Colleges with significant Japanese student populations?

Hey everyone, I'm looking into colleges, and while academics and campus life are really important to me, I'm also interested in continuing my Japanese studies once I get there. Do you guys know of any colleges that have a noticeably sized Japanese student population or strong Japanese studies programs?

Sure! There are plenty of colleges recognized for strong Japanese programs or have a significant number of Japanese students in their population.

In terms of universities known for superior programs in Japanese studies, Columbia University and the University of Michigan at Ann Arbor stand out. Columbia's Department of East Asian Languages and Cultures offers a comprehensive array of courses, including those focused on the Japanese language. Similarly, Michigan's Center for Japanese Studies is one of the oldest and most renowned institutions for interdisciplinary research on Japan.

Several colleges are also known for attracting international students, including from Japan. For instance, University of Southern California (USC) and University of California (UC) schools, particularly UC Berkeley and UCLA, tend to have a decent population of Japanese students due to their strong international reputation and location in popular areas for international students.

However, remember that a diverse campus and available language programs are more important than the actual size of the Japanese student population. You'll still be able to engage with Japanese culture extensively through other means, such as through studying Japanese language, literature, and history courses offered by Japanese Studies programs, joining a Japanese culture club, or even studying abroad in Japan.

Additionally, many universities have vibrant clubs or societies dedicated to exploring Japanese culture which can be a great way to continue your studies. Festivals such as Tanabata or events like tea ceremonies held by these clubs can create memorable experiences.

All that being said, each of these schools has a unique set of qualities, so it's crucial to consider all your priorities before choosing the one you feel is the right fit for you. Happy college hunting!