In Summer 2017, the dream of launching an IUHPFL program in Japan became a reality in the city of Osaka, which is located in Osaka Province on the eastern coastline of the country's largest island, Honshu. This program is open to students who are Indiana high school sophomores, juniors, and seniors at the time of application and who will have completed Japanese Level II or higher prior to departure. Speaking only Japanese for the entire 5-week experience is a requirement.

See our Program Site Blogs to learn more about what happens during programs.

Due to the ongoing Covid pandemic, the Osaka Program did not take place in 2020, 2021, or 2022. Conditions are uncertain for 2023. We hope to restablish the IUHPFL Osaka program in the near future!

Japan

Osaka

Osaka was selected because of its unique blend of high-tech modernity and old world charm. There is a rich and ancient history throughout Japan, and evidence of settlements in the Osaka region dates back to the 5th and 6th centuries BC. The city has been a thriving economic and cultural center for more than 2,000 years and home to great Samurai warriors and their families, including General Toyotomi Hideyoshi, who initiated the construction of Osaka Castle in 1583. Today, Osaka remains a thriving cultural center and boasts a wide variety of arts and entertainment venues, theatres, restaurants, and fine retailers.

Students live in a quiet suburban area outside of the downtown area with carefully selected host families. Classes are designed and led by IUHPFL Instructors and held at Osaka High School. Outside of class, program participants have opportunities to mingle with local students in a variety of clubs and activities. Excursions to famous destinations such as Kyoto, Koyasan, and Tokyo enhance students' understanding and appreciation of Japanese history and culture.

We would not be able to present this wonderful opportunity without our partner provider for this site, CET Academic Programs.