Anime and manga continue to be powerful global ambassadors for Japanese culture, inspiring countless international fans to learn the Japanese language. In 2025, several standout series have captured worldwide attention, offering excellent language learning opportunities for students in teen summer programs in Japan, such as one we are offering for summer 2025! 

Trending Anime in 2025 

Dr. STONE 

This science-focused series continues to captivate audiences with its unique premise of rebuilding civilization through scientific knowledge. Now in its latest season, Dr. STONE offers language learners: 

  • Scientific and technical vocabulary in Japanese context 
  • Clear explanations of complex concepts that aid comprehension 
  • Historical references to Japanese culture blended with science 

Local Life Japan’s teen summer program incorporates science-themed vocabulary from Dr. STONE into hands-on experiments, helping students connect language with practical applications. 

My Happy Marriage (Watashi no Shiawase na Kekkon) 

This beautiful historical romance with supernatural elements provides: 

  • Formal Japanese speech patterns and traditional honorifics 
  • Emotional vocabulary related to relationships and feelings 
  • Cultural insights into historical Japanese marriage customs and family dynamics 

Our teen summer program in Japan includes cultural workshops where participants explore the traditional customs depicted in series like My Happy Marriage, learning associated vocabulary and phrases. 

Sakamoto Days 

This action-comedy about a retired assassin turned convenience store owner has gained massive popularity for its perfect blend of humor and intense action sequences. Language learners benefit from: 

  • Everyday conversational Japanese in retail settings 
  • Slang and casual speech patterns among diverse characters 
  • Context-rich visual storytelling that aids comprehension 

Students in Local Life Japan’s program often practice role-playing convenience store interactions inspired by Sakamoto Days, learning practical vocabulary for daily situations. 

The Apothecary Diaries (Kusuriya no Hitorigoto) 

Set in an imperial court inspired by ancient China but with Japanese cultural elements, this mystery series offers: 

  • Specialized vocabulary related to traditional medicine and herbs 
  • Formal court language and historical speech patterns 
  • Cultural references to traditional East Asian medical practices 

The teen summer program Japan includes visits to traditional herb gardens such Nunobiki Gardens in Kobe where students can identify plants mentioned in The Apothecary Diaries while practicing related vocabulary. 

Popular Manga Series in 2025 

Akane-banashi 

This captivating manga about traditional Japanese rakugo storytelling continues to gain international recognition. Language learners appreciate: 

  • Exposure to traditional performance art vocabulary 
  • Classical Japanese storytelling patterns and rhythms 
  • Cultural insights into this uniquely Japanese art form 

Local Life Japan’s teen summer program includes immersive activities that may include a trip to nearby Awaji Island where traditional theater arts is a part of everyday living.  

Centuria 

This historical fantasy manga set across multiple time periods in Japan offers: 

  • Varied historical speech patterns from different eras 
  • Evolution of language throughout Japanese history 
  • Rich cultural context for historical sites visited during the program 

Program participants visit historical locations such as Akashi and Himeji Castles, connecting the manga’s scenarios with real Japanese history while practicing era-appropriate vocabulary. 

Gokurakugai 

This supernatural action series set in a mysterious district between the realms of life and death provides: 

  • Vocabulary related to Japanese spiritual concepts and yokai 
  • Urban Japanese slang in contrast with traditional terminology 
  • Visual context for supernatural elements in Japanese folklore 

Traditional supernatural beliefs such as yokai is deeply imbedded in Japanese culture and our teen summer program explores this unique aspect through meaningful conversation with locals.   

Ichi the Witch 

This magical coming-of-age story about a young witch navigating both traditional magic and modern Japanese society offers: 

  • Modern teen dialogue alongside magical terminology 
  • Contrast between formal magical practice language and casual speech 
  • Creative visual depictions of Japanese magical traditions 

Students in Local Life Japan’s program engage in creative writing workshops that enhance participants’ learning experience in Japan.  

How Local Life Japan’s Teen Summer Program Helps You Appreciate Anime and Manga More 

Our summer teen program focuses not just on language learning: immersive and exciting trips around Akashi and the Kansai area give participants a taste of local life in Japan.  

Cultural Context Through Creative Media 

Instructors help students understand: 

  • How anime and manga reflect real aspects of Japanese society 
  • The evolution of language through different genres and time periods 
  • Cultural references that might be missed by foreign viewers 

Benefits of Learning Japanese Through Contemporary Media 

Students in the teen summer program Japan gain several advantages by learning through anime and manga: 

  • Increased motivation through engaging with content they genuinely enjoy 
  • Exposure to natural, contemporary Japanese as it’s actually spoken 
  • Cultural context that goes beyond textbook learning 
  • Visual reinforcement that aids comprehension and retention 
  • Conversation topics to practice with Japanese peers and host families 

Real-World Application During the Program 

Local Life Japan ensures students can immediately apply what they learn through: 

  • Homestay experiences with Japanese families 
  • Conversation partners with locals who often share similar interests in anime and manga 
  • Shopping excursions to purchase manga in Japanese or anime merchandise 

Conclusion 

The intersection of popular anime and manga with language learning creates a powerful educational opportunity that Local Life Japan’s teen summer program expertly leverages. By connecting students’ existing interests in these vibrant media with structured language instruction and immersive cultural experiences, the program creates an environment where language acquisition happens naturally and enthusiastically. 

For anime and manga fans looking to deepen their connection to these art forms through language mastery, Local Life Japan’s teen summer program offers the perfect blend of fun and educational immersion.  

Participants return home not only with improved Japanese language skills but also with a richer understanding of the cultural context that produces the anime and manga they love. 

Applications for Local Life Japan’s 2025 teen summer program are now open, with special tracks available for students interested in anime/manga culture. Early registration is recommended as spaces fill quickly for this popular immersion experience.