Meiji Academy

My time in Sapporo was great! Thanks to the teachers and fellow students that helped make this experience wonderful. I wish I could have stayed longer but after two weeks it was time for me to say sayonara.

One hell of an adventure! Japan felt like a roller coaster and it’s definitely hit a good spot doing my first travel to Japan not a busy city like Tokyo or Osaka. Sapporo was amazing and I loved my school a lot. The teaching was pretty smooth and the activities were my favorite. Be back in Japan soon. Peace

I had a very packed and intense week with my Bildungszeit in Hokkaido but won’t regret even a second of it. The events were much fun and it was great to meet local Japanese at some of them. For next time two weeks is definitely less of a rush.

Studies been a bit overwhelming but I have to admit my Japanese became rusty. My two weeks in Sapporo flew by so quickly that I almost forgot that it all just ended. I love my instructors and also the very structured course. Highly recommend.

I did two weeks of educational leave in Sapporo with these guys and had a great overall experience. The flight and travel was a bit exhausted but once I arrived in my female sharehouse everything changed. I loved my teachers and the positive vibe during classes. The best was no homework, only if you asked for it. The extracurricular activities and weekend trips were top notch. Hihgly recommend

My time in Hokkaido was good and my Japanese improved a lot. Back in January I went for a month and wanted to explore Hokkaido. The school and instructors made the whole trip worth it. Japanese classes were interactive and events a lot of fun. Recommend.

Mein Aufenthalt in Hokkaido war einfach nur spitze und das ist nichts zuletzt zu verdanken wegen Meiji. Die Lehrer waren sehr erfahren und Geduld haben den Fragen der Studenten. Die anderen Studentenbetreuer waren auch sehr freundlich und hilfsbereit. Vor allen Dingen haben wir die Aktivitäten sehr gefallen. Ich war einmal bei einer echten Katana Schwertprüfung und auch unser Ausflug nach Mount Moiwa war super spannend. Hokkaido hat einfach so viel zu bieten und so viel zu entdecken dass eine Woche Bildungszeit nicht ausgereicht hat. Es ist auf jeden Fall ein Geheimtipp und noch sehr unentdeckt nicht für andere Orte wie Tokio oder Kyoto wo die meisten Touristen hingehen. Wenn du das echte Japan erleben möchtest kann ich auf jeden Fall Hokkaido aber bring viel Zeit mit da ist sehr viel zu entdecken gibt😁

I’ve had sooo much fun in Hokkaido and learned the hidden fun up north. The snow activities were much fun. I loved the snow hiking we did to mount moiwa and also the ice festivals they took us to in Sapporo. The classes were fun and instructors paid a lot of attention to maintain an interactive and engaging lessons. Can’t wait to visit again!

Couldn't ask for more, would never thought it to be this way. I had an amazing time with friends in my absolute dream country and going up North during the Winter season is a MUST when visiting Japan! The snow festival was so much fun and the powder snow is another level. Besides the social events I had so much time with the Japanese lessons and the very welcoming instructors. My favorite thing was I did not have homework to do :-P

I stayed 4 weeks in winter course and it was really nice experience. Japanese classes was good and not too hard, teachers very kind. I liked the small class size. Best part was winter activities. We go ice festival, very beautiful with big snow statues. Also mountain hiking was cold but amazing view. Hot spring after that was perfect, very relaxing. I meet many people from different countries and we enjoy together. Even a fellow Hungarian and a few Austrians! Food also very good, especially Miso ramen in cold weather. I want come back again maybe longer time :)

Meine Zeit in Hokkaido war der reinste Hammer! Das Programm der Meiji Akademie war von Anfang bis Ende gut durchgeplant. Fast schon ein bisschen zu viel was die Aktivitäten anging.😝 Mir hat besonders das Karatetraining und das traditionelle Färben der Handtücher super viel Spaß gemacht. Ich hatte auch die Chance ein traditionelles Yukawa bei einem der Events zu tragen! Einfach nur der Hammer. Ach ja und japanisch hab ich auch noch ein bisschen was gelernt in den zwei Wochen😁 Bussi an euch alle und man sieht wie immer zweimal im Leben😉

I always had a fable for Japan’s Nordic reagion and this unique winter program was just made for. The school did a great job in organizing a variety of events and the sightseeing trips and ice festivals were magnificent. 4 weeks were not enough but it gave me a good taste about what I still have on my extended to-do list to take care of after this exciting trip. The classes were at a great pace and I never felt stressed out. I loved the communicative part of it a lot.

I spent six weeks with Meiji's winter course in Hokkaido. Studying was great, but what really made it special was everything outside the classroom. The Sapporo Snow Festival was absolutely unreal. Be prepared for huge ice sculptures with my favourite Anime characters and some crazy sculptures. I also got to try skiing and snowboarding for the first time, which was so much fun. After long days in the cold, relaxing in hot springs was honestly the best part. The only thing which was very weird for me is getting fully naked in the hot spring!! hehe We even did some winter hiking, which was peaceful and gave me a whole new appreciation for snowy landscapes you don't really get back in Australia. The balance between study and activities kept things exciting the whole time. It was easily one of the most memorable experiences I’ve had so far.

Insgesamt war es eine interessante und lehrreiche Zeit auch wenn nicht alles perfekt lief. Der Unterricht war sehr hilfreich, war aber stellenweise schon sehr intensiv. Zur Verteidigung der Schule muss man noch dazu sagen, dass die Bildungszeit schon recht herausfordernd ist was die erforderliche Studenzahl angeht. Besonders gefallen haben mir die Ausflüge und der Einblick in die japanische Kultur durch die Teezeremonie und auch die traditionelle Blumendekoration namens "Ikebana". Manchmal war die Organisation etwas unklar, da es fast täglich Events gab (was an sich super ist!). Daher hat dies gelegentlich zu etwas Verwirrung geführt. Trotzdem hatte ich eine super Zeit und habe vielle nette Leute kennengelernt. Mein Japanisch hat sich immens verbessert und ich hatte auch die Möglichkeit mein Kanjiwissen aufzupäppeln. Die Umgebung in Sapporo ist sehr grün und das Schoppen in Tanukikoji hat besonders viel Spaß gemacht. Rückblickend war es eine gute Erfahrung die immer wieder gern gemacht hätte.

Die Erfahrung war unglaublich bereichernd und hat mir nicht nur sprachlich sondern auch persönlich viel gebracht. Die Kombination aus interaktiven Japanischunterricht und kulturellen Aktivitäten war spitze. Ich habe schnell Anschluss gefunden und mich von Anfang an willkommen gefühlt. Die Lehrkräfte waren engagiert und haben den Unterricht lebendig gestaltet. Außerhalb des Klassenzimmers konnte ich viel über Hokkaido lernen und habe mich auch mit Locals angefreundet. Hokkaido selbst ist wunderschön und definitiv eine Reise wert. Diese zwei Wochen haben meine Erwartungen übertroffen und ich komme auf jeden Fall nach Sapporo zurück!

Normally I don’t really write about my experience but I think it’s worth sharing this experience for other students considering going to Japan. Please consider Winter and yes, Hokkaido should be definitely on your radar. My time was so much fun and I loved my teachers. The lessons were much focused on group practices and grammar. I like their focus on using day-to-day situations and topics by practicing Japanese, which helped me immensely. One thing I think Meiji with distance out is the activities and social parties they had. I made so many Japanese friends and had a great time. Absolutely loved it.

I went to Hokkaido for six weeks last Winter and had a blast! My instructors were super fun and very attentive to my study needs. As I have dyslexia and need special attention for reading and test practices I was relieved that the Meiji instructors took my concerns serious. At the beginning I was worried how it would turn out but it went really well and everybody was very helpful. Outside of the class there was always something happening. I often went with fellow classmates to explore more Miso Ramen places around the school. Pssst you have to make sure to check them out! The Winter activities were also so much fun. I recommend to always ask the teachers or Kai for recommendations as they are super lovely in helping out with all my queries.

I had a blast in Hokkaido last Winter with Meiji and enjoyed the Winter activities a lot! My favorite memory was the trip to Mount Moiwa and the ski gliding fun we had with Meiji students in Otaru. Can't wait to come back and meet all:(

Joa das hat schon Spaß gemacht. Diese Schule hat ein gutes Programm und war recht gut organisiert. Ich habe mir eine private Wohnung organisieren lassen über die Schule und das ging auch sehr gut. Alle Kochutensilien, Decke, Staubsauger und so weiter waren alles da nur leider gab’s keine Handtücher die müsste man sich selber organisieren. Aber einen Föhn hatte ich auch. Neben der sehr zentral gelegenen Unterkunft kann man noch dazu sagen dass Japanischunterricht sehr viel Spaß gemacht hat. Es war teils recht intensiv aber das konnte man leider nicht umgehen da die Bildungzeit rechts strikte Anforderungen hat. Meine 30 Stunden pro Woche habe ich erfüllt deswegen war alles gut aber es hat mich natürlich auch gefreut dass ich nicht die ganze Zeit im Klassenzimmer saß sondern durch die vielen kulturellen Aktivitäten auch ein bisschen frische Luft bekommen habe. Gerade der Katanaschwertkampf, die Meditation im buddhistischen Tempel und die Teezeremonie haben mir sehr viel Spaß gemacht. Ich kann’s auf jeden Fall jedem empfehlen der gerne seine Bildungszeit im Ausland machen möchte gerade in Japan.

Mein Bildungsurlaub war einfach nur spitze. Ich war für zwei Wochen mit der Meiji Akademie in Hokkaido und hatte eine tolle Zeit. Die Lehrer waren sehr freundlich und hilfsbereit. Mit vielen Lernaufgaben und grammatikalischen Übungen habe ich eine solide Basis aufgebaut in meinem Japanisch. Dazu muss man sagen was zwei Wochen absolut nicht ausreichen aber schon einen guten Einblick darin geben was man dann in dieser kurzen intensiven Zeit alles erreichen kann. Die kulturellen Aktivitäten und soziale Programme waren sehr gut organisiert und haben viel Spaß gemacht. Ich hatte auch die Möglichkeit viele Japaner kennen zu lernen und gerade mit japanischen Universität Studenten näher zu kommen. Immer gerne wieder. Danke für alles und ich hoffe man sieht sich bald wieder!

Meiji did a great job with this very well structured program and did not save on a good bunch of activities and winter sports I could engage into. I loved my classes but just found it to be a small drawback that you cannot choose between classes being scheduled either in the morning or afternoon depending of your level.

The activities, sightseeing trips, overall organization of social gatherings with fellow Japanese locals and the full hands-on support was simply top notch! I've wholeheartedly enjoyed my time with these guys and hope to visit Hokkaido again! Grazie mille!

The past three months passed by so quick. Looking back at my time here I made a lot of long lasting friendships, got really close with my host family and also planned my next steps. I did quite a unique preparation studies before starting my JET teaching program here in Hokkaido and I'm glad I did it with Meiji! This school felt more than just learning Japanese. It is my spot to get back when homesickness kicks in and the community here is really warmhearted. The best thing is even if you are a graduate you can always come back and join their social events and language exchanges. Once a Meiji student, always a Meiji student!♡

Learning Japanese in such a snowy megacity and also making friends from all around the globe was mesmerizing. I loved my instructors and the casual pace on how my classes went. The nightlife was also fun and I did get more than one opportunity to rock the mic during karaoke! lol

My three months in Hokkaido are nearing towards the end and looking back at my time here I can only say it was life changing. This is my third time in Japan but the first time in Hokkaido. After the comment travel to Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka and all the spots between I wanted to get off the beaten track and experience the real Japan. Meiji’s program in Sapporo seemed intriguing and really caught my attention. The classes were well structured and the instructors were very passionate and helpful all the time. I loved staying in the share house which helped me as well to make friends with local Japanese students and other international students from Meiji and the other universities studying here. The best part were the activities that were so diverse and included a lot of cultural activities as well as social gatherings informed of karaoke, language exchange and casual dinners with Japanese volunteers and other students. I really miss my time here already and hope to be back soon. Thanks for everything and hope to see everybody else sometime in the future.

Studying at Meiji in Sapporo was one of the best experiences I’ve had so far. I came to improve my Japanese speaking skills and school’s focus on communication and conversation really helped. In class we practiced speaking a lot through role plays, discussions and practical situations, which made it much easier to use Japanese confidently in everyday life. One of the things I loved most was how the school combined language learning with cultural activities. We tried traditional things like calligraphy and local festivals and teachers always explained the cultural meaning behind what we were doing. It made learning the language feel much more connected to real life in Japan. Sapporo is also an amazing place if you enjoy winter sports. During the winter I went skiing and snowboarding several times. The powder snow in Hokkaido is incredible!!! The atmosphere at Meiji Academy was really friendly and international. It helped a lot for an introvert nerdy like me to make friends from many different countries while practicing Japanese together. Between the engaging classes, cultural activities I had the chance to experience Hokkaido’s famous winter.

I simply loved it. The Japanese lessons were fun with a lot of group practices and focus on communication. The grammar lessons were sometimes a bit intense but a lot of rehearsals and sample sentences practices helped for tricky grammar chapters a lot. I recommend going out of your comfort zone and engaging with Japan is the best solution to improve your Japanese. My fellow classmates were nice and I always hang out with them. I was even able to make friends at some of the language exchange and culturally events that Meiji organized. My recommendation is to stay at the share house as it is very affordable and it helps a lot to not get home sick and also make Japanese friends to practice your Japanese.

It all started at a snowy day arriving in Shinchitose airport and seeing all the fairy landscape covered in snow. A staff from the school picked me up and escorted me to my host family where I had the pleasure to spend the next five weeks. The Winter course was filled with wonderful winter sport activities and excursions to unique snow festivals. I wholeheartedly enjoyed every minute with my lovely classmates and also the warm hands-on support from the fellopw staff members. Everybody was so welcome and I never felt excluded or wrongly treated during my time there. The classes were very entertaining and I had so much fun in exploring Hokkaido's wonderful streetfood after the classes. Can't believe everything passed so quick. Thanks for the great time♡

I went for my two weeks Bildungsurlaub to Hokkaido and ended up coming back for another regular studies for a whole month! The instructors, flexible and easy going classes combined with outstanding social activities made me fall in love with Hokkaido! Can't put it in words but you will find a new home away from home there. I indisputably recommend Sapporo over any other city. The perfect balance between bustling city life up in Scandinavian Japan and unbeatable nature. Highly recommend.

I spent the last three months in Hokkaido with Meiji Academy and my time was bloody amazing. I loved the instructors and their passion to always help me out with all my questions. The snow sports were the highlight of my trip. And yes I felt in love with the hot springs. I will definitely get back to Noboribetsu again. Loved it!

Pasé cuatro semanas increíbles estudiando japonés comunicativo en Hokkaido en clases pequeñas. Los profesores eran muy dinámicos y siempre hacían que las lecciones fueran prácticas, interactivas y fáciles de entender. Me encantó que habláramos japonés desde el primer día, con muchas actividades en pareja y juegos que hacían el aprendizaje muy divertido. Gracias al ambiente cercano de las clases, pude ganar confianza rápidamente y mejorar mi fluidez en situaciones reales. Por las tardes había muchas actividades sociales, lo que me permitió hacer amigos internacionales y seguir practicando japonés de una manera natural.

Realizar mi Bildungsurlaub en Hokkaido con Meiji fue una experiencia transformadora, especialmente por la combinación entre clases enfocadas en japonés conversacional y las actividades culturales. Desde el principio, el curso estaba claramente orientado a situaciones reales, algo que yo buscaba desde hace tiempo. Las clases estaban muy alineadas con el japonés conversacional. Practicamos diálogos que realmente se usan en tiendas, restaurantes y estaciones de tren, y eso me ayudó muchísimo cuando hablaba con japoneses fuera de la escuela. Ahora me siento mucho más segura al comunicarme en situaciones cotidianas, aunque todavía cometo algunos errores, pero he mejorado muchísimo gracias a las profesoras que siempre nos corregía con paciencia. Las actividades culturales fueron, sin duda, una parte fundamental del programa. Participamos en ceremonias tradicionales, talleres de cocina local y visitas a lugares históricos en Sapporo. Estas experiencias me pemitió entender mejor la mentalidad japonesa y aplicar el vocabulario aprendido en clase en contextos reales . Ademas, convivir con personas locales hizo que el aprendizaje fue más natural y auténtico. Hokkaido es impresionante, con paisajes naturales espectaculares y una cultura regional muy interesante. Recomiendo este programa a cualquier persona que quiera no solo estudiar japonés, sino realmente vivirlo y usarlo en el día a día.

