Interested in learning Japanese? If you’re up for the challenge, learning Japanese can be a rewarding experience. Not only does knowing Japanese open up social and business opportunities, it also opens your mind to a completely different culture.
While there are tons of resources dedicated to teaching the average person Japanese—from online courses to books, videos and much more—the best way to learn the language is to fully immerse yourself in it. It’s why many people move to Japan to learn Japanese! After all, you get to practice what you’re learning right away.
Here’s why you should travel to Japan to learn Japanese, and a brief rundown on the top schools for foreigners in Tokyo, the nation’s capital, where you can immerse yourself in learning the local language.
Why travel to Japan to learn Japanese?
No matter your motivation for learning Japanese, studying the language in Japan is the best way to do it. Whether you’re a beginner or have some experience with the Japanese language, moving to Japan provides an immersive cultural experience that reinforces what you’re learning in real-time.
Many schools even offer unique traditional Japanese activities and events, like tea ceremonies, hanami parties and so much more. If you want to make the most of your efforts and learn about the language, people and culture of Japan, why not do it right at the source? It’s an enriching cultural experience like no other.
Perhaps most importantly, you’ll learn the language from native speakers who can give you a much more meaningful grasp of not only the language, but also how it’s spoken in context. From learning slang to better-distinguishing formal vs. informal context, you’ll get a true education.
The best schools for learning Japanese in Tokyo
There are several language schools in Tokyo dedicated to teaching Japanese to foreigners. Some schools take their courses further, offering lessons in Japanese culture, so you can fully immerse yourself in the lifestyle of the locals. Here are some of the best language schools in Tokyo:
Founded in Tokyo in 1980, JCLI Language School is one of the most-popular Japanese language schools for foreigners in Tokyo. It’s conveniently located in the city center, next to a picturesque green space and close to public transportation.This school is known for being heavily modernized, in the sense that it offers both modern tech like Wi-Fi and smart products, as well as new-age classroom layouts. Interestingly enough, each of the floors of the JCLI Language School also features a different design theme to coincide with the four seasons: spring (second floor), summer (third floor), autumn (fourth floor) and winter (fifth floor).
Of the many schools for learning Japanese in Tokyo, this one is likely to feel the most familiar to expats and Westerners seeking university-style teaching. Not only are there various classes and lesson plans to suit progressive advancement through the school, there are also events and clubs that help enrich the learning experience provided. This has made it a highly-rated school among both expats and with study abroad programs from English-speaking countries.
Coto Language Academy gives you flexibility when it comes to learning Japanese. They offer a variety of courses that are perfect if you plan on traveling to Tokyo for just a few months, either to learn the basics or to perfect your Japanese language skills. With classes in Tokyo, Yokohama and online, it’s also an extremely accessible way to learn Japanese in a traditional university-style setting. Small class sizes, personalized lesson plans and numerous resources make it a top-rated school to learn Japanese.
Coto Language Academy has helped thousands of expats and study-abroad candidates pick up and master the Japanese language at their own pace. The school has even published its own textbook, created to help self-paced learners master the basics of the language. For over 20 years, the school has offered a progressively more robust curricula, always with an emphasis on integrating cultural learning alongside language mastery. For those seeking a truly immersive Japanese language learning experience, Coto Language academy provides it!
Operating for nearly five decades, Shibuya Gaigo Gakuin is one of Tokyo’s most-acclaimed Japanese language schools. It’s conveniently located in the heart of Shibuya, offering a variety of language courses—not just Japanese. They have courses available at varying skill levels, so no matter where you’re at in your studies, there’s a course for you. And, like other top-rated schools on this list, Shibuya Gaigo Gakuin is also deeply committed to intertwining cultural education with language instruction, to give learners a critical sense of what it means to live in Japan.
