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Musashino University was established in 1965 as "Musashino Women's University" and became coeducational in 2004, transforming into a comprehensive university with 12 faculties and 20 departments across humanities, sciences, and medical fields. Although there are several universities in Japan named "Musashino," Musashino University has recently seen a surge in popularity. This article explores the appeal of the university's Distance Learning Department. Early Adoption of WBT in the Musashino University Distance Learning Department The Musashino University Distance Learning Department was an early adopter of the WBT (Web-Based Training) system, allowing students to study anytime and anywhere as long as they have internet access. This system enables students to earn their degrees through a combination of home study and intensive on-campus sessions, providing learning opportunities for students who cannot commute and those living abroad. Musashino University aims to provide "human education based on Buddhist principles," embodying the philosophy of "providing opportunities for all students who wish to learn." Overseas Japanese and Foreigners Can Apply and Enroll if They Meet Certain Requirements Students living abroad can apply online to the Musashino University Distance Learning Department if they meet certain requirements. Foreign applicants need to demonstrate proficiency in Japanese, meeting specific scores in one of the following tests: JLPT (Japanese Language Proficiency Test) N1 EJU (Examination for Japanese University Admission for International Students) with a Japanese score (excluding writing) of 220 or higher J.TEST with a score of 700 or higher BJT (Business Japanese Proficiency Test) with a score of 530 or higher JPT with a score of 660 or higher Chinese Ministry of Education's Japanese major level 8 Reference: Musashino University Graduate School Distance Learning Department 2024 Student Application Guidelines: Regular Course Human Sciences Major chrome-extension://efaidnbmnnnibpcajpcglclefindmkaj/ http://www.mu-tsushin.jp/application/files/7317/0322/2869/guidelines_2024_regular_human_sciences_m.pdf Note: Textbooks can only be shipped within Japan, so students need an address in Japan to receive them. Additionally, some faculties require on-campus sessions (schooling) as a graduation requirement. These sessions are held during long holidays like summer and winter, making it easier for working students to attend. Affordable Tuition Fees! The tuition for Musashino University Distance Learning Department is approximately 750,000 yen for four years, making it about half to one-third the cost of conventional universities. Moreover, compared to other distance learning universities, Musashino University's fees are lower, and the quality of education is maintained through the WBT system. Distance Learning Department Faculty Introduction Musashino University's Distance Learning Department mainly offers humanities faculties: Faculty of Human Sciences, Department of Human Sciences Psychology Major Buddhist Studies Major Social Welfare Major Nursing Course (for credit-earning students) Honganji Teacher Certification Course (for credit-earning students) Faculty of Education, Department of Education Elementary Education Specialization Japanese Language Specialization English Language Specialization Additionally, the university offers certification courses to upgrade from a kindergarten teacher type 2 license to a type 1 license through recognized distance learning programs. For more detailed information, please visit the Musashino University Distance Learning Department website. Musashino University Distance Learning Department Website: Musashino University Distance Learning Department At J-CALP , we offer Japanese lessons for studying in Japan!! Our comprehensive support includes EJU preparation, crafting application essays, writing support, and interview preparation, all provided by experienced Japanese instructors. If you are considering studying in Japan, please feel free to contact us through the link below! Contact us here. ↓↓

While the JLPT (Japanese Language Proficiency Test) is the most famous Japanese test, the NAT-TEST from SENMON KYOUIKU is also well-known in Asian countries! NAT-TEST Website:   http://www.nat-test.com/ The NAT-TEST is divided into five levels, from Level 5 to Level 1, just like the JLPT, and it also corresponds to the CEFR. The Level 4 of the NAT-TEST is considered to be the same as CEFR A2, which can serve as proof of Japanese language proficiency for obtaining the Specified Skills Visa. Moreover, while the JLPT is only available twice a year, the NAT-TEST offers six test dates per year, making it a good practice option for those who wish to take the JLPT. CBT NAT-TEST Begins in Japan and Kathmandu, Nepal! The NAT-TEST has launched the CBT NAT-TEST! The CBT NAT-TEST allows you to take the NAT-TEST anytime on a computer, and it is currently available in Japan and Kathmandu. Like the traditional NAT-TEST, you can receive a Japanese proficiency certificate through the CBT NAT-TEST. Although it is currently only available in Japan and Kathmandu, the service is expected to expand to other locations once preparations are complete. Having the ability to take a Japanese test anytime is very convenient! CBT NAT-TEST:   http://www.nat-test.com/cbt/index.html Taking many tests can be great practice for the most important exams. Let's take the opportunity to actively participate in these tests! At J-CALP , we offer Japanese lessons for studying abroad in Japan!! Our specialized Japanese instructors provide detailed guidance not only for EJU preparation but also for writing personal statements, preparing essays, and interview preparation. If you are considering studying abroad in Japan, please feel free to contact us via the link below! Contact us here. ↓↓

