My Exchange at Keio University
How I Found Out About the 360 International Exchange Programme
I first discovered the 360 International Exchange Programme through the University of Auckland’s global exchange office and online resources. I was particularly drawn to Keio University in Tokyo, Japan, and applied for the Māori and Pacific Students Equity Award.
First Impressions
Upon arriving in Tokyo, I was struck by the fast-paced lifestyle, yet there was a strong sense of tradition and order. Keio University’s campus was a unique blend of modern and historic architecture, and the warmth of the students and staff made me feel welcome despite the initial culture shock.
Accommodation
I stayed in Tsunashima SST International Dorm near the Hiyoshi campus. The rooms were compact but well-designed, and having a private bathroom was a plus. As my courses were on the Mita campus, it was a long commute each day (around 2 hours total), but I appreciated the convenience of living close to key transport hubs (Shin-Yokohama Station). My accommodation helped me settle quickly into daily life.
Orientation at Host University
Keio’s orientation was thorough, with a focus on integrating international students. The Global Passport Program Workshop organized by the Faculty of Business and Commerce was an excellent introduction to both the academic and cultural aspects of life in Japan. It also provided great opportunities to meet other exchange students and faculty members.
Courses and Teaching at Keio University
The courses I took—ranging from Spoken Japanese to Marketing Data Analysis and Japanese Competition Law—offered unique perspectives on both global and local markets. My Macro Environment and Marketing course was particularly insightful, allowing me to complete a capstone project that analyzed public health issues among Japanese youth. The teaching style emphasized both theoretical and practical knowledge, which helped deepen my understanding of the Asian business environment. There is also a high importance placed on attendance.
Host City: Tokyo
Living in Tokyo was an incredible experience. The city offers a perfect balance between modernity and tradition. Whether it was visiting Shibuya’s bustling, chaotic, and often drunken streets or experiencing the serenity of traditional temples, Tokyo kept me constantly inspired. Navigating the city’s complex public transportation system was daunting at first but became second nature after a few weeks.
Cost of Living Compared to Auckland
While Tokyo is generally known to be more expensive than Auckland, I found daily necessities like groceries and eating out to be relatively cheap. There are plenty of student discounts and cost-effective ways to enjoy the city if you budget wisely. Also, the dorm rent is far below that of student dormitories at the University of Auckland.
Extracurricular Activities
During my exchange, I participated in Keio’s Global Passport Program and attended several cultural festivals, which gave me deeper insights into Japanese culture. I also travelled around Japan during holidays, visiting places like Kyoto and Hiroshima, which enriched my understanding of the country’s history and diversity. My favourite places to visit were actually Nikko, a city in Tochigi Prefecture, and Kusatsu, an Onsen (hot-spring) town in Gunma.
Life on Campus
Keio’s campus was vibrant, with a strong sense of community. Whether studying in the library or hanging out in the student cafes, I found the atmosphere to be inclusive and intellectually stimulating. The student clubs and societies were also diverse, and I had opportunities to join discussions on various topics, from economics to cultural studies. The biggest event I experienced was the Keio v. Waseda baseball game, the first time I’ve watched the sport beyond Nintendo Wii. Keio lost quite dramatically, but the day was still fun.
Food
Tokyo’s food scene was a highlight. From cheap, delicious ramen shops to high-end sushi, there was always something new to try. The university’s cafeterias offered affordable meals, often featuring both Japanese and Western-style options. However, I highly recommend eating outside the campus in the surrounding Mita area, as you can often get more delicious meals for a similar price.
Highlights of the Exchange
One of the standout moments was completing my Macro Environmental Marketing capstone project. Analysing public health challenges in Japan, particularly in youth engagement, was both academically rewarding and culturally eye-opening. My travels to various cities across Japan and the friendships I formed with both local and international students also made the experience unforgettable.
Challenges
The language barrier was the most significant challenge, especially when trying to navigate bureaucratic tasks or engage in deeper conversations with locals. However, my Spoken Japanese course helped mitigate some of these difficulties, and I gained confidence over time. Adjusting to the pace and rigour of academic life at Keio was another challenge, but the supportive faculty and peer network made the transition smoother.
The heat, my lord, I was boiling. In summer, Tokyo reaches levels of mid-thirties and beyond. I recommend packing some shorts or buying some, and don’t be surprised when you see people sporting umbrellas in the blazing sun.
Advice for Future Students
For future students considering an exchange at Keio University, I would recommend learning basic Japanese before arriving, as it will make everyday tasks easier. Embrace the cultural differences and immerse yourself fully in both the academic and social aspects of university life. Get out of Tokyo—there’s so much to discover in Japan, from natural landscapes to historical landmarks.
Q&A
What were some of the highlights of the academic experience at your host university?
My capstone group presented a marketing project about sexual health in Japan. it was probably the highlight of my academic career – funny, informative and meaningful.
Would you recommend any particular activity/activities unique to your host country or university?
Keio University/Waseda Baseball Game
What are your top 3 tips for future students attending your host university or going on exchange to your host country?
- Learn some basic Japanese before arriving in Japan
- Be open to speaking to others in Class
- Apply for the ability to work part time before entering Japan, It’s free and only one form.
How much did you budget for your exchange? Was this enough? Were there any lessons learned that would help future students budget for their own exchange?
As I was receiving student allowance, this was more than enough to cover food, phone and experiences for a week.
With rent being around $900 NZD a month and transport being around $200 a month. I would say around 5000-6000 for general basic expenses [rent, phone, transport, health insurance] would be a nice number. The price for food or shopping depends on your taste.
If you are making a trip to another place it varies, but a weekend trip can vary from 500-1000 for general expenses depending on location, with additional needed for shopping.
If possible, in total, I would budget between 8000 [minimum] and 10-12k [with flights] to live comfortably, but I cannot provide much advice as I had student allowance.
What are your most significant takeaways from your experience abroad?
- Go Outside Everyday – the best experiences I had was when I was having a rough day, but I still decided to get up, get out of bed, and meet a friend or hang by myself in a cafe.
- Reinvent yourself – being in another country, where no-one knows you is a privilege. You can be who you want to be, without the expectations of others influencing you.
- The world is small – a friend I met by chance in Japan is a friend of my friend of Taiwan and a friend of my friend in Auckland. Building new connections can lead to more than you think
- I’m not an introvert. My entire life I’ve been shy around people, but I realised how much my environment influences me. In New Zealand, I’m quiet and reserved, but once I’m abroad, I feel confident and able to meet others.
Do you want to share anything about travels you did outside your host city/country?
Taiwan – Must Go. It’s the greatest country I’ve been to. [If 360 wants more about Taiwan happy to write],
China – Take advantage of the 15 day visa free.
Korea – Air Premia is a great budget airline.
Travel from Japan is much cheaper than travel from NZ. If you can, take advantage of it.