Mira – Kansai Gaidai University – Japan
Semester 2, 2022 – Semester 1, 2023
Bachelor of Business – International
On the 19th of August 2022, I finally embarked on my year-long exchange journey to Japan. Having explored the country and developed new skills, I have compiled numerous lifelong friendships and memories along the way.
Location
Kansai Gaidai University is in Hirakata, Osaka. Unlike Tokyo and most of the universities that you can choose in Japan, what makes this special is that it is not located in one of those busy city environments. Instead, you’re located by a suburban units and houses which allows you to properly take in your surroundings at your own pace.
Campus
Kansai Gaidai University has two campuses, Gotenyama & Nakamiya Campus, which are located closely to each other – 10-minute walk.
Both campuses offer cafeterias which have very cheap meals (Less than $5!) or otherwise the 7-elevens too. In addition, the Nakamiya campus also had a Starbucks and McDonalds during my time.
Classes/Study
Typically, you will find most of your English studies to be placed in the Nakamiya Campus while some Japanese studies will be placed in the Gotenyama Campus. Because of this nature, you will find a lot of the local Japanese students having their classes on the Gotenyama Campus. However, no matter which campus you are at, you will undoubtably find local students so do not worry!!
While studying at Kansai Gaidai University, you will be placed in the Asian Studies Program. Unlike other Japanese universities, if you’re trying to reach the minimum requirement with QUT and Kansai Gaidai, your study load will need to consist of one compulsory Japanese unit where your level is decided by a placement test, and 3 other electives. With an amazing plethora of subjects offered at Kansai Gaidai, you will be able to find subjects that are both engaging and informative.
Unlike Australia, many classes record attendance, so beware if you’re trying to skip some classes to enjoy your travels in Japan. These results are translated into a 4.0 GPA system. If you are aiming to stay for a second semester, like me, within the first semester you must achieve a GPA of 2.0 overall while passing all subjects.
You will find that classes are conducted on a much smaller scale and in regular classrooms. Very rarely will you find yourself in a lecture hall. This makes it easier for you to connect with your classmates and lecturers. You’ll find that in some of your classes, local Japanese students will also be undertaking some subject with you so that is also another good opportunity to make new friends.
If you do have any questions, the Kansai Gaidai’s Center for International Education (CIE) Team is incredibly attentive and responsive via phone or email. Otherwise, check out Kansai Gaidai University’s Asian Studies Program website for more information.
Email: kgu-in03@kansaigaidai.ac.jp
Website: https://www.kansaigaidai.ac.jp/asp/
Accommodation
Usually offering a wide range of options for accommodation, due to COVID-19, during my first semester, Kansai Gaidai only offered on-campus accommodation.
This building is called Global Commons YUI, located in Gotenyama campus. Here, both international and local students reside together. With 5 floors, split between girls and boys, each floor consists of multiple units of 20-25 students. There, you have a shared kitchen and living space to interact with other students. If you are an introvert like me or value your private time, you’ll find it relieving that you are provided with your own room with magnetic doors (that you can customise and decorate!).
Other accommodation choices are now provided.
Transport
In Japan, public transport, walking, and biking were prevalent modes of commuting, which encouraged me to learn a new skill—riding a bike (embarrassing, I know)—in situations where I would typically walk.
The campus is a 20-30-minute walk from Hirakata Station, Keihan Line, one of main trainlines within the Kansai region. The other closest station with a 10–15-minute walk, is the Gotenyama Station, Keihan Line. The only difference between the two stations is that Hirakata Station is a main station so all trains on the Keihan Line will stop there.
If you’re familiar with the SUICA card (equivalent of our Translink Go Cards in QLD), in the Kansai area, you can purchase an ICOCA card which can be used on almost all public transport provided in Japan. While travelling on public transport, look out for the “IC Card” label which indicates that you may use your transport card there.
Money
I won’t go heavily in detail here but just some general money tips.
- Japan is a very cash-based society, so it is important to always carry around cash.
- 7-Eleven’s will carry ATMs that allow free international withdrawals for most cards – so keep an eye out for 7-Eleven ATMs.
- There are now a lot of places which do offer up card payments, but tap-and-go is difficult to encounter so carry around your physical card.
- When shopping and using your card, the cashier will ask if you would like to pay in one increment or multiple in which I reply “Ikkai onegaishimasu” means “one time please”.
Tips
- Try everything at least once. You are on exchange! Take every opportunity that you can get, and I can guarantee you, you will have the best experience of your life. I remember being completely terrified of skiing, but I was urged to join my friends who also was a complete newbie like me.
- Socialise as much as possible. Your greatest moments will happen through meeting new friends both locally and internationally.
- Speak in Japanese as much as you can. Even if you have yet to learn the language, when you start picking up small words and phrases, try to utilise it as much as possible. It doesn’t matter if you get it wrong, the important part is that you used it!
- Be and stay curious. No matter where you go, there will always be people who will want to help you if you show curiosity and interest.