For foreigners who want to live in Japan, the first thing they must think about is finding a home. How do you handle the complicated procedures in Japanese and prepare all the documents required to sign a rental contract? You don’t even know the methods or rules for renting a house in Japan... You might have an idea of where you want to live, but you’re unsure how convenient or attractive the area is... This time, we’d like to introduce OAKHOUSE（オークハウス） , a foreign real estate brokerage company that can solve all these concerns for foreigners! Finding a Home in Japan as a Foreigner Actually, some of the J-CALP staff have also searched for a home in Japan as a foreigner. At that time, we used a typical Japanese real estate brokerage, but it was really difficult to rent a place simply because we were foreigners. In Japan, when renting a house, you need to find either a "Japanese guarantor" or a "guarantor company." A "Japanese guarantor" refers to a guarantor who can prove they have a stable income. As a result, it's difficult for friends from school to become guarantors, and it is necessary to provide the guarantor's proof of income. If you're a foreigner living in Japan for the first time and don't have family, friends, or acquaintances, it will be tough to find a Japanese guarantor. On the other hand, if you choose a "guarantor company," the tenant pays the company to serve as the guarantor. In fact, many foreigners use this system. However, at that time, even though we said we wanted to choose a guarantor company, we were still told, "You absolutely need a Japanese guarantor." The landlord probably just didn't want to rent to foreigners. At that time, we were already employed by a Japanese company and had a stable income. Despite that, we were treated this way, which felt extremely discriminatory. Even so, we didn’t want to give up, so we asked the president of the company to be our guarantor. At the time, it was uncomfortable and felt awkward to ask a president we weren't yet close to for his proof of income. But the president readily agreed. To this day, we are still very grateful to that president. This happened about 15 years ago, so things may have improved a little now. However, finding a home in Japan as a foreigner is still much more difficult than you might think. Your Ally in Finding a Home in Japan!! OAKHOUSE OAKHOUSE is the company that solves all these complicated and frustrating problems in one go. For an initial fee of 50,000 yen , OAKHOUSE will support you through all the troublesome procedures, including house hunting, finding a guarantor, negotiating with the owner, and preparing Japanese documents. OAKHOUSE is a real estate brokerage specializing in foreign clients, so they can smoothly handle the various issues that arise when foreigners sign a rental contract. Additionally, there are multilingual staff available, so even those who are unsure about their Japanese communication skills can feel confident in finding their ideal home. You can choose from share houses, apartments, mansions, and houses all across Japan! If you want to decide on a place before coming to Japan, you can consult with the staff via chat or email and get house recommendations. It’s very reassuring to have a home secured before you arrive in Japan! *The J-CALP staff have also met with OAKHOUSE's team and had various conversations. They were all incredibly kind and understood the difficulties that foreigners face when searching for a home in Japan. If only we had known about OAKHOUSE 15 years ago, we wouldn't have had such a hard time! That's why J-CALP confidently recommends OAKHOUSE! They also organize a variety of events for socializing! Another appealing aspect of OAKHOUSE is that they host various events for new tenants, especially those who have just arrived in Japan. If you're looking to make new friends from different countries or exchange information, why not participate in these events? Find your perfect home and start your life in Japan with comfort and ease! OAKHOUSE website： 日本語 https://www.oakhouse.jp/ English https://www.oakhouse.jp/eng/ Français https://www.oakhouse.jp/fra/ 中文 https://www.oakhouse.jp/cn/ 한국어 https://www.oakhouse.jp/kr/ ＊For those who take lessons with J-CALP , we will provide a link code for a 10,000 yen discount point that can be used at OAKHOUSE ! At J-CALP , we offer Japanese lessons for those looking to study or work in Japan. Our experienced and specialized Japanese teachers provide detailed guidance not only for EJU preparation and business Japanese instruction, but also for support with writing statements of purpose, essay writing, and interview preparation. If you are considering studying or working in Japan, please feel free to contact us via the link below! Inquiries can be made here ⇩⇩

