Discover the best Japanese language schools in Japan for 2026. This guide introduces top schools offering immersive Japanese language courses that combine practical study with cultural experiences. Ideal for beginners and advanced learners, these programs help you learn Japanese effectively while living and studying in Japan.
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Learn Japanese in Japan
Learning Japanese in Japan gives you the most effective path to fluency by combining language study with authentic cultural immersion. Japan continues to attract a growing number of international students, with a record 336,708 studying in the country as of May 2024, including 107,241 enrolled in Japanese language schools such as intensive courses and long-term programs offered nationwide. 
Studying in Japan means daily exposure to native speakers and real-world Japanese, which accelerates listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills far beyond what classroom study alone can offer. Living among locals also deepens your understanding of Japanese traditions, social norms, and everyday communication styles that textbooks cannot fully capture. This immersion enriches your language ability and enhances intercultural competence, valuable for both personal growth and future career opportunities. 
Japan’s strong international student support network and comprehensive language programs make it an ideal destination for beginners through advanced learners. Whether your goal is academic study, professional advantage, or cultural exploration, choosing to study Japanese in Japan places you directly in the language and culture you want to master.
Best Japanese Language Schools in Japan
ISI Japanese Language School
Modern Facilities
Practical Curriculum
Cultural Activities
Global Diversity
ISI Language School Tokyo‑Takadanobaba Campus is part of one of Japan’s largest Japanese language school networks, educating thousands of international students from over 110 countries. ISI’s balanced curriculum focuses on listening, speaking, reading, and writing with qualified teachers and communication-oriented classes, helping students build practical Japanese for daily life, work, and higher education. The school also offers short-term and long-term courses, cultural activities, and full support from enrollment through graduation. ISI has multiple Tokyo campuses, including Takadanobaba and ISI Language College (Ikebukuro) and ISI Career and Language Academy, Harajuku for career-focused learners. Studying in Japan at ISI lets you improve Japanese while experiencing Japanese culture firsthand.
3-28-1 Takadanobaba, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 169-0075, Japan
JaLS GROUP｜Japanese Language Schools
Small Classes
Practical Focus
Cultural Immersion
Flexible Courses
JaLS GROUP is a leading Japanese language school network in Japan, established in 2012 and widely recognized for its high-quality short-term Japanese courses. Designed especially for international learners, JaLS focuses on practical, output-oriented lessons that help students actively use Japanese in real-life situations. Small class sizes, flexible start dates, and experienced native teachers create an effective learning environment for all levels. Beyond the classroom, JaLS offers rich cultural activities and local interactions, allowing students to fully experience life in Japan. With campuses across Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Nagoya, Fukuoka, and Hokkaido, JaLS GROUP is an excellent choice for anyone looking to study Japanese in Japan through immersive, enjoyable learning.
Takesato Building 2F, 1-29, Kita 2-Nishi 3, Chuo-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido 060-0002, Japan
Kyoto Minsai Japanese Language School
Multicultural Environment
Balanced Curriculum
Cultural Immersion
Academic Guidance
Kyoto Minsai Japanese Language School in Kyoto offers immersive Japanese language education in a culturally rich setting along the Tenjingawa River, welcoming students from around the world. The school provides both long-term (1–2 years) and short-term (2–10 weeks) programs that develop all four language skills while encouraging intercultural exchange and real-life communication. With experienced educators, supportive services, and extracurricular activities tied to Kyoto’s traditional culture, learners prepare for higher education, professional goals, or daily life in Japan. This balanced approach makes Kyoto Minsai an excellent choice for students studying Japanese and living abroad.
69 Nishikyogoku Kitaoiricho, Ukyo-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto 615-0881, Japan
JTIS｜Japan Tokyo International School
Practical Instruction
Cultural Immersion
Flexible Programs
Multicultural Environment
Japan Tokyo International School is a Japanese language school in Shinjuku, Tokyo, offering flexible Japanese courses for learners of all backgrounds. Situated in the heart of Tokyo, JTIS delivers practical language instruction combined with cultural experiences to help students live and communicate in Japan confidently. The curriculum includes full-time, part-time, short-term, and evening programs, as well as cultural exchange opportunities and field trips that support language growth and deeper understanding of Japanese traditions and daily life. With certified teachers and a multicultural student body, JTIS prepares learners for academic, professional, and personal success in Japan.
