Reimagining Kyoto
Accommodation
Participants will stay in one of two dormitories located directly beside Kyoto Seika University’s campus. They are fully stocked with appliances, pots, pans, and utensils.
Please note, however, that the dormitories are not hotels or guesthouses. They are not stocked with food or any amenities such as soap, towels, shampoo, etc. You should plan to bring these items with you, or purchase them upon arrival.
→Private rooms
→Shared kitchen, living, and washroom spaces
→Bedding (futon mattress, blanket, pillow) will be provided for each participant
Access
Kansai International Airport (KIX) is the most convenient airport for accessing Kyoto. Whether your first stop in Kyoto is the campus dormitory or another location within the city, we strongly encourage you to avoid public transportation if you are traveling with large bags.
[Kansai International (KIX) → Campus dormitory]
NearMe shuttle service
time: 120 ~ 180 minutes depending on location
cost: 5,000 ~ 7,000 yen depending on time of day and location
This is the easiest, most stress-free way to get from KIX or ITM to the dorms, or any other location in Kyoto! Follow the reservation instructions on the website to reserve a shuttle. Availability is limited, so be sure to book in advance.
[KIX → Kyoto Station]
Limousine Bus
time: ~120 minutes
cost: ~3,000 yen
JR Haruka express train
time: ~90 minutes
cost: 2,760~4,410 yen
l The last Haruka train departs from KIX at 10:16pm.
IMPORTANT
l Do not attempt to hail a regular taxi from KIX to Kyoto. While technically possible, it is extremely expensive (well over 40,000 yen)!
Weather
Kyoto in June is quite warm with high humidity. The rainy season usually starts later in the month, but you should be prepared for some wet weather during your visit.
FAQ
Application
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- Who can apply?
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Kyoto Inspiration is open to university students and recent graduates living outside of Japan. Priority will be given to students from our partner institutions. All majors and fields of study are welcome to apply.
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- Is there an age limit?
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In principle, applicants should be high school graduates. There is no strict upper age limit.
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- What is the total cost of the program?
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The total cost for the program is 250,000 yen and includes the following:
-dorm accommodation
-field trip admission
-workshops
-lectures
Participants are responsible for the following:
-Meals
-international travel
-transportation to/from the airport
-travel/health insurance
-any other personal expenses
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- When will application results be announced?
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Applicants will be notified by Friday, March 28.
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- When do I have to pay?
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Please submit payment in full by Friday, April 11, 23:59 JST.
Program
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- Can I receive credit?
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Kyoto Inspiration is an extracurricular program, so we can’t directly confer academic credit. We will provide a Certificate of Completion.
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- Do I need to speak Japanese?
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English is the primary language of the program. Translation from Japanese will be provided as necessary.
Arrival
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- Do I need a visa?
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Many countries have a visa exemption agreement with Japan, allowing visits of up to 90 days. Check here for more information.
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- Does Kyoto have an airport?
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No, it doesn’t. The closest international airport is Kansai (KIX), in Osaka Bay.
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- How do I get to the dorm?
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The simplest way is to reserve a shuttle van using the NearMe shuttle service. Please refer to the Access section above.
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- Can I arrive via Tokyo?
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Yes, if you prefer. Please refer to the university’s Campus Access webpage for more information.
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- When is check-in?
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All participants must check in on Monday, June 2 between 12pm and 2pm. Please schedule your flights and other transportation to Kyoto accordingly. We will be unable to accommodate alternative check-in times/dates.
Dorm
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- Where will I stay?
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Participants will stay in one of two dormitories directly adjacent to campus, Dohokan and e-Box. The accommodation cost for these dorms is included in the program fees.
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- Are Kyoto Seika¡¯s dorm rooms shared?
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No, each participant will have their own private room.
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- Is Wi-Fi available in the dorms?
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Yes, unlimited.
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- When is checkout?
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On the morning of Friday, June 13.
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- Can I extend my stay?
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All participants must check out from the dorms on June 13.
Kyoto Seika University
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- Where is Kyoto Seika University¡¯s campus?
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Kyoto Seika is located in a valley in the green northern hills of Kyoto.
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- What transportation is available?
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Campus is accessible via a free shuttle bus from/to the Kokusaikaikan subway station on the Karasuma line. This bus runs Monday – Saturday and takes ~10 minutes each way. Campus is also immediately accessible via the Kyoto Seikadaimae train station on the Eiden Kurama line. City buses also run past the university. Central downtown is about a 15-minute ride from the Kokusaikaikan station. Refer to our Campus Access webpage for more information.
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- What facilities are available on campus?
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Program participants will have access to the campus cafeteria for lunch and evening meals. There are also rotating food trucks, a Family Mart convenience store, a café, a well-stocked art supplies store, an on-campus gallery, and a nurse's office capable of providing first-aid.