Desde el primer día en Sapporo supe que había elegido el lugar correcto para estudiar japonés. La combinación de una ciudad dinámica, naturaleza impresionante y un ambiente acogedor hizo que mi experiencia en Meiji fuera realmente especial. Las clases estaban muy enfocadas en el japonés práctico y conversacional. Practicábamos situaciones reales como pedir en un restaurante, hablar con compañeros de trabajo o hacer preguntas en una tienda. Gracias a eso, pude comunicarme con japoneses en mi vida diaria mucho mejor de lo que esperaba. Las profesoras siempre estaban atentas y nos daban muchos ejemplos reales, lo que hacía que las clases fueran dinámicas y útiles. Las actividades culturales fueron una parte esencial de mi experiencia. Participé en talleres tradicionales, probé comida típica de Hokkaido y visitamos lugares históricos y templos. Estas actividades me ayudó a comprender mejor la cultura japonesa y a sentirme más integrada en la comunidad local. Y por supuesto, la vida social en Sapporo fue divertidísima. Salir por Susukino con otros estudiantes, descubrir izakayas y pequeños bares, y celebrar después de los exámenes fue algo que nunca olvidaré. La ciudad tiene un ambiente muy animado pero al mismo tiempo acogedor. La gente son muy amable y siempre estaban dispuestos a ayudar cuando tenía dudas o necesitaba indicaciones.

Participar en el programa de Bildungsurlaub en Hokkaido con Meiji Academy fue una experiencia increíble que me ayudaron mucho a mejorar mi japonés. Desde el primer día me sentí muy bienvenida por todo el equipo y por las otras estudiantes que vinieron de diferentes países. La organización del curso fue excelente y las profesoras era muy profesional y siempre estaban dispuestas a resolver nuestras dudas. Las clases eran dinámicas y prácticas, con mucho énfasis en la conversación, lo que me permitió ganar confianza al hablar. Además, aprendí muchas cosas nuevo sobre la cultura japonesa y la vida en Hokkaido. Sapporo es una ciudad fascinante, con una mezcla perfecta entre naturaleza y vida urbana. Durante mi estancia pude disfrutar de la gastronomía local, paisajes hermosos y actividades culturales que complementaron perfectamente el aprendizaje en el aula.

Kurz und knapp: Hokkaido! Für deinen Bildungsurlaub gibt’s einfach keine bessere Wahl. Die Möglichkeit ein Bildungsurlaub in Japan zu machen war einfach nur genial. Der Unterricht war vielfältig und die kulturellen Aktivitäten waren sehr gut geplant. Ich hab mich verliebt in diese Insel hoch im Norden Japans und schwärme jetzt noch davon wenn ich darüber nachdenke was für eine tolle Zeit dich dort hatte. Ich war in der Frauen Wohngemeinschaft und hab sehr gute Freundschaften geknüpft mit einer Koreanerin und zwei weiteren Japanerinnen. Die zwei Wochen sind wie im Flug vergangen und ich hatte sehr viele Möglichkeiten auch Japanisch außerhalb des Klassenzimmers anzuwenden. Ich empfehle auf jeden Fall auch in der Wintersaison zu kommen wegen dem Schneefestival und den guten Wintersportaktivitäten. Viele Grüße an alle und Bussi an meine liebsten. Hoffe ihr kommt mich besuchen in Berlin.

I had the time of my life in Hokkaido. The school was well organized, the instructors were very in enthusiastic and the community was simply mind blowing. I made so many Japanese friends during my stay and even found my girlfriend that I’m very thankful for taking that opportunity. The activities were top-notch especially the skiing and snow gliding events. Make sure to go to Mount Moiwa and also some hiking around Lake Shikotsuko and the ice festival where unforgettable. I’ll be back for sure for my working holiday. Much love and looking forward to see you all again! cheers!

Can't get enough of that powder snow and also the amazing ski spots. and the shrines in the romantic snow landscape...oh dear! Hokkaido hit hard and I desperately want to go back. The school organized the program very well and we had almost daily events happening besides the classes. Teaching was good and you could tell the teachers did it out of passion. I made a lot of friends and loved my time. Recommend!

Moin meine Lieben! Falls ihr noch nicht von Hokkaido und dem super genki (richtig aufgeweckten) Meiji Team gehört habt kann ich dies nur wärmstens empfehlen. Hatte super viel Spaß in Sapporo! Der Japanischunterricht war sehr professionell wenn auch intensiv und die extrakurrikularen Aktivitäten alle Mal was besonderes. Kann das Sharehouse empfehlen und macht das meiste aus eurer Zeit dort. Die Karaokenächte mit den anderen internationalen Studenten, gerade den crazy Koreanern waren genial. Mir hat's so viel Spaß gemacht, dass ich Onlineunterricht noch danach drangehängt hab! Ja ihr werdet mich nicht so schnell los und diesen Sommer geht's wieder ab nach Hokkaido. Glück auf und alles jute allen Leuten die mich antreffen. haha

Super expérience à Meiji Academy Hokkaido. J’y ai étudié pendant 10 semaines et j’ai adoré chaque moment. Les cours étaient intéressants et motivants, et l’ambiance générale très conviviale. La sharehouse était vraiment idéale pour se faire des amis, avec beaucoup d’étudiants américains et allemands. Une expérience inoubliable que je recommande sans hésiter.

Meine Bildungszeit mit Meiji in Hokkaido war einfach der Hammer! Der Japanischkurs wahr sehr gut strukturiert mit vielen Übungseinheiten und Anwendungen für die Grammatik die wir gelernt haben. Es kann manchmal ein bisschen intensiv werden mit den erforderlichen Stunden für die Kursakkreditierung aber die kulturellen Workshops waren echt super. Mir hat das Meditieren im lokalen Buddhistentempel und auch das Taiko Trommeln am besten gefallen! Ein Nachteil ist dass man sich die Aktivitäten nicht aussuchen kann sondern diese wöchentlich oder saisonal variieren. Daher empfehle ich auf jeden Fall sich vorher direkt bei der Schule zu informieren. Was die Unterkunft angeht bin ich bei einer Gastfamilie untergekommen die super lieb war und ich selbst jetzt noch in Kontakt bin. Ein anderer Vorteil bei der Meiji ist, dass es viele Mitarbeiter gibt die deutsch sprechen können. Besonders viele Schweizer und Österreicher habe ich auch kennengelernt. lol Also daher kann ich diese Bildungseinrichtung nur empfehlen wenn Ihr eine Bildungszeit in Japan plannt. Viele Grüße und auf ein baldiges Widersehen. Eure Zoe♡

I've had a wonderful time with Meiji and my fellow friends from around the globe I made there. The instructors went the extra mile helping me out with all the difficulties I had as a total beginner. Especially I appreciated the follow-ups and hands-on approach to track my learning progress. I was placed in a class perfectly meeting my learning requirements and also had the opportunity to make a lot of friends from Europe. Most of Meiji's free activities are focused on social gatherings, close-by trips or simply a fun karaoke nights with fellow students and local Japanese volunteers who joined us. The two months went by so quick and can't wait to come back to Japan again. Hokkaido is...what can I say. You have to experience yourself. The food, the people, all was just on the spot and I became a Ramen Otaku after all the amazing Miso Ramen I tried while I was there. Can't recommend enough these wonderful people.

Simply couldn't get better! I had a lot of fun with Meiji Academy and the staff was hospitable throughout my stay. If I wouldn't have broken my leg during a ski trip at the weekend it would have been better...The school organized good events and we also visited a snow festival which was a lot of fun. The cultural workshops were a lot of fun and my host family was very kind. Just be aware! Some host families DO NOT LIVE IN THE CENTER! I had to travel almost 40mins by train which was a bit annoying. The school informed me before about it and also recommended me the sharehouse which looking back I should have listened to them....ach anyway, it was still a lot of fun and yes Bildungszeit is VERY INTENSE. But do I regret it? No way! I would have done it with these crazy friendly bowing people all over again. Yes you won't get me aways so quick! Loved my time with you guys and the teachers were very fun. Much bussies your Arnold!!!

Studying in Hokkaido showed me a much calmer and more authentic side of Japan. I really appreciated the relaxed atmosphere in Sapporo and how welcoming everything felt. The teachers were kind, supportive, and made speaking Japanese feel far less intimidating. Classes were practical and well balanced. Sapporo is quieter than places like Tokyo or Osaka and winter can be intense, but those are small trade-offs. Overall, I’d absolutely recommend Meiji if you want real Japanese life, great teachers, and a more grounded study experience. And yes the Winter Sports are phenomenal over there! Another reason I will come back there again!!

I applied for my educational leave in Berlin with Meiji Academy and decided to do it up North in Hokkaido last Winter. I've had a very intense but fun time and learnt a lot in the three weeks I was there. The instructors were very experienced and focused primarily on interactive lessons with applying grammar directly in role playing scenarios. The activities were also top notch with a karate class, meditation at a buddhist temple and fun winter sports out at a local snow festival. Hokkaido hit Japan differently and I wholeheartedly enjoyed my time over there. Can't recommend enough these people and big shout to Kai and his amazing events he always planned.

Right, so I popped over to Meiji Academy in Hokkaido thinking I’d brush up on my Japanese and maybe freeze to death in the snow. Instead, I ended up having an absolutely cracking time. The teachers were brilliant patient, funny, and somehow able to explain grammar without my brain melting like a poorly made soufflé. Couldn't get enough of the Miso Ramen and fun karaoke nights out. The community vibes are up to the roof! Recommend!

The start was a bit disruptive due to a long overlay flight I had from New York, but safely arrived at my amazing sharehouse. The cultural activities especially the workshops in Kendo, Karate and Katana sword practice were an awesome experience. In terms of classes everything was sailing smooth and I can confidently say that after 7 weeks my Japanese significantly improved. All in all the best time to spend a part of my sabbatical year.

This program was very well organized. Meiji’s staff did an outstanding job in assisting all my queries. My homestay was so much fun that I kept in touch with my host family and promised to visit again when I come to Sapporo. The lessons were well prepared and I loved my study pace, which suited me the best. With only four other classmates I felt the small class size combined with a strong focus on speaking practice worked wonders for me. What else can I say besides the activities were abundant and very enjoyable. Make sure you try their “Night Parfait” strolling event. Attention! Gaining weight is guaranteed in Hokkaido with all the yummy delights, not an exception!!!

My summer was stunning and full of fun memories. First time Japan first time Hokkaido. The best choice I could have made. Classes were interactive and the instructors very patient. I loved the cultural activities and made a lot of new friends in the two months I was there. Highly recommend!!

Even though my course lasted only two weeks, I experienced so much in this short time. The cultural activities after class like calligraphy and the chocolate factory visit were awesome. The Japanese classes were small and interactive with plenty of chances to speak and ask questions. My teacher was patient, encouraging, and really good at explaining grammar in a way that made sense. I think you need to be culturally aware with the many hidden rules but the school made it all so smooth to adapt to my new environment. Just too bad that it ended all so quick...

In nur einem Wort: Unvergesslich. Meine drei Wochen in Hokkaido waren einfach nur derbe gut. Ich habe mit meinem Arbeitgeber ausverhandelt, dass ich mir noch eine Extrawoche freinehmen konnte und habe zwei Wochen Bildungszeit zusammen mit einer Extrawoche Standartkurs Japanisch und Traditional Kulture noch genommen. Die Lehrer waren sehr erfahren mit ein paar jungen Lehrerinnen die auch mal ausgeholfen haben war es echt ein guter Mix. Gerade die Freizeitaktivitäten waren vielfältig und gut organisiert. Das Taikotrommeln und die Teezeremonie waren meine Highlights. Falls Ihr euch auch bisschen länger freinehmen könnt von der Arbeit, empfehle ich auf jeden Fall länger zu bleiben. Es gibt einfach so viel zu machen in Sapporo und die Leute von der Schule waren auch spitze! Man sieht sich (hoffentlich) baldigst wieder. Euer Bernd

Participé en un curso de dos semanas en Meiji Academy Hokkaido como parte de mi Bildungsurlaub, y fue una experiencia fantástica. Las clases eran dinámicas y muy bien estructuradas, con grupos pequeños que permitían practicar mucho. Los profesores son amables, profesionales y siempre dispuestos a ayudar. Además de las clases, el programa ofrecía actividades culturales como ceremonia del té, talleres de kimono y visitas a templos locales, que hicieron que el aprendizaje fuera aún más completo. En solo dos semanas, noté una gran mejora en mi comprensión y fluidez oral. Recomiendo totalmente Meiji Academy Hokkaido School a quien busque combinar el aprendizaje del japonés con una inmersión cultural auténtica.

I attended a two-week Japanese language course at Meiji Academy Hokkaido School as part of my Bildungsurlaub, and it was a truly rewarding experience. The school is well-organized, small class sizes made it easy to ask questions and get individual attention. The instructors are patient, professional, and genuinely passionate about helping students improve. Every lesson felt practical and immersive from grammar and vocabulary to real conversational practice with locals. What stood out most were the activities like calligraphy, sushi making and guided visits around Sapporo. It gave a real sense of life in my favorite city in Japan beyond the classroom. The whole team also helped with my accommodation and local recommendations what to do, which made settling in stress-free. Highly recommend!

I did a short term course for 3 weeks and loved every minute. The lessons were clear and structured, with lots of conversation so you pick up real life Japanese quickly. I stayed in one of their female sharehouses arranged by the school, which was clean and in a good location. The events were a highlight, especially the language exchange and karaoke nights. At the end I felt confident ordering food, asking directions, and making small talk. If you want a warm city and a supportive school, Meiji is a great choice considering.

I took Bildungsurlaub at Meiji Academy in Sapporo for one week. Application was very easy. I filled the form and the team send me all documents. My company accepted it without problem. In class we were a small group of 4 persons. The teachers speak very clear and correct me friendly. No homework means more time to discover the city. I received many informations before arrival. Activities were tea ceremony, visiting the Hokkaido Shrine, karaoke and another weekend excursion we had. Hokkaido is cold but school and housing are warm. Staffs are very helpful and answer me all questions. I can only recommend it and think it was a very good trip overall.

Meine Zeit mit der Meiji Akademie in Hokkaido waren zwei unvergessliche Wochen. Das Klima, die Leute, die Schule, einfach alles war super. Das Program war sehr gut organisiert und die kulturellen Workshops waren auch sehr gut. Mir hat besonders das Karatetraining und der Workshop vom traditionellem Färben japanischer Stofftücher sehr gefallen. Ich kann dieses Programm jedem nur wärmstens empfehlen. Bis bald ihr Lieben, eure Marlene

I bloody loved my time in Hokkaido and being a Brit who was eligible to get paid educational leave in Germany was putting it up on a completely different level. The whole process was sailing so smooth from application to graduation, the mates at Meiji did their best to accommodate all my requests. And being honest I wasn't always the easiest student. lol First I thought going through an agency but I was highly discouraged as the process was more complicated than directly applying with the school. The cultural workshops and conversational group sessions were superb and my only complaint is that Bildungsurlaub can get a bit intense with the 30hour class requirement per week. Luckily Meiji did a great job to work around these pain points and made my stay very pleasant. Cheers to all my new friends and until next time in Hokkaido! Cheerio!

Moin moin ihr Lieben! Ich hab Bildungsurlaub bei der Meiji Akademie in Hokkaido gemacht und bin immer noch geflasht. Die kulturellen Aktivitäten waren der Knaller mit Teezeremonie, Kochabenden wo wir Onigiri (Reisbällchen) gemacht haben und hatten dazu noch eine kleene internationale Party mit japanischen Lokals. Wir hatten auch eine Wanderung zum See Shikotsu der echt einfach nur wow war. Ich kann auf jeden Fall jedem empfehlen die Natur hir zu erkunden und alle Aktivitäten zu nutzen die Meiji anbietet. Und dann war da noch dieses versteckte Onsen in der Wildnis...einfach Hammer. Hokkaido wir haben uns net zum letzten Mal gesehn!

My time with Meiji Academy in Hokkaido was very intense but rewarding. This was my third time but first time visiting Sapporo. I can say without a doubt that I enjoyed this city the most. People are very friendly and the vibe and architecture feels very European. For anybody who wants to get in touch with the real locals and also experience an abundance of social events I would definitely say consider Hokkaido. Meiji's classes can be sometimes intense but the teachers made a lot of effort to always help out. I recommend the school's private apartments as the prices for housing and airbnb in Japan are getting crazy and I found a good bargain with the school in walking distance to their campus. So yes, I'll be back again and I highly recommend more fellow Germans to take advantage of Bildungsurlaub in Japan.