Hoshino Building, 8-11-10 Nishi-Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-0023, Japan
Lexis Japan
Communicative Lessons
Modern Facilities
Cultural Immersion
Flexible Programs
Lexis Japan is a Japanese language school in Kobe, Japan, offering immersive Japanese courses that help students build real communication skills. Located in the vibrant centre of Kobe near Motomachi Station, Lexis Japan’s curriculum emphasizes interactive, communicative lessons for all levels, from beginner to advanced, with small class sizes and flexible programs including intensive, part-time, and private tuition options. The school also provides cultural activities and opportunities to explore local life, helping learners experience Japanese language and culture together. Lexis has modern facilities, a student lounge, and a supportive international community to enhance your study abroad in Japan.
36 Nishimachi, 9F, Chuo-ku, Kobe, Hyogo 650-0038, Japan
Akamonkai Japanese Language School
Intensive Curriculum
Career Support
Multicultural Environment
Exam Preparation
Akamonkai Japanese Language School Main Campus and Akamonkai Japanese Language School Nippori Campus in Tokyo offer immersive Japanese language education for international students seeking to study Japanese in Japan. Founded in 1985 and part of Arai Gakuen, Akamonkai delivers intensive courses including comprehensive Japanese, JLPT preparation, EJU preparation, and business Japanese, with classes for all levels. The school supports student visas, academic guidance, and cultural experiences, helping learners achieve university entry or professional goals. With a diverse community from over 80 countries, Akamonkai combines quality instruction with real-life language use in one of Tokyo’s vibrant districts.
6-39-12 Higashi-Nippori, Arakawa-ku, Tokyo 116-0014, Japan
ECC Japanese Language Institute
Balanced Curriculum
Practival Focus
Cultural Experiences
Career Support
ECC Nihongogakuin Shinjukuko (ECC Japanese Language Institute) is a well-established Japanese language school in Japan, run by the ECC education group, offering programs in Tokyo (Shinjuku) as well as in Nagoya and Kobe. Founded with the philosophy of learning “Beyond the Japanese Language,” the institute develops balanced language skills—listening, speaking, reading, and writing—through practical and structured lessons for daily conversation, academic progress, or career goals. ECC’s curriculum includes short-term and long-term courses, small classes, and cultural activities that enhance language application in real life while supporting students’ dreams in Japan.
1-F ECC Tokyo Headquarters Building, 7-6-4 Nishi-Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-0023, Japan
Intercultural Institute of Japan
Practical Lessons
Cultural Activities
Multicultural Environment
Flexible Courses
Intercultural Institute of Japan Akihabara in Tokyo is a long-established Japanese language school located in the heart of Akihabara, one of Japan’s most famous culture and pop-culture districts. Since 1977, it has welcomed students from more than 50 countries to study Japanese through a variety of flexible programs, including long-term, short-term, and weekly courses that build practical communication skills. The school emphasizes interactive lessons, grammar reinforcement, and cultural activities like festivals and excursions, helping learners deepen their language ability while experiencing real life in Tokyo. With English-speaking staff and student support services, it’s ideal for those seeking an immersive study abroad experience in Japan.
J International School (also known as Japanese Communication International School) is a Japanese language school in Osaka, Japan, offering comprehensive Japanese language programs for international learners from around the world. Established in 2004, the school provides long-term and short-term courses that help students improve practical communication, prepare for the JLPT and university entry, and build skills for daily life and careers in Japan. With multilingual support staff and programs tailored to individual goals, learners gain both language proficiency and cultural understanding while studying in one of Japan’s most vibrant cities.
1-1-3 Itachibori, Nishi-ku, Osaka City, Osaka 550-0012, Japan
GenkiJACS｜Genki Japanese & Culture School
Communicative Classes
Flexible Entry
Small Group
Cultural Immersion
Genki Japanese & Culture School Fukuoka and I.C.NAGOYA‑ GenkiJACS Produced Course are part of Genki Japanese & Culture School (GenkiJACS), an accredited and award-winning Japanese language school with campuses across Japan, including Fukuoka, Nagoya, Tokyo, Kyoto, and Okinawa. GenkiJACS is known for its communicative approach to teaching Japanese with small, engaging classes, flexible weekly start dates, and programs ranging from short-term intensive study to long-term student-visa courses. Students learn practical Japanese for daily life, travel, work, and cultural understanding while participating in activities that deepen their experience of Japan. The school’s communicative curriculum and supportive international environment help learners build confidence in speaking, listening, reading, and writing. With global recognition and personalized attention, GenkiJACS is an ideal choice for students who want to study Japanese in Japan and immerse themselves in local culture, whether for a few weeks or over a year.
