As a major in Asian Studies, you’ll have an opportunity to experience Asia—without leaving our campus. The majority of our classes are held in Furman Hall, but our entire campus serves as a classroom for our students. We have it all, from an authentic Japanese temple near Furman’s Swan Lake to language houses where you can practice Japanese or Mandarin. Explore our facilities.
Place of Peace
The Place of Peace is the first Japanese temple ever to be dismantled and reconstructed in America. Built in 1984 and donated by the Tsuzuki family, it is used as a teaching tool and meeting space for classes in different academic departments.
James B. Leavell Reading Room
Located in Furman Hall, the reading room is used for welcome receptions, open houses, and other student events. We've even hosted diplomats and Chinese opera singers here. When not hosting an event, the reading room is open to students.
Language Houses
Our language houses offer a great living and learning experience for students who are interested in studying the same language. You'll work with a language house assistant who's a native speaker, and engage in cultural events.
Modern Language Center
Our Modern Language Center provides videos and audio instructional books in Chinese, Japanese, and other languages to help you practice your language skills.
Mango Languages Software
Want to study a language we don't offer at Furman? Check out our online language learning tool, Mango Languages. This software uses basic conversations to get you comfortable with a new language.
Resources
Care to learn Aikido? As a member of the Aikido Club, you’ll learn more than self-defense from this Japanese art. You’ll learn mental focus.
To gain a deeper understanding of Asian culture, join the Association of Students Interested in Asia (A.S.I.A. Club). This student group meets regularly to discuss political, social, and cultural issues.
Whether you’re interested in connecting with other Chinese students or immersing yourself in Mandarin, you’ve come to the right place. This student organization is open to all students interested in Chinese culture and language.
Sponsored by the U.S. Department of State, the Critical Language Scholarship Program selects students to participate in fully-funded summer language institutes. Visit the Critical Language Scholarship Program.
The Japan Exchange and Teaching (JET) Program is one of the world’s largest exchange programs. Every year, it invites graduates from Furman and other universities to work as English teachers in Japanese middle and high schools. Apply to the JET program.
The Vedic Center of Greenville is a great resource for lectures, cultural celebrations, and information about Hinduism. You might even see the center’s members performing in dance and music events on campus. Visit the Vedic Center of Greenville.