Summer 2027
Experience the exciting mix of old and new in Japan and Taiwan. In Japan, you’ll see the busy modern city of Tokyo, the ancient temples of Kyoto, the historic reminders of Hiroshima, and the famous food culture of Osaka.
Then explore Taiwan, a beautiful island between the South China Sea and the East China Sea. Taiwan blends Chinese and Japanese traditions with modern technology, creating a unique and vibrant culture.
Contact Jody Littleton at jlittleton@parkland.edu or Travis Sola at tsola@parkland.edu for more information.
What You'll Study
All students take Humanities Field Experience (HUM 124), a 3-credit course about Japanese and Taiwanese culture. This class counts toward the Global Studies Emphasis.
You will learn about daily life, history, traditions, food, and major cultural sites in both countries. The course also teaches a few simple Japanese phrases, but you do not need to know the language ahead of time.
Activities
In Japan, you will stay in Tokyo, Hakone, Kyoto, Hiroshima, and Osaka. Possible activities include:
- Attend one of Tokyo’s biggest festivals
- Explore well-known sites like Shibuya Crossing, Sensoji Temple, and Meiji Shrine
- Take a day trip to Kamakura to see Japan’s largest outdoor bronze Buddha
- Spend a night in a ryokan (a traditional inn with tatami mats and futons)
- Enjoy a traditional Japanese meal and relax in an onsen (hot spring)
- Ride the shinkansen, Japan’s high-speed bullet train
- Visit famous temples and shrines in Kyoto
- Feed the friendly deer at Nara Park
- Learn about history at the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum and the Atomic Bomb Dome
- Take a ferry to Miyajima and hike in the national park
- Visit an ancient Japanese castle
In Taiwan, you will stay in Taipei, the capital city. Possible activities include:
- Visit Taipei 101 for amazing views of the city
- Explore Taiwan’s famous night markets and try local street foods
- Tour the National Palace Museum
- Hike to the top of Xiangshan (Elephant Mountain)
- Visit landmarks such as Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall and Liberty Square Arch
- Explore the impressive rock formations at Yehliu Geopark, including the famous “Mushroom Rocks”
Financial aid does apply to this program.
Please contact Parkland’s Financial Aid Office for details.
$500 Honors Stipend available to Honors Program students who complete an Honors Project. To join the Honors Program, contact Marsh Jones at mjones@parkland.edu.
Program Includes:
- Lodging with double or shared rooms
- A 7-day JR Pass for bullet train travel
- Experienced faculty tour leaders
Not included: round-trip airfare, 3-credit hours of tuition, activity fees, meals, passport fees, and travel insurance.
Please contact tsola@parkland.edu or 217/353-2159 for estimated program costs.
Eligibility:
To take part in this program, you must:
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Be at least 18 years old
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Have completed 12 credit hours of college-level work
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Have passed English Composition (or equivalent) with a B or better
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Have a 2.5 GPA or higher
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Have a valid passport that does not expire within six months of June 2027
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If you need to renew, please start the process early due to possible delays
For More Information:
Contact Jody Littleton at 217/351-2532 or email jlittleton@parkland.edu.