Meine Zeit in Sapporo war einfach nur genial! Da dies mein erstes Mal in Fernost war und ich dies auch mit meiner Bildungszeit verbinden wollte, war das Program der Meiji Akademie genau das richtige für mich. Die Beratung, Organisation und der ganze Prozess liefen sehr geschmeidig ab. Ich wollte zuerst über eine Agentur buchen hatte aber schlechte Feedback gelesen. Direkte Buchung kann ich auf empfehlen jeden Fall empfehlen mit dieser Schule, da der Prozess reibungslos verlief. Der Kurs an sich war sehr gut strukturiert, war aber schon recht intensiv mit den erforderlichen 30 Stunden für die Bildungszeit. Da kamen die kulturellen Workshops und andere Exkursionen gerade passend. Ich weiß jetzt schon wo's mich nächsten Sommer hinzieht:) Hab euch lieb eure Belinda♡

Solicité el programa a través de Bildungszeit en Berlín y cursé las tres semanas en Meiji Academy Hokkaido, dos semanas de Bildungszeit (curso reconocido) y una semana adicional en el curso estándar de japonés. Las clases fueron dinámicas, con mucha práctica oral y profesores atentos que siempre resolvían dudas. En las dos primeras semanas vi crecer rápidamente mi comprensión y vocabulario, y la tercera semana me permitió afianzar lo aprendido en un entorno más relajado. También disfruté mucho de las excursiones y actividades culturales de la escuela: descubrí Sapporo, probé platos locales y practiqué japonés en situaciones reales. Volví a casa con más seguridad al hablar y recuerdos inolvidables de Japón.

Zapisałem się na letni kurs w Meiji Academy z myślą o przełamaniu bariery mówienia. Zajęcia są intensywne i dobrze ułożone, dużo konwersacji i praktycznych ćwiczeń, a grupy są małe, więc każdy dostaje uwagę lektora. Nauczyciele są cierpliwi i wymagający w pozytywny sposób, regularnie poprawiają wymowę i dają konkretne wskazówki do nauki własnej. Po lekcjach szkoła organizuje spotkania i wyjścia, dzięki którym poznajesz miasto i używasz japońskiego w realnych sytuacjach. Po czterech tygodniach mówiłem swobodniej, rozumiałem więcej i miałem motywację, aby kontynuować naukę.

Studijavau tris savaites su Meiji Academy Hokaide ir tai buvo nuostabi patirtis. Mokytojai labai draugiški, pamokos įdomios, o laisvalaikiu ragavau Sapporo rameną ir soup curry, maudžiausi onsenuose ir aplankiau Otaru kanalą.

I had a very rewarding and enjoyable time that I can happily look back to. All the staff at Meiji were very engaging and always ready to help with any problems I had. The Japanese classes were sometimes intense but the instructors didn't fail to help out when I was struggling. I feel that my Japanese has significantly improved. The activities and social events were the best part! I loved the exchange events with local Japanese high school students and also visits we had to Hokkaido University. The school is partnering with local university student circles and other study abroad agencies, which bring the local Japanese to Meiji's events. Just be warned that some extracurricular events outside of the traditional culture courses are in cooperation with these circles. So be prepared that Japanese students can be plenty at some events which is fun but also tiring. My conclusion is that it really paid off and Hokkaido was just the best match for me.

I might be one of the few lucky ones who did both! You might ask what? Yes I did Bildungsurlaub in Fukuoka and Hokkaido with Meiji Academy. And by far I can fully heartedly recommend Hokkaido! Fukuoka was fun and the staff were super friendly, but Sapporo just caught my heart. It felt much more authentic and the activities were much better! Especially if you are looking for traditional crafts and Japanese arts, Hokkaido had much better events during my stay. It was so good that I even decided to extend my one-week Bildungsurlaub for another two weeks standard Japanese course with traditional culture. Make sure to try the Night parfait places around Tanukikoji and also the lamb BBQ in Susukino. Big thanks out here to Nakamura-sensei and Kai for taking us out to all these great events. I will visit you guys again. airgato gosaimashta.

From the moment I stepped out of the plane to the time it was to say goodbye. I fully enjoyed every moment of my time in Hokkaido. Meiji played a big part in making this experience unforgettable. The classes were well structured and customized to meet the study needs of Western students. A lot of importance was placed on the speaking practice, grammar studies and reading comprehension. Events were also abundant and I’ve met a lot of new friends. My time with my Japanese history family felt very comfortable and I appreciated them taking me around all the time. I hope to be back one day…thank you for all the memories and friends I made.

Had an amazing time with Meiji in Hokkaido. Everybody was friendly, accommodating and also eager to help. Most of the instructors were very experienced with a lot of younger teachers in their late twenties. Activities were engaging and always focused on cultural immersion and community vibes. Highly recommend.

Right from the start I felt like being at home. Super cozy environment with students from more than 15 countries (that's about what I counted). Each of my five classmates was from another country, mostly Europeans with one Korean girl. The atmosphere was very engaging and the teachers did their best to support us. The best thing about Meiji was the strong focus on communicative lessons paired with a lot of grammar drills we had. Sometimes I asked for homework and the teachers were happy to provide us but that's not the requirement. The activities and events outside of the classrooms were also plenty with a lot of cultural engagements and exchange events with local Japanese students. I loved it and it was much fun. Can't say anything else then you should also try it. Thanks to all the amazing people I met and hope to see you again.

I had much fun in Hokkaido with this lovely bunch of people and a school that centers literally everything around community and activities. Not to forget the Japanese studies are truly high quality. I stayed in the private apartment but heard only good things about all the sharehouses they had. Went there once for a birthday party and it was crazy fun. Can't recommend this school enough. Give it a try!

This was a rollercoaster I wouldn't want to miss. The program was well organized and our instructors went the extra mile to take good care of us. I loved the trips they organized for us and the classes were intense but fun. Highly recommend.

I don't where to start this but with just saying I had an amazing time. The classes were very good with a mix of intense grammar studies and interactive speaking practices. The kanji practices can get sometimes a bit hard but if you invest an extra hour studies you really get the most out of it. In terms of events and parties we had always something happening. I loved the international exchange parties and weekend trips they organized extra for our study group. Already missing my time there looking back how much fun it was...

Meiji did a great job and the month I've spent in Hokkaido passed by so so quick. I have made a lot of new Japanese friends, ate super oishii food and completely fell in love with Japan. And yes I learned some Japanese too😜 Will be back for my JET program in Hokkaido. Can't wait!!!

I signed up thinking I’d just pick up some polite phrases, maybe learn how to order sushi without embarrassing myself. Instead, I found myself knee-deep in kanji flashcards, role-playing in convenience stores, and debating Japanese tongue twisters with classmates. The lessons were challenging in the best way, our teachers had that perfect mix of patience and a knack for making grammar drills feel like games. The events were honestly the cherry on top. One day we were practicing tea ceremony etiquette, the next we were lost in the neon chaos of Susukino. There was even a trip to Asahiyama and Furano that hit me harder than I expected. Not just sightseeing, it was perspective-changing. Three months passed by so quick and looking back I think I found my new place to be. If you're looking for something more than a kanji drills and cram school teaching, then this is it.

Taking part in the intensive course at Meiji Academy Hokkaido was exactly what I needed to combine professional development with cultural immersion. The program was well-structured, with morning lessons focused on praktical Japanese that I could immediately apply in business and daily life situations. The teachers were excellent at balancing the demands of an accelerated curriculum while keeping the atmosphere engaging and motivating. What stood out to me was the Bildungszeit framework helped ensuring the course met high standards, both academically and in terms of contact hours, so I knew I was getting real value for my time away from work. Afternoons were often filled with cultural activities in and around Sapporo, from a karate workshop, soba noodle making the traditional way to guided city explorations, which made the learning experience much more vivid. By the end, I not only improved my Japanese skills but also gained cultural insights that will be valuable in my career. This program is perfect for anyone seeking an accredited, intensive, and genuinely enriching experience in Japan. Just have to say one thing as a warning, Bildungszeit can be quite packed so be prepared to have the power to engage in all the activities for two weeks.

I came to Hokkaido thinking without any proper idea how it would turn out. A fun Summer and cracking on for my first JLPT N5 in Winter, but Sapporo had other plans for me! Between morning classes where grammar suddenly made sense (sometimes less but the patient teachers helped a lot!) and afternoons wandering through Odori Park or stuffing myself with miso ramen, I felt like I was learning everywhere I went. The school kept things fun with cultural excursions, pottery workshops and a bunch of social gatherings with Japanese. Every day felt like a mix of studying, exploring, and laughing with new friends. Getting “lost” in the city actually turned into the best way to practice my Japanese. Wouldn’t change a thing and yes, Sapporo totally stole my heart. 💕

What I loved most about Meiji Hokkaido was how seamlessly the school blended lessons with life. You’d learn a new grammar structure in class, then find yourself using it an hour later chatting with a ramen shop owner who’s just as amused by your attempt as you are. It made the language real, sticky, and fun.

Meiji's summer course in Hokkaido exceeded my expectations by far. The classes were pretty much spot on. Small, interactive, and well-structured. Lessons could get quite intense sometimes, so I do recommend some studies after class, but my teachers were quite cooperative and slowed down when I requested it. Every lesson felt practical and engaging rather than just textbook drills. I could actually hold conversations that felt real. Hokkaido itself was stunning and Sapporo never gets boring any day of the week. Pub crawls at Tanukikoji or izakaya and Bar hoping in Susukino; there was always something happening. My eight weeks past by so quick. Would do it all over again, highly recommend.

Zwei Wochen Bildungszeit mit einer Extrawoche Traditional Culture und Conversational Japanese waren echt die beste Kombo! Mein Arbeitgeber war so kooperative, dass ich noch diese Extrawoche dranhängen konnte und wenn man diese Chance hat sollte man da auf jeden Fall zugreifen! Der Unterricht und die kulturellen Aktivitäten an der Meiji Academy waren sehr gut und vielfältig. Es gab zu viele Sachen die ich erlebt habe, aber wenn ich's aufn Punkt bringen müsste würde ich sagen die Community ist das Herz dieser Schule. Mir hat's so gut gefallen, dass Ihr mich nicht mehr so schnell loss werdet! Bis zum nächsten Mal:P

Este verano pasé dos semanas increíbles en Hokkaido con Meiji Academy gracias al Bildungsurlaub. Me alegró mucho descubrir que, aunque soy ciudadana española que vive y trabaja en Alemania, ¡también soy elegible para este programa! Las clases fueron dinámicas y muy personalizadas, y fuera del aula pudimos descubrir la cultura japonesa de una forma auténtica. Animo a todos mis compatriotas españoles que trabajen en Alemania a aprovechar esta oportunidad única. No solo mejoras tu nivel de japonés, sino que también vives una experiencia cultural inolvidable.

I came to Hokkaido full of excitement for my two-week Bildungsurlaub with Meiji Academy and even breaking my little toe on a solo hike after the first week couldn’t stop me from loving it. Meiji’s team were absolutely incredible. They organized everything, even came with me to the hospital, translating and making sure I was taken care of. I stayed in a private apartment because the sharehouse was already full during my dates. I advise anybody to book way in advance. Four months before was considered late for housing spots...anyway! It was comfortable, but I have to admit I would’ve met more people in a shared place. That’s not Meiji’s fault as the accommodation providers seem less flexible and I guess just unlucky timing? Despite this, the language lessons, cultural activities, and community at school made the trip so worth it. Meiji really goes above and beyond for their students and yes, even the clumsy ones like me! :-P

I was skeptical at first; could just two weeks of Bildungsurlaub in Japan really make a difference? I was very much proven wrong! Every single day at school felt twice as long, in best possible way! Mornings were packed with sharp, engaging language lessons, afternoons full of exciting workshops and evenings spent with newly made friends from around the world. Meiji's atmosphere was relaxed yet incredibly motivating. Hamburg approved the Bildungsurlaub, but Meiji gave it the unique signature making it unforgettable. Thank you for everything.

I joined Meiji Academy’s 3-week summer course in Hokkaido this year, and it turned out to be one of the most memorable learning experiences I’ve had so far. For me being from a gender minority and using they/them pronouns, I am always making sure to pay attention on how people treat each other. I wasn’t sure what to expect, both in terms of living arrangements and the classes themselves, but the program delivered far more than I anticipated. The Japanese lessons were structured but not overwhelming. Classes were small enough that everyone could participate and had this personal touch I loved. My teacher was very interested in my background and the staff was very accommodating also helping me with some mental struggles I was facing due to having some panic attacks about the cultural differences with Japanese people in daily life. Nothing serious but the cultural clash being first time abroad especially as a non-binary person was sometimes a bit challenging. Still all my teachers and fellow students treated me with respect and were kind to me. I found it great that there is a vibrant LGBTQ+ scene in Sapporo that I discovered amidst my stay and I even got connected to fellow Japanese with similar mindsets. Besides that the teachings at school were good. A well balance of grammar drills with practical conversations. We covered a lot in three weeks, and I could feel myself improving day by day. What I appreciated most was how approachable the lessons felt it didn’t matter if you weren’t a complete beginner or if you had already studied before, the teachers adapted to where you were. Living in a mixed sharehouse was an experience of its own. It was social without being chaotic but some people from certain countries were quite messy in the kitchen. Still hanging out with other Meiji students and Japanese university students in the evenings and going out was a lot of fun. It gave me a chance to practice Japanese informally and learn about other cultures at the same time. The cultural activities were another highlight. Food tours, a karate class and even meditating in a real buddhist temple! Around Sapporo is always something to do. It never felt forced you could join in as much or as little as you wanted, but I joined most of them and I’m glad I did. They added real context to what we were learning. Overall, the balance between study and experience felt just right. It wasn’t a vacation, but it didn’t feel like grinding through school either. I’d definitely come back to Meiji and do it again, maybe for a longer stay next time. Three weeks went by faster than I expected. Au revoir Meiji♡

Die Zeit bei der Meiji Academy in Fukuoka war einfach ein Erlebnis voller Überraschungen! Zwischen den Sprachkursen habe ich mit den anderen Studierenden die Stadt erkundet, spontan Ausflüge am Wochenende geplannt nach Itoshima und immer nach köstlichen Leckerbissen Ausschau gehalten. Die Zeit ist wirklich im Flug vergangen so dass ich mir schon Gedanken über meinen nächsten Urlaub in Japan mache.^^ Die Mischung aus intensiven Japaniskursen und der Vielzahl an Aktivitäten ist einfach spitze! Das beste ist und bleibt die Meiji Community die mir wortwörtlich ans Herz gewachsen ist! Danke nochmals für alles!!

From the moment I arrived in Hokkaido, the energy at Meiji Academy was contagious. It wasn’t just the classes it was the community, the late-night chats in the sharehouse, exploring the city with new friends and those unexpected little adventures that made every day memorable. The cultural activities were fun, but honestly, the impromptu karaoke nights, street food runs and spontaneous weekend trips were the real highlights. I laughed, learned, and made friendships for life. I know this will last far beyond Japan, because I met somebody special on this journey...I’d do it all again in a heartbeat and yes, I'll be back soon!

Had an awesome time with Meiji. Classes were fun and the vibe with other students was brilliant. Loved getting a taste of Japanese culture while improving my Japanese for the upcoming JLPT this Winter. Definitely would do it again!

Der Bildungsurlaub bei Meiji Academy in Hokkaido war eine großartige Erfahrung. Die Lehrer waren kompetent und hilfsbereit, der Unterricht praxisnah und motivierend. Neben dem Lernen hatte ich die Möglichkeit, die japanische Kultur hautnah zu erleben durch die Vielzahl an kulturellen Exkursionen die wir hatten. Mein Highlight: Das Kimono tragen, sprazieren/Fotoshooting im japanischen Garten und dann noch echte originalle japanische Süßigkeiten! Besser konnts net kommen!!:D Absolut empfehlenswert für jeden, der sich noch Gedanken macht wie man die Bildungszeit konstruktiv und unterhaltsam im Ausland verbringen kann.

“Meiji summer course ticked all boxes and didn't have any bad surprises except of fun all the time! The classes were engaging, the teachers supportive, and I loved the small group setting. Living in Sapporo and experiencing the local Hokkaido culture was a completely different look on how the real Japan can be away from Tokyo or Osaka. An unforgettable summer for sure. Will be back soon. Cheers!

