Japanese Study Abroad
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74 Japanese Language Courses Abroad
Meiji Academy
4.86
105
There’s no better time to see Hokkaido’s breathtaking natural surroundings than the summertime, and it’s made even better when you spend that tim...
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KCP International Japanese Language School
4.64
33
KCP International Japanese Language School, a non-profit educational foundation, is pleased to offer students from around the world a unique opportunity to learn more about Japan, its language, people, and culture. Our programs are open to all English-speaking students in good class standing, as w
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JaLS GROUP
4.83
6
Fukuoka JaLS is a Japanese language school for learners aged 30 and over. We offer short-term programs with small classes and cultural activities tailored for adults. Located in the Hakata Station, our cozy campus provides both personalized support and a rich learning experience. Courses begin every
See All 7 ProgramsEF Education First
3.5
2
Step beyond the classroom and into the world with EF Language Abroad. Our immersive programs combine academic excellence with life-changing cultural experiences in 11 stunning global destinations across 8 countries and 7 languages. Whether you’re a high school student eager to explore the world, a c
See All 4 ProgramsBeyond Academy
5
1
Excited about learning Japanese and want to immerse yourself alongside like-minded people in Japan? Beyond Academy is one of GoAbroad’s Top-Rated Program Providers. With 500+ verified five-star online reviews from alumni, we’re recognized for delivering immersive, high-quality experiences worldwide.
LTL Language School
4.71
24
The LTL Flexi Classes are a revolutionary way to learn languages online. Say goodbye to fixed class times and awkward time-zone differences. Our Flexi Classes will get you fluent and fast, wherever you are in the world, whenever you want. Flexi Classes are revolutionary for three reasons: - Study l
See All 2 ProgramsGreenheart Travel
4.54
13
Learn and improve your Japanese skills through full language and cultural immersion on Greenheart Travel’s summer language camp program in Fukuoka, Japan! We welcome teen students of all skills, including beginners! Fukuoka Option: This program lasts 4 full weeks and allows participants to experien
See All 2 ProgramsSprachenatelier Berlin
0
0
When you only have time at night to learn on top of your work or studies, our Japanese online evening classes are perfect. These courses are individually tailored to each class, helping you learn effectively. If you already have previous knowledge but want to improve your skills quickly and thorough
See All 2 ProgramsGenki Japanese and Culture School
4.43
35
Genki Japanese & Culture School (GenkiJACS) is a language school that offers students the opportunity to study Japanese language and culture at our schools in Tokyo, Kyoto, Fukuoka and Nagoya. The institution offers a variety of courses including conversational Japanese, Japanese through pop culture
LanguBridge Education Centre
4.33
6
Our Tokyo summer programs offer students an immersion experience in Japan with intense language learning and cultural exploration. Our Japan programs combine premium quality with unmatched value — delivering the same depth of learning and cultural engagement as other programs, but at a much lower c
See All 2 ProgramsGlobal Work & Travel
0
0
Guarantee an authentic learning experience when you study Japanese in Tokyo with us! Developing speaking and communication skills is so much easier when you’re surrounded by people who speak the language and when you’re immersed in the culture. You won’t just engage in meaningful conversations with
See All 4 ProgramsLanguage Vacation
0
0
Learn Japanese in Northern Kyushuin in Fukuoka, enjoy your Japanese learning vacation in one of the oldest cities in Japan. After classes enjoy Fukuoka Castle with it's remaining stone walls and ramparts, or a ride on Sky Dream Fukuoka, one of the world's largest ferris wheels (120 meters). It ha
See All 4 ProgramsWorld Unite!
