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Deciding to study abroad in Japan is a mix of huge excitement and a little bit of nerves. We understand the journey because we guide hundreds of students through it every year. For many, a Study Trip is more than just a holiday; it is a “test run” for a new life or a longtime dream coming true.
This guide is designed to walk you through exactly what happens next, answer your biggest questions about making friends, get prepared, and show you what life will actually look like once you land.
Key takeaways
- You are not alone: Most students join our trips solo and are looking to make friends, just like you.
- Community starts early: Our private Discord groups allow you to bond with classmates before you even pack your bags.
- Support is always there: From Student Advisors during the planning stage, to Tour Leaders in Japan, help is available when you need it.
- Growth happens daily: Your trip will be filled with “aha!” moments, like successfully ordering food in Japanese or mastering the trains.
- It’s just the beginning: For many, this trip is a gateway to long-term study or lifelong friendships.
Phase one: the application process
The application process of your Study Trip is designed to be simple, and our team is here to answer your biggest questions about making friends and fitting in.
It is completely normal to have questions during this phase. Our Study Trip Programs Lead, Crystal, notes, many Study Trippers ask about being able to make friends or worry that their English isn’t good enough. Her advice is reassuring: “Most Study Trippers who join are coming alone and looking to make friends. Participants are from all over the world, so many of them speak English as a second language, and everyone just tries their best!”.
During this time, you are never without support. Our Study Trip Tour Leader, Jose, explains that, “Advisors will always be available via email,” ensuring you have the information you need to feel confident.
Phase two: the pre-trip community
The journey begins before you even board the plane, thanks to our private Discord community where you can meet your future classmates.
One of the unique features of our Study Trips is the pre-trip Discord channel. This tool transforms pre-departure anxiety into excitement. According to Crystal, Study Trippers start chatting in the Discord well before arrival. They “start making plans, talk about their fear of flying. And then everyone reassures each other and starts bonding before they even arrive”.
This connection is real — Crystal notes that “usually a lot of Study Trippers meet even on their arrival day for dinner or to go hang out,” meaning you will likely have a group of friends waiting for you the moment you land.
Phase three: life on the ground in Japan
Your first weeks in Japan will be filled with small victories, from ordering your first meal to mastering the train system.
It is okay to feel a little overwhelmed at first; culture shock is part of the adventure. But very quickly, you will experience what we call “aha!” moments. For Crystal, she loves seeing Study Trippers “using Japanese with locals to order food or ask for directions”. She even recalls them “crying at their first temple visit because they were so moved to finally be in Japan.”
For practical skills, our Tour Leader Jose loves watching Study Trippers master the transport system. He says that they “feel like pros when they finally crack the train system.”
- Want to get a head start? Check out our Japan Transportation Guide.
- Ready to speak? Review our Essential Japanese Phrases.
Phase four: future opportunities & long-term study
For many, a Study Trip is just the beginning. It is a “gateway” experience that gives them the confidence to pursue long-term goals in Japan.
Think of this trip as a “test run.” We often see Study Trippers return to study in Japan on a long-term student visa after their trip gives them the confidence they need. Crystal mentions one Study Tripper who has even “joined multiple JLPT trips so that they can keep the motivation to study and improve their Japanese.”
Beyond academics, the connections you make can last a lifetime. Jose shares that people often form friendships that continue years after the trip ends, and in some amazing instances, Study Trippers have even “found the literal person they end up marrying.”
Frequently asked questions about your Study Trip journey with Go! Go! Nihon
- Is it okay if I travel alone?
Yes, absolutely. In fact, most of our Study Trippers travel solo. Our program is designed to build a community from day one, so you will never feel lonely. - Do I need to be fluent in English?
No. While our support is in English, our participants come from all over the world. Many speak English as a second language, and everyone is very supportive of each other. - Will I really make friends before I arrive?
Yes. Our private Discord channel is very active. Study Trippers often coordinate flights, plan dinners for arrival night, and support each other through pre-trip nerves. - What happens if I get lost or need help in Japan?
You will have the support of our Tour Leaders for scheduled activities and emergency situations. We also teach you how to navigate independently so you can explore with confidence. - Can this trip help me move to Japan later?
Many students use this trip as a “test run” to see if living in Japan is right for them. It is a great way to experience daily life before committing to a long-term student visa
Conclusion
From the moment you apply, to the moment you say goodbye to your new friends, your journey is designed to be safe, supported, and life-changing. You are not just visiting Japan; you are joining a community. Your community is waiting for you. Apply for a Study Trip today and start your journey.