What sets Shibuya Gaigo Gakuin apart from other Japanese language schools in Tokyo is its robust range of enrichment activities. Outside of traditional language lessons, the school also promotes local cultural immersion through extracurricular activities. Students will find themselves in some of Tokyo’s most exciting areas, practicing language in real-world scenarios. Those seeking a more immersion-focused language experience will find it here, and will be compelled to put their classroom instruction to work in the thriving heart of Tokyo.
One of the newest Japanese language schools, Genki Japanese & Culture School is located in happening Shinjuku, surrounded by tons of shops, restaurants, bars and more. But once you step inside the school, you’ll find a calm, professional environment that’s perfect for immersing yourself in the Japanese language, regardless of your skill level. Though it’s a new school, it’s quickly becoming one of the most popular for Western language learners who want an intimate experience as they learn Japanese in Tokyo.
Class sizes at the Genki Japanese & Culture School are small—just 6-8 students, to ensure engagement and attention for every learner. There are also flexible schedules that make it possible to live and work in Japan while learning the language. Moreover, class lengths vary according to the needs of every student—one one-week courses that teach the basics, to courses that span years and lead into JLPT proficiency. It’s this flexibility and proven results that have enabled it to be one of only two Japanese schools accredited by the International Association of Language Centres, and the first Japanese school ever to be voted Star World Language School—the industry’s highest award.
This language school has four campuses in Tokyo—Takadanobaba, Ikebukuro, Shibuya and Harajuku—welcoming thousands of international students annually. ISI Language School is well-known for the study not just of the Japanese language, but also the nation’s unique culture, giving students the opportunity to fully immerse themselves in all that is “Japanese.” It’s particularly popular among Western learners seeking to become expats and those who want to pursue a higher-level mastery of the language by the time they finish their studies.
ISI Language School offers perhaps the broadest scope of learning resources of any school on this list. spanning courses, events, student guides and more. The school even has an extension that helps connect new graduates to reputable employers once they’ve achieved the desired level of language proficiency! The school’s commitment is to create not just proficient Japanese speakers, but also graduates who understand Japanese culture and who can represent the country as stewards on a global stage. This commitment is reflected in the above-average graduation rates and high JLPT certification rates attributed to ISI Language School enrollees.
One of the oldest and most revered Japanese language schools operating today, The Naganuma School has been running since 1948. Aside from offering Japanese language classes, the school also provides a variety of vocation and business programs for transplants and long-term visa holders. It’s one of the more difficult schools to gain enrollment in, largely because of its popularity, prestige and high standards for acceptance. Nevertheless, many expat and Western learners are accepted each year, and go on to become extremely proficient speakers.
having The Naganuma School on your résumé is something of an honor if you’re looking to pursue a career in business or as a diplomat. The school is well-known for its graduates who have gone on to become prominent leaders in diplomacy, international business and higher education. The secret to its success is the refined teaching method it has developed over the past seven decades: called the Naganuma method. Today, even if you don’t attend the school, you can learn a lot from Naganuma text books and its online videos and, in fact, many smaller Japanese schools in Tokyo follow this mode of instruction because of its exceptional track record for results.
Looking for affordable Japanese lessons? Japan Switch offers Japanese classes on a budget—even private lessons. There are two convenient locations in Shinjuku and Gotanda, both offering professional instruction and skills-based lessons. Whether you’re a complete beginner or you’re already familiar with basic Japanese, Japan Switch has a program for you. They even hold monthly get-togethers, so it’s easy to make friends while you learn! This school is the perfect option for those who want to ease into the language, and who may not be able to fund a full immersion experience at one of the larger university-style schools.
One of the most convenient things Japan Switch offers is the choice to learn privately or as part of a group, at the same pace. This is especially important for the beginner to JLPT N3 level, where mastery of basic concepts happens at different speeds for different people. For example, you can learn with the group as you get familiar with the basics, then switch to private lessons as you approach JLPT Certification, to brush up on concepts you might still be struggling with. Monthly enrollment structures make this switch easy, and even allow you to make up any lessons you miss that month! With lower-than-average enrollment costs and virtually no additional fees, Japan Switch is the no-frills option many want, with a premium level of instruction they didn’t expect!