0
0
This program offers a variety of short-term Japanese language courses across multiple locations in Japan, including Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, and Nagano. It is designed for individuals on a Temporary Visitor Status, Tourist Visa, or Working Holiday Visa. You can choose from different course types, such
See All 2 ProgramsCoto Japanese Academy
4
1
Stop studying Japanese and start speaking it. Coto Academy’s Intensive Japanese Course is designed for those who don’t have months to wait for results. Whether you join us in person in Tokyo or via our interactive online classroom, we condense the essentials into a high-impact 4-week sprint. Why Co
See All 3 Programs0
0
Discover the authentic soul of Andalusia at Euroidiomas Spanish School. If you are looking for high-quality Spanish tuition combined with historic heritage, wild nature, and world-class gastronomy, Úbeda is your destination. Located in Úbeda, a breathtaking UNESCO World Heritage city, our program
The Inspire Academy
0
0
The Japanese Language Course at The Inspire Academy is designed for learners who want to improve their Japanese skills in a flexible, professional, and personalized learning environment. The program can be delivered online, in-company, individually or in groups, depending on the learner’s needs and
0
0
The English Speaking Course at Cambright International Language Centre is designed for students who want to improve their confidence and fluency in real-life English communication. Whether for daily conversation, travel, work, or study purposes, this course helps students develop practical speaking
0
0
The Home Tuition Programme is the most effective and immersive way to make rapid progress in French. You stay directly in your teacher’s home, where you receive private lessons fully tailored to your needs, goals, and level. This unique approach allows you to immediately put into practice what you l
See All 2 Programs0
0
Start your French learning journey in Montreal with our Beginner A1.1 Evening Course at Lingua Franca. This program is designed for complete beginners who want to build a strong foundation in French for daily life, work, or immigration in Quebec. Classes take place in the evening, making it ideal f
Bright Language Center
0
0
Bright 1:1 and 2:1 Private Classes provide a personalized learning experience to help students progress faster and stay focused. Lessons are tailored to each student’s level, goals, and learning style, ensuring every minute in class is productive and relevant. Students benefit from a customized c
0
0
We specialised in short-term Japanese language courses (2-24 weeks) taught by experienced, certified teachers in small groups. Lessons focus on more than textbook grammar, so you can confidently use Japanese in real situations. We are proud to be a 5-star reviewed school on Google, recognised by st
0
0
British Centre is a specialized English language training center located at Globus Center, 12th floor. We provide structured, results-oriented English programs designed for students, professionals, and young learners who want measurable progress and international exam success. Our programs include
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0
Vivlingua Mikaelian – best language School in Lausanne, Switzerland Vivlingua Mikaelian is a multilingual language school based in Fribourg, Switzerland, offering immersive language programs for children, teenagers, adults, and companies. Our mission is to make language learning accessible, persona
Erican Educational Group
0
0
The Erican International English Programme is designed to enhance students' English proficiency, with a particular focus on speaking and listening skills. The programme accommodates learners of all levels, from beginner (Starters) to advanced. Students are assessed through a structured placement tes
Colegio de España
0
0
The DELE Preparatory Course is focused on students who wish to obtain the official certificate (Diploma de Español como Lengua Extranjera) granted by the Cervantes Institute on behalf of the Ministry of Education, Culture and Sport, the only official one that recognizes and certifies the degree of k
0
0
Learn English in Dubai and Abu Dhabi Today! English is spoken by over 1.4 billion people worldwide, making it the most widely used language for work, study, and travel. At Eton Institute, our English courses in Dubai and Abu Dhabi are designed to help you communicate confidently, achieve your caree
0
0
This course is designed for students who need a 150-hour study certificate to enter Japanese schools or universities in Japan. The program includes 50 hours of online 1:1 lessons and 100 hours of guided self-study. Upon completion, students will achieve JLPT N5 level skills. ・Course Schedule: 4 le
CET Academic Programs
0
0
Immerse yourself in a new language, intern abroad, or explore a different part of the world. CET’s gap programs offer the opportunity to join college-level courses overseas or online. Whether you're mastering Chinese in Beijing, volunteering while living with a host family in Siena, or creating art
