Study Information and Guidelines for Bunkyo University in Hokkaido
The founding spirit of the Tsuruoka Academy at Hokkaido Bunkyo University is based on the motto left by its founders, Mr. and Mrs. Tsuruoka: "Live purely, rightly, and courageously move forward." "Purity" refers to a fresh, intellectual pursuit of truth, "rightness" refers to sincere ethics based on justice, and "moving forward courageously" refers to fostering a spirit of initiative to shape the future. The spirit of "practical learning" for contributing to the improvement of society is also clearly demonstrated. In summary, the university's motto is engraved in the heart as "Purity, Rightness, Courageous Advancement, Practical Learning."
Eniwa City is located almost midway between Sapporo and New Chitose Airport, offering excellent transportation access and a town with rich nature and a mild climate. It is well-known nationwide for its "Flower Town" initiative, often referred to as the "Town of Flowers" or the "Town of Gardening." The origin of the city's name comes from the Ainu language "Ee-en-iwa," which means "sharp, pointed mountain." Eniwa has a sister-city relationship with Timaru City in New Zealand. Population: 70,023 (34,058 men, 35,965 women) as of the end of March 2024 Households: 34,321 as of the end of April 2023 Area: 294.65 square kilometers as of March 2015 (according to the Eniwa City website)
The founding spirit of the Tsuruoka Academy at Hokkaido Bunkyo University is based on the motto left by its founders, Mr. and Mrs. Tsuruoka: "Live purely, rightly, and courageously move forward." "Purity" refers to a fresh, intellectual pursuit of truth, "rightness" refers to sincere ethics based on justice, and "moving forward courageously" refers to fostering a spirit of initiative to shape the future. The spirit of "practical learning" for contributing to the improvement of society is also clearly demonstrated. In summary, the university's motto is engraved in the heart as "Purity, Rightness, Courageous Advancement, Practical Learning."
Link to schedule siteAt the university, students select their own subjects and create their own timetable. This process, called "course registration," must be completed through the portal site, and students cannot attend classes without registering. Course registration takes place twice per year, once in the spring and once in the autumn, during designated periods. If a student fails to register during these periods without a valid reason, they will not be eligible to receive credits for the class.
To progress to higher years or graduate from the university, students must accumulate at least 124 credits over four years. If students fail to meet the required credits, they may face consequences such as shortened stay periods or be advised to withdraw.
International students are required to sign the attendance sheet at the International Exchange Office on class days. Failure to do so will result in a judgment of poor attendance, even if they were present in class. In cases of unauthorized absence for more than two weeks, the student may face disciplinary actions such as a warning or suspension.
If a class is canceled due to the instructor's circumstances or weather conditions, a make-up class will be scheduled. Notices about class cancellations and make-up sessions will be posted on the bulletin board, so students should check it daily.
The university will send emails to students' provided addresses and also post information on the university’s website and internal bulletin boards.
In early April and late September, orientations for each grade level will be held. These orientations include important explanations regarding the subjects required for graduation, course registration schedules, and the distribution of important documents such as the class schedule. Many international students may return to their home countries during spring or summer vacations, but be sure to attend orientation without fail.
In early April and late September, orientations for each
grade level will be held. These orientations provide important explanations
regarding the subjects required for graduation, course registration schedules,
and the distribution of important documents such as the class schedule. Many
international students may return to their home countries during spring or
summer vacations, but be sure to attend without fail.
At our university, we maintain close relationships between students and
faculty. The goal is to help students develop a professional attitude as
members of society, maintain a proactive learning attitude, and foster
communication with faculty and staff, enabling students to have fulfilling
academic experiences. To support this, the advisor system is in place.
In the first semester of each year, students will be assigned an advisor from
among the full-time faculty members. While it is possible to change advisors,
students cannot remain in a "free" state without one. Advisors will
proactively contact students, and students are also encouraged to visit their
advisor’s office to strengthen their personal interactions and deepen the
relationship with their professors, ensuring an enriching academic life.
The university is responsible for ensuring that international students are
having a fulfilling experience. Every month, students must visit their advisor
and report on the following matters:
■ Matters
related to academic progress (course registration, grades, etc.)