Authorized by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government, Shinjuku Japanese Language Institute welcomes over 500 international students every year, offering expert Japanese language instruction. Centrally located in Takadanobaba district—Tokyo’s hub for students—you’ll be fully immersed in Japanese culture, surrounded by other students from around the world. And, thanks to a personalized learn-at-your-pace curriculum, you’ll never feel out of place.
What sets Shinjuku Japanese Language Institute apart from other schools on this list is its commitment to teaching via the Ezoe Method, which uses cards and gestures to help students easily and quickly learn Japanese grammar. This visual learning style is very popular with many types of students, and represents an easy bridge into learning basic kanji, hiragana and katakana among those who have no preexisting grasp on Japanese language. The school also offers a Visual Learning Japanese app, which is particularly helpful for those seeking a study guide.
Remember, these are just some of the most reputable and top-rated Japanese language schools in Tokyo—there are many others! The trick to learning the language and becoming a proficient speaker is to choose a school where you feel comfortable and welcome, and that caters to your needs when it comes to instruction and knowledge retention.
Questions to ask before enrolling in a Japanese language school
With so many options to consider as you seek to learn Japanese in Tokyo, there are a few simple questions you should sit down and think about. A little introspection can go a long way towards choosing the best institution for you. Here’s what to consider:
How much can you afford to spend to learn Japanese in Tokyo?
What level of proficiency do you have already, if any?
What type of learner are you (visual, auditory, kinesthetic, etc.)?
What level of immersion into the culture do you want?
Why are you learning Japanese and how do you plan to use it?
What type of environment do you feel most comfortable learning in?
Do you want group or private lessons, or a combination of both?
Approach learning Japanese in Tokyo like any other educational experience. Put yourself in a position to learn in the way that’s best for you, and to grasp the concepts and ideas being taught. The more conducive the experience is to your expectations, the more you’ll retain and the better you’ll feel about your education as you become progressively more proficient.
Keep in mind as you answer these questions that not every school will offer you what you need or want. Narrow down your options to those that meet your basic criteria for learning Japanese, and evaluate each school based on your current situation. It won’t take long before the best option becomes clear!
How to get a Student Visa to learn Japanese in Tokyo
Ready to learn Japanese in the best possible place for it—the country’s capital? If you plan on staying in the country for more than 90 days, you’ll need to get a Japan Student Visa. Luckily, the process is simple, as long as you have all your documents in order. In fact, many of the schools listed above will actually help you apply for your Student Visa after you complete enrollment.
Curious about what you need to do to prove your status as a student? Here’s how to get a Japan Student Visa:
Provide photocopies of your passport, along with a Certificate of Eligibility and a Letter of Admission into an accredited Japanese educational institution.
Provide previous academic history, as well as proof you can meet financial obligations during your stay in Japan (approximately 2 million Yen per year).
Include a cover letter, discussing the reason for your travel, if possible. If you’re planning to gain a residency permit to live in Japan long-term, make mention of this.
Once you’ve obtained your Student Visa, you’ll be eligible to study in Japan for a period of between six months and four years (depending on your study period). And, even if you switch schools, your Student Visa will cover all Japanese language schools, Japanese universities and vocational schools, giving you the ability to keep learning Japanese in Tokyo.
Consult the Embassy or Consulate for all the rules and regulations regarding the Japan Student Visa. The documents you may need can depend on your particular case. The institution you’re attending can help with the process, too. Don’t be afraid to reach out for assistance!
Immerse yourself in the language
When you study Japanese in Japan, you’ll hear the language spoken by natives, every day. Attending Japanese language school in Tokyo gives you the opportunity to practice what you’re learning right away—there’s truly no better way to learn a new language.
What are you waiting for? Finding the right school is key to getting the most from your efforts and enjoying your time in Japan to the fullest. Do your research, find a language school that meets your requirements and start planning to study Japanese in the best place for it—Tokyo, Japan!