The National Registration Center for Study Abroad
0
0
Dedicated to providing students with quality language instruction, NRCSA has developed effective teaching methods along with highly qualified academic staff. The center accepts students of all ages, ranging from language instructors to diplomats and businessmen. Participants can expect a friendly at
See All 2 Programs0
0
Discover the Japanese language in a way that fits your goals and lifestyle. At HH JapaNeeds, we offer flexible one-on-one lessons with experienced Japanese tutors, available both face-to-face across Japan and online worldwide. Whether you are preparing for the JLPT, improving your conversational fl
0
0
Oxford English Camps - General English Programme in Edinburgh Experience transformative English learning in Scotland's stunning capital! Our flexible programme offers 15-25 hours of expert instruction weekly from highly qualified teachers, utilising diverse and engaging methodologies. Immerse your
See All 2 Programs0
0
This course is offered for two to three weeks in summer and winter to deepen participants' understanding of Japanese language, culture, and society. In addition to learning Japanese, participants can gain a deeper understanding of Japan through field trips, experiencing Japanese culture, and interac
0
0
The Atlanta Institute of Language (AIL) offers a variety of foreign language courses designed for all proficiency levels, from beginner to advanced. Classes are available in multiple languages, including Spanish, French, German, and Japanese. AIL provides both group classes and personalized one-on-o
0
0
Unlock the path to Japanese fluency with our personalized private lessons at NUMA Institute in Canada. Designed to fit your schedule and pace, our one-on-one sessions cater to your unique learning goals and interests. Whether you aim to master professional jargon or everyday conversation, our custom
0
0
Located in the vibrant city of Tokyo, O-HARA Japanese Language School offers an exceptional opportunity to learn Japanese in a dynamic environment where tradition meets innovation. Situated in Funabori, just minutes away from major hubs like Tokyo Station and Shinjuku Station, students will enjoy th
0
0
Enhance your language skills from the comfort of your home with Marvton Language School, based in Nigeria. Our virtual language programs offer the flexibility to learn German, French, Chinese, Japanese, Italian, Spanish, and more with native-speaking teachers in real-time. Whether you're at your des
A Guide to Learning Japanese Abroad
Locations
Japan is the only country that speaks Japanese natively, so attending Japanese language schools are fairly limited. But, with a little research, you’re sure to find the perfect location to suit your needs, whether you want to balance your language studies and navigating wild city life, exploring ancient traditions, or island-hopping in the Land of the Rising Sun.
Head to Japanese language schools in Tokyo, Japan’s modern-futuristic capital city. Tokyo features a contrast of neon-lit streets and mega-skyscrapers, hole-in-the-wall bars and lantern-lit yakitori (grilled chicken) stands. Japanese language students are never bored with many diverse people, activities, and subcultures to explore. They say Tokyo is the best city for learning Japanese for beginners, as they use the standard dialect, and students will have infinite opportunities to practice at artisan markets or while geisha-watching beneath cherry trees.
If you want to avoid the modern city, but still want an immersive experience, try a Japanese language program in Okinawa. Located in the semitropical Southwest Islands, Japanese language schools here help you discover a side of Japan that is not so well known. Coral-fringed islands, primeval forests, white sand beaches, and crystal blue waters create a Japanese paradise that challenge those found in Hawaii and Southeast Asia. While Okinawa radiates a certain “un-Japanese” culture, language students get a genuine Japanese learning experience by stepping away from the major cities where it can be tempting to slip back into English.
For a city-island combo experience, check out Kyūshū. Language students are often drawn to Japan’s southwestern-most main island for its warmth, beauty, excellent cuisine, and friendly locals. Fukuoka is the island’s biggest city, and history lovers will find themselves in heaven here. It is a combination of two former castle towns and is known for its ancient temples, gorgeous beaches, and modern shopping. Practice with locals at a SoftBank Hawks baseball game, a local art gallery, or over a bowl of Hakata rāmen (egg noodles).
While attending Japanese language schools in Japan will allow you to truly immerse yourself in the language, there are other locations that make studying Japanese possible. Japanese language classes are offered in select schools across the United States, and you can practice your new skills with fellow Japanese students from coast to coast. Get lost among skyscrapers in New York City, take in the view of San Francisco’s Golden Gate Bridge, or hit up a hole-in-the-wall karaoke joint in downtown Atlanta.