■ Attendance
status
■ Career
prospects (employment, graduate school plans)
These matters are also communicated to each advisor, so it is essential to
comply.
If an international student needs to take a leave of absence
during their studies due to reasons such as illness, they are generally
required to temporarily return to their home country. Staying in Japan for
reasons like medical treatment would violate the purpose of the
"Student" visa. In such cases, staying in Japan is not permitted by
immigration authorities. Additionally, if the "Student" visa expires
during a temporary return to the home country, it cannot be renewed while outside
Japan. When re-entering Japan after the visa expires, students must apply for a
new visa. If you must take a leave of absence, please consult with your
advisor.
Note: Even if taking a leave of absence, tuition fees must be paid in full.
■ Health
Management Center
The Health Management Center is staffed by public health nurses and nurses
(9:00–17:00) who provide appropriate treatment and care if you are injured
or feel unwell on campus. Students may experience various concerns and
anxieties about their studies, future plans, personal life, or
relationships. The counseling room offers professional counselors who can
help students address these issues and provide appropriate advice and
support. The content of counseling sessions is strictly confidential and
will not be shared or used to the student's disadvantage. Students are
encouraged to consult the Health Management Center about any concerns.
■ Smoking
Areas
The university is a smoke-free campus. Students should follow the rules
and aim for a pleasant campus life.
■ Cafeteria
Located on the first floor of the Student Union building, the cafeteria
serves meals, with single-seat counters available. The cafeteria is
cafeteria-style, and after eating, please return your trays and dishes to
the "return slot." Prices are relatively inexpensive compared to
restaurants. There is also a vending machine for coffee and canned drinks.
The cafeteria is open from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM (lunch served from 11:00 AM,
last order at 1:50 PM) on weekdays, but is closed on weekends and holidays.
During long breaks or university events, the hours may change or the
cafeteria may be closed.
■ Campus
Shop (Bunkyo Campus Shop)
Located on the first floor of Building 2, the shop sells books,
stationery, food, and drinks. Its hours of operation are weekdays from
8:30 AM to 6:00 PM, but it is closed on weekends and holidays. During long
breaks or university events, hours may change or the shop may be closed.
■ Computer
Laboratories 1-3
The university has three computer labs: two on the first floor and one on
the second floor of Building 2. These labs are available for student use
and are open from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM on weekdays, with one lab available
until 8:00 PM. During breaks, the labs are open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
However, usage may be restricted due to university events or equipment
maintenance. Students should check the student handbook for more details
on usage rules. Eating, smoking, and using mobile phones in the labs are prohibited.
■ Sports
Facilities
The gymnasium and grounds are primarily reserved for lectures and
extracurricular activities (such as club activities). If students wish to
use these facilities, they must apply in advance at the student office.
When using sports facilities, students should wear proper sports attire
and perform warm-up exercises to avoid injury. Additionally, basketball,
volleyball, and futsal equipment is available for loan from the student
office.
Bulletin boards are installed on the first floor of Building 1 and in front of the library. Notices about class changes, school closures, make-up classes, exam schedules, and other matters related to student life will be posted. It is your responsibility to check these bulletin boards daily, as you cannot claim ignorance of the notices. Also, information about scholarships is posted on the counter in the International Exchange Room.
When you need various certificates, such as a transcript or certificate of enrollment, you can either issue them from the certificate issuing machine on the first floor of the main building or apply for issuance by submitting a request form at the administrative office. When using the certificate issuing machine, you will need your student ID and password. Depending on the type of certificate and student status, issuing certificates may take some time, so please be patient.
The Career Office provides employment support for current students. Employment activities for international students are only supported while enrolled, so if you wish to find a job in Japan, it’s important to begin preparations early.
Your student ID serves as proof of enrollment at the university. Please be careful not to lose, damage, or have it stolen, and always keep it with you so you can show it when needed. If you lose or damage your student ID, please report it immediately to the Student Affairs Office. The student ID is required for various purposes, such as issuing certificates and using the library.