Japanese cuisine, or "washoku," which is registered as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage, is particularly popular worldwide for dishes like sushi, tempura, and sukiyaki. Many foreign tourists visit Japan multiple times just to enjoy authentic Japanese cuisine! The number of international students studying Japanese cuisine is also increasing, and there are many specialized schools where they can learn it! How to Enroll in Specialized Schools for Studying Japanese Cuisine Let's review the requirements for international students to enroll in Japanese specialized schools. Generally, the following conditions apply: Must be 18 years or older. Must have completed 12 years of schooling in their home country or passed an equivalent certification exam. Must have graduated from a foreign high school equivalent within Japan, among other requirements. Conditions vary by school, so be sure to check the admission guidelines carefully. The typical admission process includes document screening, followed by written exams and interviews. In most cases, JLPT(a Japanese language proficiency test) is also required. What Happens After Graduating from a Specialized School? Graduating from a specialized school of two years or more grants you the title of "Specialist" , and four years or more grants you the title of "Advanced Specialist" . However, under the current system, it is challenging for international students to find immediate employment in Japanese cuisine restaurants after graduation. Obtaining a visa is also difficult, and most often, gaining a few years of practical experience in their own country is necessary. Choose Schools with Comprehensive Support for International Students! However, if international students studying at culinary and confectionery schools obtain their licenses upon graduation, there is a "Specified Activity" system allowing them to work at Japanese cuisine restaurants for a limited period (up to five years) . Having work experience in Japanese cuisine restaurants can be advantageous when opening a Japanese restaurant or engaging in Japanese cuisine-related jobs after returning home. Nevertheless, the procedures are complex, and the conditions are strict, so many specialized schools have not introduced the "Specified Activity" system. If you want to graduate from a Japanese cuisine specialized school and work in Japan afterward, it is advisable to choose a school with a track record of obtaining visas through the "Specified Activity" system. Learn Japanese Cuisine!: Choose Schools with Abundant Support for International Students Tokyo Belle Époque Confectionery and Culinary School They accept many international students and have a track record of obtaining visas through the Specified Activity system. They support employment in overseas companies using their domestic and international networks and assist international students in daily life, including visa renewals. Hotel Service & Food Business Course Patissier & Chef Double License Course Patissier Course Chef Course https://www.seika.belle.ac.jp/ryugakusei Tokyo Culinary and Confectionery School They provide support for changing visas from student visas to Specified Activity visas and advice on living habits in Japan. They also offer courses exclusively for international students. Advanced Culinary Arts Course Culinary Arts Course Patissier & Boulanger Course Culinary & Confectionery Technical International Culinary Business Course (for international students only) https://www.tokyocook.ac.jp/international/ Hattori Nutrition College They accept many international students from around the world. You can learn from top-notch instructors leading the Japanese food industry. Nutritionist Course Culinary Arts Course Culinary & Nutrition Double License Course Master Course https://www.hattori.ac.jp/studyabroad/ J-CALP offers Japanese lessons for studying in Japan!! We provide meticulous guidance from Japanese instructors specializing in higher education, including EJU preparation, support for writing statement of purpose, essay preparation, and interview preparation. If you are considering studying in Japan, feel free to contact us through the link below! Contact us here ↓↓

For all of you using the Japanese textbook "Genki," did you know about the fantastic site called Genki Study Resources? Today, I'd like to introduce this amazing Japanese learning site, Genki Study Resources. Genki Study Resources 3rd Edition: https://sethclydesdale.github.io/genki-study-resources/lessons-3rd/ Genki Study Resources is a free site where you can study the vocabulary, grammar, and kanji that appear in the Genki textbooks. The learning materials are meticulously categorized by topic, and the site offers a variety of practice problems in different formats, such as drag-and-drop quizzes and direct typing exercises. This variety allows you to study in a way that suits your preferences and keeps the learning process engaging. For English speakers studying Japanese with Genki, this site is perfect for both previewing and reviewing material. Give it a try! In Conclusion… I would like to express my deep gratitude to everyone who contributed to the creation of this wonderful site!! At J-CALP , we offer online lessons using the Genki textbook!! Why not enjoy learning Japanese with professional native Japanese instructors? Our J-CALP instructors can conduct lessons entirely in Japanese or in English, depending on your preference. If you are interested in Japanese lessons at J-CALP, please feel free to contact us through the website below!! ↓↓

