Details

• Japan
• BaWiSo-23
• Undergraduate
• WS 2025
• Time spent at the partner university: 5 months

1. Preparation

To prepare for my semester abroad, I focused on the travel mode, culture and habits in my destination Japan as well as basic language skills. I think from Vienna to Japan, the airplane is the only realistic option. My flight was with Eva Air, and I can really recommend it, as you are allowed to take two pieces of baggage, 23kg each, which is an incredibly good deal. In terms of culture and habits, I read one or two books from Haruki Murakami, as well as some binge-watching of Parts Unknown by Anthony Bourdain. In terms of language, I used Duolingo, which was really helpful, so you buy stuff at the supermarket when you arrive, as no one speaks English in Otaru.

2. Accommodation

In this case my experience is very limited, as the accommodation was organised by the University in Otaru. Rent is payed at the local convenience store and is around 80 USD. The Dorm is at the University Campus and extremely safe. I would bring slippers as the floor can be very cold.

3. Academic life at host university

The Campus is quite small and a bit old, but in typical Japanese fashion in an excellent condition. There is a Mensa with delicious and cheap food, Monday to Friday. I completed 5 courses: Business Economics 1, Marketing Strategy Asia and Pacific, Japanese Companies in Global Business, International Development Cooperation and Empirical Research. There was no exam in each of them, just small presentations and quizzes, as well as one writing task at the end of each course. This was the same for all five. the teaching style was very interactive. The classes are very small, 30 students maximum. What I really liked is that there is always a mix of local and YOUC students.

5. Every day life in the host country

Japan is probably the safest country in the world and especially the small town of Otaru feels incredibly safe. The sport facilities at the campus are very nice, there is a large gym, as well as Basketball Courts, Trampolines and Soccer Field. I can really recommend going to the so called Yokohama Onsen once in a while. This is a traditional public bath with sauna and restaurant. Public transport is a bit of a challenge, as the Bus schedule was not satisfactory. It only goes up or down to the university 5 times a day, and the times are quite irregular.

6. Testimonial

My Highlights: The incredible country of Japan, especially the culinary experience. The lovely people I met during my time there. Last but not Least experiencing this interactive no power distance style of teaching. I almost became friends with some of the teachers and some of the topics from the lectures still stick to me.