Regular health checkups are required by law for all students. The university conducts these checkups every year in April. The details will be posted on the bulletin board in the Student Affairs Office. The health checkups allow for early detection of illnesses and provide advice for appropriate treatment, helping students maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Tuition fees include the tuition, education enhancement fees, laboratory and practical course fees (for departments with such courses), and seminar fees (for the International Department only). You must pay the fees by the due date set by the university each year. If you have not paid the tuition fees for the current period, you may not meet the requirements for advancing to the next grade and may be required to repeat the year (unless you have submitted a request for extension or installment payment and received approval). If two consecutive periods of fees remain unpaid, you will be removed from enrollment at the end of the second period.
Undergraduate Tuition Reduction and Exemption System
■ International students are eligible for a 40% tuition reduction upon application. However, the reduction for international students cannot be combined with the reduction for graduates of the university.
■ eference: Special Selection (International Students) Transfer (International Students) Student Application Guidebook (Special Selection Application Guidebook/p15 Tuition Reduction and Exemption) READ MORE
Scholarships for International Students in Japan
Scholarships are available from local governments and international exchange organizations. Application requirements and selection procedures differ depending on the organization offering the scholarship, so please check the links for details.
■ Reference: Other scholarships READ MORE
■ Immigration
and residency procedures.
■ Scholarships
for international students.
■ Tuition
fee reduction procedures.
Academic Affairs Office
■ Curriculum
and class schedules.
■ Course
registration.
Accounting Office
■ Tuition
fee payment procedures.
Student Affairs Office
■ Student
IDs, student discount cards, and commuter passes.
■ Academic
status (leave of absence, re-enrollment, withdrawal).
■ Lost
property and found items.
■ Address
changes.
■ Part-time
jobs.
Career Services Office
■ Job
guidance and placement.
Once you have enrolled at the university, you must complete
procedures such as resident registration and national health insurance
enrollment.
■ Resident
Registration: International students who have been issued a residence
card must register their address at the local city or town hall within 14
days of settling in their residence.
■ National
Health Insurance Enrollment: In Japan, it is mandatory to join either
the National Health Insurance or another health insurance system. All
foreign students holding the "student" visa status are required
to enroll in National Health Insurance, regardless of the length of their
stay. The National Health Insurance covers 70% of medical expenses, with
students responsible for the remaining 30%.
Living in Japan without a bank account is very inconvenient. If you already have an account, you do not need to open a new one. However, for receiving scholarships from the Japan Student Services Organization, a Japan Post Bank account is required.
■ Address:
1-10-4, Golden Minami, Eniwa City, Hokkaido, 061-1409
■ Phone
Number: 0123-34-7755
■ Business
Hours: Weekdays from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM (Closed on Saturdays, Sundays, and
holidays)
Foreign nationals who stay in Japan will receive a residence
card upon arrival at the airport, or it may be issued later.
Students who receive a residence card must register their address at the local
city or town hall within 14 days.
■ Always
carry your residence card with you. Even if you’re going to a nearby
convenience store, make sure not to forget it. If you are caught without
it, you will face penalties.
If you move, please bring your residence card to the International Exchange Office.
The permitted period for international students to stay in
Japan is as follows: "March, June, 1 year, 1 year and 3 months, 2 years, 2
years and 3 months, 3 years, 3 years and 3 months, 4 years, 4 years and 3
months."
You must apply for a "Residency Period Extension" at Immigration from
three months before your current residency period expires until the expiration
day.
Overstaying can result in forced deportation, so please be cautious.
[Documents Required for Residency Period Renewal]
1. Application
form for Residency Period Extension (Forms 1–3 for applicants. These will
be provided by the International Exchange Office).
2. Photo
(4cm tall × 3cm wide, taken within three months before the submission
date).
3. Certificate
of Enrollment (issued via the certificate issuance machine).
4. Academic
Transcript (issued via the certificate issuance machine).
5. Passport.
7. Residence
Card.
8. Documents
proving your financial capability to cover all expenses during your stay.
※ After obtaining a new residence card through the residency
period renewal, please bring your passport and residence card to the
International Exchange Office.
Under the residency management system that started on July
9, 2012, international students with a valid passport and a residence card (or
a foreign resident registration certificate considered equivalent) are not
required to obtain reentry permission if they plan to return to Japan within
one year to continue their studies ("deemed reentry permission").
