Arts and Game Design in Japan with Professor Amakawa

Join Professor Jon Amakawa on this exploration of the contemporary art forms: video games, Anime and Manga.
Students posing outside while abroad in Japan

May 18 - June 2, 2026

Game 2001: Game and Arts 

We are no longer accepting applications for this program.

3 credits

Course Counts for: Global Diversity Non-Western (GDAN), IHIP and AIA

This course explores contemporary arts and culture in Japan with an emphasis on the three pillars of Japan’s modern culture: video games, Anime, and Manga.

This program is open to all majors but preference will be given to Game Design majors.
The Office of International Education is offering another program to Japan called
the Health and Aging with Professor Min Li in May 2027, open to all majors.

These contemporary art forms will be examined in the context of the country’s tradition of design, visual arts, and culture, in order to gain a better understanding of Japanese Game Art Aesthetics. For example, during the course, students explore Edo period Ukiyo-e wood block prints and shoin architecture as well as the evolution of modern manga from its roots in the Edo period with the publishing of Hokusai's Manga.

The course culminates in a study abroad program to Japan in 2026.

Program cost is $6,000 (The price is an estimate and subject to change.
Program payment is in three installmentss:

  • First payment Nov. 15, 2025
  • Second payment Dec. 15, 2025
  • Third payment Jan. 15, 2026

Students should apply for the Global Ambassador Scholarship in October 2025 on Academic Works and will find out what/if they received the scholarship before the first payment due date. Students' applications to this program will be reviewed by the professor by September 20, 2025.

PAYMENTS ARE NON-REFUNDABLE.

Pending financial aid does not cover study abroad payments. Please call Student Accounts for more details at 978.665.4126.

Learn more from the info session slideshow

Working Itinerary (Subject to change)

Day Event
Monday, May 18 Arrive at Boston Logan International Airport. Depart Boston. 
Tuesday, May 19 Arrive in Tokyo. Take private transportation from airport to the hotel and attend a health and safety orientation. In the evening, take a walking tour of the neighborhood. 
Wednesday, May 20 In the morning, attend a guest lecture. In the afternoon, take a Walking Tour of Akibahara. In the evening, enjoy a group Welcome Dinner.  
Thursday, May 21 In the morning, attend first company visit. In the afternoon, enjoy a Tea Ceremony at Hamarikyu Garden. 
Friday, May 22 Visit the Meiji Jingu shrine. Take a guided tur of Shibuya and the Harajuku fashion district.
Saturday, May 23 Take the train to Minamisoma and take a tour of the city. 
Sunday, May 24 Attend the Soma Nomaoi Festival in Minamisoma. 
Monday, May 25 Take the train to Kyoto. Enjoy a free day in the city. 
Tuesday, May 26 In the morning, attend second company visit. In the afternoon, visit Daitokuji Temple. 
Wednesday, May 27 In the morning, visit the Sanjusangendo Temple. In the afternoon, tour the Kyoto National Museum.
Thursday, May 28 Free Day in Kyoto (pending company visit)
Friday, May 29 Take the train to Nagoya. Visit the Touken Muesuem and tour Nagoya Castle with Chris Glenn. In the evening, take the train back to Tokyo. 
Saturday, May 30 Free Day in Tokyo 
Sunday, May 31 Game Jam at HAL College of Technology and Design 
Monday, June 1 Game Jam at HAL College of Technology and Design. Gather for group Farewell Dinner. 
Tuesday, June 2 Depart Tokyo. Arrive in Boston. 

One of the best experiences in my life hands down.

2023 Summer Arts and Game Design Student

I would recommend this program to anyone looking to travel abroad with knowledgeable guides to help
you experience the culture of the country that you wouldn't otherwise get if you were to go by yourself.

2023 Summer Arts and Game Design Student

Questions? Get in touch!