Couldn't go wrong with Japan, couldn't go wrong with Hokkaido?? Honestly I wasn't considering this destination but after rushing last minute for a program these guys had still a spot for me open. Initially I wanted to go to Fukuoka or Osaka but I'm glad I made this decision. The staff were helpful and always concerned about me. Sometimes a bit too much...lol I loved my classes and also hanging out with my classmates. The activities were a lot of fun and the weekends were always planned with sightseeing trips in the countryside. Can't recommend enough this program.

Japan was so much fun and my time with Meiji was great. I loved the host family they organized for me and the whole program personally customized to my needs. The best part was the beach party in Zenibako and the cool Japanese students I met there. Recommend Meiji.

Spending two weeks in Hokkaido with Meiji was a wonderful time I won't forget so quick. The focus primarily lies on communicative Japanese and applicable speaking practices which made it perfect for me. The teachers were supportive and helpful all the time. The activities and events with local Japanese were also very enjoyable. I returned home with much more confidence in Japanese and already planning my next trip for the coming season in...you can guess where ;)

I took a my Bildungsurlaub course with Meiji Academy in Hokkaido and it exceeded my expectations. The classes were small, very interactive, and tailored to my level. The study was short but you could feel the progress in realtime. The teachers were supportive and made learning fun, while the school also organized cultural excursions that gave me a deeper taste of Japanese culture. From language exchange to exploring Sapporo’s sights, every day was a good balance of study and extracurricural activities. Perfect for anyone looking to combine intensive learning with broadening the understanding of temporary Japanese culture and society.

I joined Meiji Academy’s Summer Course and it turned out better than I first anticipated. The classes were small, which meant the instructors quickly understood how I learned best and gave me plenty of personal attention. Lessons were lively and practical, and I felt my Japanese improved every single day. Outside the class plenty of activities were organized with trips around Sapporo. I got to experience Hokkaido’s amazing summer festivals, try local foods and meet many new people. The staff were welcoming and always helpful with anything. What I loved most was how balanced everything felt. Enough structured learning to make real progress, but also enough free time to explore the city. By the end of the program, I felt more confident not just in Japanese, but also in myself. I would recommend this course to anyone.

I’d highly recommend Meiji Academy to anyone who is just about to finish high school (such as me) or is in their twenties and wants to study Japanese in a way that feels like an adventure rather than a chore. It’s intense enough to make real progress, but flexible enough to let you enjoy Japan to the fullest. I came home with better Japanese, lifelong friends, and about a thousand photos of sunsets, street food, and karaoke rooms. My stay at the sharehouse was phenomenal and I loved it so much that honestly I would have done it all over again!!! And if the only “problems” I had was a slightly cranky washing machine and my room neighbor not calling his parents at 2am at night, it would have been perfect! lol I think that says a lot about how good the rest of it was.

I spent this past summer studying Japanese at Meiji and it turned out to be one of the most memorable experiences of my life. Coming from Brisbane and being all my life in Australia so far, it was time to level up my Japanese right at the source. So I made up my plans and decided to go fully for 3 months to Hokkaido. A mate of mine recommended Meiji’s summer course and after looking at the photos of Sapporo and the surrounding coastline, I figured, “Why not trade one winter for another summer and see what happens?” From day one, the program felt incredibly well-organized but still had this relaxed, friendly vibe that suited me. The classes were small with just five of us in my group. We got loads of speaking practice and our teacher was patient but didn’t let us get lazy, which I actually appreciated. There was enough structure to keep us progressing every day, but it never felt like I was chained to a desk. The lessons focused on practical conversation, and we spent time role-playing real-world situations like ordering food, asking directions, and even how to handle awkward situations politely (which I actually ended up using at a convenience store when I tried to pay with the wrong card). But to be honest, the academics were only half the story. What really made this program stand out were the activities and the social side of things. I stayed in one of the sharehouses the school arranged for me. It ended up being one of the best parts of the whole experience. My housemates came from all over the world and it's the best way to make friends. Every evening turned into an impromptu cooking party, language exchange or at the very least hangout session with everyone comparing their different snacks from the nearest Lawson or 7Eleven. Meiji Academy organized a lot of cultural trips that made weekends an adventure. One of the highlights was a visit to Otaru, the little port town with canals and old warehouses. We spent the afternoon eating fresh sushi, wandering past glass shops, and listening to some buskers play music along the canal. There were also more active trips like hiking around Lake Shikotsu, where I quickly learned that Aussies aren’t automatically good at hiking just because we’ve got the Outback. But the scenery made the sweat totally worth it. And then there were the parties...oh, the parties. The school connected us with international language exchange events in Sapporo, which were basically big social mixers where Japanese locals and foreigners could chat over drinks. I met so many cool people at those nights, including a few locals who later took us out to show us their favorite ramen spots. On weekends, we’d take the train to Zenibako Beach, where the Academy organized beach parties. Imagine grilling seafood under the sun, jumping into surprisingly chilly water, and kicking a ball around with people speaking five different languages at once. Absolute magic. Of course, no trip to Hokkaido would be complete without a bit of nightlife in Susukino, Sapporo’s entertainment district. A few classmates and I headed out there with some locals we met at the language exchange, and we bounced from bar to bar until the sun came up. I never expected that I’d be singing Japanese pop songs in a karaoke booth at 4 a.m. with new friends from three continents, but that’s exactly what happened. If I had to make one complaint and I do think every honest review needs at least one it would be that sometimes the laundry room is always crowdy and yes they kitchen does get messy on weekends!!! Not exactly a tragedy, but it can get a little annoying. Another pain point was that my specific sharehouse didn't have an air conditioner which seems pretty common in Hokkaido, but it can be quite tough in summer peak season! Overall, Meiji Academy’s summer course delivered way more than I expected. I went in thinking I’d improve my Japanese (which I definitely did), but I came away with friends from all over the world, incredible memories of exploring Hokkaido, and this new confidence in using Japanese outside the classroom. The teachers really cared about our progress, the staff made sure every trip ran smoothly, and the accommodation gave me a ready-made community to share the experience with. I'll be definitely back again next year!

If you’re looking for a summer program that combines serious language learning with the kind of cultural immersion you just can’t get from a textbook, this is it. Just be prepared for a little less sleep than you might expect. Between classes, trips, language exchange parties, Zenibako beach days, and Susukino nights, you won’t want to miss a thing. Meiji kept me busy and time flew by so quickly. Miss ya all!

My summer at Meiji Academy in Hokkaido felt like a dream. Mornings were spent improving my Japanese through small group lessons, where teachers patiently corrected my speaking and taught us useful phrases for real-life situations. Afternoons were packed with unique activities. From cycling by the Ishikari River to learning how to make authentic Soba (buckwheat noodles) with local chefs. The school arranged everything so smoothly, including my homestay with a welcoming family who treated me like their own daughter. Sapporo’s cooler climate was perfect for studying without the exhausting heat you’d get elsewhere in Japan. I left with better Japanese, new friendships, and a deep love for Hokkaido.

Spending the summer at Meiji Academy in Hokkaido was an absolute treat. I opted for a homestay, and I can’t recommend it highly enough. My host family were wonderfully welcoming and made me feel like part of the household from day one. They patiently helped me practise my Japanese, served up some incredible home-cooked meals, and gave me a real taste of daily life in Sapporo. The activities organised by Meiji Academy were brilliant. Attending the Obon summer festival was a highlight – the lanterns, the drumming, the atmosphere… it was the perfect way to soak up Japanese culture. And for something a little quirkier, I had a blast visiting maid/anime cafés and yes, cat cafés! Yes, it’s a bit of a novelty, but I genuinely loved the experience – sitting with a cup of coffee and some super kawaii food, while being with fellow Meiji students was super fun. For those of us who enjoy a proper night out, Sapporo does not disappoint. The local English (pssht...most are run by Aussies) pubs are fantastic. Nothing beats ending a day of cultural excursions with a pint, chatting with locals and fellow students, and soaking up the lively summer vibes. Meiji strikes a perfect balance between structured language learning and letting you explore Hokkaido your own way. All in all, this summer course offered me not just improved Japanese skills, but memories of a genuinely fun and culturally rich experience. Homestay living, festival fun, quirky cafés, and evening pints. And yes that's a proper summer in Hokkaido, British-style! haha Cheerio!

I spent six weeks at Meiji Academy in Hokkaido, and it was one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. The Japanese lessons were small, lively, and practical. We practised speaking every day, which really improved my confidence. Outside the classroom, the school arranged amazing cultural activities: we visited Shiroi Koibito Park for a chocolate-making workshop, cycled through the beautiful Furano flower fields, and joined a local Bon Odori festival where we danced in yukata with the community. My homestay family welcomed me warmly, cooked incredible Hokkaido dishes, and helped me practise Japanese over dinner. Everything was perfectly organised, from airport pickup to weekend trips. By the time I left, I had new friends from around the world, stronger Japanese skills, and so many memories of Hokkaido’s cool summer breeze, fresh seafood, and endless hospitality. Can't recommend this program enough!

Hokkaido in summer is stunning and this school made it even better! Classes were top notch and speaking practices weren't missing. I joined flower festivals, learned Japanese calligraphy, and met students from around the world. The supportive teachers made learning fun.

Meiji Academy’s summer programme in Hokkaido combined everything I wanted: serious language study and genuine cultural adventure. Our lessons focused on conversation, which made it easy to use Japanese when ordering food or chatting with locals. The school also organised brilliant outings! I still remember the Otaru Canal boat ride at dusk, tasting fresh seafood at Nijo Market, and dancing at a local summer festival in yukata. Accommodation was comfortable, and the staff went out of their way to help with every little detail, from transport tips to restaurant recommendations. I left feeling confident in Japanese and full of unforgettable memories.

Studying Japanese at Meiji during summer was unforgettable. Classes were interactive and really boosted my confidence. After lessons, we explored local markets, joined a tea ceremony, and even hiked up Mount Moiwa for amazing sunset views. The balance between study and cultural immersion was perfect.

Meiji's summer course in Hokkaido was incredible. I loved the friendly teachers, practical Japanese lessons, and stunning nature trips. I loved the lavender fields and the relaxed pace of life in Sapporo. Highy recommend!

Zima u Japanu s Meiji Academy bila je jedno od najboljih iskustava u mom životu! Dobila puno više od samog učenja jezika. Od prvog dana svi profesori, studenti i moja obitelj domaćina bili su nevjerojatno srdačni i uvijek spremni pomoći. Nastava je bila dinamična i praktična, stalno smo radili vježbe razgovora i učili kroz stvarne situacije, što mi je dalo puno samopouzdanja. Osim škole, aktivnosti na snijegu bile su nevjerojatne. Prvi put sam probala skijanje i vožnju na sanjkama kroz snježnu šumu! Posebno mi je ostao u sjećanju posjet Sapporo Snow Festivalu! Osjećaj kao da sam u bajci, okružena ogromnim ledenim skulpturama i svjetlima. Meiji je savršeno organizirala sve! Od dolaska, smještaja, pa do svake avanture na snijegu. Stekla sam prijatelje iz cijelog svijeta i upoznala pravu japansku kulturu izbliza. Ne samo da sam napredovala u jeziku, nego sam stvorila uspomene koje ću zauvijek nositi sa sobom.

I've taken my German educational leave aka Bildungsurlaub / Bildungszeit with Meiji Academy this Summer and it couldn't be better! Initially I have applied for the 10-day Bildungsurlaub. However, after further consideration and discussion with my employer I have taken it to the next level and extended my Japanese studies with an additional 2 weeks (4 weeks in total) which was one of the best decisions ever. I have to say that I was very lucky with my employment and having saved up my annual holidays. Moreover, Meiji Academy assisted me in designing a fully customizable study program with additional cultural workshops and a few trips on the weekend. My secret tip is the Japanese Business Manner classes. It helped me a lot learning the Japanese corporate philosophy and how "Business is done" here in Japan! The only drawback I have to mention is that the Bildungsurlaub can get quite INTENSE! The Bildungszeit requirements are strict in Germany and Meiji is quite serious about following the rules set. So be prepared for lengthy Japanese and cultural sessions! Still I don't regret it and would do it again. Dankeschön und liebste Grüße an alle besonders Ebina-sensei.

I've spent with my fellow friends 6 weeks this Summer in Sapporo and had an awesome time. The Japanese instructors went the extra mile to help with any questions we had and activities were superb. Highly recommend!

This Summer I decided to finally go to Japan and start my studies of this beloved language from scratch. I know this seems to be for some not the right approach but I thought it would make it best for me to go on the site and learn it there. The email exchange with the staff was very welcoming, detailed and responsive. One thing that was a bit of a surprise for me was the fact that they DO NOT TEACH HIRAGANA and KATANA! I tried to check with other schools and it seems to be common practice that most institutions expect this as a prerequisite...However, they did provide me with several self-study materials for Hiragana and Katakana, including some videos that I found very useful. Another minus point is that total beginners can only start on the first Monday of each month which made it a bit unflexible for me. Ok enough criticism, now on the good parts. lol The Japanese teachers were very good and during my time there I had five different ones I was able to study and also compare different teaching styles. The location of the Hokkaido campus is also right in the city centre which was perfect access for any commuting elsewhere. My time at the female sharehouse was also very enjoyable and it was a very safe environment to make friends. It gave me a lot of piece of mind to be with Meiji this Summer. And last but not least the events! A huge variety of fun and interesting cultural activities. I loved the traditional culture and pop culture modules which were great to discover all the additional amusing activities that the genki Meiji team planned for us. I can look back and confidently say my Japanese has reached a solid foundation to further build on. I just started my first few Japanese online lessons with Meiji which I also found very good to keep track of my current study goals. If you have not made up your mind, I think it's worth to consider this school if you go to Sapporo. For me it was definitely a very memorable time which I'm grateful for.

This April I was running late to apply for a Summer course with some of my partner unis for a Japan. So I reached out to Meiji and they helped me out in organizing my program and also the whole process of getting uni credits approved. It was a bit tricky and went back and forth, but eventually everything worked out and I got my studies accredited with them! The classes were very entertaining and the the atmosphere at school is very inviting. I recommend anybody who wants to spend a productive and fun Summer study break to go along with these guys.

Meiji's instructors were the best! Got myself into some intense Kanji cracking, samurai sword fighting and crazy fireworks with Meiji this Summer. Absolutely wicked and fun with a bunch of likewise lads.

This Summer I went to Meiji Academy in Sapporo for 5 weeks and studied Japanese with Conversational and Traditional Culture modules. I had a good time further immersing myself into Japanese culture and loved the host family they organised for me.

The whole 10 weeks at Meiji in Sapporo turned out to be one of the best decisions I made in my life. Japanese lessons and cultural activities were great. They even helped me with drawing a plan for my Hokkaido road trip afterwards!

From the very start to saying goodbye with a heavy heart, all went great during my time at Meiji. The instructors did their best to help us understand any tricky grammar and also speaking practices weren't lacking. Events and parties were always fun and weekends filled with clubbing in Susukino and pub crawls around Tanukikoji. Miss everybody already!

I loved my time in Hokkaido and made so many new encounters in the short 10 weeks I was there. Meiji Academy is a good place to meet new people and connect with local Japanese likewise. The lessons were well structured, instructors were engaging and made a lot of effort to always address student needs. I am happy that I even met my current girlfriend at one of their language exchange events with local Japanese students. I won't go into too much details, but I can confidently say that I wouldn't be able meeting so many new people without the help and support this school gives. Mange tak Meiji! Until next time!

Mi experiencia con Meiji el invierno pasado fue increíble. Los profesores japoneses fueron muy amables, pacientes y siempre dispuestos a ayudar. Me encantó la variedad de actividades culturales que el personal organizó para nosotros. En especial, los deportes de invierno con estudiantes japoneses de la universidad fueron una gran oportunidad para hacer amistades locales. Recomiendo mucho Meiji Academy a quien busque un programa de estudios en Japón que sea divertido e intenso.

Ich habe meine viermonatige Bildungskarenz in Hokkaido verbracht und kann es jedem nur wärmstens empfehlen in Ausland zu gehen. Der Unterricht war sehr individuell gestaltet, die Gruppen klein und die LehrerInnen sind auf meine persönlichen Ziele eingegangen. Neben dem Sprachkurs habe ich auch an vielen kulturellen Aktivitäten teilgenommen die Teil der Bildungskarenz waren vom Teamzeremonie Workshop, Karatekurs, traditionelle Töpferei bis hin zu Ausflügen nach Hakodate und Tobetsu. Hokkaido war für mich die perfekte Mischung aus intensiven japanisch lernen und einzigartiger Natur. Diese Zeit hat nicht nur meine Sprachkenntnisse enorm verbessert, sondern mir auch viele Freundschaften und unvergessliche Momente mitgebracht.

