Learning about Japan and the world from a multiple perspective, fostering individuals who can share their knowledge of Japan with people worldwide, while also reflecting on their own sensibilities and their position in a wider world.

Japan is entering into a new age in which the presence of people from foreign roots will continue to grow, inevitably moving towards an increasingly multilingual and multicultural society. As the nation transforms itself to becoming a more inclusive society, it is vital to cultivate individuals who can engage both locally and globally and make meaningful contributions across diverse contexts. The Department of International Japanese Studies seeks to foster individuals who, grounded in a broad liberal arts education and equipped with deep knowledge of Japan’s history and culture, are able to communicate Japan effectively to the world in both personal and professional settings. Students will nurture empathy towards others, strengthen their presentation abilities through advanced language proficiency, and cultivate interpersonal skills for building constructive relationships, thereby equipping themselves to contribute to the peaceful coexistence of Japan within the global community.

In the Department of International Japanese Studies, Japanese is the primary language of study. Through the Major Language Program (Japanese), the Core English Program and the Plurilingual Program (English designated as the required language), students build a strong foundation in both Japanese and foreign language skills. At the same time, they take part in the Global Liberal Arts Program, which provides essential knowledge of Japan and global cultures. In addition, students pursue the Global Liberal Arts Bridge Courses, along with classes in Global Japanese Culture Course and Global Japanese Communication Course. The Department of International Japanese Studies cultivates individuals who will promote active exchange between Japan and the world, opening new paths for Japan’s development in the face of challenges arising from declining birthrates and an aging population.

This course explores Japan’s history, literature and culture from a global perspective, allowing students to acquire a deep and more balanced understanding of Japan’s culture and society in today’s changing world. It helps students bring together the fragmented knowledge they have acquired so far and reexamine Japan within a broader context.

Grounded in an international perspective on Japan, this course cultivates skills in intercultural communication, journalism, essay and commentary writing as well as English proficiency for introducing Japan to the world. It also places strong emphasis on nurturing interpersonal communication.