1-16-23 Hakataekihigashi, Hakata-ku, Fukuoka-shi, Fukuoka 812-0013, Japan
SNG｜Shinjuku Japanese Language Institute
Visual Teaching
Flexible Programs
Global Community
Practival Focus
Shinjuku Japanese Language Institute (SNG) is a long-established Japanese language school in Takadanobaba, Tokyo, with over 50 years of experience teaching Japanese to international students from 50+ countries. Certified by the Japanese Ministry of Education and Tokyo Metropolitan Government, SNG offers flexible courses ranging from short-term study to long-term programs ideal for JLPT and EJU preparation or pathways into Japanese higher education. The school uses its unique Ezoe Teaching Method, a visual grammar approach that accelerates learning and helps students grasp Japanese more efficiently. SNG also incorporates blended learning tools like the Visual Learning Japanese (VLJ) system to support study inside and outside the classroom. Courses include practical communication, Kanji classes, evening options, and tailored lessons, all in a vibrant student district with excellent transport access. Located near Takadanobaba Station, SNG’s central Tokyo campus combines effective language instruction with cultural exposure and global community engagement.
2-9-7 Takadanobaba, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 169-0075, Japan
ICLC｜Okinawa Japanese Language School
Multicultural Environment
Balanced Curriculum
Island Lifestyle
Student Support
ICLC Okinawa Japanese Language School (International Center of Language & Culture) is Okinawa’s oldest Japanese language school, established in 1983 on the tropical island of Okinawa, Japan. Accredited and internationally recognized, ICLC welcomes students from 30+ countries to study Japanese through beginner to advanced courses, including long-term student-visa programs and short-term options. The curriculum balances reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills with cultural activities, offering practical learning in a relaxed island environment. ICLC also supports visa assistance, academic counseling, and student life needs, making it ideal for learners seeking both language proficiency and cultural immersion. With experienced faculty, small class sizes, and a vibrant international community, ICLC helps students prepare for JLPT exams, higher education paths, or daily Japanese life. Studying Japanese in Okinawa lets you enjoy a unique blend of language education and island culture.
Sunhills Tabaru 2F, 1-4-1 Tabaru, Naha-shi, Okinawa 901-0156, Japan
Meiji Academy
Small Clesses
Flexible Start
Communicative Focus
Cultural Activities
Meiji Academy Japanese Language & Culture School in Fukuoka, Japan is a flexible and engaging place to study Japanese, welcoming international students of all levels. Located in the vibrant Tenjin district, Meiji Academy offers small classes (typically 3–6 students) that provide personalized attention and interactive lessons focused on communication skills for daily life, travel, work, and culture. The school’s programs include Standard, Intensive, Business Japanese, traditional culture courses, and special modules that let learners tailor their study plans to personal goals. With flexible start dates throughout the year, students can begin their studies any Monday and choose course lengths that fit their schedules. Meiji Academy also hosts cultural and social activities that deepen understanding of Japanese customs and enrich the overall study abroad experience. With supportive staff and a multicultural environment, it’s ideal for those who want to study Japanese in Japan in a dynamic yet supportive setting.
6th Floor, Arrow Mansion Building, Watanabedori 5-1-26, Chuo-ku, Fukuoka City, Fukuoka 810-0004, Japan
KAI Japanese Language School
Digital Learning
Multicultural Environment
Flexible Courses
Practical Communication
KAI Japanese Language School in Shinjuku, Tokyo is a forward-thinking Japanese language school ideal for students who want to study Japanese in Japan through modern and flexible programs. Established in 1987, KAI has welcomed learners from over 40 countries into its multicultural campus, where the only classroom language is Japanese, helping boost real-world communication. The school offers a range of courses including a General Japanese Course for long-term study, Practical Conversation, Business Japanese, and private lessons tailored to individual goals. KAI pioneers digital language learning with its KAI⋮DLS system and provides iPads to students, making lessons interactive and accessible both inside and outside class. Located near Shin-Okubo and Shinjuku stations, the school also integrates cultural experiences and support services, making it a strong choice for immersive Japanese learning in Tokyo.