It was my first trip abroad and also my first ever outside of America. I'm not exaggerating when I say I was quite worried how all will go. Luckily all my concerns blew away once I entered the school gates. Friendly staff, nice fellow students and one big warm community that felt like a family. Meiji significantly contributed to my time in Japan being unforgettable. I loved the fun classes and international events hosted. If Japan wouldn't be so far away I would be there every Summer. Hope to see you all again soon. Arigatou gozaimashita Meiji Academy.

Couldn't get much better considering it was a last minute decision that I didn't regret even a bit! The onboarding process was smooth and detailed. Staff was incredibly responsive with some email replies shooting back and forth in less than a few hours. The classes were professional, teachers very kind and the external activities just rounded up everthing well. Would do it all over again without a shadow of a doubt. Go for it!

My time with Meiji was awesome and full of memorable moments I was able to share with my best friend there. The school is located right in the city center, which makes it great for afterschool shopping trips to the nearby shopping mall. Food was also top notch with everything you can imagine to indulge into. The Japanese instructors were very kind and patient with me. Classes were sometimes well structured and homework was given on request. There were some weekly tests once in a while, but I didn't mind them as it helped to reassess my learning progress and areas I should look into more. Outside the school everything was focused around events, parties and social gatherings which Meiji's staff did a great job. Highly recommend!

I joined the Summer camp in Hokkaido. Teacher Nakamura and Nakanishi were cheerful, accommodating and incredibly supportive. The class pace was well managed with a lot of grammar practices and speaking sessions that helped a lot to get confident with speaking Japanese. Outside of the classroom it didn't get boring. Regular cultural activities, events with local Japanese and weekend trips to nearby Asahikawa and Furano rounded it up perfectly. Definitely a great time and recommend for every introvert Otaku like me to get out of your comfort zone and into the fun Japan adventure I was looking for so long!

Meine Zeit in Japan war einfach nur spitze! Meine Zeit mit Meiji Academy in Hokkaido ist wie im Flug vergangen und musste dann im Frühsommer leider Adieu sagen zu all meinen neu geschloßenen Freundschaften nach fast 5 Monaten hier! Das Program war sehr gut organisiert mit einer Vielzahl and kulturellen Aktivitäten sowie mehreren intensiven Business Japanese Manner Workshops. Diese kann ich wirklich ans Herzen legen da man fix all die Insiderinformationen erhält wie Business-Meetings und Geschäfte in Japan von statten gehen. Wir hatten sogar die Möglichkeit einen japanischen Betrieb zu besuchen und das Personal und den Führungsleiter zu interviewen. Ich habe extra dafür Interviewfragen auf japanisch vorbereitet und wurde nachher noch mit anderen Schülern auf ein separates Business-Networking Event eingeladen. Also nicht nur japanisch lernen und kulturelle Aktivitäten erleben; der Businessaspekt war ein verstecktes Juwel, dass mich positiv überrascht hat. Nun gut für mich gehts wieder zurück nach Wien, aber Japan bleibt weiterhin ganz oben auf meiner Liste! Vielen Dank nochmals für alles und wie man so schön sagt: Man sieht sich immer zweimal im Leben. Liebe Grüße, eure Marianne♡

Fast drei Monate ist es her seit ich meine Bildungskarenz in Japan absolviert habe mit Meiji Academy. Wie viele meiner Landsleute war es mir vorher nicht bewusst, dass man seine Bildungskarenz im Ausland machen kann. Als ich von dieser Nachricht hörte war für mich als begeisterte Japanfan klar, dass muss doch auch im Land der aufgehenden Sonne funktionieren. Nach einem anfänglichen Hin und Her mit meinem Arbeitgeber hat's dann doch geklappt und die Mitarbeiter bei der Meiji Academy waren auch sehr hilfsbereit bei der Vorbereitung und Erstellung aller Unterlagen für meine Bildungskarenz. Das ganze Program war sehr strukturiert und der Unterricht hat mir auch sehr gut gefallen, da der Schwerpunkt auf Kommunikation und täglich angewandtes Japanisch fokusiert ist. Die Vielzahl an Aktivitäten und Events haben auch dafür gesorgt, dass man auch außerhalb des Klassenraums sich nie gelangweilt hat. Rückblickend kann ich sagen, dass ich die beste Entscheidung meines Lebens getroffen habe diese einzigartige Chance zu nutzen und ich hoffe, dass auch andere Österreicher in der einen oder anderen Form (die so genannte Weiterbildungszeit oder was sonst unsere verrückten Politiker geplannt haben...) ins Ausland gehen können. Auf jeden Fall kann ich nur jedem empfehlen sich weiterzubilden und wenns geht in Japan! Danke nochmals an das ganze Meiji Team für die super Betreuung und Support während meines unvergesslichen Abenteuers:)

My summer with Meiji was more than just fun events and Japanese classes. It was an experience full of learning and connection. The language classes were fun and engaging, teachers made every day feel enjoyable with a lot of grammar practices in real-life settings. I loved the use of Genki textbook which was much better than the Minna No Nihongo we used back at uni. I joined cultural events and language exchange parties where I made amazing friends, including made friends with local Japanese students. Every evening was filled with going out for dinner with fellow classmates, karaoke nights and discovery of the unknown exciting in Hokkaido.

Spending the summer in Hokkaido was one of the most enriching experiences of my life. From the moment I arrived, I was welcomed with warmth by the whole school team. The atmosphere was friendly and supportive, which made learning Japanese both fun and effective. The classes were small, so we got a lot of individual attention from teachers. They were patient, engaging, and knew how to make the lessons come alive. I liked the use of the textbooks Qartett and Genki as they were perfectly tailored towards the learning needs of Western students. We didn’t just sit in classrooms, we practiced Japanese in real-life situations, which helped build my confidence quickly. Outside of class, there was always something happening. From trying on yukata at local festivals, to visiting hot springs and hiking in the stunning nature, every week brought something new. I especially loved the food. Fresh seafood, ramen, and soft cream became part of my daily routine. !!Warning!! You can easily overeat the super yummy milk soft ice cream and local parfaits which are top notch for anybody with a sweet tooth like me. haha What made this summer unforgettable wasn’t just the language skills I gained, but the friendships I made and the cultural moments I got to be a part of. Hokkaido gave me a perfect balance of study and adventure. If you're thinking of studying Japanese in Japan, Hokkaido with Meiji Academy is a choice you won’t regret.

Looking back at my time at Meiji it was a very rewarding experience that I won't regret having done. My Japanese improved significantly and I even had the unique chance taking the JLPT here in Japan! Highly recommend anybody this school for a unique time to spend for your Summer.

Ich habe meine Bildungskarenz genutzt, um für ein ganzes Jahr nach Japan zu gehen. Genauer gesagt an der Meiji Academy in Sapporo, Hokkaido. Rückblickend war es eine der besten Entscheidungen meines Lebens. Der Unterricht an der Meiji Academy ist hervorragend aufgebaut: strukturiert, praxisnah und gleichzeitig sehr individuell gestaltet. Das Lerntempo kann nach dem Anfängerkurs manchmal a bisschen schnell verlaufen. Daher machts schon Sinn den Lehrern Bescheid zu geben. Jedoch kann man echt nichts sagen. Die Lehrkräfte waren nicht nur kompetent, sondern auch unglaublich herzlich und hilfsbereit. Dank der kleinen Gruppengrößen konnte ich in meinem eigenen Tempo lernen und gezielt Fragen stellen – das hat meinen Lernfortschritt enorm gefördert. Ein besonderer Höhepunkt war meine Unterbringung bei einer japanischen Gastfamilie für die ersten Wochen. Dort konnte ich nicht nur meine Sprachkenntnisse im Alltag anwenden, sondern auch tief in die japanische Kultur eintauchen. Vom gemeinsamen Kochen über traditionelle Feste bis hin zu Wochenendausflügen. Auch außerhalb des Unterrichts bot die Meiji Academy viele spannende Aktivitäten und kulturelle Workshops an: Teezeremonien, Taiko-Trommeln, Kimono-Anproben und Ausflüge zu den berühmten Kirschblüten in Sapporo – all das hat meine Zeit in Japan unglaublich bereichert. Besonders schön fand ich den internationalen Austausch mit anderen Studierenden aus aller Welt. Wir haben viel voneinander gelernt, neue Freundschaften geschlossen und unsere gemeinsame Begeisterung für Japan geteilt. Fazit: Die Bildungskarenz mit der Meiji Academy in Hokkaido waren für mich eine einmalige Kombination aus persönlicher Weiterentwicklung, kulturellem Austausch und sprachlicher Herausforderung. Ich kann es jedem wärmstens empfehlen, der offen für Neues ist und sich weiterbilden möchte, sowie beruflich wie auch persönlich.

My time in Sapporo was a fulfilling and meaningful experience I can happily look back to. Travelling to a country with such a unique culture and language made me very nervous. It was my first time and after a difficult start with finding my way to my apartment everything else turned out great. Classes are fun and the overall atmosphere was very pleasant thanks to the patient and kind instructors. Would recommend this school to anybody who is looking for somethings special.

Simply overwhelming and huge! That was my impression after 10 weeks in Hokkaido. I was able to barely cross out half of all the places on my to-do & to-go list for Hokkaido (believe me it's quite long!). I could get to most major places but I ended up stopping by at all the minor spots and hidden cafes, shrines and power-spots in Hokkaido (yes, they are literally called Pawa-supotto in Japanese, funny eh?) Due to my quite intense studies and also spending some quality time with my host family it turned out to be sometimes a bit of a tight schedule. Looking back I would recommend not to pack more than a cultural activity and the Conversational classes in addition to private lessons I had (I know I know it's my fault...) but all good and a other reason to come back next time. Suggest you give it a try with this bunch of funny guys up North. And yes Hokkaido rocks!!!

Being a first-timer in Japan was quite frightening and I had a lot of concerns how it would turn out. Thanks to Meiji Academy all of my worries were unnecessary. The teachers, students and even Japanese volunteer staff were very friendly and accommodating. I feel like my studies improved a lot in the 4 weeks I've been there. Highly recommend Meiji.

The perfect place to spend an exotic Winter break while indulging in high-quality local Japanese food and hidden spa gems! The instructors did their best assist me with my studies and were cracking jokes most of the time. Winter sports activities were also not lacking with several options they offered me to please my snowboarding passion. lol

As there was so many things happening it’s very difficult to decide where to start. I’m gonna start right from the beginning. I was looking for different language schools in summer courses back in spring and I was running a bit late due to my exam so I had a uni. As I’ve been to Japan twice before (Tokyo and Kyoto) I wanted to go off the beaten track and explore some new parts of Japan. I stumbled across Meiji Academy as a good friend of mine went there a few years ago and fell in love with Hokkaido. I wanted to experience it for myself and got in touch with them. The email communication and support was extremely fast detailed and very empathetic. I had a very good impression and I was looking forward for my studies with them. Once settled the whole payment sorted out and after receiving all the welcoming and orientation package from them, it became time to board for my flights to Hokkaido. Yay I got really excited! Once I finally reached Sapporo and settled into my really nice cozy apartment, it took me a bit of time to adjust to the climate and the jet lag. However once that was done and the class started I easily adapted into my new routine of daily studies exploring the city with my new friends I made at class and also subscribing to several cultural workshops that helped me broaden my knowledge about the local culture. The staff and instructors were very helpful and went the extra mile to help me with my questions. Especially for somebody who has dyslexia and is also struggling sometimes with large groups I felt very safe and comfortable at Meiji, because of the very inclusive environment they provided. I have to say though Japan can get some sometimes very overwhelming and this was the first time for me to stay more than two months over. I’m glad I chose Hokkaido because it’s much more relaxed. The local environment really suited me well and gave me a hint into what it means to experience the real Japan. The only thing that can get sometimes tiring is that there are indeed a lot of tourists coming over in the summer season to Hokkaido and that was actually a surprise for me. The good thing is you can easily escape the crowd by chilling in the local parks and also just strolling around all the great neighborhoods that Sapporo offers. For me I made up my mind and I’ll be back in Hokkaido again as this place has something magical about it. Highly recommend Meiji for anybody who is looking for a warm and welcoming community with superb Japanese teachings. Thank you again for all the help and support. I really appreciate it!

Everybody at Meiji Academy is very supportive and friendly. I felt truly welcomed and loved my cheerful teachers. Their house I was staying in was also great to make friends with locals, and Meiji also organized events with them. If you’re looking for something special, I wouldn’t look any further than this. Highly recommended!

Meiji people was so friendly and I enjoy my time so much. I love the strong focus on speaking and playful classes. Teachers were very kind and patient. Events was also fun and good to make friends with locals. Highly recommend this school! Ti ringrazio tanto, Meiji Academy!

With Meiji the summer passed by so quickly. At the beginning I had a bit struggle catching up with the Japanese class pace as I was placed in a slightly higher level group. However it turned out after two weeks that it was just perfectly because I needed the extra push. The classes were small with only 4 other classmates I had. During my five weeks I was there I had six different teachers and all of them were great. Some of them had good teachings focusing on speaking and applying the Japanese into real life situations. Other teachers were stronger focusing on grammar and also on the integration of Kanji in the regular Japanese grammar we learned. The extracurricular activities included a vast variety of different cultural workshops, language exchanges with local Japanese university students and trips to nearby festivities. I would definitely recommend this school for first timers as well as students planning to stay for longer periods.

Don’t know where exactly I should start but it was such a fun adventure and I loved my classmate so much. The school organizes a lot of activities and cultural events like kimono dressing ceremony, attending fireworks and local festivals that was so much fun. Oh my God just thinking about it really wants to make me go back. The classes were pretty smooth and the teaching pace was also good. I love the mix with the role-play practicing and also grammar to incorporate in an applicable day-to-day Japanese use. All in all great experience, but I have to say it can get really hot in who kind don’t believe me!

My 6 weeks in Hokkaido are nearing the end and looking back at my time here I can only say good things. The people at Meiji were superb and very passionate about helping out always. The classes and activities were also very engaging. My best part was the summer beer festival in Odori Park and the trip to Otaru for an unforgettable summer beach party we had. I grew very close bonds with my host family and will be back sometime in the near future. Thank you again for everything Meiji.

메이지 아카데미에서의 시간은 제게 정말 특별하고 의미 있는 경험이었습니다. 선생님들은 모두 친절하셨고, 수업도 재미있고 잘 구성되어 있어서 일본어 실력이 확실히 늘었다고 느꼈어요. 수업이 소규모라 질문하기도 편했고, 다양한 나라에서 온 친구들을 만나 여러 문화를 접할 수 있었던 것도 좋았습니다. 수업 외 활동도 많아서 일본에서의 일상과 문화를 더 깊이 경험할 수 있었어요. 일본어를 배우면서 현지 생활도 함께 느껴보고 싶은 분들께 추천하고 싶습니다.

Everyone at Meiji became like my second family last winter. The teachers, students and my host family were very welcoming. From the initial onboarding all the way to my arrival, everything went smoothly and was well organised. The winter sports we did from snowboarding to skiing and snow gliding at the local festivals held in Sapporo and nearby were superb. My favourite memory was the trip to the Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival. The classes were also very good, with a strong focus on group practices and speaking drills. I will never forget my time with Meiji and will be back again.

My favorite part about studying at Meiji was the amazing staff and great friends around the world I made. Although it took me a little time to adjust, I soon felt completely at ease. Every teacher I had was approachable, supportive, and easy to connect with. There wasn’t a single one I didn’t get along with but I did have to say some were a bit focused on the Kanji learning which gave me sometimes a bit of a hard time to catch up. Attending class was genuinely enjoyable, and time always seemed to fly by. The strong bond I formed with my instructors was truly the highlight of my language learning experience. I recommend attending all events and activities that they organize as it helps a lot with connecting with the community and making bonds for life with wonderful people.

My time with Meiji was simply amazing and I enjoyed a lot the friendly family atmosphere that was very inclusive. I have made so many friends during my two months I was there. A key feature I appreciated was the strong focus on using only Japanese during lessons, which really boosted my confidence and comprehension. On top of the classes, Meiji also hosted daily cultural activities, ensuring every day brought something new to discover.

