Higashikawa Japanese Language School
Higashikawa Japanese Language School is Japan’s first public municipal Japanese language school in Hokkaido, offering long-term and short-term courses with comprehensive instruction in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Located in scenic Higashikawa, it fosters global understanding through language study, community interaction, and cultural experiences.
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INTRODUCTION
Higashikawa Japanese Language School is Japan’s first public Japanese language school, established by Higashikawa Town in Hokkaido in 2015. Developed from a long-running town Japanese and culture training initiative, the school welcomes international learners from across Asia and beyond, offering a warm, collaborative learning environment centered on the core values of harmony, respect, and personal growth. The school delivers high-quality language instruction focused on communication skills and cultural understanding, while also promoting local engagement and international exchange. Situated in the natural beauty of Higashikawa at the foot of Daisetsuzan, the program combines language study with authentic cultural and community activities.
- Public First
- Cultural Immersion
- Community Exchange
- Global Diversity
COURSES
Long-term Course
Higashikawa Japanese Language School offers two main program types. The Long-Term Course is a year-long study program designed for serious learners aiming to achieve strong Japanese proficiency, especially those targeting JLPT levels, with structured lessons in grammar, kanji, reading, listening, and speaking. It requires a study visa and is open to learners aged 16 and above. The Short-Term Course welcomes learners of all levels for study up to 90 days under a tourist or other short-stay status, with no prior Japanese required. Both courses emphasize practical use and cultural immersion through community experiences and activities.
ACCOMMODATION
Dormitory
Accommodation at Higashikawa Japanese Language School is designed to support international students with comfort, convenience, and cultural immersion in Hokkaido. The main option, Sentopure I Disaster Accommodation Center, is located next to the school and offers shared rooms for 2 to 6 students. It includes basic furniture, shared bathrooms, Wi-Fi, and daily meals, making it ideal for short-term and group students. For those seeking more independence, the Higashikawa Lifestyle Experience House provides private rooms in a renovated apartment within walking distance, complete with kitchen and laundry facilities. Additional choices include the International Exchange Hall and International Exchange Maison Higashikawa, which offer shared living environments that encourage interaction with local residents and other international students. These student accommodations in Higashikawa allow learners to focus on Japanese study while enjoying a safe, affordable, and culturally rich living experience in rural Japan.
LONG-TERM APPLICATION PROCESS
APRIL INTAKE
Longest: 2 years
Contact us to research your ideal location, program, visa options, and Japanese language school.
*May – June
Complete the school application, prepare required documents, and begin fulfilling the 150-hour study requirement.
*July – September
Submit application documents, pay the school application fee, and secure your place successfully.
*October
Make payment to the school after receiving the official invoice.
*February
Research and book your accommodation, then book your flights to Japan.
*Mid-February – March
Receive your Certificate of Eligibility and visit your local Japanese embassy to obtain your visa.
*March
You are now ready for school, please make sure to attend the orientation session!
*April
LOCATION
1-1-1 Kitamachi, Higashikawa, Kamikawa District,
Hokkaido, Japan, 071-1426
SCHOOL MESSAGE
Higashikawa Japanese Language School is located at the foot of the Daisetsuzan mountains in Higashikawa Town, Hokkaido, and serves as a unique public Japanese language school established in 2015. As Japan’s first municipal Japanese language school, we pride ourselves on dedicated teachers and staff who provide careful, student-centered guidance in a friendly and collaborative learning environment. We are committed to respecting each learner who comes to Japan with high aspirations, and we focus on nurturing globally minded individuals who contribute to peace and understanding across cultures.
At Higashikawa Japanese Language School, students learn not only the Japanese language but also mutual respect and cultural appreciation, building trust that transcends national and time boundaries. We believe trust fosters compassion, and enthusiasm nurtures dreams. Our goal is for students from abroad to achieve their Japanese language goals, understand Japanese daily life and traditions, and enrich their lives through quality language education in Higashikawa.
Masamichi Koyama（Principal）
WHY HOKKAIDO?
Studying Japanese in Hokkaido offers a calm and immersive learning environment where language, culture, and daily life are closely connected. Known for its wide-open nature, seasonal beauty, and relaxed lifestyle, Hokkaido allows learners to practice Japanese naturally in local communities, shops, and workplaces. Cities like Sapporo combine modern convenience with regional traditions, making daily life comfortable and safe. With clear Japanese pronunciation, fewer crowds, and strong community ties, Hokkaido provides an ideal setting for focused language study. Learning Japanese in Hokkaido becomes a practical, immersive experience that encourages steady progress while enjoying Japan’s natural landscapes and distinct local culture.
Other Schools in Hokkaido
CONTACT US
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