Photo: Hiroshima Uni Campus

Kyle Langston from Flinders University offering advice after his full Academic year exchange at Hiroshima University, Japan.

Its been 6 months since I returned from my year-long exchange at Hiroshima University, and my thoughts on my experiences go beyond what I can fit here. Instead of trying to force those thoughts into a couple paragraphs, I thought I’d give some tips that might’ve helped me before I left.

Top tips:

• Google ‘ICOCA card’ and get one the second you arrive in Japan.
• Learn basic Japanese! The uni will provide you with a buddy to help you get settled in, but they’ve got a life of their own. Even basic things like hiragana/katakana or your yeses and nos can alleviate a lot of initial stress.
• Bikes are common at Hiroshima Uni, and there are plenty of second-hand bikes or cheap monthly rental services (which makes having to sell/dispose the bike when you leave far easier). No need to get a new one.
• Download the messaging app LINE. Many use Instagram, but LINE is usually the first option. Exchange student group chats used this too.
• Break the “international bubble”! Lots of exchange students find themselves in this, where they want to immerse themselves and improve their Japanese skills but find they only ever talk to other exchange students. If you want to improve, you need to force yourself out of your comfort zone and realise the best opportunities to learn rarely come directly to you. Go to events, parties, bars, etc, find friends with limited English skills, stick with them, and you’ll find your Japanese improving far better than any lesson.

On accommodation:

• I chose the more expensive option offered by the uni, MIRAI CREA. It’s still far cheaper than most Australian apartments and is directly on campus. It’s a good choice.
• The most budget-friendly option, Ikenoue, comes with very basic amenities. Based on feedback, experiences have varied—some found it manageable, while others felt it was quite challenging. Please note that essentials like a mattress, fridge, and Wi-Fi may need to be purchased separately. I’d recommend this option primarily for those who are prioritizing cost savings above comfort.
•  You can arrange your own accommodations, but the university will not help you and the process is annoying outside Japan. Only recommended for fluent Japanese speakers.
•  A friend of mine did a homestay for a year and had a great time, although you’ll have to arrange that on your own and be prepared to pay considerably.

You should do your own research too, but it’s impossible to prepare for everything — and sometimes it’s better to have some surprises!

Kyle was fortunate to be awarded a Destination Australia Cheung Kong Exchange Program Scholarship to support his exchange experience.

Photos: Shukkei-en &  Atomic Bomb Dome