Japan Winter 2027 (January 17-26, 2027)
Explore the rich and well-preserved cultural heritage of Japan through the shrines, temples, gardens, and vibrant city streets, while discovering how classical Japanese poetry gives voice to these spaces. Grounded in the philosophy of ma - the beauty found in pause, interval and suggestion - this program connects architecture, landscape and poetic form, revealing how meaning emerges through simplicity and restraint. Your journey begins in Kyoto, where centuries-old temples and sleek modern designs coexist; visits include Kinkakuji, the Golden Pavilion, along with day trips to Nara Deer Park, Mount Yoshino, and Okayama.-landscapes long celebrated in haiku and tanka. The program then moves to Tokyo, with visits to Hakone Shrine, Lake Ashi and Fukagawa, highlighting the dynamic interplay of tradition and modernity. A free day at the end of the tour offers time for reflection and exploration.
Cost: $3,074 per per student with a single room, or $2,638 with a roommate. Does not include flight to-from Japan, class fees for Global Studies 35, lunch and dinner most days. Breakfast is included most days. Please share with your friends and family!
Course Descriptions
Global Studies 35 - Field Studies Abroad - Japan- 1 unit
On this field study, students will discover the beautiful city of Tokyo and Kyoto. Students will learn about the history and cultural traditions and explore locations of unique interest.
Faculty Biography
As a tenured faculty member in our Design Technology Department, Professor Hao knows
that great design isn't just learned in a studio - it's experienced in the world.
Having started her own collegiate path at a community college before majoring in design
at Cal State Long Beach, she is living proof that your journey can take you anywhere!
Professor Hao turned her childhood love for drawing and designing her room into a
degree from Cal State Long Beach and a massive career in interior design. She's done
it all: from designing high-energy entertainment spaces and corporate offices to creating
peaceful "healing environments." Now, she's back in the classrooms teaching everything
from the magic of Color Theory to hands-on Design Studios.
Fun Fact: Having moved from South Korea to the U.S. at age 9, Professor Hao has a lifelong passion for travel and culture. She is thrilled to share her dream of living abroad with you as you explore Japan together!
Program Details
Program Cost
| Expense Type | Cost | Deadline |
|---|---|---|
|
Program Fee Accomodations, some ground transportation, cultural excursions, some meals in the country and mandatory iNext travel insurance. |
$3,074 single room $2,638 with a roommate
*Airfare not included. Students will purchase their airfare separately. |
Program fee: $3,074 Bring (check or money order), passport, & mandatory forms to the International Education Center. Checks should be made payable to: Santa Monica College Student Services Center 3rd Floor |
|
Airfare |
$1,000-$1,500 |
Flying into Osaka on January 17 Flying out of Tokyo on January 26 |
|
Tuition for 1-Unit Course |
$46 Resident Tuition $374 Non-Resident Tuition |
International Education Center will register you for the class before program departure. You must pay tuition before departure. |
|
Meals |
$727 (Estimate) lunch and dinners |
There are many lower end and higher end options for meals in Japan. This estimate is based on less expensive choices. |
|
Total Estimated Costs |
$4,847 |
|
Additional Costs
| expense type | cost | deadline |
|---|---|---|
|
Personal Spending Money |
$500 (Estimate) |
Money for buying souvenirs, doing activities not featured in the program itinerary, etc. |
| Airport Transportation |
$120 |
Rideshare, taxi, etc. |
|
Passport |
$145 (U.S. Passport fee) |
Please allow up to 6 weeks for processing of a new passport. |
Learn how you can lower your cost to study abroad by applying for scholarships.
This program is on a first come, first served basis. There are 24 spots available. Once you complete your application, you secure your spot by submitting your deposit and required forms filled out and signed. Your final acceptance into the program will be based on your ability to provide proof of your airline ticket by the deadline.
Payment Options for the Japan Program
Personal checks, Cashiers checks, Money Orders - No cash or credit cards.
Dates to Remember
| Title | Dates | More information |
|---|---|---|
| Informational Sessions |
April 9, 2026 at 5pm zoom session April 23, 2026 at 5pm zoom session |
Meeting ID: 854 9465 3688 Passcode: 640498 |
|
Application Deadlines and Payments |
October 2, 2026 |
Complete your application and pay deposit Bring (check or money order), passport, & mandatory forms to International Education Center. Check payable to: Santa Monica College Students Services Center 3rd floor |
|
Mandatory Forms |
Overseas Release Form and Medical Release Form due at time of first deposit. Passport is due at time of first deposit. |
Eligibility Requirements
- Be a current SMC student and take the offered courses. If you are not currently an SMC student, you may apply online
- All participants must be 18 years old by November 16, 2026.
- Have a valid passport by November 20, 2026.
- Students must not have any disciplinary infractions.
- If the College is required to evacuate a participant because of injury, illness, or other inability to conclude the trip, the participant shall be responsible for the costs of doing so.
- U.S. citizens do not need a visa to travel Japan. If you are a permanent resident or SMC F-1 visa student, please contact the Consulate of Japan to see if you need a visa.
- Pay all program fees and tuition by the deadline. If you are a financial aid recipient, check with the Financial Aid office about using financial aid to your tuition and fees.
For additional questions, please email: studyabroad@smc.edu