Hikidasu Nihongo: https://www.hikidasu.jpf.go.jp/en/ "Hikidasu Nihongo" is a learning site created by the Japan Foundation for beginner to intermediate Japanese learners (A2-B1 level). It is especially useful for those considering living in Japan, as it helps learners understand everyday conversations, local dialects, and customs in Japan. This time, we will introduce the appeal of "Hikidasu Nihongo" in detail. Mini-Drama "Xuan Tackles Japan!" This mini-drama follows Xuan, a Vietnamese person who dreams of Japan. While working at a hotel in Japan, Xuan encounters the native language, unique customs, and cultural differences, growing with the support of the people around him. Through the drama, you can experience real-life situations in Japan with Xuan and learn specific expressions and behaviors. Learn Osaka Dialect and Native Japanese! Xuan's senior, Sumire, is a character who uses the Osaka dialect. This is particularly recommended for those who want to study Kansai intonation, vocabulary, and expressions, instead of the standard textbook language. Additionally, since characters of various age groups appear, you can learn the characteristics of their respective ways of speaking. "Welcome to My Japan!" In "Welcome to My Japan!", you can learn how foreigners working in Japan live and thrive in their workplaces through their experiences. Each episode focuses on the real voices of foreigners working in various industries across Japan, highlighting their successes and challenges in a multicultural workplace. "ONOMATOPOEIA - Share Feelings" In "ONOMATOPOEIA - Share Feelings," you can learn Japanese onomatopoeia easily through illustrations and videos. All these contents are available for free, and you can download PDFs of strategies and other materials. It's a very useful site for beginner Japanese learners, so please give it a try! No matter what industry you want to work in, if you want to work in Japan, studying Japanese is necessary! At J-CALP, we offer Japanese lessons for entering art colleges or specialized schools. We also provide beginner to intermediate Japanese lessons, business Japanese lessons, and custom lessons tailored to learners' needs. Our Japanese teachers, who have specialized know-how in advancing to higher education and learning Japanese, will guide you carefully through online lessons. Please feel free to contact us first!

"Pokémon," "Final Fantasy," "Super Mario." Japan has many games that are popular worldwide. If you love games, you might have thought, "I want to work in the country where these games originated." However, even if you say you want to work in the game industry, there are various job types. It's important to first understand this. Here, we will introduce the different jobs in the Japanese game industry, the routes to get those jobs, and the necessary preparations, divided into two parts: the first part and the second part. The Japanese Game Industry: Three Main Types of Games Games are mainly divided into: "Home console games" played on game consoles at home "Mobile games" played on smartphones "Cloud games" played on computers Each has different characteristics, so it's necessary to think about what type of game-related job you want to pursue. A game goes through many steps before it is completed, with various people playing their roles. Let's look at the main jobs in the game industry in more detail. The Japanese Game Industry: What Types of Jobs Are There? Planner A planner creates game plans based on the opinions of directors and producers. The job involves creating project proposals and game specifications, giving instructions to staff, and checking the work. Communication skills to work with many people and free thinking and creativity to come up with plans and structures are required. Game Master A game master's (GM) main job is to create the rules and mechanics of a game. They decide on the difficulty, event structure, and updates to make the game enjoyable for many people. This is a particularly important job in game creation, requiring detailed knowledge and experience in games. Programmer A programmer writes the game's code according to the project plan. They use programming languages to give instructions to computers and create the game system. Knowledge of programming and mastery of programming languages are required, so studying at information technology or programming schools is generally necessary. Designer A designer creates and visualizes the graphics for game characters and backgrounds. Becoming a designer requires high-level drawing skills and creativity. Since they often work with directors and programmers, communication skills are also necessary. Studying design at an art university or a design school is a common route. Producer A producer is responsible for game development, handling tasks such as creating schedules until the game release, allocating budgets, and distributing tasks. Producers often work with sales and development staff as well as external companies, so strong communication skills are highly required. Marketer A marketer conducts market research and carries out effective promotions to increase the game's popularity and sales. They investigate what kind of games users want and come up with ideas to attract new users. Basic marketing knowledge and skills, information-gathering abilities, and communication skills to interact with staff and external parties are required. Once you decide what kind of job you want to do, start preparing by studying at a university or attending a specialized school. In the second part, we will introduce the preparation in more detail. No matter what industry you want to work in, if you want to work in Japan, studying Japanese is necessary! At J-CALP, we offer Japanese lessons for entering art colleges or specialized schools. We also provide beginner to intermediate Japanese lessons, business Japanese lessons, and custom lessons tailored to learners' needs. Our Japanese teachers, who have specialized know-how in advancing to higher education and learning Japanese, will guide you carefully through online lessons. Please feel free to contact us first!