Japanese Language Classes
There’s no doubt that Japanese is a tough language to learn – just turn on Cowboy Bee Bop or take a look at the written characters. Linguists consider it to be a Category-5 language, meaning it takes roughly two years or 2,200 hours of study for the average language student to achieve fluency. Compare this to a Category-1, like French or Spanish, that takes only six months of intensive study, and you’ll know you’re in for a wild ride!
The best way to learn Japanese in Japan is through full immersion. Homestays are the best option option, and students love the perks of a flexible schedule, endless language practice in the homes of their own personal teachers, and traditional Japanese home-cooked meals every night (mochis, anyone?). While there is less structure and privacy in a homestay, students get a full cultural experience outside of their Japanese language courses. You’ll learn more than just the kanji, like when to take off your shoes indoors or how to properly slurp your soba noodles.
For those studying outside of Japan, language classes can be taken at an institution, like a local university or at focused Japanese language classes. Institutions often allow more independence and structure for the students, although Japanese universities often have a laidback atmosphere, rewarding those who have made it through the competitive pre-college education system. Choose a private lesson with your own personal sensei (teacher), a group class for a customized class at a lower cost, or a combination of the two.
Tips for Gaining Fluency in Japanese
Learning Japanese is no joke. The language involves just as much study of nonverbal communication as verbal, and it is essential that language study take place both inside and outside the classroom. Luckily, there are lots of ways to make the effort to learn the Japanese language fun!
Japanese as a written language is very specific. You must learn the correct strokes of Kanji characters in order to earn their status as a star student. While “bad handwriting” is used as an excuse when writing in the English alphabet and letters take on all forms, the Japanese can tell the difference between finishing a pen stroke with a sudden stop or a swoosh. Learn the strokes in class, or you’ll be considered lazy.
While not very difficult, pronunciation and inflection are key factors when practicing the spoken word in your Japanese language classes. Most classes teach Romanji, the phonetic spelling of Japanese words in English letters, so it’s easy to sound ‘em out— but it’s important to practice daily with native speakers to really learn the Japanese language.
If you don’t choose a homestay, try meeting up with a conversation partner. They’ll enforce correct pronunciation and train your brain to think in Japanese. Conversation partners or host families also teach the nonverbal cues of the Japanese language. Whether you’re picking up social cues on politeness or common sound effects that enter daily speech, you’ll learn a lot that can’t be found in a textbook.
While attending Japanese language schools in Japan, consciously incorporate language learning into things you like. If you’re a runner, download some Japanese music onto your iPod; if you’re an avid gamer, try switching over to Japanese video games. Turn off the subtitles when you watch the news or learn some slang words during your favorite anime cartoons. And don’t be afraid to get sucked into the karaoke scene, Japan’s unofficial national sport. Not only will you rock what you’ve learned in your Japanese language courses by singing and following the lyrics, but it’s fun – and you’ll impress locals when you can belt out their songs like a pro!
Benefits & Challenges
Japanese may not be the first language that comes to mind when considering language learning abroad. Other languages like Spanish, French, and Chinese are much more popular and widely spoken around the world. Because Japanese is only spoken as an official language in Japan, language students will find narrow location options when choosing a program. You may be limited to a few cities for Japanese schools in Japan, but you will undoubtedly get a unique language experience.
After you get over the initial shock of slurping your food, bowing to strangers, and bizarre foreign characters, you’ll find the Japanese language is fairly easy to learn. Japanese is an organized language with simple sounds and structure. If you take time to learn the patterns and truly dedicate yourself to practicing daily, you’ll find yourself thinking in Japanese in no time!
While signing up for Japanese language classes requires more time than other languages, it will be a rewarding experience that shows your patience, organization, and dedication. You’ll find yourself embracing a new culture, falling in love with unagi (freshwater eel), and improving your singing voice. “Domo Arigato, Mr. Roboto” is sure to have a whole new meaning!
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