Studying Japanese is very important for living, working and staying in Japan. J SELECT features Japanese language schools in the greater Tokyo area offering long-term courses mainly for students looking to attend university or work in Japan and are usually one to two years of full-time study. Here’s a list to find your perfect school in the greater Tokyo area.
YU Language Academy

Description
Features
They have various courses set up, well-equipped dorms within walking distance from the school. Moreover, they have a school scholarship system to aid outstanding students with financial difficulties. YU Language Academy also has a café “Yumeiro” nearby Tokyo campuses where YU students exclusively dine for only 400 yen. If students have any difficulties, problems or questions regarding their study process and school or daily life, they are always welcome to ask school staffs, who will come to their aid as soon as possible. They assist students with their public health insurance application. It allows students to have obligatorily medical examinations and be able to deal with any illnesses or accidents with ease. YU Language Academy school arranges college and University visits, where students can choose among a variety of fields of study and tertiary education. Students can freely use School computers with internet access.
Curriculum
There are preparatory courses (long-term, student visa) and Short-term courses. Beside Japanese language lessons there are lessons for EJU, JLPT and job-searching measures. YU Language Academy school also organizes extra lessons, to help students who are falling behind and need the teacher’s help to catch up with the others and move forward with less difficulties.
Courses
YU Language Academy offers four intake periods as follows:
April intake: Preparatory course «1 year» / Preparatory course «2 years»
July intake: Preparatory course «1 year 9 months»
October intake: Preparatory course «1 year 6 months»
January intake: Preparatory course «1 year 3 months»



Yu Language Academy
Address: 2-16-25 Okubo, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo
Tel: 03-3209-0160
Contact: info@yula.jp
Akamonkai Japanese Language School

Description
Akamonkai has four school buildings (Main Campus, Nippori Campus and two branch campuses). They are close to Nippori Station, Nishinippori Station and Mikawashima Station. These stations offer convenient access to the city center of Tokyo. It takes just 36 minutes from Nippori Station to Narita International Airport on the Keisei Skyliner express train.
Features
Curriculum
Akamonkai’s classes are carefully organized according to skill level (17 levels), allowing students to study at classes suitable for their Japanese level and learning speed. Proper mastery of the fundamentals is crucial to move on to subsequent learning phases smoothly. As there are many students with different mother tongues and varying degrees of Japanese language proficiency when they first enroll, having classes that cover a range of teaching speeds allows students from a wide variety of backgrounds to efficiently learn Japanese at the pace that best suits them.
For intermediate level students and above, curriculums and classes are organized according to the students’ goals (higher education, employment, etc.). They help students comprehensively expand their proficiency in Japanese, with a proper balance of reading, writing, speaking, and listening.
Courses


Akamonkai Japanese Language School
Address: 6-39-12 Higashi-Nippori, Arakawa-ku, Tokyo
Tel: 050-1802-5901
Contact: support@akamonkai.ac.jp
UJS Language School

