Japanese language courses at Earlham focus on integrating linguistic and cultural proficiency.

Many students learning the Japanese language study abroad in Japan during their junior year. Some students might also participate in a May Term abroad where they investigate a special topic such as Japanese cuisine, geology, or religion.

A language fellow, a native speaker of Japanese, is a vital part of the Japanese curriculum. The fellow lives in Japan House, introduces the house members and Japanese language students to contemporary Japanese culture, and assists in basic courses.