What to Know Before You Learn Japanese in Japan

July 2024 · 10 minute read

Kon’nichiwa! Ready to learn Japanese in Japan? ☆ In an increasingly globalized world, learning a second language is a significant asset, as is exposure to other cultures. Adventurous young students recognize the advantages of becoming fluent in another language, and Japanese is among the most popular to learn. The wealth of Japan’s popular culture and its role as a driving career factor, especially in politics, science, or economics, is undeniable.

A view of Mount Fuji in Japan

Learning Japanese is cool, but you know what’s really cool? Learning Japanese in Japan.

Learning Japanese in Japan is an ideal gateway to learn other Asian languages. The Japanese writing system uses a combination of kanji and kana, and the language has different forms of speech and honorifics depending on the context. Getting a grasp on the Japanese language and writing techniques can help you learn Chinese and Korean more easily, for example. Several Japanese language schools in Japan provide such opportunities.

Read on to learn what you need to know before taking Japanese classes in Japan!

Why learn Japanese in Japan?

Japan’s educational standards are excellent!

The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) ranks Japanese high school students number 5 in the world in math and number 2 in scientific literacy. In a 2018 article by World Atlas titled “Nobel Prize Winners by Country”, Japan has the highest number of Nobel Prize winners in Asia and ranks 7th out of all the nationalities of Nobel winners in the world. Japan has over 700 universities, 7 of which are ranked in the top 200 worldwide—which means you’re in good hands for Japanese language schools in Japan.

Japan has a rich cultural heritage.

Tradition is a fundamental force in Japanese life, and it’s enchanting. As a student, you can experience the culture, food, traditions, and fascinating history of Japan (from rustic countryside living to futuristic out-of-this-world technologies) first-hand when you learn Japanese in Japan. You not only learn Japanese in the country of origin; you also have the opportunity to live in the midst of the country’s extensive cultural heritage.

A bowl of ramen on a table top

If your mouth isn’t already watering thinking about all that delicious Japanese food, it will be soon.

Japan prides itself on being safe.

If you’re worried about your security while learning Japanese in Japan, don’t worry! Japan is one of the safest countries in the world, with a very low crime rate. According to a 2014 article from The Japan Times, it has “the second- lowest homicide rate after Iceland and the second-lowest assault rate after Canada.” 

Achieve greater success in your professional path.

A study abroad experience will give you a leg up when applying for a job. It is an impressive part of any resume, and it’ll be no different when you learn Japanese in a Japan program. Employers look for life skills that you learned as a student abroad, as well as indicators of intellectual stamina. In addition to achieving fluency in Japanese, developing the discipline needed for intensive language study molds you as a person. Plus, Japan’s job market has a great demand for qualified graduates. Many Japanese companies have expressed their desire to hire foreigners from Japanese learning institutions.

Choosing the right school

Immersion vs. traditional learning

Traditional foreign language courses allow students to learn a new language for a few hours in the school day while still mainly speaking their own native language when not in class. On the other hand, students enrolled in an immersion school are literally immersed in the language they are learning. Most classes are taught in the target language, meaning you would learn Japanese in Japanese. You will be in a completely Japanese-speaking environment with continuous exposure to the new language; it might sound intimidating to learn Japanese in Japanese, but it’ll do wonders for accelerating your learning process.

[Browse ALL Japanese Schools in Japan]

Immersion Japanese classes in Japan are experiential. Learning is hands-on, and often exploratory; even when classes are conducted in a classroom, students come from several different countries and have only the Japanese they are learning as a common language to communicate with each other.

Admission requirements

Once you have narrowed down your options for Japanese language schools in Japan, you can check out the admission requirements for each school and see if these are in line with your marks. Don’t worry—learning Japanese in Japan will be worth all that trouble.

Two koi fish swimming in a pond

We hope the admissions process for Japanese language schools in Japan goes swimmingly.

Cost

Costs and tuition fees vary between Japanese language schools in Japan. Many universities and colleges have partner language schools in Japan and offer programs for study abroad with course credits. Japanese language program fees vary depending on course length and inclusions. Typical costs can range from $1,400 to over $3,000 for a course-only semester. Direct enrollment and third-party options are also offered by other schools. Look into financial aid and scholarship opportunities, in case you qualify.

Accommodation

When choosing in-country Japanese classes in Japan, it is important to weigh the options available for lodging. Typical accommodations that come along with Japanese language schools in Japan include:

A view of a building front in Tokyo

Where will you call “home sweet home” while you learn Japanese in Japan?

School location 

It’s important to consider where your school for learning Japanese in Japan is situated—mainly because most major Japanese cities have a higher cost of living. It’s important to choose a school that is situated in an area that gives you access to places and things you may need for the duration of your stay. Make sure the school is in a safe area, either within walking distance from where you live or close to public transportation.