While the JLPT is well-known for assessing Japanese language skills, are you familiar with the JFT-Basic? Introduced in 2019 by the Japan Foundation (JF), the JFT-Basic is designed to assess the Japanese language proficiency of foreigners coming to work in Japan. Passing this test qualifies you to apply for the Specified Skilled Worker (i) visa. Moreover, there are many benefits to taking the JFT-Basic, even for those who aren't applying for this visa. Today, let's take a closer look at the JFT-Basic! JFT-Basic Countries eligible for the JFT-Basic as of April 2024 China, Vietnam, Nepal, Myanmar, Indonesia, Sri Lanka, Mongolia, Cambodia, Philippines, India, Thailand, Bhutan, Uzbekistan For test dates in each country, please visit: ↓ https://www.prometric-jp.com/ssw_schedule/jft_basic_overseas.html Advantages of the JFT-Basic Computer-based test: The JFT-Basic is conducted on computers at test centers worldwide. This ensures that all candidates are tested under the same conditions, which is a significant advantage. Open to everyone: The JFT-Basic is available to all non-native speakers of Japanese, primarily targeting people from Asian countries, allowing many to take on the challenge. Quick results: You can find out the results of the test within five days after taking it, which is great for those eager to know their proficiency level quickly. Eligible for the Specified Skilled Worker visa application: You can use your JFT-Basic results to apply for the Specified Skilled Worker visa. Passing the test is considered equivalent to the JLPT N4 and CEFR A2 levels. Online preparation materials available: The Japan Foundation's website provides online study materials and sample questions for test preparation. While there are no past papers, these resources are sufficient for thorough preparation. The textbook "Irodori," useful for studying for the JFT-Basic, can be downloaded for free here: ↓ https://www.irodori.jpf.go.jp/editions.html Frequent test opportunities: Unlike the JLPT, which is held once or twice a year, the JFT-Basic is available multiple times a year, allowing you to schedule the test at your convenience. The JFT-Basic is an excellent test for assessing the Japanese language skills needed for living and working in Japan. It's worth considering taking it before attempting the JLPT! JFT-Basic - you can take the challenge anytime! Examination fees vary by country. You can check them here: ↓ https://www.prometric-jp.com/en/ssw/exam/fee/ J-CALP also offers Japanese lessons for living in Japan and preparing for tests. Professional Japanese teachers provide meticulous online lessons. If you're interested, please contact us via the link below! ↓↓

Following the previous introduction, this part will cover the essential skills and qualifications needed to become an animator in Japan, as well as introduce schools where you can learn the necessary knowledge and skills. The necessary skills for animators include... Essential Skills and Qualifications for Animators Artistic Skills First and foremost are the artistic skills. Proficiency in sketching, designing, and color theory is required. These skills are indispensable for realistically and attractively drawing anime characters and backgrounds. Observation Skills Additionally, the ability to observe daily life and reflect those observations in drawings is crucial. Animators need to incorporate the movements, expressions, and textures they see in everyday life into their work. This observation skill brings realism and uniqueness to the work. Stamina for Long Hours of Work Animation production is also a battle against time. Therefore, the stamina and perseverance to endure long hours of drawing work are necessary qualities. Computer Skills Furthermore, modern anime production commonly involves digitizing and editing original drawings. Basic computer skills, especially proficiency in Illustrator and Photoshop, are essential. To certify these skills, qualifications such as the Illustrator® Creator Certification Exam, Photoshop® Creator Certification Exam, and Color Coordinator Examination are available. Having these qualifications can prove your technical skills, making it advantageous for employment and job acquisition. Illustrator® Creator Certification Exam (Japanese): https://www.sikaku.gr.jp/ns/il/introduction/ Photoshop® Creator Certification Exam (Japanese): https://www.sikaku.gr.jp/ns/ps/introduction/ Color Coordinator Examination (Japanese): https://www.aft.or.jp/exam-orders Top 5 Recommended Animation Schools in Japan Choosing the right school is a crucial step for many young people dreaming of making a mark in the anime industry. Here are five recommended schools where you can learn practical skills and receive direct instruction from industry professionals. 