Kyoto is a city where many foreign students come to study due to its fascinating history and culture. For residents of Kyoto, interacting with foreigners is a part of their daily life. Therefore, Kyoto offers many opportunities for language exchange, as Japanese and foreigners living in this town can teach each other their languages.

Many universities in Kyoto have international exchange centers that regularly hold language exchange and cultural events. These are good study opportunities, and they also provide a great place for both international and Japanese students to make new friends.

Japanese language classes and language exchange events are also often held at the Kyoto International Community House “kokoka”, which is supported by the city of Kyoto. Here, students can interact with Japanese people in a comfortable atmosphere, improve their Japanese language skills, and learn about the local culture and customs of Kyoto. Through their events, international students can easily understand the culture of Kyoto and deepen their relationship with locals.

For more information, please visit the kokoka website: https://www.kcif.or.jp/web/en/classes/japaneseclasses/

・Cafes in Kyoto

Kyoto is usually known for its matcha and tea ceremonies. But did you know that Kyoto is the town in Japan where the most amount of coffee is consumed? Because of this, there are many cafes with unique atmospheres all throughout Kyoto, each with its own style and story to tell. When you walk through the streets of Kyoto in the morning and find a new café, you can strike up a casual conversation by asking the barista what their recommendation is for the day is. You can also experience the kindness of Kyoto’s local community by chatting with other nearby customers about their favorite coffee or dessert. Some cafes even offer tasting events, latte art classes, and other opportunities for coffee lovers to get together. If you are also a coffee lover, by all means, join in!

・Kyoto Guide Club (Kyoto Annai Club)

The Kyoto City International Foundation regularly organizes tours where they introduce foreigners to the charms of Kyoto while walking around the city. In spring, you can enjoy cherry blossoms at Kyoto Gyoen National Garden, and in summer you can visit the greenery-filled Kibune Shrine. You can also visit Fushimi Inari-Taisha at night and admire the night view of Kyoto from there. In autumn, you can enjoy the change of seasons by viewing Momiji (maple) leaves and visiting famous old stores with long histories. Finally, in the winter you can listen to traditional Rakugo. By touring Kyoto together with the Kyoto Guide Club, you will not only deepen your knowledge of Kyoto in a fun way, but you will also have the opportunity to interact with local volunteers and other foreigners.

For more information, please see the latest information on the kokoka website: https://www.kcif.or.jp/web/en/news/

Kyoto offers a wide variety of opportunities for international students to interact with locals. Make sure to be open and welcoming when such an opportunity presents itself to you. I hope you will be able to make many Japanese friends and have a wonderful study abroad experience in Kyoto!

(Text: Anqi Zhang, Graduate Student, Kyoto University)