Construction of Japanese Identity: a comparative look at national narratives in Japan and U.S.

Program Dates: August 28-September 18 (EFS Period)

Students will study in Tokyo, Japan and will have access to Waseda University’s network. Students will learn about Japanese history, culture, and art as a foundation to the program focus on identity construction and citizenship policy in Japan and the U.S.

Students will visit monuments and memorials such as the controversial Yasukuni War Memorial and the Edo-Tokyo Museum.  The program will also investigate the changing identity of Japan (what remains and what is shifting) through the eyes of Japanese youth. Site visits include Harajuku and Shinjuku districts and there will be an excursion via express train to nearby shrines and temples. Hiroshima and Kyoto visits are a component  of this three week program.