1-15-18 Okubo, Miyuki Building 3F, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 169-0072, Japan
TCJ Japanese Language School
Flexible
Academic Pathways
Practical Focus
Global Community
TCJ Japanese Language School is a well-established Japanese language school in Tokyo with over 30 years of experience educating international learners. Located in central Tokyo, TCJ offers flexible and goal-oriented programs for students who want to study Japanese in Japan for academic advancement, career development, or daily communication. Its long-term Student Visa Program is carefully structured into tracks for graduate school preparation, university entry, vocational study, and job hunting, providing focused guidance for each pathway. TCJ also serves busy professionals and local residents with part-time daytime and evening classes, children’s programs, private lessons, and online Japanese courses. Unlike traditional schools with rigid schedules, TCJ allows students to balance language study with work or life commitments. With a diverse student body from over 60 countries and practical instruction led by experienced teachers, TCJ is an ideal choice for efficient, adaptable Japanese learning in Japan.
ARC Academy Japanese Language School is a well-established Japanese language school with campuses in Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto, offering structured and intensive programs for students who want to study Japanese in Japan with clear academic goals. ARC Academy is especially popular in Osaka, where students benefit from a friendly atmosphere and lower living costs compared to Tokyo. The school is known for its disciplined academic approach, emphasizing attendance, punctuality, and steady progress, making it suitable for serious learners aiming for university entry, JLPT success, or long-term language mastery. ARC’s curriculum places strong emphasis on kanji, reading, and grammar while building a solid foundation for real-world communication. With experienced instructors and a supportive yet demanding environment, ARC Academy helps motivated students develop strong Japanese proficiency while immersing themselves in local culture and daily life in Japan.
2-3-18 Minamihorie, Nishi-ku, Osaka City, Osaka 550-0015, Japan
COTO Japanese Academy
Conversation Focused
Small Classes
Flexible Schedules
Practical Japanese
COTO Japanese Academy is a highly regarded Japanese language school in Tokyo, known for its practical, conversation-focused approach to studying Japanese in Japan. Since its founding in 2000, COTO has taught over 8,000 students from around the world, offering small class sizes and flexible schedules ideal for working professionals, residents, and short-term learners. The school specializes in spoken Japanese through structured programs such as Nihongo Plus and Japanese for Business, helping students gain confidence in real-life and professional communication within a short time frame. Lessons emphasize speaking and listening from day one, supported by experienced instructors and modern teaching methods. COTO also provides private lessons that can be taken online, at home, or in the office, making it easy to fit Japanese study into a busy lifestyle. For learners seeking efficient, real-world Japanese skills in Tokyo, COTO Japanese Academy is an excellent choice.
ARK Hills Front Tower, 4F, 2-23-1 Akasaka, Minato-ku, Tokyo 107-0052, Japan
Kudan Institute of Japanese Language & Culture
Intensive Study
Personalized Guidance
Academic Focus
Small Classes
Kudan Institute of Japanese Language & Culture is a well-respected Japanese language school located in Suidobashi, Tokyo, known for its academically intensive programs and highly personalized learning environment. As a smaller institution, Kudan provides close teacher-student interaction, flexible administrative support, and careful attention to individual learning progress. The school is especially suited for motivated learners who want to study Japanese in Japan with a strong academic focus and are prepared to invest significant time in self-study outside the classroom. Kudan’s curriculum emphasizes grammar, reading, writing, and kanji, making it ideal for students aiming for rapid language advancement, JLPT success, or further academic study in Japan. While the pace is demanding, the supportive staff and structured learning system help serious students achieve steady progress. For those seeking fast, focused Japanese language development in Tokyo, Kudan Institute offers a disciplined and effective study environment.
