How Many Japanese Language Schools Are There in Japan?

Over the years, Japan has become a popular destination for foreigners who want to learn the Japanese language.

The country offers over 600 language schools, a testament to its commitment to promoting the Japanese language and culture. These schools cater to students of all levels, from beginners to advanced learners.

The Japanese language schools provide various courses, including basic Japanese language courses, university preparation courses, and business Japanese courses.

The schools operate on official terms that start in January, April, July, and October. The terms usually run for three months to two years, depending on the course and level of study.

The cost of education in Japan is relatively high, with an average annual expenditure of about 1,000 Japanese yen per household.

However, the quality of education and the exposure to Japanese culture make it a worthwhile investment.

The schools are located in different parts of the country, with some in the heart of Tokyo, allowing students easy access to the city’s cultural attractions, business districts, and transportation networks.

Understanding Japanese Language Schools in Japan

Japan is home to over 400 registered Japanese language schools, offering a wide range of courses that differ in length and purpose.

These schools cater to students from different backgrounds and nationalities, allowing them to learn the Japanese language and immerse themselves in the country’s culture.

Japanese language schools are typically divided into two categories: those that focus on preparing foreign students for higher education in Japan and those that offer short-term comprehensive courses. Many schools offer both types of courses.

Aside from basic Japanese language courses, Japanese language schools provide university preparation and business Japanese courses. These courses are designed to cater to the needs of students who have different goals and objectives in learning the language.

Japanese language schools also differ in size, purpose, student mix, and teaching methods. Some schools have a more traditional approach to teaching, while others utilize modern teaching methods and technology to enhance the learning experience.

Many Japanese language schools offer cultural activities and events that allow students to experience Japanese culture firsthand. These activities may include tea ceremonies, calligraphy classes, and visits to local historical sites.

Geographical Distribution of Language Schools

When it comes to learning the Japanese language in Japan, the geographical distribution of language schools is an important aspect to consider.

Tokyo

Tokyo is Japan’s capital city and is home to many Japanese language schools. Shinjuku and Shibuya are two of the most popular areas where language schools are located. Students who study in Tokyo can enjoy the bustling city life, rich culture, and a wide range of extracurricular activities.

Kyoto and Gion

Kyoto, a city in Japan’s Kansai region, is another popular destination for students who want to learn Japanese. Gion, a district in Kyoto, is known for its traditional architecture and is home to several language schools. Students studying in Kyoto can immerse themselves in Japan’s rich history and culture.

Osaka and Nagoya

Osaka and Nagoya are two other major cities in Japan where many language schools are located. Osaka is known for its friendly people and vibrant nightlife, while Nagoya is known for its rich cultural heritage and modern architecture.

Fukuoka

Fukuoka is a city located in the southern part of Japan and is known for its beautiful beaches and warm weather. It is also home to several language schools, making it a popular destination for students who want to learn Japanese in a relaxed and laid-back environment.

Other Major and Smaller Cities

Apart from the major cities mentioned above, there are many other cities in Japan where language schools are located.

Some smaller cities, such as Sapporo and Hiroshima, also have several language schools. Students studying in these cities can enjoy a more relaxed and intimate learning environment.

Types of Japanese Language Courses

Japanese language schools in Japan offer a variety of courses to cater to the needs of different students. The following are some of the types of courses that Japanese language schools commonly offer.

Short-Term Courses

Short-term courses are ideal for students who want to learn Japanese for a short period, such as during summer or spring breaks. These courses typically last a few weeks to a few months and focus on providing students with conversational fluency.

Long-Term Courses

Long-term courses are suitable for students who want to learn Japanese for an extended period, such as a year or more. These courses provide a more comprehensive language study, including grammar, reading, writing, and daily conversation.

Business Japanese Courses

Business Japanese courses are designed for students who want to learn Japanese for business purposes. These courses teach students the vocabulary and communication skills required for conducting business in Japan.

Preparatory Courses

Preparatory courses are designed for students who want to take the JLPT N1 or N2 examinations. These courses focus on preparing students for the JLPT by providing them with the necessary vocabulary, grammar, and reading skills to pass the exam.

Special Focus Courses

Special focus courses are designed for students who want to learn Japanese for a specific purpose, such as nursing or higher education. These courses provide students with the vocabulary and communication skills required for their chosen field.

Japanese language schools in Japan offer a range of courses to cater to the diverse needs of students. Whether you want to learn Japanese for a short or an extended period, for business or higher education, there is a course that will suit your needs.

Teaching Methods and Learning Environment

Teaching Style and Methods

Japanese language schools in Japan are known for their rigorous and effective teaching methods. The teaching style is immersive, meaning students are encouraged to speak and think in Japanese as much as possible.

