Creative Writing in the Land of Manga
Summer '25 New Program!
The Take-Aways
Real-world Experience
Experience Kyoto through the eyes of a manga artist and visual storyteller. Try out Japanese storytelling techniques and structures to develop your own creative process. Come home with the skills to create original works.
Credentials For Your Future
Topics for your college essays, experience to inform your future career, a creative manga project to showcase your storytelling skills and increasing manga literacy.
Life Skills And New Friendships
Return with greater self-confidence, independence, and improved communication and leadership skills. Enjoy a broader worldview and diverse friendships from across the U.S.
45
Hours Of Expert Instruction
3
Weeks Pursuing Your Passion
1
Life-changing Experience
The Destination
Welcome to Kyoto, the heart of Japanese culture, where the history of manga is preserved.
A city in which creativity is woven into both the traditional and modern, Kyoto is a playground for manga and art enthusiasts. Weave in and out of dozens of manga shops in Teramachi street and contemporary art galleries in Higashiyama ward as well as distinctive museums in Nakagyo ward, like the Kyoto International Manga Museum, which showcases a vast collection of manga from various genres and eras. In the northwest of Kyoto, Kozanji Temple behold the scrolls of the first manga in Japan, created in the 13th century!
With a population of over 1.4 million, Kyoto is Japan’s cultural capital, and there’s so much to explore and experience—the stunning cityscape from the Kiyomizu Temple; the natural beauty of Arashiyama Bamboo Forest and Tetsugaku No Michi (the Philosopher’s Walk); the historic districts that feel like traveling back to ancient Japan; famous landmarks, like the Kyoto Imperial Palace; and unique street art and food. Don’t leave without trying Kyoto-style ramen, Kyoto-style sushi, and tsukemono pickles!
Cultural Awareness
CIEE wants all our students to feel welcomed, supported, and empowered to succeed while studying abroad. Local CIEE staff have provided details about conditions and cultural attitudes that students with specific identities might encounter in Kyoto.
Program Blogs
Warrior Spirit
CIEE students traveled to the Kyoto's Samurai and Ninja Museum to learn about the fascinating history of Japan's two famous warrior groups: samurai and ninjas. From the samurai's sense of... keep reading
Exploring the Wonders of Nara: A Day Trip from Kyoto
On Saturday, July 27, students in the Language & Culture Program Session II embarked on an exciting trip to Japan’s ancient capital, Nara. Just a quick train ride from Kyoto... keep reading
Sample Activities
Just imagine all the fun you’ll have!
- Throw shuriken stars and inspect warrior swords as you get transported back in time at the Samurai Ninja Museum!
- Leaf through the pages of all the manga you want at the world’s first International Manga Museum, located in the middle of Kyoto.
- Visit the home of Japanese pop culture, Akihabara, Tokyo, and the Tokyo Anime Center!
- Explore the lush, green path of the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, as the sun shines through its towering bamboo.
- Channel your energy during a Taiko drumming session as you discover this Japanese artform that’s over 10,000 years old.
- Hop on rides inspired by iconic Japanese anime and manga characters at Universal Studios Japan in Osaka.
Please note activities are based on past programs and subject to change at CIEE's discretion to adapt to local circumstances and participant feedback. Our goal when arranging activities is always to enhance your experience.
Eligibility
- Participants must be 14 years old and above.
- Program open to current high school students—Freshmen, Sophomores, Juniors, and Seniors. Students must have completed Freshman year of high school before traveling on program.
- For scholarship eligibility requirements, please check our scholarship page.
For more information, refer to the detailed Program Essential Eligibility Criteria.
Dates & Fees
Application Fee
$25
Program scholarships and tuition include iNext Travel Insurance, but do not cover the cost of flights. Find additional details about what’s included with your tuition.
More questions? Find answers, get application support, sign up for virtual presentations, or contact us!
Program Fees
CIEE offers the most student support of any provider in its program fee, including an airport greeting, full-time leadership and support, orientation, cultural activities, local excursions, pre-departure advising, and CIEE iNext travel protection with benefits.
Program Balance = $6,450
Total Fees = $6,450Estimated Costs
Students are responsible and manage costs related to travel, meals, books, and personal expenses. Below are estimates for consideration.
Financial Aid
CIEE offers the most grants and scholarships of any study abroad organization, including $8 million/year in travel grants, merit-based scholarships, institutional and MSI grants, and Gilman Go Global Grants.
Program Fees
CIEE offers the most student support of any provider in its program fee, including an airport greeting, full-time leadership and support, orientation, cultural activities, local excursions, pre-departure advising, and CIEE iNext travel protection with benefits.
Program Balance = $6,450
Total Fees = $6,450Estimated Costs
Students are responsible and manage costs related to travel, meals, books, and personal expenses. Below are estimates for consideration.
Financial Aid
CIEE offers the most grants and scholarships of any study abroad organization, including $8 million/year in travel grants, merit-based scholarships, institutional and MSI grants, and Gilman Go Global Grants.
What's Included
Interactive Classes
Housing
3 Meals/Day
(Dietary Needs Accommodated)
All Ground Transportation
(Once In-country)
Optional Flight Chaperone
(Flight Cost Not Included)
Pre-departure Advice and Orientation
Access to WIFI
(Local Set up to Use U.S. Smartphone Abroad)
All Cultural Activities and Excursions
Comprehensive Medical and Travel Protection
24/7 Emergency On-site Support
Our Staff
Conor Aherne
Center Director
Conor’s passion for Japan began 12 years ago when he studied abroad in Tokyo. He holds an MA in Japanese & Asian History from Saitama University and is a specialist in Kyoto history.
Ready to change your life?
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