Japan: Design Field School 2026

Asia
Japan
Architecture and Design
Professions and Applied Sciences
Kwantlen Polytechnic University
May 2026
Duration: May 8-19, 2026
Recommended Credits: 3

The Design Field School itinerary immerses students in contemporary and historical design, directly supporting the course objectives of contextual and global engagement. Site visits, including the Tokyo Station Building and the National Museum of Modern Art, showcase diverse architectural styles and design philosophies, encouraging students to critically analyze how environment, culture, and human experience intersect.

Morning sessions foster inquiry through firsthand observation of works by renowned architects such as Kenzo Tange, Kengo Kuma, and Frank Lloyd Wright, deepening understanding of how cultural, social, and environmental contexts shape design. Afternoon activities, such as visits to luxury retail locations and architectural landmarks, spark discussion on design, commerce, and culture, reinforcing contextual learning and collaboration.

Students document and share their findings through sketches and annotations, connecting theory with practice. The diverse range of sites promotes collaborative and interdisciplinary learning, fostering leadership and professionalism as students engage with varied perspectives.