Description
Since its establishment in 1986 in Roppongi in Tokyo’s Minato Ward, students of all nationalities study in the same classroom surrounded by internationally famous icons, such as Tokyo Tower, Roppongi Hills and Tokyo Midtown. UJS considers speaking, reading, listening and writing the cornerstones of communication ability. To improve their students’ communication skills efficiently, UJS follows a well-balanced curriculum and teaching strategy at all times. Due to the development of global economics, student goals have become highly diversified.To maintain the high satisfaction of all students, UJS provides not only qualified Japanese education, but also individualized career support. UJS opens the door to all learners from all counties.
Features
UJS is a long-established language school in Tokyo. As a pioneer of Japanese language schools, UJS always has continuously tried new things, such as training Japanese language teachers and offering private lessons, as well as Japanese lessons for corporations. UJS possesses considerable knowledge and experience relating to Japanese language education. Although one of the largest schools in the Roppongi area, UJS takes special care in looking after its students. All UJS staff are enthusiastic and friendly, and always thinking about their students’ future goals. Additionally, UJS conducts school events, including field trips and speech contests. Through these events, students are able to learn Japanese culture and customs and build lasting relationships.
Curriculum
UJS bases its curriculum on its teaching philosophy. Developing global human resources for the real world is the school’s mission. Therefore, the curriculum is designed for proceeding to higher education and the real business world. Over the last 30 years, UJS has maintained the belief that the most important part of learning a new language is improving communication. To improve Japanese proficiency quickly and efficiently, UJS provides a well-balanced curriculum to improve the four pillars of communication: reading, listening, writing and speaking. Teaching not only Japanese knowledge, but also encouraging students to put their language skills to use in Japanese society. There are four entrance periods each year for long-term courses. Other courses are available year-round. You can study any course that matches your level.
Courses
Long-term courses are suitable for learners who aim for higher education or a career in Japanese. Students are able to enroll in April, July, October and January. The length of the study periods depends on admission periods. Classes are adapted to suit the needs of the students and cover various topics, including preparation for the Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT), which is often a requirement for Japanese universities and colleges. Many companies also look at JLPT scores when hiring non-Japanese employees. UJS also offers preparation courses for the EJU (Japanese University Entrance Exam), covering social studies, science and mathematics. Furthermore, UJS offers career development, as well as living assistance.



UJS Language Institute
Address: 3-3-29 Roppongi, Minato-ku, Tokyo
Tel: 03-5545-6941
Contact: ujsli1986@ujsli.jp
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Intercultural Institute of Japan

Description
The Intercultural Institute of Japan was established in 1977, and is known as one of the oldest schools in Japan. The school welcomes more than 50 different nationalities per year and is located in Tokyo’s Akihabara district. Its CCC logo stands for “Cross Cultural Communications.”
All the students will not only learn about Japan and the Japanese language, but can also encounter a variety of different ways of thinking and values from other students. They hope students listen to many new things, take in a lot of new information, experience many new things, then think about which goals they want to pursue for a bright future.
Features
The Intercultural Institute of Japan is located just a 15-minute walk from Akihabara, where you can also enjoy a great mixture of old and new culture. One of the best features of the school is that they have a short-term course which is strongly focused on speaking practice, called the Weekly Course. The course schedule is quite flexible and students can start EVERY week! In the long-term course, they have elective classes in addition to general Japanese classes. This way, students can choose what to study according to their goals. Intercultural institute of Japan also offers private lessons for those who are working or will be working in Japan. Lessons are customized according to the goals of the students and companies.
Curriculum
The Intercultural Institute of Japan school philosophy is “Japanese for everyone who needs it.”
Every person has different purposes and goals when studying Japanese, such as JLPT, BJT, conversation, grammar, business, living in Japan and so on. They teach them Japanese so that they can actually use what they have learned, and be active in the future.
Courses
The Intercultural Institute of Japan long-term course enables you to learn the skills of speaking, listening, reading and writing. From the intermediate level, there are elective classes where you can deepen your knowledge. The course length is from 1 year to 2 years.



Intercultural Institute of Japan
Address: 2-20-9 Taito, Taito-ku, Tokyo
Tel: 03-5816-4861
Contact: incul@incul.com
Toyo Language School