1. Amusement Media General Academy, Animation Department, Animator/Director Major Official Site: ​​https://www.amgakuin.co.jp/contents/animation/faculty-animator.html Features: Despite being an unaccredited school, it offers instruction from frontline professionals. You can learn the entire anime production process, enjoy high industry employment rates, and benefit from thorough job support. Connections can also be made through the OB & OG network. Capacity: 45 students Pros: High industry employment rate, thorough job support Cons: Unaccredited 2. Osaka Amusement Media Specialized School, Animation Department Official Site: https://www.amg.ac.jp/animation/ Features: Offers an excellent educational system. Boasting many famous alumni and high employment rates in the industry, though access may be inconvenient for those aiming to work in Tokyo. Capacity: 40 students Pros: Accredited, instruction from frontline professionals, famous alumni Cons: Geographic disadvantage for employment activities in Tokyo 3. Tokyo Animator College, Animation Course Official Site: ​​https://www.o-hara.ac.jp/senmon/school/tokyo_anime/course/ Features: Attracts with relatively low tuition fees. You can learn the entirety of anime production under the guidance of current professionals, with a high employment rate in the industry and many famous alumni. Capacity: 20 students Pros: Accredited, low tuition fees, high industry employment rate Cons: Fewer production-oriented lectures 4. Japan Electronics College, Animation Department (2-year/3-year) Official Site: ​​https://www.jec.ac.jp/course/animation/ac/ Features: Offers a 2-year course and a 3-year course that includes CG. The 3-year course allows students to work with CG production tools like "3ds MAX," making it perfect for those who want to learn both drawing and CG. Capacity: 2-year: 50 students / 3-year: 30 students Pros: Accredited, comprehensive learning including CG, relatively affordable tuition for a 3-year program Cons: Higher tuition for the 3-year course 5. Yoyogi Animation Academy, Animator Department Official Site: https://www.yoani.co.jp/course/animation/animator/ Features: With over 45 years of history, it has produced many famous creators. The school's specialization in different fields, such as animators, backgrounds, directors, and CG, is a key feature. Pros: Specialization in various departments, production of famous creators Cons: Unaccredited, undisclosed employment rate Japan has many attractive vocational schools! Accredited vs. Unaccredited Schools Accredited Schools Officially recognized by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology or by prefectural education committees. Allows degree acquisition, potentially advantageous for employment or further education. Eligible for tuition assistance and public scholarship programs. Unaccredited Schools Not officially recognized by the Ministry of Education, meaning degrees cannot be awarded. Limited access to tuition assistance and public scholarship programs. Often focus on practical skills and immediacy in job readiness. When choosing a school, it's essential to consider your goals and the kind of education you seek. These schools offer fantastic opportunities to acquire the knowledge and skills necessary for a successful career in the animation industry. Choose the school that aligns with your career aspirations and take the first step towards achieving your dream! Regardless of the industry, studying Japanese is essential for working in Japan! J-CALP offers Japanese lessons for those aiming to enter arts-specialized colleges or universities. We also provide beginner to intermediate Japanese lessons, business Japanese lessons, and custom lessons tailored to the learner's needs. Our Japanese instructors, who possess specialized expertise in academic advancement and Japanese language learning, will guide you through online lessons meticulously. Feel free to contact us to start your journey!

