Off-Campus Activities
- [AIU Home]
Student Life
Off-Campus Activities
Akita International University offers its international students a number of extra-curricular activities, designed to improve their understanding of Japanese culture and people, and to provide community outreach opportunities.
Home Visit Program
International students are invited to participate in the “Home Visit Program,” which is arranged by a local international organization. Students are introduced to volunteer host families and can visit their home during the weekends and holidays.


Students who wish to participate in this program might consider bringing a small gift from their home country to give to the host family. Detailed information on this program is provided during orientation upon your arrival.
Field Trips
One of the best ways to deepen understanding of Japan is by getting out of the classroom and experiencing it firsthand. Akita International University arranges many opportunities for international students to experience Japan on field trips. Destinations include local manufacturing plants, a sake brewery, a natto (sticky fermented beans) factory, museums, various festivals and events, hot springs (onsen), and an opportunity to observe local carpenters build thatched-roof huts.
Recent Field Trips:
Meeting the Community
International students will have opportunities to interact with local Japanese citizens. For instance, you will visit elementary schools and junior and senior high schools to share your native language and culture. You will also be invited to community events, such as local festivals and cultural events.
Recent Community Outreach Events:
- Harvesting Rice with Local Community Members
- Teaching English and Playing Games with Local Elementary Schoolers
- Making Traditional Rice Cakes
- AIU Students Participate in International Cooking Party
Useful Links for Life in Akita
Akita city and the surrounding areas have a lot of cultural and recreational activities for students to enjoy. For more information, see any of the following links:
- Akita Convention and Visitors Bureau
Extensive tourism information about Akita city in English, including shopping, museums, restaurants, and lodging.
- Akita JET Wiki
Detailed descriptions of Akita prefecture, maintained by local Japan Exchange Teaching (JET) Program participants.
- AkitaFan.com
Brief English overview of Akita prefecture, its culture, and tourism.
- Akita Prefecture’s Official English Site
Overview of Akita prefecture provided by the local government.
- Akita City’s Official English Site
English overview of Akita city provided by the municipal government.
- Life in Akita Guide
Detailed guide to living in Akita, provided by the prefectural government. Chinese and Korean versions are also offered.


