FALL experiences are now open. Apply here!
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 thinking about ways in which Buddhism and/or Shintoism connect with anime and Studio Ghibli film; rituals in everyday life; fashion, music, or sports; and public spaces like cafés and train stations. 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 are waived. Learn more about the course here.
Note: To participate in the international experience, you must:
- Register for the course through its respective department.
- Submit your UTM Abroad application by the required deadline.
- Meet all scheduled payment deadlines.
- Complete all pre-departure requirements, including attending all mandatory in-person preparation sessions and post-trip debrief.
*Check with the department for potential alternative options, changes or updates.
Trip - Japan Fall Reading Week
Approximate Travel Dates: October 24 - November 1, 2026. (Plus or minus two days before and after - exact dates and times will be communicated to you at the pre-departure session).
Why Participate?
Step outside the classroom and experience your studies in motion. Joining Professor Ken Derry and your peers in Japan isn't just travel - it's an opportunity to push your boundaries, discover new perspectives, and create unforgettable memories.
- Dive deep into Japan's rich religious traditions and vibrant culture, watching your coursework come alive in real-time.
- Engage in critical, hands-on exploration of global religious studies in a dynamic, real-world setting.
- Stand out to future employers by adding invaluable global experience to your academic portfolio.
Sample Itinerary*
*The itinerary is subject to change based on the availability and requirements of the program.
Accommodation: Hotels and Ryokan (traditional Japanese inn)
Transportation: Public Transportation
Meals: Hotels and Local Restaurants
The following is a sample schedule and is subject to change:
The program begins with group travel from Toronto to Tokyo, where participants will settle into the city and take part in a welcome dinner and expectation-setting session. While in Tokyo, the group will explore a variety of neighbourhoods and cultural sites, including Akasaka, Asakusa, Shibuya, Akihabara, and Roppongi. Highlights include visits to Senso-ji Temple, Nakamise shopping street, local department stores, and opportunities to experience Tokyo’s food, culture, and city life, along with group reflections and discussions.
The group will then travel by shinkansen (bullet train) to Kyoto to explore Japan’s rich cultural and historical heritage. Planned activities include visits to Kiyomizu-dera, Kinkaku-ji or Ginkaku-ji, Nishiki Market, and Nijō Castle, as well as a traditional kimono tea ceremony with Kyoto sweets. A day trip to Nara will include visits to Nara Park, Todai-ji Temple, Kasugataisha Shrine, and Kofuku-ji, followed by a group dinner and reflection.
The final portion of the trip includes a stay at a traditional ryokan, a visit to Fushimi Inari Taisha, and a return to Tokyo for a farewell dinner, final reflections, and free time to explore Shinjuku before departing for Toronto.
Payments
Estimated Cost of International Component: CAD $4,690.00 - $4,990.00
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 | Refer to dates in Acceptance email |
| 3rd Installment | $950.00 | Refer to dates in Acceptance email |
| 4th Installment | $950.00 | Refer to dates in Acceptance email |
| 5th Installment | $950.00 | Refer to dates in Acceptance email |
| 6th Installment | $250-$940** | Refer to dates in Acceptance email |
**Final Installments will be determined based on the final trip cost.
*Installment deadlines subject to change. Final payment deadlines will be communicated via email once you have been accepted into the program.
Testimonials
- See what your peers say here.
Need To Know
- The cost and itinerary are subject to change. The information on this page is for general reference and is subject to change. Specific and up-to-date details regarding itineraries, the final cost, and additional program requirements will be communicated through email and at the pre-departure sessions. Please refer to those communications for the most accurate and up-to-date information. If you have any questions or need clarification, we encourage you to contact UTM Abroad. We look forward to your application and are here to support you on this exciting journey!
- For the full list of Terms and Conditions, please click here.
- 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 sessions which occur in person on campus.