Meiji Academy Hokkaido delivered a flawless succinct and rigorous introductory to what a perfect summer vacation paired with great Japanese classes means. The instructors were friendly and patient all the time. Especially Nakamura-sensei and Ebina-sensei helped me engaging in small talk before class and during breaks. The cultural events were abundant and made sure you never get bored during your time there.

My whole experience at Meiji was fantastic. Classes were challenging but fun and very engaging. I have to mention that you will have to practice Hiragana and Katana before you arrive as they don't teach it at school! It is a prerequisite to study with them! Besides that all was good and one of the best parts for me was the cultural exchange events with local Japanese university students. We had language partner meetups, weekend trips, and even cooking nights together. It was a great way to practise Japanese in a relaxed setting and make real friendships. Studying here didn’t just improve my language skills, it opened my eyes to everyday life in Japan in a way I’ll never forget.

My time at Meiji flew by so quick. From the beginning to the end, all teachers, staff and fellow students were so lovely. The lessons were engaging and perfectly tailored to my level, and the incredibly supportive from everybody was very much beyond my expectations. One of the highlights was staying with my local host family. They truly welcomed me as one of their own which felt very warmhearted. Sharing meals, daily conversations, and small moments with them gave me a real sense of connection and belonging. I also loved experiencing everyday Japanese life in such a peaceful and beautiful part of the country. Hokkaido became more than just a place to study, it felt like home.

Great experience at Meiji. Classes were small and personal, teachers supportive, and the environment perfect for learning Japanese. Loved the mix of study, cultural workshops and abundance of extracurricular activities. Highly recommend!

The school location in downtown Sapporo makes it perfect for eating out and going after classes with fellow students to explore Sapporo. Classes were well taught with strong focus on speaking and role-play games for daily life practices of new grammar. The teachers were interactive and made sure nobody was left out from practices and engagements during class. Loved my experience a lot!

I've been at Meiji Hokkaido for 4-months and it has been a rewarding experience. The teachers are experienced and funny, helping me to get out of my comfort zone. The school environment is very inclusive and encourages you to make friends with students. My stay at the host family was a good experience with many trips we did on weekends.

12 weeks Summer program in Hokkaido was a blast! The whole community vibe and events were top notch. We also got free books which I still use for studying after coming back home. The sharehouse was clean and the room was cozy but a little bit small. I would still recommend the sharehouse as it's the best for making friends and engaging with locals.

My experience at Meiji was very good with teachers being kind and patient all the time during lessons and also outside the classroom. The school was modern and in central Sapporo. While living there I met a lot of new people with whom I made good memories. Overall, I would recommend Meiji to anybody who looks for not just studies but wants to experience many parts of Japan's culture and engage in social activities.

My time in Hokkaido passed by so quickly due to all the lovely people I met, Ramen & Jingisu Kan I ate, Karaoke I rocked and night parfaits I indulged at my favorite girl's night out trips we had. Meiji had amazing teachers and a very close student support that always gave me security. Recommend these people for anybody who looks to make the most out of their time there.

Meiji's 4-week winter course turned out to be the best decision I made so far! The best things besides incredibly supportive and patient teachers were the events for sure. Skiing and snowboarding is so much fun with the powder snow and something I can't do back home. Even though I was one of the youngest in my class, they made me feel comfortable and encouraged me to speak Japanese from the start. Highly recommend.

The teachers were super kind, classes fun and challenging, and the winter activities were the best. My host family was super nice and helped me a lot with everything. I made great friends and my Japanese improved so much. Super much arigatoo to all Meiji team. luv ya all!

I studied under four senseis during my three weeks in Sapporo who all were different in their approaches but excellent in teaching higher intermediate Japanese learners as I am. The beautiful thing about Meiji senseis is they are very approachable and receptive to your questions, whether during class time or during break. The student support and activity engagements are also top notch with a vast variety of things to do in this beautiful city. Morita-san recommended me great places for shopping, cafes to relax and also the best pancake I have ever had! Tsubaki Salon is a must for people with a sweet tooth! I would say go ahead and give Meiji a try! You won't regret it!!

I always wanted to come to Japan, but it always felt so difficult to find a place or school where I felt properly taken care of. Since some of my friends went through their university to Meiji Academy, I decided to sign up for two months and wasn't sure what to expect. It was my first time in Hokkaido and even Japan! So I was very excited. Soon I found out that there was no reason to worry. From the engaging classes to reciting daily life conversations in group practices, Meiji offered all type of active teaching engagements. The extracurricular activities were also very planned and gave a perfect balance to the class studies. I have made a lot of friends and already decided to come back again. Recommend this school for first timers definitely!

Spending my summer with Meiji in Hokkaido was the best decision ever. The staff were incredibly kind and helpful. They made everything feel easy and safe, especially for a first-time solo traveller. The all-girls sharehouse was super cozy and fun, and cultural activities (like yukata day and day Furano trip) made every week special. The Japanese lessons were chill but effective with focus on speaking. Highly recomend.

Summer with Meiji was next level. The day trip to Asahikawa was a standout with cool street vibes, great food, and perfect weather. The katana sword workshop was a blast and it was something I always wanted to try. We did a proper katana practice on how you swing and move as samurais did in the past. (proper bushido moment!). Beyond the activities and parties I found some time to focus on my JLPT learning too. I found classes gave me the structure and confidence I needed to keep progressing. Would definitely recommend it to anyone who wants a mix of culture, fun, and serious Japanese learning.

I couldn’t have asked for a better way to spend summer than in Sapporo. The staff were absolute legends super being supportive and always up for a chat and helped me with anything I was struggling. I stayed in the female sharehouse and loved it. My fellow flatmates became my besties and it felt like home, and I loved the activities like making soba noodles and visiting the Otaru on the weekends. Classes were relaxed but still gave me heaps of confidence to speak more every day. All in all I encourage anybody to go for it! Arigatou Meiji Academy

Back in January I did three weeks of Winter course with Meiji at their Hokkaido school and it summed up best all the things I wanted to do. Japanese classes were very interactive with a speaking practice and role plays to apply daily life situations. Activities included skiing, hot spring, lamb BBQ, the famous Snow festival and language exchanges with local students. Loved my time and will be back next Winter! See you then.

Loved my mild Summer in Hokkaido. Classes were fun, a lot of beautiful hikes on weekends and summer festivals that had some of the best street foods I've ever tasted. All in all the best decision to spend your Summer and learn my fav language. 10/10 would do it again!

Meiji, Hokkaido, Summer: honestly best combo you can think of! Japanese classes were super fun and easy to follow, even as a bloody beginner like me. Outside of class, we went hiking, visited a local summer festival with fireworks, and saw the lavender fields in Furano. I made a lot of friends during my two months and can recommend it to anybody who is wondering where to escape the crazy hot summer. Hokkaido is the place to be!!!

Sapporo was absolutely amazing! The Japanese classes were super fun and effective. The teachers were kind, patient, and made learning really enjoyable. I learned way more than I expected in just a month! Outside of class, we did the coolest winter activities. We went skiing, soaked in a mountain onsen, and visited a stunning snow lantern festival. Everything felt magical with all the snow around. I made awesome friends, ate so much delicious food (especially Miso Ramen you must try!), and completely fell in love with Hokkaido. For me best place and best season to study Japanese.

Tijekom svojih 10 tjedana u Meiji Academy naučila sam puno više od samog jezika. Stekla sam stvarno dobru osnovu u većini osnovnih kanjija, otkrila ljubav prema japanskoj kaligrafiji i prvi put sudjelovala u tradicionalnoj čajnoj ceremoniji. Moje dvije najdraže aktivnosti bile su nošenje kimona (osjećala sam se kao prava Japanka!) i pravljenje sushi rolica – zabava na najjače! Svaki sat bio je zanimljiv i interaktivan, a profesori su bili puni strpljenja i stvarno su znali kako motivirati i približiti nam japansku kulturu. Osim učenja, Hokkaido je sam po sebi bio čista magija! Nježni pejzaži, izleti u Onsen♨️ i hrpa predivnih trenutaka s ljudima koje sam tamo upoznala. Najveći vrhunac cijelog iskustva bio je Sapporo Snow Festival ledne skulpture su bile kao iz bajke, a street food je bio nevjerojatan! Sve to s ekipom iz cijelog svijetaa koju sam tamo upoznala. Meiji mi je dala i znanje i prijatelje i uspomene koje će mi zauvijek ostati u srcu. Ako ikad razmišljaš o Japanu – ovo je to!!! 💛✨

Od momentu, kiedy tylko wysiadłam w Sapporo, totalnie zakochałam się w tym miejscu! Miasto ma mega klimat, a ludzie są tak ciepli i przyjaźni, że od razu poczułam się jak w domu – mimo że byłam tysiące kilometrów od Polski. Sam kurs był świetny – taka prawdziwa podróż w japoński język i kulturę, idealnie dopasowana do tej zimowej, bajkowej atmosfery Hokkaido.

I spent six unforgettable weeks at Meiji Academy’s winter course in Hokkaido, and everything was truly fantastic. From the classes and teachers to the cultural activities and the beautiful snowy landscape. The program was well-organized, and the support from staff made the experience even better. One small mishap: I injured my leg while skiing (watch those slopes!), but luckily I had travel insurance arranged through Meiji. It covered everything smoothly, so I could focus on recovery without stress. All in all, an incredible experience I’d highly recommend just ski smart!!

I was lucky to spend a month in Fukuoka and it was an unforgettable experience. The lessons at Meiji Academy were well-structured, practical, and the teachers were friendly, respectful, and attentive to our individual needs. On weekends, I explored the city with colleagues, visiting Fukuoka Tower, the beach, the nightlife, and even Osaka, where we enjoyed the World Expo and Universal Studios. Only the frequent rain was a bit annoying, so bring a raincoat or umbrella! The food in Japan was incredible. From fresh sushi to hearty ramen and countless local dishes, every meal was a highlight. I highly recommend Meiji Academy to anyone wanting to improve their Japanese and truly experience Japanese culture. I'd love to return!

My experience at Meiji Academy in Fukuoka was amazing! The teachers and staff were super friendly and helped us discover the culture and the city. I especially enjoyed the cultural activities like visiting Fukuoka Tower and the Yanagawa Festival or many Food Festivals :) – such great memories! The accommodation was comfortable and well located. I met so many great people and made unforgettable memories. I can truly recommend Meiji Academy to anyone who wants to learn Japanese and explore Japan!

I spent four unforgettable weeks at Meiji Academy in Fukuoka, and it was truly a wonderful experience. The staff and teachers were incredibly kind, supportive, and always willing to help—both in and outside the classroom. The accommodation was comfortable and conveniently located near the school, making daily life easy and stress-free. I also really enjoyed the cultural activities organized by the school, such as trying on traditional kimonos, visiting shrines, and going on a boat trip in Yanagawa. These events made the experience even more special and gave me a deeper understanding of Japanese culture. I met people from all over the world and made some great friends during my time here. I would highly recommend Meiji Academy to anyone who wants to learn Japanese and experience Japan in a fun and authentic way!

I had an amazing experience at Meiji Academy in Fukuoka! The staff was so friendly and helpful, showing us cool places to shop, eat, and explore in the city. Living in the shared house close to the school was also a big plus, as the area was quiet and very comfortable. I loved the events the school organized, like wearing kimonos and visiting a beautiful shrine in Fukuoka, and the boat trip in Yanagawa was a real highlight. Overall, I’d definitely recommend Meiji Academy for anyone looking for a great Japanese learning and cultural experience!

I had the opportunity to be in Japan, Fukuoka and learn Japanese Language and culture at Meiji Academy. The staff and teachers were so nice, friendly and helpful. It was perfect to see and feel new culture. I can recommend it to everybody who likes Japan!

The classes are small (6-8 people), so the teachers can really focus on each student’s needs. The accommodations are great and clean. Everyone has their own room with a closet, bed, and desk. Meiji also has weekly events where you can learn about Japanese culture, food, and people. It was an amazing experience, and I hope to see you again soon! A special shoutout to Moemi for throwing an incredible party, and Gabriel for planning and executing all the events!

This was my first time taking Bildungsurlaub and also coming to Japan. So I was very excited about combining these two experiences together. I came across Meiji as it was the only school that offered educational leave for my German state I am employed (Rheinland-Pfalz). The staff took a lot of time guiding me through the whole process and organized me my housing in a great student dorm. The program itself was very intense but rewarding. I decided to do after the two weeks studies an additional week of relaxing and joining a few modules from Meiji (Traditional Culture and Pop Culture). The students were very international with most coming from Europe and America. I think it is a great place to spend your time studying the language and culture. Thank you for all the help.

It wasn't my first time in Japan. It was already the fourth time I went, but first time up north in Sapporo. As I was eligible to do Bildungsurlaub even though my citizenship is not German, I was glad to have had this opportunity to combine it with a Japan excursion. Meiji helped me sort out all my paperwork to get approved for Berlin Bildungsurlaub leave and the program was also very well structured. The thing I do have to say, don't do 1 week! Go for the 2-week Bildungsurlaub leave. My time was great but it can get very busy and quite hectic for the short period I was there. Nevertheless I felt in love with Hokkaido and especially Sapporo. I will be back next time here again. Thanks for all Meiji and hope to see all teachers and Nakamura-sensei again!

My time with Meiji in Hokkaido was simply amazing. I loved every one of my teachers except of the one who teased me with Kanji practice :-P Jokes byside everybody were lovely and caring. The events were plenty and Winter is the best season to make the most out of your time in Japan. I learnt a lot and this first Japan trip turned out so much fun. Will be back for the Summer!

I took a six-week winter course and found it both challenging and enriching. I appreciated the focus on practical communication through engaging lessons and small class sizes paired with super friendly teachers. What really set the experience apart were the cultural activities. The Sapporo Snow Festival, ice sculpture displays in Susukino, skiing in Nakajima Park and our super adventurous trip to Asahikawa were unforgettable. Make sure to try the different Ramen spots all over Hokkaido. In Sapporo alone I tasted over 10 different Miso Ramen shops and still didn't get bored. The fresh seafood at the Nijo Market, and sampling the unique flavors of Hokkaido’s soup curry were other highkights I discovered during Meiji's foodie trips we did. I recommend this winter course to anybody who wants to experience the real Japanese and looks for some fun cultural immersion in local Japan.

I studied for two weeks in Hokkaido with Meiji Academy for Bildungsurlaub. The intense Japanese language classes focused on practical communication skills and a lot of speaking practices in small group settings. I had the chance to try Taiko drum playing, which was a lot of fun and an energetic activity I had a lot of fun. In another event I participated in katana sword practice called "Tate" (殺陣), which offered a glimpse into Japan’s traditional martial arts. The blend of language studies and cultural sessions provided a well-rounded perspective on Japanese customs. I deepened my appreciation for Japanese culture and had a good time. Arigatou gozaimasu to all the great Meiji teachers and kind instructors.

I recently participated in a one-week Bildungsurlaub program at Meiji Academy in Sapporo, Hokkaido. My experience exceeded expectations, particularly in terms of cultural immersion and cultural activities. The opportunity to engage in kimono wearing and Sadō Tea Ceremony was a great way to immerse into Japan’s traditional crafts. The conversational Japanese module was rigorous yet engaging. Meiji emphasizes communicative Japanese over academic, which suited my goals perfectly. The classes were intensive but rewarding, focusing on practical language skills that can be immediately applied in everyday situations. The problem is that one-week Bildungsurlaub was simply too short! I am keen to return for an extended study period in the future. The atmosphere at the school is great and very inclusive with students from around the world (but mostly Europe!) and much support from instructors. Overall, I recommend Meiji for those seeking a culturally enriching and educational experience in Japan. The combination of cultural activities and intensive language training made it a good choice for me. I look forward to the possibility of continuing my studies there and further exploring all that Hokkaido has to offer.

