Shoguns to Skyscrapers: History, Architecture, Commerce, and Sustainability
May 5-May 30, 2027
Shoguns to Skyscrapers: History, Architecture, Commerce, and Sustainability in Japan is a four-week study abroad program that examines both pre-modern and modern aspects of several East Asian cities by exploring Japan’s culture and nature. Students will live and experience Japanese cities, and their spaces, and through the lens of Japanese cultural traditions, they will learn their inherent principles, which mirror, amplify, or represent the cultural norms of Japanese society. They will explore the intersection of historical preservation, architectural resilience, corporate longevity, and environmental stewardship in Japan. Traveling to several cities will broaden students' awareness and understanding of multicultural perspectives of contemporary living. Students will also get hands-on experience learning about traditional Japanese arts: tea ceremony, drumming, pottery, and more.
LOCATION DESCRIPTION
During the trip, following in Shogun’s and samurai footsteps, we will visit many cities and towns: from today’s capital, Tokyo, to Japan’s medieval capital, Kyoto. We will also spend time in Osaka, Hiroshima, Naoshima, Kamakura, and more. We will ride bikes across islands, take ferries to get into one of Yayoi Kusama’s pumpkin sculptures, and explore temples, gardens, and museums. We will also (if she so desires) view Mt Fuji from an onsen.
HOUSING
Students will share hotel or hostel double rooms in every big city. When in the islands we have a house or two for all of us. All breakfasts are included (as long as the time when they are served is followed). There will be 2 dinners and 2 lunches included (bento box style). We will travel from location to location with either a metro, local or bullet trains. In the “Shimanami Kaido” we will bike between islands (required ability to ride a bike). We will go by ferry to the other islands (like Naoshima and Teshima).
*except for the islands, all rooms have a private bathroom and a shower/bathtub.
SEMESTER
Summer A
DATES
May 5-May 30, 2027
COURSES & CREDITS
Students register for a total of 3 credits.
- ASN 3503 - Exploring East Asia: Travel to Japan (3 credits)
PROGRAM COST
The program cost of $5,100.00 includes your housing, all planned excursions, museums, green tea grinding and making, some meals, included program travel (as described in "Housing"), and international health insurance.
The program fee does not include:
- FIU course instructional fees ($205.57/per undergraduate credit)
- Airfare
- Non-refundable mandatory $195 OEA fee
- Meals (other than breakfasts, 2 lunches and 2 dinners)
- Visa (if applicable)
Payment Dates
Shogun to Skyscapers Program fee - $5,100.00 (see table for deadlines)
| Payment | Amount | Deadline |
|---|---|---|
| Deposit | $500.00 | After commitment |
| 1st Payment | $2,300.00 | February 1, 2027 |
| 2nd Payment | $2,300.00 | March 1, 2027 |
| Total | $5,100.00 | |
Cancellation and/or Refund Policy
$500 deposit is non-refundable
$195 OEA fee is non-refundable
All payments are non-refundable.For cancellation policy of FIU tuition and fees, please click here.
PHYSICAL ACTIVITY
This program has intense physical activity. It includes a bike trip for which it is required to be able to ride a bike. Participants concerned about the level of physical activity should contact the faculty director of the program.
APPLICATION THROUGH THE OFFICE OF STUDY ABROAD
Office of Study Abroad Online Application
Deadline March 1, 2027
Non-FIU students must apply to FIU as a Non-Degree seeking student as well.
FUNDING OPPORTUNITIES
- OEA Scholarship
- Destiny Lawson Study Abroad Endowment Scholarship
- Gilman Scholarship Program
- Fund for Education Abroad
- Rupert L. Lyn Capstone Scholarship - Open to Global Learning Medallion students only
There are additional scholarships available to students, such as OEA scholarships, National Prestigious Scholarships, and country and discipline-specific national scholarships. We highly encourage students to apply to as many scholarships as they qualify for. Learn about additional scholarships at Funding - Scholarships.
PROGRAM INFORMATION
Marcela Lopez Bravo
Faculty Director, Shogun to Skyscrapers Japan Program
Email: mlopezbr@fiu.edu
Scholarships available. Contact the FIU Office of Study Abroad for more information:
Email: edabroad@fiu.edu Phone#: 305-348-1913
Note: FIU is not responsible for delays, changes in itinerary, changes in the content and cost of the program or other matters that are beyond their control.