Please check the appropriate box on the Reentry Departure Record (ED Card for
Reentry) indicating "temporary departure and planned reentry."
However, if your residency period will expire within one year of your
departure, you must reenter Japan before the expiration date.
When returning to your home country during summer or spring
vacations, please have your advisor or tutor sign the "Homecoming/Travel
Notification" and submit it to the International Exchange Office.
International students are generally not allowed to work
part-time.
To work, you must obtain "Permission for Activities Outside the Residency
Status" from Immigration in advance.
The time allowed for part-time work is limited to 28 hours
per week under immigration laws. During long-term vacations such as summer and
spring breaks, both regular and non-regular students may work up to 8 hours per
day and 40 hours per week.
If you work without permission or exceed the permitted
hours, you will be penalized.
In some cases, this may result in forced deportation, so please be careful.
Part-time work in establishments such as bars, cabarets,
pachinko parlors, and mahjong halls is prohibited, regardless of the nature of
the job.
Similarly, late-night dining establishments are treated as adult entertainment
businesses under the law and are also prohibited. Violations may result in
disciplinary action by the university, such as expulsion, and forced
deportation under immigration laws.
1. Application
form for Permission for Activities Outside the Residency Status.
2. Passport.
3.Residence
Card.
4. Student
ID.
※ After
receiving permission, please bring your passport and residence card to the
International Exchange Office.
※ If
you get a new part-time job or change jobs, report this to the International
Exchange Office.
1. If you
plan to stay in Japan after your graduation or exchange program until the
expiration of your residency status:
■ If a
person with a "Student" residency status is not engaged in
activities corresponding to their residency status for three months or
more, their residency status will be revoked.
■ Even
if your residency status is valid, please return to your home country
within three months of graduation.
■ After
graduation, you will no longer be an international student and cannot work
part-time.
■Working
part-time is allowed only for international students. Violations will
result in penalties under immigration laws.
■ Changing
Residency Status for Continued Job Hunting:
■ Graduates
of regular courses at this university who wish to continue job hunting in
Japan can change their residency status to "Designated
Activities," enabling permission for activities outside the residency
status (e.g., part-time work).
🞕【Documents Required for Application to Change Status of Residence (Specified Activities)】
■ Application Form for Permission to Change Status of Residence
■ Passport
■ Residence Card
■ Proof of Financial Support During Stay
■ Certificate of Graduation
■ Recommendation Letter from the University Regarding Continuation of Job Hunting
■ Documents Proving the Continuation of Job Hunting Activities
■ Notification Regarding the Organization Involved in Activities
🞕 ≪Important Notes≫
■ The applicant must visit the immigration office to complete the procedure.
■ The recommendation letter should be issued by the Career Services Office.
■ Non-regular students are not eligible.
If relatives of students who are expected to graduate or
complete their studies wish to come to Japan to attend the degree conferral
ceremony, a "Guarantor" may be required for the "Temporary
Visitor" visa application.
Our university can act as this guarantor.
Please note that there are conditions for applying, so consult with the
International Exchange Office.
■ Take
the subway Tozai Line and get off at "Nishi 11-Chome
Station", Exit 1.
It's a
5-minute walk from there.
■ Location:
Chuo-ku, Odori Nishi 12-Chome, Sapporo Dai-3 Combined Government Office
Building, Examination Division.
■ Phone: 011-261-9658
If you are looking for private apartments around the
university, please contact the International Exchange Office. They negotiate
with real estate agencies to reduce fees and rent, providing accommodations
equipped with beds, washing machines, televisions, and more. In principle,
international students are required to live in rental apartments in Eniwa City.
If you join the "Comprehensive Housing Compensation for International
Students," the university will act as your guarantor.
For those looking in the Sapporo area, you will need to
search on your own using rental information magazines sold at bookstores or by
contacting private real estate agencies. In this case, you must also arrange
for your own guarantor.
Notes:
■ When
signing a rental agreement, you may be required to provide an
"emergency contact," but the university cannot act as your
emergency contact under any circumstances.
■ Please
ensure that you pay your rent on time and do not fall behind.
When renting a private apartment in Japan, you are required
to have a guarantor. A guarantor is responsible for paying rent on your behalf
if you are unable to do so. While Japanese students usually ask their parents
or relatives to act as guarantors, it can be challenging for international
students to find a guarantor in Japan.
