Hirosaki University - Education Abroad

About the Program

At Hirosaki, you’ll have ample chance to practice your Japanese skills and learn more about the gorgeous and intricate culture of Japan. Get ready to live in a location that reflects the true essence of the country in the forms of its many traditions, festivals and folk crafts.

Apply to Hirosaki University

Deadline to Apply for Spring 2026

October 15, 2025

195Days

16Hrs

19Mins

49Secs

Deadline to Apply for Fall 2025

Thursday, March 13, 2025

0Days

0Hrs

0Mins

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Academics

Visiting students enroll in special courses for foreigners in the fields of Japanese Language, Culture and Art. No prior knowledge of Japanese language is necessary. Students can take courses in Japanese at the introductory, intermediate and advanced level. Each semester a course on Japanese culture is taught in English. Supplemental independent study courses may be arranged through the Hirosaki University Faculty of Humanities and Faculty of Education in the fields of literature, communication, art, education, and culture. Visit the website for the International Exchange courses (under Part II: Curriculum).

Transfer Credits:

1 Hirosaki credit= 1 UMaine credit

Majors

Best Suited Majors

Anthropology
History
International Affaires
Art

Other Majors

Language
Cultural Studies

Visiting students may apply for accommodation in the International House or may elect to rent an apartment off campus. Accommodations are quite modest by American standards but large by Japanese standards. The Hirosaki University International Student Office assists students in obtaining housing.

The monthly rent for a single room in the International House is 5,900 Japanese yen (about $80) with a 30,000 yen housing deposit (about $380). Students pay their own utilities for electricity and gas. Off-campus apartments range between 30,000-35,000 yen per month (about $380-$430).

Students are encouraged to arrive a day or two early before orientation starts to rest and adjust to the new time zone. Students book and pay for the hotel expenses. Students who receive the JASSO scholarship and will be living off-campus usually stay two-three nights in a hotel before they move in an apartment. More information on utilities and services provided.

Grading Scale

Campus

You’ll spend your time living in the Aomori prefecture in Hirosaki, a former castle town. Located at the Northern tip of Japan, you’ll have some of the best onsen (hot spring) choices possible. Or, perhaps you’ll spend your time perusing Japan’s biggest apple harvest while viewing the country’s oldest cherry blossom tree. Take a train and spend the weekend in Hokkaido or travel down to Tokyo to explore the city.

Cultural Activities

To those who live there, Aomori prefecture reflects the true essence of Japan in its many traditions, festivals, and folk crafts, and the city of Hirosaki is no exception. Hirosaki is well known for the beautiful cherry and apple blossoms that serve as the basis of the annual cherry blossom festival each spring. Hirosaki is located about three hours north of Tokyo by train.

Student Favorites

Join a student club
Visit the shrine for New Years
Eat at a ramen stand
Take a trip to Mt. Fuji
Go cherry blossom viewing in the spring

Learn More About an Education Abroad at Hirosaki University

Erika Clement

Assistant Director of Education Abroad

Book an Appointment

5713 Chadbourne Hall RM 122
University of Maine
Orono, ME 04469
207. 581.3437 | studyabroad@maine.edu

Yijie Ren

Education Abroad Advisor