Teachers use various methods to help students learn, including grammar drills, vocabulary exercises, kanji practice, listening comprehension, reading comprehension, and writing assignments.

Classroom instruction is typically conducted in Japanese, with teachers using a combination of lectures, group discussions, and interactive activities to engage students.

Students are also given plenty of opportunities to practice speaking and listening skills through role-playing exercises and conversation practice.

Class Size and Classmates

Class sizes at Japanese language schools vary depending on the school and program, but they are generally small, with an average of 10-15 students per class.

This allows for more individualized teacher attention and a more personalized learning experience.

Foreign students studying Japanese language schools can expect classmates from various countries and backgrounds. This creates a diverse and multicultural learning environment that encourages students to learn from one another and share their unique perspectives.

Cultural and Extracurricular Activities

Many Japanese language schools in Japan offer cultural and extracurricular activities that allow students to experience Japanese culture outside of the classroom.

These activities may include traditional Japanese tea ceremonies, calligraphy lessons, martial arts classes, and field trips to local museums and historical sites.

In addition to cultural activities, many Japanese language schools offer extracurricular activities such as sports clubs, music clubs, and volunteer opportunities. These activities allow students to meet new people, practice their language skills, and develop new interests and hobbies.

Accommodation and Living Costs

Accommodation Options

Several accommodation options are available for students enrolled in Japanese language schools. The most popular options include homestays, private apartments, and student dormitories.

Homestays are an excellent option for students who want to immerse themselves in Japanese culture and improve their language skills.

Private apartments are ideal for students who want more independence and privacy. Student dormitories are an excellent option for students who want to save money on living expenses.

Cost of Living and Tuition Fees

Living expenses in Japan, particularly in major cities such as Tokyo and Osaka, can be relatively high. These expenses encompass accommodation, food, transportation, and entertainment.

Students can expect to pay around ¥100,000 to ¥150,000 per month on living expenses. This amount can vary depending on the student’s lifestyle and spending habits.

Tuition fees for Japanese language schools also vary depending on the school and the course length.

Short-term courses can cost around ¥900,000 to ¥1,200,000 for a one-month course, while long-term courses can cost around ¥600,000 or more for a one-year course.

Notably, these fees do not include registration fees ranging from ¥10,000 to ¥30,000.

Insurance and Other Costs

All international students in Japan are required to have health insurance. The National Health Insurance (NHI) system is available to students enrolled in Japanese language schools.

The cost of NHI varies depending on the student’s location and income, but it is typically around ¥3,000 to ¥5,000 per month.

Students should also consider transportation expenses, such as train and bus fares, and entertainment expenses, such as dining out and sightseeing. Students should also budget for textbooks, stationery, and other school supplies.

Admission and Support Services

Admission Process and Requirements

Japan has a wide range of Japanese language schools that offer courses for students of all proficiency levels, from beginner to advanced.

The admission process and requirements may vary depending on the school, but generally, students must have a valid student visa and complete an application form.

In addition to the application form, students may also be required to submit the following documents:

• Passport
• Certificate of graduation or transcript from the last school attended
• Proof of financial support
• Japanese language proficiency test results (if applicable)

Support Services

Japanese language schools in Japan often provide various support services to help students adjust to life in Japan. These services may include:

• Assistance with finding housing
• Support for opening a bank account
• Assistance with obtaining a student visa
• Counseling services
• Orientation sessions

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Many Japanese language schools in Japan offer scholarships and financial aid to students. These scholarships and financial aid programs may be based on academic merit, financial need, or other criteria.

Some schools may also offer credit transfer programs, which allow students to transfer credits earned at the Japanese language school to a university or college in Japan.

Notable Japanese Language Schools

KAI Japanese Language School

KAI Japanese Language School is located in Tokyo and offers a variety of Japanese language courses for students of all levels. Their programs include intensive courses, standard courses, and business courses.

Genki Japanese and Culture School Tokyo

Genki Japanese and Culture School Tokyo is a famous language school in the heart of Tokyo. They offer a range of courses, including standard courses, intensive courses, and private lessons.

Yoshida Institute of Japanese Language

The Yoshida Institute of Japanese Language, situated in Hiroshima, provides diverse Japanese language courses for all skill levels, including intensive, standard, and business courses.

Intercultural Institute of Japan

Intercultural Institute of Japan is located in Nagoya and offers a range of Japanese language courses, including standard courses, intensive courses, and private lessons.

KCP International Japanese Language School

Discover Japanese language courses at KCP International Japanese Language School in Tokyo for all levels. Choose from intensive, standard, and business courses.