For instance, KCP International is situated in Shinjuku, the business, entertainment, and shopping center of Tokyo, but it’s off to the side in a quiet neighborhood. Students get both the extreme excitement of Tokyo’s busiest spot and a serene corner near several parks.

Japanese classes in Japan are in other major cities aside from Tokyo. Yokohama is the second most populous city in Japan and is just as rich in culture and heritage with no shortage of beautiful places to visit and experience. Yet the city has a more laid-back feel than Tokyo and living costs are about 30% less. Osaka and Kyoto are also wonderful options to consider when choosing language schools and to get quality education.

Schedule of terms

Term durations vary amongst Japanese language schools in Japan. Classes usually run for three months with some levels requiring a sequential progression of terms to complete.

A view of cherry blossoms in bloom

Honestly, we wouldn’t blame you if you planned your terms around the blooming of the cherry blossoms.

A few more tips on learning Japanese in Japan

Once you have decided to begin chasing your goal to learn Japanese in Japan, consider a few transition tips.

  • Learn about Japanese culture before you go. Read up on what to expect once you arrive in Japan, especially in terms of common Japanese etiquette. This way you will have a heads up on the proper courtesy and manners to observe.
  • Don’t be afraid to make new friends. Go out of your way to meet new people. You will encounter students from other countries in Japanese classes in Japan. Making friends allows you to learn more about what life is really like in other countries besides your own. They will also be a support system as you learn the language together.
  • Keep an open mind. Every country has its own unique culture. Keep an open mind and observe, take in, and embrace the many layers of Japanese tradition and culture. Develop a positive attitude towards every new experience. This will give you a deeper awareness of what and why certain practices are essential in Japanese culture.
  • Do what the locals do. You may be in Japan for just a short time, so immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of your environment. Go to tourist destinations, but also try to experience the city the way locals do. Visit hidden gems in the area that not many know about but are just as fun and enriching as more popular sites.
  • Exit your comfort zone. While immersing, try to befriend the locals. The best way to practice the Japanese language is to interact with people who speak it. Just taking a stroll in the park, shopping, or going to places of interest allows you to make new friends while practicing your Japanese language skills.
  • Explore new places. Get out of your comfort zone. If the school is situated in a bustling city, take advantage of it and explore temples and shrines, narrow side streets, lively shopping areas, and majestic gardens. You’re never left without a new place to visit each day. You learn constantly from your surroundings, anywhere, anytime.
  • Document your experience. Keep a record of your experience abroad by blogging, vlogging, taking pictures, or writing in a journal. Document your stay to help you both remember and share your adventures.
  • Learn the language in its motherland. Learning Japanese with Japanese instructors who speak only Japanese can be daunting in the beginning, but it helps you learn as fast, and as in-depth, as possible. For example, the total immersion offered by Tokyo’s KCP International Japanese Language School gives you the opportunity to study—and master—all Japanese, all the time. 
  • Live with a host family. If you choose to live with a host family, you can further enhance your learning experience by participating in everyday family activities. You will learn the difference between formal speech and casual daily interchange that isn’t taught in class. It is the perfect opportunity to hone your Japanese language skills.
  • Practice what you’re learning every day. Being in a country where, to be understood, you have no choice but to speak in the language you’re learning, is a fantastic way to immerse yourself. Practice often even when out of the classroom.
  • You are surrounded by all things Japanese. Having to deal with everyday situations in Japanese allows you to grasp cultural norms more and understand context better. Habits like scanning the signs you pass regularly, reading a menu, conversing with the proprietor of your corner store, and even watching a Japanese TV program will familiarize you with the language. Before you know it, you will understand written kanji signs and what people around you are saying.
  • Be in the heart of Japanese pop culture. Japanese pop culture has its own distinct characteristics that make it hugely appealing. For one, it celebrates modern trends and perceptions of the general populace while staying connected with traditional art forms.

    • Learn Japanese in Japan and live your best life! 

    A woman walking down a Japanese street with a red umbrella

    If you stay focused, keep your eye on the prize, and welcome a little adventure into your life, you’ll breeze right through Japanese classes in Japan.

    You’ll find that learning Japanese in Japan is an exciting and eye-opening adventure for anyone. Being in a new place away from home and all familiar things may take some getting used to, but it’s worth it. Buckle up and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime when you learn Japanese in Japan. You have just unlocked doors for endless opportunities ahead!

    Get Matched with 5 Japanese Language Schools in Japan for FREE

    KCP International Japanese Language School is recognized as a leader in Japanese language education. Located in Tokyo, KCP offers students from around the world a unique opportunity to learn more about Japan – its language, people, and culture.

    ncG1vNJzZmivp6x7qLvAm6momZRjsLC5jpqpraGTobK0e8uapaCtkZyybr%2FTrpuyZZGXv7Ctw2ijnpmio3qrrc%2BapZ6rlWK2r3nJmqeapl2ptaq6xqxkraddoLuwww%3D%3D