Description

Nationwide surveys consistently rank Sapporo as one of Japan's most desirable places to live. Sapporo is located on the Ishikari Plain, which is home to the island's indigenous people, the Ainu. Japanese settlers came to Ezo, as Hokkaido was then known, in the 7th century.

Sapporo is surrounded by mountains and offers five national parks that feature volcanoes, lakes, and hot springs and is just 30 minutes from the coast. Sapporo has its own symphony orchestra, an art park featuring sculptures, a zoo, art galleries and craft studios, restaurants and cafes, and a variety of nightclubs.

From Sapporo, it is easy to explore the rest of Japan with a nearby airport and train service featuring the world-famous bullet train, Shinkansen.

BCA Sapporo introduces students to Japanese culture and offers an intensive language program. The BCA program begins with an extended study tour to different parts of Japan. Students then take a language assessment. For beginning Japanese students, courses are in English (or in Japanese with a translator). Students who have adequate Japanese can enroll in regular courses at Hokusei Gakuen University.

On campus, BCA students have the opportunity to make friends by joining some of the many student clubs and organizations including rugby, tennis, flower arranging, Japanese archery, and many more.

One of the benefits of studying abroad with BCA is the excursions offered to the students throughout the semester. These short trips are included in the program fee.

Each semester, BCA Sapporo students go to the Honshu region of Japan for a study tour. On this trip, you will encounter the old, traditional Japan of Kyoto and Nara and marvel at the rebuilt Japan in Hiroshima. Hokusei Gakuen University also offers additional free excursions and cultural opportunities throughout the term, including a visit to the hot springs and classes in calligraphy and traditional Japanese tea ceremonies.