I had the best month of my life last winter in this spectacular month, filled up with so many many activities and beautiful statues all made out of snow! My time with Meiji was short but intense and I made a lot of friends in the 5 weeks I was there. The classes were a bit intense but I loved their strong focus on speaking and communicate application of Japanese. Even though my level was just C2 I managed to pick up quite a bit in this time. They also found a wonderful host family for me which made my stay even better. Will be back for the Summer for sure. Thanks and big hugs to Nakamura-sensei and Kubo-sensei. You are my besties!❤️

I have never imagined I could have done my Bildungskarenz overseas, yet in Japan! For me coming from a small city in Carinthia (Kärnten) it was already a big thing that my company was allowing me to take such a long break from work. But they wanted me to take this opportunity as my firm is working in the logistics sector and always wanted to expand to East Asia. I looked around the internet and found that Meiji Academy were the only school offering this fully approved program. I simply had to do it and did not have any regrets. I stayed in Hokkaido for the whole six months and it couldn't be a better decision to do. Hokkaido feels very similar to Austria as it has a lot of high-tech agricultural technologies and focuses a lot on SDGs in the food and forestry industry. Meiji's staff did an amazing job in assisting me with Japanese business etiquettes and the local work attitudes in their classes. It really helped me making great contacts and further expanding our Austrian business links to Japan. Thank you so much Meiji and hope to see you all next year again:)

Ich hatte das große Glück, meinen Bildungsurlaub mit Meiji in Sapporo zu verbringen, und es war eine der besten Entscheidungen, die ich je getroffen habe! Als Vollzeitberufstätige war es mir wichtig, meine Zeit effizient zu nutzen – und Meiji Academy hat alle meine Erwartungen übertroffen. Der Japanischunterricht war intensiv, aber unglaublich lehrreich. Die Lehrkräfte sind nicht nur kompetent, sondern auch geduldig und sehr hilfsbereit. Besonders gut gefallen hat mir der praxisnahe Unterricht, bei dem wir das Gelernte direkt im Alltag anwenden konnten. Schon nach kurzer Zeit merkte ich deutliche Fortschritte in meinen Sprachkenntnissen. Auch außerhalb des Unterrichts war meine Erfahrung in Sapporo einfach fantastisch. Die Schule organisierte viele kulturelle Aktivitäten, durch die ich die japanische Kultur hautnah erleben konnte – vom Besuch eines traditionellen Teehaus bis hin zu Kochkursen für Soba Nudeln. Sapporo selbst ist eine wunderschöne Stadt mit freundlichen Menschen, atemberaubender Natur und einer einzigartigen Atmosphäre. Die Betreuung durch das Meiji-Team war ebenfalls erstklassig. Sie standen jederzeit für Fragen bereit und halfen mir, mich schnell in meiner neuen Umgebung einzuleben. Ich habe nicht nur viel gelernt, sondern auch wunderbare Menschen aus aller Welt kennengelernt. Ich kann dieses Programm auf jeden Fall empfehlen, die einen Bildungsurlaub in Japan planen! Es war eine unvergessliche Zeit, die mir sowohl sprachlich als auch kulturell enorm viel gebracht hat. Ich freue mich schon darauf, irgendwann zurückzukehren! ?

Cultural immersion paired with communicative Japanese lessons and Japanese teachers that had an unseen passion for their profession. I fully enjoyed myself in the two months I was there last Summer. One thing I didn't like was that I had to ask for additional homework as the lessons are structured in a way to focus on self-studies. But the teachers were very eager in assisting all my requests and provided me with additional study material. Just make sure to always ask!

This Summer I had a mindblowing 2 months in Hokkaido with this school. The Meiji staff was super helpful and always answered all my questions to make me very satisfied. Teachers are friendly and focus a lot on each student. I love Sapporo because so much to do and cultural events were very diverse. I recommend Meiji a lot. Grazie mille and arrivederci until next Summer!

Moje iskustvo sa Meiji Academy je pozitivno u svakom smislu! Tečajevi japanskog jezika su dobro organizovani zahvaljujući mnogim govornim praksama koje smo imali na satu. Ugodan prostor u centru grada, osoblje ljubazno, profesori stručni i predani. Moje znanje japanskog jezika značajno se poboljšalo. Preporučujem od srca.

Once Hokkaido always Hokkaido. My time here was intense and fully packed with so many lovely memories. I couldn't imagine how it would have turned out without Meiji as they contributed a lot to my whole experience here. The school is very well equipped with a library, spacious student lounge and regularly organizes in-house events as well as outside events. I loved my teachers and class, which had a great mix of nationlities. The majority of students was from Western countries except of a few Taiwanese and Korean students which gave a good mix in terms of study needs and focus on speaking practices. Can't recommend Meiji enough and hope to come back soon.

I've had the time of my life with Meiji Academy in Hokkaido and every day was packed with events and other fun stuff to do. The classes were fun with teachers that you could feel had a passion for their job. The focus is a lot on speaking and grammar was applied in fun conversational practices. Highly recommend Meiji.

Where can I start as there is too much to write about? In short, I loved my Summer with Meiji and the classes tremendously improved my Japanese level. The center point of the study was placed on Communicative Japanese and the small class setting (only had three classmates). I had so much fun at the events and parties organised by Meiji and even met a cute Japanese guy. haha I won't reveal too much about my whole experience but I can say you won't get bored. Too many things going on and no time for being homesick. lolol I just wished that the 2 months wouldn't have passed so quick...

I think my title hit the nail on the head. Hokkaido is full of surprises and with a good bunch of people such as Meiji's teachers and staff, it can only get better! I fully enjoyed myself in the three months I was there and loved the quirky staff, enthusiastic teachers and very international atmosphere at the school. In my class I was the only American which was great because I had never met so many Europeans in a language school before. A vast variety of activities were offered and the cultural excursions caught my eye in particular. Loved the katana sword practice session and also the Ninja village we went to. My advise is to make sure to stay in the sharehouse they organize. Met some of the best people ever! I really recommend this school for any length of study.

Good Summer program with Meiji and super enjoyable acitivies and events all the time. The teachers are very good and give each student a lot of attention. You're not just a number but they know you all by the name. Small class sizes, strong focus on speaking and sporadic kanji practices for super beginners like myself balanced it out pretty well. Highly recommend!

All the people and friends I made during my time here were so friendly. I enjoyed my time a lot at Meiji with their very good teachers, small classes focusing a lot on communication and a ton of fun activities made it an unforgettable time. My accommodation at their sharehouse was also great. Highly recommend!

I fully enjoyed my time at Meiji Academy Hokkaido and made a lot of friends. Classes were intense but fun. I liked my teachers a lot and improved my Japanese speaking skills. My favorite memory was our school trip to Asahikawa Zoo and also Biei natural park which was so beautiful. I think this program is very good for anybody who wants to experience more than just learning Japanese and make many friends from around the world.

What can I say other than this was a mild summer breeze in the exotic north of Japan paired with an amazing bunch of genki staff and teachers who never stopped surprising me with their enthusiasm:) I loved the small class setting focusing on communicative Japanese combined with a lot of grammar practice. I felt my Japanese high jump in the four weeks I was there. The extracurricular activities were well selected and gave me a good insight on how to further immerse myself into Japanese crafts and arts. My only critique would be that you cannot choose the traditional cultural activities as they have a program structure in place. But saying that I would still go and study with them again. Next time Hokkaido again for sure!

Meiji Academy did an amazing job with every part of the program. The social events and cultural activities were fun. I ended up participating in all the free events and even organized my own with the help of the school and local university students from Hokkaido Uni. I stayed the whole Summer for a full 12 weeks and I couldn't think of a better thing to spend my Summer. Classes are top notch as everybody who has studied with these guys knows. Just one thing I am not a big fan of is the changing class schedules with some weeks you have morning lessons for others its in the afternoon. In my case almost all classes were for my Japanese level scheduled in the morning except of two weeks. All in all go for it. You won't regret it!

Just about to finish my two months here in Hokkaido with Meiji Academy and looking back at my time here I can only say good things about the whole program. The staff managed the organization and initial planning phase well, and the email conversation was also quick & precise. Teachers have been attentive, caring, and focused on the students' needs. I loved the long speaking practices and discussion sessions where grammar and sentence structure were applied. The best part outside of the classroom were the events and excursions we undertook. We did a Yukata rental with a traditional tea ceremony and fireworks viewing at the large river in Sapporo. I loved the language exchanges and boarding game nights we had with Japanese students. Definitely a lot of fun!! I totally recommend Hokkaido and Meiji for every Summer as the rest of Japan is literally melting.

My 6 weeks at Meiji Academy Hokkaido were great. For anyone who wants to learn Japanese, immerse into real Japanese cultural arts or simply enjoy the magnificent nature. Meiji's teachers and staff are the best I've had so far and honestly I can't imagine going back to my Japanese classes in the US after this course. Everybody is so friendly and welcoming, the teachers always helped me with all my questions I had. I stayed at a lovely host family they found me. The host family lived around one hour away but it was worth it as I became really close to my host mother and also her daughter which was always showing me around and practiced Japanese with me. Plus Hokkaido's Summer is just super comfortable with temperatures seldom going above 80°Ｆ. I do think you should still pack some warm clothes as some nights can become a bit cold. Really recommend and will be back next Summer!

6 weeks in Hokkaido was a very intense and rewarding experience that widened my horizons. It was my first time being overseas outside of North America and yes Japan is VERY DIFFERENT! The cultural shock was written in my face right when I jumped out of the plane but thanks to these amazing staff and teachers my whole stay couldn't turn out better than I imagined. I stayed at a private apartment right next to the school which was fully furnished but did not provide any towels or shampoo. So I highly advice everybody to check the nearest 100 yen shop for all basics you will need. The classes were very pleasant and the teachers extremely enthusiastic about helping and assisting me all the time. Almost a bit too much but I don't have anything to complain about the class placement, prior Japanese level test and also the overall follow up of my study progress was very much hands on. The events were the best part and I made so many great memories throughout my time there. For sure Hokkaido will always have a special place in my heart and I think it's an extremely underrated location for studying Japanese. Highly recommend this program!!

Couldn't go wrong with Hokkaido and this school. From the beginning to the end the staff was very supportive and paid a lot of importance to the students. I studied in Japan before with a different Japanese language school but didn't experience such a hands-on approach and care from the teachers and the whole event organizers. We went to many excursions, city tours, cultural activities and even saw Japanese fireworks for the first time in my life. I very recommend Meiji for anybody who wants to experience the real Japan and make friends with locals!

Meine zwei Monate in Hokkaido mit Meiji waren einfach nur genial! Meiji's Sommerkurs war so vollgepackt mit verschiedensten Events und Ausflügen, dass ich irgendwann nicht mehr an jedem teilnehmen konnte weils einfach zuviel war? Der Japanischkurs war sehr fokusiert auf Kommunikation und linguistische Anwendung von Konversationen im Alltagsleben. Die Lehrer waren sehr erfahren, freundlich und hilfsbereit während der Unterrichtsstunden und auch danach. Falls man Fragen hatte konnte man sich immer an sie wenden und es wurden mir auch optional Hausaufgaben gegeben wenn man danach fragt. Ich würd auf jeden Fall Hokkaido empfehlen da der japanische Sommer sehr schwül ist und Sapporo die ideale Großstadt mit gutem Klima und einer atemberaubenden Natur ist. Ich hoffe man sieht sich bald wieder einmal. Peace und alles gute an die ganze Meiji Truppe✌️⛩️

My 3 months with Meiji in Sapporo were sooo much fun and very good lessons. I like the teachers a lot and the study pace was also very good. The best thing was the activities they had and many cultural excursions we did. Kimono, tea ceremony, Japanese towel dyeing and cute Maid cafe was my dream come true. So much fun and Manga places to explore. Make sure visit Tanukikoji and also the night parfait they are having only in Sapporo. I liked my stay here a lot and will come back in Winter this year again. Arrigato Meiji !

Meiji's online lessons were simply the best solution for me to prepare myself before applying for the student visa course. The teachers are very experienced, very affordable lesson prices, flexible scheduling and unbeatable customer service. I ended up doing the whole 150 hours for my Japanese certificate with them. Can't recommend enough.

Ho avuto un'esperienza fantastica alla Meiji Academy di Hokkaido. La scuola dà grande importanza all'apprendimento della lingua e all'immersione culturale, rendendo il mio soggiorno lì indimenticabile. Gli insegnanti erano competenti, pazienti e sempre disponibili. Un momento culminante sono state le diverse attività culturali. Ho partecipato a una cerimonia del tè tradizionale, che è stata molto istruttiva. Indossare un kimono è stata un'esperienza bellissima e memorabile. L'allenamento con la spada katana è stato emozionante e mi ha dato una maggiore comprensione delle arti marziali giapponesi. Anche le attività sociali sono state molto divertenti. Gli insegnanti ci hanno portato in un karaoke a Sapporo, che è stato molto divertente e una buona occasione per praticare il giapponese in un ambiente rilassato. Abbiamo anche visitato un ristorante di sushi, dove ho provato il sushi più fresco e delizioso della mia vita. Nel complesso, la Meiji Academy ha offerto una perfetta combinazione di lezioni di lingua ed esperienze culturali. Consiglio vivamente questa scuola a chiunque voglia imparare il giapponese e vivere la cultura giapponese da vicino.

I had an incredible experience studying at Meiji Academy in Hokkaido. The school's dedication to both language learning and cultural immersion made my time there truly unforgettable. The teachers were knowledgeable, patient, and always ready to help. I had the opportunity to participate in a traditional tea ceremony, which was both serene and enlightening. Wearing a kimono for the first time was a beautiful and memorable experience. The katana sword practice I did with friends was thrilling and gave me a deeper appreciation for Japanese martial arts. The social activities were just as enjoyable. Teachers took us to karaoke place in Sapporo, which was a blast and a great way to practice Japanese in a fun setting. We also visited a kaiten-sushi restaurant together, where I tried some of the freshest and most delicious sushi I've ever had. Overall, Meiji provided a perfect blend of language education and cultural exploration, making my time in Hokkaido enriching and enjoyable. I highly recommend this school to anyone looking to learn Japanese and experience Japanese culture firsthand.

Studying at Meiji in Sapporo for five months has been an incredible journey. The small classes provided a supportive environment where I felt comfortable asking questions and practicing my conversational Japanese. Meiji's focus on real-life communication helped me become more confident in everyday situations. Plus, the cultural activities and language exchange events made learning fun and engaging. Overall, Meiji has been a fantastic experience for any female student looking to learn Japanese in Hokkaido in a safe environment.

If you're craving an authentic Japanese language experience in Sapporo, I would look no further than Meiji Academy. I loved their small class sizes and focus on conversational Japanese. The school offers a personalized learning journey unlike any other I've been before. I studied in Tokyo last year and didn't like the cramped classes and impersonal learning environment. The intimate class settings ensure you get the attention you need to thrive, with instructors who are passionate about your success. From day one all lessons were fully in Japanese and the instructor took extra time to make sure everybody could follow the pace. Plus, the school provided a bunch of cultural activities like sushi making and paper fan making. My favorite was the Katana sword performance I took part in. In short, my five weeks were too short but I don't think you can go wrong if you look for any short term program. Meiji was definitely a good choice and I'm confident to recommend them and for sure the lovely staff. Just be prepared, Hokkaido's Winter is not a joke!!

Meiji Academy and Hokkaido treated me so well and my 6-month Japanese course is nearing towards the end. I have learned so much and I made a lot of Japanese friends during my time here. I think Meiji is a great place if you want to learn actually properly speaking Japanese. Their focus on communication and business related teachings for young students is really impressive. Me just being 18 and finishing Gymnasium in Germany it was actually a wonderful chance to have this school taken care of the whole study program for me. I also enjoyed the social activities and crazy events we regularly had. From sushi making, kimono wearing to Taiko drum playing. I have made so many warm memories in this time and even met my cute Japanese boyfriend, which I won't write anything more here :P I think Meiji Academy is really good for long-term students who stay longer than just a few weeks as the teachers and staff really care about everybody having a good time and enjoying Sapporo. Be back soon everybody and miss you already a lots!

My time in Sapporo passed by so quickly and can't point this enough to the lovely people that I met here during my time. I think the best thing about Meiji Academy was the program and accommodation was perfectly organized. I did not experience any major issues and felt the classes were informative and many group practices took place. As I was a last-minute student I loved the fact that they literally don't have any deadline! So you can apply anytime of the year and they answer emails fast. Thumbs up*

One word to describe my 2 months in Hokkaido: Unforgettable! One word to describe Meiji: Family!!! All the staff and teachers were so welcoming and kind all the time. I fully enjoyed studying with them and the classes well organized. I loved my teachers and the strong focus on spoken Japanese and the communicative aspect of dialogue practices. I stayed in their schared house facility which was in walking distance to the school and provided a great community feeling. I loved Hokkaido and will come again this Autumn so be prepared for me. hahah

One thing I learned during my half year I was in Hokkaido is how much I still have to learn about Japanese language and culture. I am saying this as a positive thing as the life long learning Japanese became a huge passion for me. Meiji's teachers did a great job of making me learn to love the process rather than ruminating why my studies take so long. Japanese is a very difficult language for Westerners and this school has a proper understanding on how to make it fun and accessible for anybody to master the language. The cultural activities and occasional hangouts with other teachers and students just rounded up the whole experience. Judging from what I have seen so far I think Hokkaido is THE PLACE to go and learn Japanese as it's such a relaxed atmosphere and gives so much freedom to enjoy the nature and culture with lovely local people that are very welcoming.

