Why Study Here?

Because East and South Asia are quickly becoming the hub of the new world, both the birthplace of some of the globe's most influential cultures and an arena for breathtaking economic development.
Long marginalized, East and South Asia are now returning to their former glory. China, Japan, India and Korea are global financial leaders. The development of the Asian sphere offers endless opportunities for the culturally-versed. We will initiate you into the world of East-Asian languages, as well as into the social, financial and political fabric of the region.
East and South Asia boast fascinating history and cultural variety. Familiarizing oneself with the philosophy, religion, art, literature and poetry of China, Japan, India and Korea is both thrilling and absorbing. It will expend your horizons like few other fields can do.
This is a highly dynamic region which goes through significant transformation at the present. Every day, things happen in Tokyo, Shanghai, Delhi or Kuala-Lumpur. The financial structure, the social and demographic structure, the family unit, gender and sexual perceptions and popular culture – all these are changing in front our very eyes at a tremendous pace. New ideas always wait around the corner.
Why the Hebrew University?
Because our department is the oldest in the country, and one of the most popular departments in the Hebrew University of Jerusalem. We can offer you dynamic environment, thriving student life and a well-experienced cadre of experts to China, Japan, India, Korea and Indonesia.
Because we teach about the past and the present: both the languages of China, Japan, Korea and India; and the history, culture, politics, society, and economy of these countries.
Because our department has the most intensive MA and PhD curriculum of the Asian studies field in Israel, with well-planned core and language courses; and because we provide support for outstanding students in advanced studies.
Because we can offer more opportunities for student exchange, summer study programs and travelling seminars in East Asia. The options are endless: Language courses in China; participation in archaeological excavations in China and Mongolia; subsidized study tours in India and Japan; a wide array of books and data resources in Chinese, Japanese and much more.
Because we offer an exciting, international and cosmopolitan environment. Every year we host dozens of scholars and students from all around the world, especially from Asia. If you want to meet like-minded people from Japan, China, India, Korea and numerous other countries, you're at the right place.