The Homestay Program offers learning opportunities for both international students and Japanese families who are seeking to broaden their understanding about different cultures. Through homestay experience, students are able to gain an insight into Japanese life by participating in daily routine life.
Since homestay participation requires interaction with family members and observing daily schedules, students should not engage in any type of part-time work, as it often becomes a source of friction.
Success in the program often requires adjusting to household rules (e.g. curfews). Students may feel a certain amount of frustration at being treated as something other than an adult, or they may think that the family is meddling in their lives a little too much. However, students may start enjoying the experience as they understand the Japanese characteristic of "over-care."
By spending time with a host family, students will realize that this unique opportunity of staying with a family is a privilege, and a sense of having home in Japan certainly helps students to overcome some of the difficulties they face in a foreign environment.
Homestay Locations/Commuting:
The locations of host families vary from a short walk to train rides. Since not all the families are located close to the university, students must expect an average of one hour commuting. Student discount on a commuting pass is available.
Room Arrangements:
Students are provided with their own furnished bedrooms. Furniture may include a desk, closet, bedding, etc. Household items such as a washing machine, dryer, and TV are shared with the family members.
Meal Arrangements:
Two meals (breakfast and dinner) on weekdays are provided by the host family. Three meals on weekends are included in the homestay arrangement, though students have to buy their own food, should they choose to go out. Students with severe dietary restrictions are strongly encouraged to stay in the Residence Hall where they can prepare their own meals.
Room Arrangements:
In order to avoid the confusion caused by last-minute cancellations, the homestay placements are not finalized until immediately before the beginning of the semester. Therefore, homestay assignments are announced to students during the orientation week after arrival at Kansai Gaidai.