Applications are closed!
The Course
RLG415 – Religion and Culture in Japan
A critical exploration of various links in Japan between broad understandings of “religion” and “culture.” This could include rituals in everyday life; the use of anime in temples (and vice versa); ordinary objects left at shrines; and sumo wrestling. Students have the option to travel to Tokyo and Kyoto with the instructor during Reading Week. This aspect of the course includes an additional cost and application process.
Prerequisites: RLG101H or 2.0 RLG credits*
Learn more about the course here.
Note: Applicants must submit an application for admission into the course to their respective departments and will be required to abide by the corresponding UTM Abroad application requirements and deadlines to participate in the international experience.
*Check with the department for potential alternative options, changes or updates
Trip - Japan Winter Reading Week
Approximate Travel Dates: February 15th- February 23rd, 2025* (exact dates and times are TBD on exact travel flight times)
Why Participate?
During the international component of your course, you will travel with intention, experience the course material in an active environment, and learn in a global setting. Travel with your professor Ken Derry and fellow classmates. You will push your own boundaries, learn about yourself and others, and have an experience you will never forget!
Engage in critical exploration of selected topics in the study of religion
Actively engage with the course material in a dynamic environment and delve into the rich religious traditions and cultural nuances of Japan.
Add international experience to your resume
Receive CCR
Sample Itinerary*
*The itinerary is subject to change based on the availability and requirements of the program.
Accommodation: Hotels, Ryokan (traditional Japanese inns), Shared Dormitories
Transportation: Public Transportation and Private Shuttles
Meals: Hotels and Local Restaurants
The following is a sample schedule and is subject to change:
DAY 1
Arrive at Tokyo Narita Airport (NRT)
Transport from the airport to hotel
Welcome Dinner
First Session: Setting expectations
DAY 2
Breakfast
Meiji Shrine, Meiji Jingu Museum and Inner Garden
Senso-ji Temple
Lunch
Harajuku Walking Tour
Akihabara District
Dinner
DAY 3
Breakfast
Shibuya Crossing and Hachiko Statue
Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden
Lunch
Nezu Museum
Take part in a traditional tea ceremony
Yoyogi Park
Dinner
DAY 4
Breakfast
Travel to Kyoto via Shinkansen (bullet train)
Check into hotel & Lunch
Walking tour of Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine
Visit Kinkaku-ji Temple
Dinner
DAY 5
Breakfast
Visit Kiyomizu-dera
Kyoto International Manga Museum
Lunch
Visit Nijo Castle and Ninomaru Palace
Dinner
DAY 6
Breakfast
Travel to Nara
Visit Nara Park, Todai-ji Temple, Kasuga Grand Shrine
Lunch
Nigatsu-do, Toshodai-ji, and Tofuku-ji Temples
Dinner
Travel back to Kyoto
DAY 7
Breakfast
Free time
Travel back to Tokyo via Shinkansen (lunch on the train)
Watch Kabuki at Kabukiza Theatre
Visit the Plastic Food District
Dinner
DAY 8
Breakfast
Free time
Visit the Imperial Palace and Gardens
Lunch
Travel to Tokyo Narita Airport (NRT) for flight home
Payments
Estimated Cost of International Component: CAD $4,300.00 - $4,700.00
What is Included: Flights, transportation, accommodation, meals, in-country activities associated with the course, and trip-cancellation insurance. Funding Available!
What is NOT Included: Course fees, fees associated with supplemental travel insurance, additional optional tours/activities while abroad, visa applications, medical exams, vaccinations, and any other additional costs.
Funding
Bursaries will be awarded based on demonstrated financial need (not linked to OSAP) as shown in your funding request in your UTM Abroad application. Read more about funding here!
Payment Schedule
Payment | Amount | Due Date |
---|---|---|
1st Installment | $250.00 | With Application |
2nd Installment | $950.00 | October 27th, 2024 |
3rd Installment | $950.00 | November 10th, 2024 |
4th Installment | $950.00 | November 24th, 2024 |
5th Installment | $950.00 | December 8th, 2024 |
6th Installment | $100-$250** | December 22nd, 2024 |
**Final Installments will be determined based on the final trip cost.
*Installment deadlines subject to change. Final payment deadlines can be found via email once you have been accepted into the program.
Need to Know
The cost and itinerary are subject to change.
Applicants must submit an application for admission into the course to their respective departments and will be required to abide by the corresponding UTM Abroad application requirements and deadlines to participate in the international experience.
Fees must be paid in full by the required deadlines.
To prepare for the trip, students attending will participate in the mandatory pre-departure and safety abroad sessions.
Questions?
Email us at utmabroad@utoronto.ca