Three ANU Law students travelled to Japan from 6 to 15 August 2026 to participate in the University of Tokyo Law School Summer School, immersing themselves in the fascinating and complex world of corporate governance.  

The 2026 University of Tokyo Summer School explored the theme of ‘Global Trends in Corporate Governance and M&A’ (Mergers and Acquisitions), bringing students and professionals from around the world together with pre-eminent corporate law scholars to study.  

Lecturers from seven universities across Asia and Europe delivered the courses. The program covered topics ranging from the mechanics of EU takeover law, to comparative stakeholderism , to hostile takeovers in China. Participating students benefited greatly from “small class sizes, fascinating readings, and an engaged cohort”, learning corporate law through a global lens.  

International students completing the program also received an introduction on the basics of Japanese law.

Beyond the classroom, international participants visited the Tokyo office of law firm Atsumi & Sakai, where they had a taste of corporate legal practice in Japan and spoke with lawyers about their professional lives.

As the program concluded, ANU students Bita Mahani, William Maxwell and Chloe Law reflected fondly on their time overseas.

Bita saw her experience as “uniquely enriching”.

“The course provided an excellent chance to apply and challenge the perspectives and experiences I have gained through my classes at ANU and at work. I particularly enjoyed learning about the intricacies of, and differences between, corporate regulation around common challenges across different jurisdictions,” she said.  

Will called the opportunity “the highlight of my time at ANU.”  He said,

“I got to meet so many clever people from around the world and made some friendships that will last a lifetime. While everyone talks about being a corporate lawyer, this was the best opportunity I have had at Law School to actually see what this would look like, and explore critical issues in this area.”

Chloe remarked, “I was particularly fascinated by the ways in which each jurisdiction’s unique circumstances and goals are reflected in its legal frameworks.”

Chloe also valued the opportunity to meet students and academics and experience Hayama and Mount Fuji beyond the classroom.

“It made memories to last a lifetime!”

Find our more information of ANU Law School’s international opportunities.