Japanese Class: Japanese Language Classes (Compulsory)
Class levels & Main Textbooks
- Intermediate-Low or above (2 classes)
- Main textbook : [ Nakama 2nd edition ] Heinle & Heinle Publishers
[ An Integrated Approach to Intermediate Japanese ] Japan Times. - Intermediate-Mid or above (2 classes)
- Main textbook : [ An Integrated Approach to Intermediate Japanese ] Japan Times.
- Advanced-Low (1class)
- Main textbook : [ Authentic Japanese: Progressing from Intermediate to Advanced ] Japan Times.
- Advanced-Mid or above (1class)
- Main textbook : [ Authentic Japanese: Progressing from Intermediate to Advanced ] Japan times.
More specific information about the course description. 
Class size : 10 students
*Class composition and class sizes are subject to revision
Class instruction
The intermediate classes will emphasize speaking and listening skills, while the upper levels receive emphasis on all skills. Each morning, announcements and short speech, etc., are duties to be shared with classmates in turns. Participants will also learn how to write and deliver effective public speeches.
Japanese Class: Independent Study
This independent study is designed to enhance your Japanese proficiency by accomplishing your individual study objectives in addition to the HIF basic Japanese classes. The study objectives, method, timelines, and the tangible result should be discussed and defined by consulting with your instructor. You may choose a theme related to your interests provided that you can finalize and submit the outcome before the Summer Program is completed. You are required to report the progress of your independent study to your instructor at least once a week so that you can refine your work. The instructor will evaluate the work including the final product. Participants are expected to prepare outlines for their independent study in advance.
Japanese Only Rule(日本語だけルール)
To maximize learning in the program, all participants must observe the Nihongo-Dake (Japanese Only) Rule from the moment they enter designated areas of the HIF building.
Special Lectures (Three lectures in total)
Participants will attend three special lectures introducing diverse aspects of Japanese culture. Former special lectures topics included Japanese religion, Japanese linguistics, and Homestay, etc.
| Prof. Seiichi Makino | Princeton University |
| Prof. Wesley Jacobsen | Harvard University |
| Prof. Mutsuko Endo Hudson | Michigan State University |
| Prof. Peter Ackermann | University of Erlangen-Nürnberg. |
| Mr. Binard, Arthur | Poet |
Special Events
Several events are scheduled. Omuma field trip is to establish rapport with other participants. Other events, such as the speech contest, and the presentation of independent study are related to your Japanese language classes.
Japanese Culture Classes
Language acquisition and cultural understanding go hand in hand. This program offers classes in calligraphy, flower arrangement, tea ceremony, traditional confectionery making, igo, Japanese cooking, Japanese dance, as well as kimono culture and etiquette. These classes are taught by qualified and experienced teachers who are qualified in those fields. Participants may be required to pay for the materials used in some classes.
Homestay
The eight-week homestay provides you with full immersion in Japanese language and Japanese culture. Host families volunteer to participate in the program not merely to accommodate you but also to help you to practice your Japanese skills and deepen your understanding of Japanese culture. The homework and class topics are also expected to reflect your homestay experience. Please note some host families accommodate more than one student and they provide each one with a individual room.
Exchanges with Local People
Many of the optional activities allow participants to meet local Japanese people and experience Japanese society outside of classroom and homestay settings.
- Appearance in local radio shows
- Appearance in the outdoor spectacle of Hakodate history
- Club activities at high schools (Judo, Kyudo, etc.)
- Elementary school visit
- Exchange with disabled people
- Japanese harp concert
- JICA workshop with students from Hokkaido University of Education
- Hakodate Old Magistrate's Building tour
- Guided tour of the Jomon Archeological Site with students from Hakodate University
- Participation in Hakodate port festival
- Prosecutor's office and court visit
- Soba and Mochi making hosted by Hakodate Rotary Club
- Traditional Japanese Instruments and folk music
- Writing articles in Japanese for a local newspaper and STEP-UP a monthly cultural information magazine.