If you cannot find a guarantor, the university president may
act as your guarantor during your period of enrollment, but there are
conditions:
■ You
must live in a rental apartment in Eniwa City.
■ You
must enroll in the "Comprehensive Housing Compensation for
International Students" provided by the Japan Educational Exchanges
and Services (annual fee: 4,000 yen).
This system provides insurance for compensation in case of
accidents, as well as to prevent financial burdens on guarantors. It also
ensures that rooms are rented with proper guarantees. The agreement allows only
the student or their immediate family to reside in the apartment. If non-family
members are to live in the apartment, they must also be international students
enrolled at the university.
The university president may not always be able to act as a
guarantor, so please confirm the conditions in detail with the International
Exchange Office in advance.
The first procedures international students need to complete after arriving in Japan include submitting a moving-in notification at the city or ward office, enrolling in the National Health Insurance program, submitting a change-of-address notification at the post office, and opening a bank account. Post offices have a central branch ("main post office") in each city or ward, which handles postal services on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays. Other branches also offer services such as postal delivery, savings, and insurance. After deciding on your address or moving, visit a nearby post office and submit a "Change of Address Notification" so your mail will be forwarded to your new address. Mail sent to your previous address will be forwarded to your new address for one year.
■ Postal
Services: Monday to Friday, 9:00–17:00
■ Savings: Monday to Friday, 9:00–16:00
■ Foreign
Exchange and Transfers: Monday to Friday, 9:00–15:00
■ ATM
Usage: Times vary by post office.
When opening a bank account, you will need to present your
Residence Card and Student ID. Some banks may also require a personal seal
(hanko).
■ Bank Service Hours:Counter
Services: Weekdays, 9:00–15:00
■ ATM
Availability: Times vary by location, so please check accordingly.
Electricity:
If the power goes out due to overloading or a short circuit caused by water,
the circuit breaker will trip automatically. Unplug electrical appliances,
reduce usage, and then turn the breaker back on. Check your room's electricity
capacity with your real estate agent in advance to avoid overloading. If you
experience problems, contact the service center listed on your electricity
bill.
Gas:
To start gas services, contact the gas company at least four days in advance. A
representative will visit your residence to activate the gas, and you must be
present during this process.
Water:
To use water services, contact your local water bureau. Bills are issued every
two months, and payments should be made accordingly. In Hokkaido’s cold
winters, be sure to drain the water pipes when leaving your room for an
extended period to prevent freezing. Consult your landlord or real estate agent
if you are unsure how to do this. Repairs for frozen pipes can be expensive,
and repair services are limited during the New Year holidays.
Waste Disposal:
Waste is collected by the city or ward. Detailed waste sorting and disposal
rules apply, so follow local guidelines to properly separate and dispose of
garbage.
When you return to your home country after accomplishing the purpose of your study abroad, there are many procedures you need to complete beforehand. As a reference, the following list outlines what you may need to do. Please make sure you complete the necessary steps without omissions and prepare efficiently. Additionally, international students are expected to act as bridges for cross-border exchanges. Before returning, please express your heartfelt gratitude to those who helped you during your stay, ensuring that warm relationships can continue in the future.
Below are some examples of necessary procedures. As soon as
you decide to return to your home country, consult with and confirm the details
with the International Exchange Office.
1. Examples of Required Procedures:
2. Academic
Registration: Administrative procedures such as issuing academic
transcripts or other certificates.
3. Contact
Information After Return: Submitting your contact details, such as
your address, phone number, and email, to the university.
4. Utility
Payments: Informing the university about a person to whom utility
bills can be delegated, including their name and contact method.
5. Future
Plans: Before returning, fill out a survey regarding your future plans
(e.g., employment or further education) and submit it to the International
Exchange Office.
5. Return
of Borrowed Items: Returning items borrowed from the university, such
as library books.
6. Notification
of Return Date: Inform the International Exchange Office of your
return date and flight schedule as soon as they are confirmed.
As a resident in the local area, there are various
procedures you need to complete before leaving. Properly handling these will
help you avoid troubles later.