Description
Toyo Language School provides Japanese lessons with an original education system called “JCT education system.” It consists of three steps; JJM (Jikei Japanese Monitoring), Counseling and Target-setting. By taking the JJM, students can check their Japanese ability, and by analyzing their results with homeroom teachers, they can set new targets every three months. They are not simply teaching Japanese, but as TLS has the goal to educate humanity, they consider the activities very important because play integrates learning. At TLS, students will see Japan from many different angles and learn Japanese in different places. This will help them to be stimulated, made aware and grow. Enjoy the wonderful life of overseas study that will be the key to Japanese improvement.
Features
To follow the JCT education system, they provide a counseling sheet as an analysis tool for all students each term. Counseling sheets enable students to know their strengths and weaknesses in detail. For students who know their own weak points and want to overcome them, elective classes in a relevant field are recommended. Classes are organized from beginner to intermediate levels to assist students in their weak areas, such as grammar, the use of particles or kanji, and students can see their progress. Toyo language school believes that Japanese study is not only about improving vocabulary and grammar. A good way to improve your Japanese skill is to try to communicate and persuade in Japanese. Students in intermediate levels are looking for themes to make posters and learn how to communicate in Japanese through team projects. At the end of the project, they will have an opportunity to present to Japanese guests.
Curriculum
In addition to basic proficiency in grammar and vocabulary, the TLS curriculum is intended to make use of prior learning by engaging regularly in tasks that combine at least two of the four skills: listening, speaking, writing and reading. Through the TLS teaching method, students improve their practical Japanese language abilities, progressing from the more basic, “I understand,” to the more advanced, “I can use it.” They have four levels for basic Japanese classes: Let’s start, Take a step forward, Make human relationships and Send information. Each class takes at least three months to complete and they help students to see their goals clearly. Once students can comprehend basic Japanese, they move to advanced levels and try to get high scores on the EJU (Examination for Japanese University Admission for International Students) and pass high JLPT (Japanese Language Proficiency Test) levels to enter higher education institutions.
Courses
Each student has their own purpose of studying in Japan. In order to study as a long-term student to get a job or go to undergraduate, graduate school or professional training college, they need to get a student visa. There are four enrollment opportunities in April, July, October and January. Their staff provides certificates of eligibility (COE), which are necessary for students when they apply for a student visa at the Immigration Bureau on the designated dates according to each entrance timing.



Address: 7-6-3 Nishi-Kasai, Edogawa-ku, Tokyo
Tel: 03-5605-6211
Contact: info@tls-japan.com
Japanese Language School affiliated with the Chuo College of Technology

Description
The Japanese Language School affiliated with the Chuo College of Technology is accredited as a Miscellaneous School by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government for its educational content, facilities, equipment and more. It is a group school of the Incorporated Educational Institution the Chuo College of Technology with over 110 years of leadership in education in Japan with a quality educational record.
Since the school opened, they have focused on improving the educational environment as a Japanese language school run by an Incorporated Educational Institution. Japanese language education at the new school building provides an even more comfortable learning environment, which started in August 2019.
Features
Every class has its own individual homeroom teacher to ensure that students can freely request advice on study methods and other issues. Emphasis is placed on providing students with advice on possible careers after graduation, but general and personal guidance, including counseling, are also available. Complete curriculums for students aiming to proceed to scientific courses are also available.
Student commuter passes are available for one-, three- or six-month periods and can be used from the train station closest to the address printed on your student ID to JR Tabata Station.
Curriculum
Classes are divided into four stages: Elementary, Lower Intermediate, Intermediate/Upper Intermediate and Advanced.
Courses
The Japanese Language School affiliated with the Chuo College of Technology will assist you in improving your language skills toward your specific goal of entering a vocational school, university or graduate school while gaining balanced competencies in speaking, listening, reading and writing.
➡ 2-Year Course (Enrollment Period April)
➡ 1-Year, 9-Month Course (Enrollment Period July)
➡ 1-Year, 6-Month Course (Enrollment Period October)
➡ 1-Year, 3-Month Course (Enrollment Period January)


Japanese Language School affiliated with the Chuo College of Technology
Address: 1-4-8 Higashi-Tabata, Kita-ku, Tokyo
Tel: 03-3895-1909
Contact: info@chuo-j.ac.jp
KAI Japanese Language School

