Helpful Guides
What's Up With Culture?
An online cultural training resource that was developed to support and enhance a student’s ability to make successful cultural adjustments both before going overseas and upon returning home from studying abroad. The focus is generally on the concept of culture and how it impacts one’s ability to understand and function in a new and unfamiliar environment. It concentrates on the skills, attitudes, and behaviors that all study abroad students will find useful, regardless of their destination.
Omiyage Guide
This guide will help you to understand the cultural context of omiyage, the proper way of presenting one, and provide recommendations of effective gifts for your host family
At Home in Japan: What No One Tells You
An essential resource for students of cross-cultural communication and Japanese culture, especially those contemplating studying or living abroad in Japan. This web-based tutorial gives an orientation to Japanese culture and society by allowing you to participate in the trial-and-error learning process of newcomers to Japan.
Packing List
A list of suggested items to pack for your time in Japan. Several items are only applicable to select students (e.g. the Yakkan Shoumei), so disregard when appropriate. You are in the best position to determine what is necessary for you to comfortably live abroad, so please use this only as a model and make additions/omissions as necessary.
Top 10 Do's and Don'ts of Japanese Culture
From Executive Guide to Japan: The ABCs of Japanese Culture & Business Etiquette by Jennifer Jakubowski. Jennifer is the Founder of Bridges to Japan and a Japan Study alum (1991-92).
Mobility International USA (MIUSA)
MIUSA is your resource center for disability-related questions about your international study, work, volunteer, teaching or cultural program. They help you with all the tips and strategies you need to get geared up and out the door on your next journey.
For American Citizens
U.S. Department of State: STEP
The Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) is a free service that allows U.S. citizens and nationals traveling abroad to enroll their trip with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. Enrolling allows you to receive important information from the embassy about safety conditions in Japan and will help the embassy contact you in the event of an emergency.
Absentee Voter Registration
The Federal Voting Assistance Program (FVAP) works to ensure that overseas citizens are aware of their right to vote and have the tools and resources to cast a ballot so from anywhere in the world.