Many people think, "I love Japanese cinema, so I want to work in film after I graduate!" However, just because you graduate from school doesn't mean you can immediately become a film director. So, after graduating from school, how can you work in the film industry in Japan? This time, we will introduce the main routes to becoming a film producer, film director, and art staff among the various jobs related to film. Films are made by a lot of staff, including those in charge of visuals, art, and sound. Paths to Working in Film in Japan 1: Film Producer The top of film production. Involved in everything from planning to production, including managing funds and schedules. Route: It's common to get a job at a film or production company and gain experience in the production department. Paths to Working in Film in Japan 2: Film Director As the leader on the filming site, you create films together with actors and staff. Routes: It's common to get a job at a film company and wait for a chance to become a director while gaining experience as an assistant director. You might be given a chance to direct if your work in other video fields, such as commercials or TV programs, is recognized. If a movie you made becomes a topic of conversation at independent film festivals or in cinemas, you might be approached to direct. Paths to Working in Film in Japan 3: Art Staff Commonly known as "props people." They create sets and backgrounds, and prepare costumes and props such as food. Routes: It's common to graduate from a university or college related to video or art and then get a job at a film production company. Another path is to become an assistant to a famous art director and gain experience. Necessary Qualifications for Working in Film While there is nothing absolutely necessary, having the following qualifications can be helpful in finding a job: Degrees related to film studies, media production, or film production. Diplomas from film and video-related vocational schools or training institutions. Qualifications in specific areas such as filming, video editing, sound, or CG. The situation of "Short Film Production" at a film school. You learn the techniques of filmmaking using equipment similar to that used by professionals. Photo credit: Toho Gakuen Film Techniques College Consider Post - Graduation Visas as Well Even if you understand the paths to working in film in Japan, you will definitely need a work visa to work. If you work part-time or temp jobs after graduating, there's a high chance you won't be able to get a work visa. Therefore, you should first consider working for a company that can issue you a visa. If you continue to work after your visa from university or vocational school has expired, you will be staying and working illegally. It's important to understand the company you work for, Japanese law, and think carefully about how to obtain a visa! Regardless of the industry, studying Japanese is essential for working in Japan! J-CALP offers Japanese lessons for those aiming to enter arts-specialized colleges or universities. We also provide beginner to intermediate Japanese lessons, business Japanese lessons, and custom lessons tailored to the learner's needs. Our Japanese instructors, who possess specialized expertise in academic advancement and Japanese language learning, will guide you through online lessons meticulously. Feel free to contact us to start your journey!

Japanese anime has been popular worldwide for many years, and recently there has been an increase in people wanting to work as animators in Japan, the heartland of anime production. An animator is someone involved in animation work, and while this encompasses a variety of roles, this blog post will specifically focus on providing information necessary to thrive as a 2D animation animator, split into two parts! Japanese anime is hugely popular worldwide! Overview of the Anime Production Process The anime production process begins with the inception of an idea, followed by scripting, storyboarding, keyframe drawing, in-between animation, color design, background art, photography, editing, sound effects, and finally, the final edit. Animators are most directly involved in the "keyframe drawing" phase, which is the act of drawing the pictures. Roles and Types of Animators There are several roles within the realm of animators: Director: Determines the overall vision of the anime production and coordinates the work of different departments. This role is similar to that of a film director. Episode Director: Creates storyboards and directs the creation of scenes to make the anime engaging, working under the anime director to craft specific scenes. Key Animator and In-Between Animator: Key animators draw the principal frames that serve as key movements, while in-between animators draw the movements that fill the gaps between these key frames, bringing the characters to life. Animation Director: Ensures the quality of the animation and creates a sense of unity in the drawings. They may also handle character design. A very large number of staff members are involved in anime production. Becoming a Director Without a Background in Drawing In the anime industry, it's not uncommon for individuals with experience in production progress or photography, rather than drawing, to become directors. This is because anime production involves not just the skill of drawing but also managing projects and collaborating with many staff members to create a piece. In the first part, we have detailed the roles and work involved in being an animator. The second part will introduce the skills and qualifications necessary for animators, as well as schools where one can pursue a career in animation! Regardless of the industry, studying Japanese is essential for working in Japan! J-CALP offers Japanese lessons for those aiming to enter arts-specialized colleges or universities. We also provide beginner to intermediate Japanese lessons, business Japanese lessons, and custom lessons tailored to the learner's needs. Our Japanese instructors, who possess specialized expertise in academic advancement and Japanese language learning, will guide you through online lessons meticulously. Feel free to contact us to start your journey!