1-5-5 Kudankita, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 102-0073, Japan
TJLEC｜Tokyo Japanese Language Education Centre
Goverment Supported
Academic Focus
University Preparation
Structured Programs
Tokyo Japanese Language Education Centre (TJLEC) is a government-supported Japanese language school operated by JASSO, located in Shinjuku, Tokyo. TJLEC is designed for international students aiming to study Japanese in Japan with clear academic objectives, particularly progression to Japanese universities or graduate schools. The school offers structured, high-level Japanese language programs that integrate academic Japanese, exam preparation, and cultural understanding. Its compact yet well-equipped campus includes modern classrooms, a library, cafeteria, and on-site dormitory, creating a focused learning environment ideal for serious students. With excellent access from Okubo, Shin-Okubo, and Higashi-Nakano stations, TJLEC provides both convenience and academic rigor. Known for its disciplined curriculum and multicultural student body, TJLEC supports learners seeking strong language foundations, academic readiness, and meaningful cultural exchange in one of Tokyo’s most dynamic districts.
3-7-13 Hyakunincho, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 169-0073, Japan
Human Academy Japanese Language School
Career Focused
Specialized Courses
Nationwide Campuses
Practical Skills
Human Academy Japanese Language School, established in Osaka in 1987 and subsequently branching out to Tokyo in 1991 and Saga in 2015, is a prestigious institution for those aiming to learn Japanese in Japan. With a rich history and a diverse student body, this Japanese Language School offers specialized courses that stand out in the market, such as the Nursing Care Japanese Training program. This course is particularly pertinent given the high demand for healthcare professionals in Japan, providing students with a clear path to employment. In addition, for those aspiring to teach the language, there is a tailored program to cultivate future Japanese language educators. Human Academy not only boasts years of experience in catering to international students but also a commitment to equipping them with practical skills and knowledge for their future careers in Japan.
3-2-1 Nishishinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-0023, Japan
あわせて読みたい
10 Reasons to Study Abroad in JapanWhy study abroad in Japan? This nation uniquely melds tradition with modernity, providing a rich cultural and academic landscape. Explore 10 compelling reasons, from mastering Japanese to experiencing Japan’s dynamic environment, highlighting why Japan stands as a top choice for students worldwide seeking an enriching educational journey.
How to Study Japanese in Japan
Studying Japanese in Japan involves several clear steps, and understanding the process in advance helps ensure a smooth and stress-free experience. The first step is choosing the right city and Japanese language school based on your goals, preferred lifestyle, and budget. Japan offers a wide range of schools, from short-term conversational programs to long-term academic courses with student visa support.
Once you select a school, the next step is application submission, which usually includes an application form, passport copy, academic background, and proof of funds. For long-term study, the school will apply for your Certificate of Eligibility (COE) on your behalf. After the COE is issued, you can apply for a student visa at your local Japanese embassy or consulate.
Before arrival, students typically arrange accommodation, flights, and insurance. After entering Japan, schools provide orientation, placement tests, and guidance to help students settle into daily life and begin classes smoothly.
Because requirements and timelines vary by school and visa type, working with a trusted agency is highly recommended. To receive personalized school recommendations, application support, and step-by-step guidance at no extra cost, contact Travelife Japan. Their experienced team will help you study Japanese in Japan with confidence and ease.
あわせて読みたい
Admission and Application Process for Japanese Language Schools in JapanAre you considering studying Japanese in Japan? This guide navigates the admission and application process for Japanese language schools, from meeting eligibility requirements to securing a student visa. It’s your roadmap to not only mastering the language but also deeply understanding Japanese culture, enriching your personal and professional growth.
How to Choose the Best City to Study Japanese in Japan
Choosing the right city to study Japanese in Japan is a key decision that directly affects your learning progress, lifestyle, and overall experience. Each city offers a different study environment, cost of living, and level of daily Japanese exposure.
Large metropolitan areas like Tokyo provide the widest range of Japanese language schools, part-time job opportunities, and international communities. Tokyo is ideal for students seeking fast-paced learning, career networking, and constant real-life language practice, though living costs tend to be higher. Osaka offers a more relaxed and friendly atmosphere, lower living expenses, and strong opportunities for casual conversation, making it easier for learners to use Japanese naturally.
For students who prefer a quieter, culturally rich environment, Kyoto is well suited for focused study alongside traditional culture. If affordability and lifestyle balance are priorities, cities like Fukuoka and Sapporo offer lower costs, friendly locals, and a comfortable pace of life.
When choosing a city, consider your study goals, budget, desired pace of life, and how much daily Japanese interaction you want. The right city can significantly enhance your Japanese learning journey in Japan.
