniku, ramen, shabu-shabu or sweets, you'll find plenty of food to delight your taste buds. A note for those special occasions: Tokyo actually has twice as many Michelin-starred restaurants as Paris…

Myth #3: Studying in Japan is too expensive.

Even at private universities, tuition in Japan is typically around US$12,000–18,000 per year — generally far lower than what the US and UK charge international students. Waseda University estimates that the annual cost of living for a student in Tokyo is about US$15,000, including accommodation, food, utilities, books, phone and other expenses. Over half of Waseda's current international students receive scholarships.

Studying in Japan is a worthwhile investment. Japan's abundance of universities, strong job prospects and high quality of life helped Tokyo earn third place globally in the QS Best Student Cities 2016. The combined metropolitan area of Kyoto, Osaka and Kobe (Keihanshin) also ranked 21st.

Myth #4: If you're not familiar with Japanese etiquette, you'll be an outcast.

This may be one of the most common — and most untrue — myths about life in Japan as a foreigner. There's a widespread belief that Japan's social codes are so complex that no matter how hard you try, locals will still find you rude.

In fact, according to TripAdvisor reviews, Tokyo residents have been rated the kindest locals in the world, with a friendly, welcoming attitude towards international visitors. That doesn't mean you shouldn't make an effort to learn local customs and traditions — after all, that's part of the fun of travel — but don't worry too much about accidentally doing something wrong.

Myth #5: You'll have to sacrifice educational quality.

With an impressive 39 universities featured in the QS World University Rankings 2016/2017, Japan is truly a leading destination for international study. Waseda University ranks 201st globally and also performs strongly in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2016. Its modern languages ranks in the global top 50, it ranks in the top 100 for sociology, politics and international studies, and it sits within the top 200 in 18 subjects including business and management, law, economics, mechanical engineering and chemistry.

Myth #6: International students in Japan will feel lonely.

Tokyo is the most populous city on Earth, with global reach comparable to London, Paris and New York City, and it hosts international professionals and students from around the world. Whether you're homesick or need advice on visa renewals and work permits, your university in Japan will be there to help. With more than 5,000 international students on Waseda's campus, you won't feel like the only newcomer in the country.

Myth #7: You'll meet kawaii (cute) robots on your way to class

There's actually a pretty good chance this one is true. Whether in department stores or at the National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation, you may well encounter robots during your time in Japan. If you're interested in a robotics career, you might like to know that Waseda University is particularly famous for its research in this area — it created the world's first bipedal humanoid robot!