Where does the program take place?

At Venice Studio Tokyo all studios take place in-person in Tokyo, Japan (there is no online tuition available). The studios are located in central Tokyo at the iconic Hillside Terrace precinct in the Daikanyama district. Hillside Terrace is a cluster of buildings designed by Fumihiko Maki, one of Japan’s most important 20th century architects and is located only 20 minutes walking distance from the famous Shibuya ‘Scramble Crossing’ and 20min by metro to the neon nightlife of Shinjuku. Each studio has a designated space which can also be used by students outside scheduled class-times. All studios are clustered together for optimum social and intellectual connection between all the architects and students across the program.

Who usually attends Venice Studio?

Venice Studio has welcomed students from over 100 schools in 60+ countries. The cohort is diverse and includes bachelor, master and recently graduated students from primarily architecture, landscape architecture, urban design, interior architecture and planning.

How much time is dedicated to studio and how much free-time is there?

The program has been carefully calibrated to balance in-studio project development with free-time. Generating a considered design project while spending time experiencing the city, its cultures and its people is the ideal outcome for any student in the program.

What is the language of instruction?

English.

What equipment should students bring with them to Tokyo?

Each student is required to bring a laptop computer. Some studios may require particular software. Software requirements (and any other required items) will be listed on each studio page on this website in due course. Please note that equipment insurance is the responsibility of each student.

How is accommodation organised?

Organising accommodation is the responsibility of each student. Many students share accommodation with other students in the program. Please refer to the Tokyo ‘travel & accommodation’ section of this website for more information.

What to expect from the field-trips?

Field-trips within Tokyo, and further afield throughout Japan will be organised for all students. These are carefully selected by the architectural practices leading each studio to take full advantage of the city and to connect with the particular studio program and design task. Therefore, each studio will include one or more unique trips.

Is it possible to gain internships or other job opportunities with the participating firms?

At Venice Studio, the architects work closely with each of their students throughout the 2 week program. This presents them a unique opportunity to identify suitable candidates from around the world for any available internship or work opportunities post Venice Studio. Some architectural firms join the program to specifically spot suitable candidates / future talent – consequently, students may secure internships and work opportunities as a direct result of participation at Venice Studio.
Any internship or job opportunities available are at the sole discretion of the studio directors and the firm and are not guaranteed.

Is academic credit awarded?

Venice Studio does not issue academic credit directly. However, at the completion of the program students receive an architect issued reference letter and transcript which may aid your faculty’s recognition of your Venice Studio study. Many schools around the world award students academic credit for undertaking Venice Studio. Credit point allocation is at the sole discretion of your university faculty.

Do I need a Visa or entry permit to enter Japan?

Each student is responsible for securing their own visa and organising there own landing card for entry into Japan (if required). Students can be provided with a formal Venice Studio letter of enrolment should they need it to support any visa application. Should you require a visa it is highly recommended to start the process as soon as possible (as the application process can be lengthy)