Description
Founded in 1987, KAI Japanese Language School is a highly reputable, immersive Japanese language school located in Tokyo, Japan. Since their foundation, they have attracted students from over 120 countries who find a fun and challenging learning experience at KAI. KAI Japanese Language school continuously strives to improve course materials, adopt and develop new learning methods and present their findings within the Japanese language learning community. We also value and protect diversity, discourage discrimination and support their students regarding health, continuing education and career guidance. Whether short-term or long-term, for fun or finding work in Japan, the staff and teachers at KAI welcome you and support your Japanese language learning needs!
Features
Located in Tokyo, and within walking distance of Shinjuku Station, the busiest train station in the world, surrounded by great shopping, restaurants and entertainment. They are proud of their well-balanced international student body, always having students from over 40 nationalities at any moment, with more than half from Western countries. KAI is accredited by IALC and Nisshinkyo (The Association for the Promotion of Japanese Language Education), as well as certified to meet the requirements of ISO 29991:2014. In 2015, KAI introduced the KAI DLS (Digital Learning System) using iPads and original digital teaching materials to provide classes with a focus on active learning. Thanks to their five years of experience in implementing a variety of digital education methods, They have been able to provide the same high quality education in online classes that they started due to the coronavirus, and this is what sets us apart from other schools by far.
Curriculum
KAI Japanese Language School offers both comprehensive Japanese language courses for long-term students and conversation-based Japanese language courses for short-term students year-round. KAI summer Japanese language courses include Grammar & Conversation, JLPT Preparation, and their Teen Program to give younger students (aged 13-17) an immersive Japanese language learning experience in Tokyo. Private Japanese language lessons are also available for both individuals and corporate clients. For those who are unable to come to Japan, KAI Japanese Language School offers an “Online Study Abroad” option, which allows you to take the general course online (by Zoom) from abroad. In addition to learning Japanese intensively from your home, you will also study in the same class as other students living in Japan, so you can simulate studying in Japan. Also, when you come to Japan, you can seamlessly continue your studies from the previous level of the online study abroad program.
Courses
The General Japanese Course is a comprehensive and intensive Japanese language course for students who wish to master the Japanese language. It includes a strong focus on learning kanji for students from countries which do not use them, digital learning with iPads and a balance of the four skills of language: speaking, listening, reading and writing. Advanced level students conduct community-based learning (CBL) through collaboration with local schools, libraries, universities and other institutions. Through CBL, students learn to communicate and interact with others in Japanese society, moving beyond the confines of a language classroom. They also have the opportunity to take the NBJ Business Japanese Program.



KAI Japanese Language School
Address: Miyuki Bldg., 1-15-18, Okubo, Shinjuku-ku
Tel: 03-3205-1356
Contact: admission@kaij.co.jp
College of Business and Communication

Description
The College of Business and Communication (CBC,) located just outside of Tokyo in Kawasaki holds the distinction of being a part of history as the only school in Kanagawa to join the Association for the Promotion of Japanese Language Education as a member school during the association’s early days in May of 1989. This school has sent many of its graduates to colleges, universities and graduate schools throughout Japan, and also into the global business world as well. The success of graduates over the years has helped CBC demonstrate a long tradition of experience in Japanese language education.
Features
CBC boasts an accomplished history, as its predecessor institution was founded in 1948. As a pioneer in language education and as a provider of education, this school has earned high praise from professionals in a variety of fields.
In addition to its legacy, CBC is a hub for international exchange. CBC’s Japanese language courses give students from all over the world a chance to study together. There are even opportunities to engage with local residents and students. This gives students the opportunity to learn the language while also fostering cross-cultural understanding and building connections with locals.
Curriculum
・Special kanji lesson for Beginner level
・Elective subjects for Upper Intermediate level
・22 hours a week
・Field trips
・Practice JLPT exam
・Practice EJU exam
Courses
Students acquire basic skills by making sure what they learn is continuously reinforced, step by step, using mini tests, summary quizzes and regularly scheduled tests every 3 months. Students can move from the Department of Japanese to Advanced Studies in Japanese and are able to study Japanese for up to 2 years.
Students in the long-term course also have the chance to enroll in a variety of elective classes. These include subjects such as TV Media, Current Topics in Japan, Business Japanese and J-Pop Lyrics among others. There are even free weekly kanji lessons for students who come from countries that do not use Chinese characters.


College of Business and Communication
22-9 Ekimae-honcho, Kawasaki-ku, Kawasaki-shi, Kanagawa 210-0007, Japan
Tel: 044-244-3200
Contact: jpn@cbc.ac.jp
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