Waseda University - Required Scores for Passing EJU Japanese Subject: 330 + Writing 45 or more *The above scores are approximate guidelines. Waseda University was founded in 1882 by Shigenobu Okuma, who served twice as the Prime Minister of Japan. The university values a free and flexible way of thinking and creativity in its education, nurturing individuals who can be active globally. It is the second-largest university in Japan in terms of student numbers, with the main Waseda Campus located in Shinjuku, Tokyo, and three other campuses. Visible in the distance is the statue of the founder, Shigenobu Okuma.   The Waseda Campus has no gates, symbolizing that "the path of learning is open to all." The spacious campus, with its rows of ginkgo trees, attracts not only students but also many tourists, making it a lively place. A quiet Japanese garden on the Waseda Campus, open to anyone during the day. You can enjoy a picnic mood with sandwiches and sweets purchased from a cafe next door. *Photo credit: Waseda University Website At some universities, the campus where students study may change between their freshman/sophomore and junior/senior years, but at Waseda University, students study at the same campus from enrollment to graduation unless they change their faculty. It might be important to check which campus you will be studying at when choosing your faculty. The Features and Appeal of Waseda University: Comprehensive strength and a wide range of educational programs with high specialization Waseda University offers a diverse range of faculties and departments. Faculty of Political Science and Economics Faculty of Law Faculty of Letters, Arts, and Sciences Faculty of Education Faculty of Commerce Faculty of Science and Engineering Faculty of Social Sciences Faculty of Human Sciences Faculty of Sport Sciences School of International Liberal Studies Among them, the following faculties are particularly known for their high level of education and practical programs. Faculty of Political Science and Economics You can learn a broad range of knowledge about economics and political science, deepening your understanding of social structures and international affairs. Faculty of Commerce You can study specialized knowledge in management and business, preparing for active participation in the global business scene. Faculty of Science and Engineering A program combining science and technology with design, acquiring the ability to create innovations. Faculty of Law You can receive education to deepen your knowledge of law and society, and to exhibit leadership as a legal professional or a member of society. For more details, click here: Waseda University Website ↓ https://www.waseda.jp/top/academics   In the graduate schools, research activities utilizing comprehensive strength, diversity, and advanced specialization are conducted. Graduate School of Political Science Graduate School of Economics Graduate School of Law Graduate School of Letters, Arts, and Sciences Graduate School of Education Graduate School of Commerce Graduate School of Fundamental Science and Engineering Graduate School of Creative Science and Engineering Graduate School of Advanced Science and Engineering Graduate School of Environment and Energy Engineering Graduate School of Information, Production, and Systems Graduate School of Social Sciences Graduate School of Human Sciences Graduate School of Sport Sciences Graduate School of International Culture and Communication Studies Graduate School of Asia-Pacific Studies Graduate School of Japanese Applied Linguistics For more details, click here: Waseda University Website ↓ https://www.waseda.jp/top/academics Attractive Programs for International Students: A distinctive feature of Waseda University is its programs that allow earning credits in English and specialized academic programs open to international students. Additionally, Japanese language education programs for international students, international exchange events, and services within the campus are well-established, supporting life in Japan. Waseda University can be described as a university that provides opportunities for a fun student life while growing academically, culturally, and socially! For information on applications and more, click here: Waseda University Admissions ↓ https://www.waseda.jp/inst/admission/undergraduate/system/international/ J-CALP Japanese Language Lessons for Studying in Japan! Not only do we offer EJU preparation, but our specialized Japanese instructors also provide support with writing statements of purpose, essay strategies, and interview preparations. If you're considering studying in Japan, feel free to contact us through the link below for more information! Contact Us ↓↓