1. Examples of Necessary Procedures:
2. Housing: Notify your landlord of your move-out date at least one month in advance,
inform your guarantor, and ensure the residence is left in the same
condition as when you moved in.
3. Banking: Close your bank account after consulting with the office responsible for
scholarships, utilities, and other matters that may require post-return
processing. Cancel credit cards, cash cards, and automatic withdrawals.
Note that simply emptying your bank account balance to zero does not mean
it has been closed—ensure you formally close the account.
4. Service
Cancellations: Cancel contracts for utilities (electricity, gas,
water), phone services, NHK broadcast fees, mobile phones, and internet
services. Notify relevant companies of your move-out date and settle any
remaining bills.
5. City
or Ward Office: Submit a moving-out notification at the municipal
office where you resided. Return your National Health Insurance card and
settle your health insurance and pension dues.
6. Immigration: Return your residence card when leaving Japan. Carry the card until your
departure and return it during the immigration process at the airport.
7. Shipping
Luggage: Arrange shipping for belongings via sea freight or air
freight as needed.
8. Garbage
Disposal: Sort and dispose of garbage, including large waste items,
following local regulations. Contact your ward or city office for large
item disposal. Plan in advance to ensure you adhere to designated disposal
days.
9. Mail
Forwarding: Request mail forwarding to a trusted acquaintance in
Japan. This service is available for up to one year.
When relatives of students expected to graduate or complete their studies, who will attend the degree conferral ceremony, wish to come to Japan, a "short-term stay" visa may require a "guarantor" for the application. Our university can act as the guarantor for this visa. There are conditions for applying, so please consult the International Exchange Office for guidance.
(Purpose)
Article 1: These regulations set forth the matters concerning the discipline of
international students at Hokkaido Bunkyo University, in accordance with
Article 38 of the University Regulations, Article 25 of the International
Student Regulations, and Article 38 of the Graduate School Regulations
(hereinafter referred to as "University Regulations, etc.").
(Application of Discipline)
Article 2:
If a
student's whereabouts cannot be confirmed for more than one month,
disciplinary action may be applied according to the University
Regulations, etc., under the category of "students who have no valid
reason for being absent regularly."
If a
student falls into any of the following categories, disciplinary action
may be applied under the category of "those who disrupt the
university's order and severely violate their duties as a student":
(1) Employment in businesses subject to laws regulating
"entertainment business" and business normalization (hereinafter
referred to as the "Fueiho").
(2) Arrested or detained for violating activities not allowed under the
qualifications, or illegal work.
(3) Obtaining "student" visa status through false declarations
when entering Japan.
(4) Failure to complete the necessary procedures for withdrawal from the
university when the Ministry of Justice's immigration authority has denied
the extension of stay for more than one month.
(5) Engaging in work without obtaining permission for activities outside
the scope of the student visa, after being subjected to a suspension
penalty, and failing to show improvement or intentionally engaging in
severe misconduct.
(6) Being ordered by the police or immigration authorities to cooperate or
appear, and failing to comply with a summons from the university for more
than one month.
If a
student falls into any of the following categories, disciplinary action
may be applied under the second paragraph of the University Regulations
for admonition or suspension:
(1) Employment without obtaining permission for activities outside the
scope of the student visa.
(2) Failure to comply with a police or immigration authority summons
within one week.
(3) Unauthorized absence for more than two weeks.
(4) Failing to complete over half of the prescribed courses in the
previous or current semester.
(5) Failing to carry the "Residence Card" or "Permit for
Activities Outside of Status of Residence," and receiving a warning
or guidance from the police or immigration authorities.
(6) Neglecting to complete the various procedures required by Japanese law
and by the university as part of their duties as an international student.
(Recommendation to the Student Council)
Article 3: The International Student Committee shall recommend to the Student
Council whether disciplinary action is necessary and the type and severity of
the disciplinary measures in the relevant case. If necessary, the committee may
consult other related committees.
(Amendment and Abolition)
Article 4: Any amendments or abolition of these regulations shall be proposed
by the International Student Committee and the Student Council, discussed by
the Faculty Council, and executed by the President.
Enactment
These regulations were enacted on December 15, 2004, and applied from October
1, 2004.