My studies nearing to an end and looking back at my time here I can only say good things about the whole experience. The Japanese classes were very rewarding and the curriculum was well structured. The focus on communication and grammar practices was well rounded and never felt overwhelming, but I have to say that sometimes the teaching pace of some teachers were fast. The good news is that you can always raise your concerns and the pace was djusted to a slower one. Some students changes classes to a lower level but this was not an option for me as I like to be challenged. I would say go for it and can't recommend Fukuoka enough. Nightlife is crazy and the food is awesome. Definitely a great place off the beaten track in Japan.

The teachers were very enthusiastic and good practice for my Japanese level with a lot of grammar points and applied sentence structure we learned. I did 2 months at this school and I think the preparation for my JLPT N5 test is done well. I like a lot the traditional culture events and we did a lot of practice in the Conversational Japanese module. So I would recommend to do this if you want to improve speaking.

My time in Hokkaido with Meiji was a blast and I enjoyed the events they ortganized a lot. We did a lot of excursions to different places. The Royce chocolate factory and chocolate making was my favorite. I also loved the teaching style which was very interactive, much different from what I'm used to back at my uni. I recommend this summer program for anybody who wants to be exposed to a lot of different cultural aspects of Japan's culture and make many friends.

I've had the time of my life with Meiji Academy in Sapporo! I loved hanging out with the students and exploring this megacity up in the North of Japan. Classes were very well structured and it's the first time I experienced so many speaking practices at a language school. I think this very suitable for students who want to engage a lot on practical Japanese. My tip get the Japanese Business Manner Module if you want to get an in-depth view into Japan's corporate world.

The experience with Meiji Academy opened up a completely new world to me and I improved both, my language skills and cultural understanding on a completely new level. There were many reasons why I chose them but the biggest one was two of my friends studied with them last Summer in Hokkaido and they loved it! So I gave it a try and was directly amazed by the fast response and help I received for all my questions. Below is a brief list of the points I think made them superior to any other language school I have attended so far. 1. Focus on small classes (3-6 students per class, Summer can be a big crowdier so watch out!) 2. Strong focus on communicative exercises and practicing dialogues on different topics (Conversational Japanese Module is a must!) 3. Well trained and experienced Japanese teacher who are all native speakers 4. Lovely staff support that care about each students' needs 5. Fun activities and an international community to make the best out of your time in Sapporo I would recommend Meiji to anybody who wants to experience all different sides of Japan from speaking Japanese, cultural events and meeting locals.

As a requirement to study at a Japanese Language School in Japan on the Student Visa Japan puts a few difficulties in terms of what you need to get if you haven't graduated from university. In my case I finished high school last year and wanted to apply with Meiji Academy in Hokkaido so I made sure to get all docs ready. The Japanese governements requirement they want me to get is either JLPT N5 or 150 hours. For the the second option was quicker so I made sure to get my schedule sorted out and Meiji organized all for me to be ready in time that I can apply for my student visa. Thanks again for the prompt support all way through.

Yes, you read it correctly. I've been studying with for the 3rd time and even joined their online lessons as an "Online student", I guess? I attended one month back in 2018 followed by another 2 months in 2019 and then during Corona I joined the online learners community at Meiji when I just decided last Autumn to join them again for full three months! And here I am as a 3.5 ongoing online on-side repeater or as they are called over in Japan (ripiitaa). lol Usually I don't write reviews but Meiji felt like giving me a bit of a hard time to ask me for writing up my impressions about them which are...ehmm....very good!! (for the most part) I don't really enjoy long writings and also don't know where to start but I reckon my time was good enough that they couldn't get rid of me after all. I guess good for me? Before becoming too sarcastic (excuse my Austrian humor) I'm going to sum up the most important bits that stick out to me while I was a student there. CLASSES The teachers, class size, study approach and even the follow up after lessons is well maintained with sometimes a few teacher changes during weeks (you can end up having 3 different teachers during one week), which I didn't find a problem. On the contrary having different teachers and also being exposed to different teaching styles felt like really opening up opportunities to see which teaching style suited me the best. One thing however that they all have in common is Meiji's curriculum which is pretty much centered on the Communicative Japanese. So you'll end up with practicing speaking and listening on each level in-depth and it can sometimes become a bit tiring if you want to focus rather on JLPT cram school style or are more into heavy grammar practice learning. Oh just to warn you; they do have these Grammar loving teachers as well. I had one during my time and the lady was super kind and friendly but once the textbook opened up, I felt like the grammar cavalry was hitting me hard with saseru and saserareru. Anybody who knows what I'm talking will share my pain I have about passive and causative passive practices. Thanks I'm not the only one struggling with that but the teacher really made sure that even I mastered it finally. A big thanks to her but I'm also happy that I passed this grammar topic. HOUSING I did almost all accommodation types during my almost 6 months in total over the last three stays and I think I would always go back to the sharehouse and if that one is fully booked (as usual...) I would stick with the private accommodation as it is really affordable, fully furnished and close to school. One thing I quickly learned is it can be a pain in the buttocks if you have to organize accommodation by yourself without the help of a language school like Meiji. I heard so many bad stories of students who went directly to Japanese real estates and were greeted with "So-ri- Japani-zu onri-" or "No English no English". To be fair there are good real estate agencies out there but I felt the language barrier was a hurdle or the prices were way overpriced (Airbnb is a last resort yet not the cheapest...) COMMUNITY I guess this is the part where you want to take out your handkerchieves as tears might roll. Sorry to be sarcastic again but seriously Meiji feels like home away from home. I know it sounds super cheesy but I think the staff is very supportive and always tries their best to accommodate students. Many staff and teachers regularly attend graduation dinners with students, go out for karaoke nights and also held so many cultural events together at school or other venues. It is there where I found my Japanese girlfriend through an international language exchange event from Meiji and this might result in me coming back for even a 4th time! Ok this gets a bit long already but to sum it up, I can wholeheartedly recommend anybody to study with Meiji Academy whos looking for more than just Japanese language studies.

8 weeks Meiji Academy provided me with a solid foundation and understanding of the language. This was my second time in Japan but almost as a complete beginner (again) I finally felt all essential aspects were fully covered. Reading, writing, listening, speaking, grammar, vocabulary, Kanji practice and even the history behind the writing systems and other sociological aspects of linguistic nature. Pros: - Small Class Sizes with fully personalized study support from the teacher and further study analysis on how to overcome your study struggles. - Safe and friendly environment with super attentive staff that always makes you feel welcomed and at home. The support is outstanding and you can be sure to always get an answer and advice for whatever request you have, may it be about studies, daily life in Japan or any other worries you might have. - Events and acticvities in abundance with various gatherings and cultural excursions we had organized for us. The school also works with other external student circles and societies making it perfect to connect with the local community. - A variety of study resources and a dedicated study area that students can use all time of the day. - Great housing support and wonderful sharehouse community I was lucky to stay in within walking distance of the school. Cons: - Class material covered felt sometimes overhwelming with a lot of grammar included. Speaking practices were great but not as much as I wanted. Once I complained the teachers changed their approach and slowed down the study pace of the class, but towards my last two weeks when some students I studied before graduated and newer students with a high level joined I felt the teaching pace picking up again. My big advice here is make sure to voice your individual study concerns and don't be shy! - Too short program for studying Japanese. This isn't really an issue I have specifically with Meiji but with any language school. I wish there would be ways to better facilitate the learning progress in a shorter time frame. But saying that I notice you need at least full three months if you want to gain a solid foundation in Japanese, at least for total beginners like me. Some people might disagree with me on this, but my expectations were very hiugh for my study goals I set. I would recommend Japanese online lesssons before starting a course as it seems to get a better transition to the actual in-person classes. - Sometimes a bit too Japanese style rules. I liked all staff and my teachers as well. But I felt like the static morning greetings and interactions in the Japanese way made it somehow difficult to get closer to the Meiji team. I think it would definitely help if they would have a foreign staff member instead of only Japanese staff, still more of an advise rather than a complaint. Overall, I am very satisfied with my time at Meiji Academy and currenty continuing my studies with them online. I plan on returning to Japan and almost 90% it will be again Hokkaido and Meiji as I had a good time with all.

I joined Meiji Academy in Hokkaido last year and studied with them for over a little than 6 months. First I joined them in Hokkaido for 4 months and decided half way through that I have also the option to switch campuses and study my remaining time in Fukuoka! Hey would be great if I would have known that earlier! But no bad blood here!! I really loved my time in Hokkaido and I am actually going back there, but I was so much set for Fukuoka that it would have made things in terms of planning better. Looking back at my time with Meiji I am very happy with the amount of progress I made with my verbal Japanese skills and intense conversational moddules and private lessons I took. The best part is the very focused study relationship that students have with their teachers meaning you can literally ALWAYS go over to them and ask about any part you would like to revise, you have problems with certain grammar or even just some extra practice sessions and homework. Belive me they won't even leave it there. I had teachers following up from other teacher notes what I spoke to them more than a week ago and frankly I was shocked! I mean positively shocked how much they paid attention on these things! Back in Aussie I would be happy if my professor at uni would have even remembered my name at the end of the semester. The other good thing was the housing. I stayed with them at both locations in a sharehouse and the community was awesome. Super nice Japanese people and fellow international students from all over the world and from different language schools or unis in Japan. I think it's the best way to make friends and it was good for me to get out of my comfort zone. Obviously you do not have to organise your housing through the school but I did find it much more convenient and the majority of students seemed to have taken the same approach. One of the best parts besides the really good classes and well organised learning schedules were the regular events and activities we had. I made a bunch of Japanese friends and also engaged a lot in international language exchange talks. I recommend you do that as well when there. All in all great time I had and couldn't recommend any other school over this. Big thanks to the whole Meiji team for organising this.

Last year I stayed in Sapporo and spent a wonderful Summer with Meiji Academy. Many people don't know that the cherry blossom season is quite late in Summer in Hokkaido and it felt special to experience this up in the North. I decided to do the Summer course as Meiji offered a lot of fun and seasonal events and I loved every bit of it. I did two different stays with a host family and in the sharehouse which was both very rewarding in terms of making new friends and also applying my learned Japanese directly with a local family. Please make sure that there are a lot of cultural differences when living with a Japanese host family and I had some difficulties getting used to it at the beginning, such as showering times and dietary restrictions. Me being a vegan was sometimes challenging but my host family showed a lot of understanding and tried to accommodate my requests. However, living in a sharehouse definitely gives you more freedom. The activities and parties we had with Meiji were just excellent and a lot of fun partying with Japanese students at Karaoke nights. I am missing Hokkaido so badly while writing this...hope I'll be back one day. Thank you again for this great trip I had last year.

I extremely enjoyed my studies in Sapporo and all of the teachers were so friendly. I loved the professional approach and time invested in meeting all students' needs and I learned so much whilst studying there for 10 weeks. My class very cozy and small with just 4-5 students and we grew really close over the time. The weekly activities were fun and outdoor activities took often place when the weather was good. My advice is staying in the sharehouse as it is really close to the school and helps a lot with making friends with fellow international students and local Japanese. My highlight was the trip we undertook to Furano to see the colourful lavender and flower fields. So unique it reminded me of my high school trip we took to Provence but it was even more beautiful than back then. My experience with Meiji was very special and I think anybody who comes to Japan the first time should consider a school which is not only focusing on the academic bit but also on the special care and support for students. As a Western girl I felt completely lost when I arrived in Japan the first day. Thanks to the staff and immense support system they provided me with I felt very safe & secure all time. Thanks to everybody who made this trip a beautiful memory for me.

As a huge Visual Kei fan and self declared J-Metal Otaku, Hokkaido was for me the hidden paradise I wanted to uncover so desparately. It seemed that there were not so many options in terms of Western students focused Japanese language schools, but when I found these guys I knew directly I made the right choice! From the beginning to the very end, Meiji always walked the extra mile to make me feel at home and stress-relieved. I had so many questions about extracurricular activities, Rock events and even J-Metal gatherings. I was positively surprised how much insight info they researched and shared with me. One teacher was even a former metalhead and went out with me for a pub crawl. Simply wicked! I love these people and I love Sapporo so much! Can't wait to get back there and rock with my fellow Japanese metalheads. Peace to all of you who took the right crossings and enter the holy Nordic land of Ezo!

Meiji's classes were very fast paced without making you feel overcome any time. I was able to study more Japanese in these 3 months than during my last 2 years back in college. I saw so many beautiful sights and wonderful natural landscapes that I won't ever forget. I loved all my teachers and made so many Japanese friends on the way. The teachers paid a lot of attention to teaching us communicative Japanese with an approach on speaking practice. This was very new to me as back home in New Zealand we would focus a lot on grammar and textbook learning which was less effective for interactive Japanese speaking. Hokkaido will always remain a special place in my heart and with that said I'll make sure to keep in touch with everybody. Thanks a lot Meiji Academy!!!

I've studied with Meiji Academy in Sapporo on the 6-month course and reflecting back I think it was very rewarding experience. The language course and also the cultural activities were very well planned and I always felt welcomed by all the staff. I would recommend anybody who wants to get a deeper exposure to Japanese culture and grasp a better understanding on how to immerse yourself in the culture by doing long-term studies with a school that you can really trust their teaching methods and educational approach.

This was hopefully not a once in a lifetime as I want to get back asap. I had such a blast in Hokkaido and felt completely in love with the people and this great place. I loved my japanese lessons and the teachers were so nice and helpful always. Ebina-sensei and Kubo-sensei were lways so cute and kind when I was worried with my daily life struggles. I think it's so important to be in a safe and warm environment where you can relate to people and expect a superior student support and care very much focusing on English speaking students. Me as a fellow Asian Aussie is very much connected with my asian side but let me tell ya Japan is another story! It's lovely to have that full support around that Meiji staff members offer all the time. I very much recommend to enroll in some of their cultural activities as I had a ton of fun and met so many nice Japanese people too. Hope to see ya all again soon. Kisses your Betty

My three months in Sapporo were really good and Meiji did very well job. I liked a lot my sensei helping me all time with my questions. I think Sharehouse is best choice and when you can should come for Summer season. Especially Furano trip to lavender fields was so nice. I recommend doing the conversation japanese module as I improved speaking a lot. Grazie mille Meiji

Very friendly people all at Meiji and teachers also very experienced. I spent one month here and learned a lot. The classes were very small only 2 more students so we had strong focus on intense learning. It helped us speed up learning topics and learning more in short time. I love Meiji events as I made many friends with local Japanese and traditional events also fun. If you have time I recommend visiting Itoshima as they are a lot of nice nature spots to enjoy.

My 3 months last year passed by like in a week. So intense, so much things happening and I even did a lot of studies for my JLPT N4 that I successfully passed last Winter!!! I spent all my time at the Hokkaido campus and it was really a lot of fun with the brand new school and good campus life. I stayed at the sharehouse as it was cheapest option and really good la. I'll be back sometime after my uni time or during Summer holidays. Hokkaido is really great and the people super nice.

Good day all! Just done with my 6 months at Meiji Academy and looking back this was very very useful for me. I spent 4 months in Hokkaido and 2 months in Fukuoka. I think the long-term courses they offer really equipped me with a lot of fundamental Japanese skills you honestly need to get by here. For sure if you plan on working here permanently. The best thing about the long-term program are the great discounts. lol Just joking, that's one part for sure but I reckon really adapting to the country requires some safe space where you can rely on people and also ask about anything you are concerned. Meiji was and is for me like a home. With a lot of Aussies in Hokkaido I just naturally tending to go back there (where I'm currently). For me the personal care and great visa support throughout my stay was the best part. The list can go on but I think you really need to consider longer Japanese studies when you come on a working holiday visa or other visa that allows you to spend more time exploring Japan. I'll drop by sometime and cheers to all my fellow Meiji Students! Your Boris!!

I'm not sure if this review will be helpful for anybody as I only had the chance to take part in classes at Meiji Academy for 1 week. But as my stay in Japan was mostly for my vacation, I just wanted to give it a short study break before continuing my travel in the southern part of Japan. I think the classes were very well organised and the staff was lovely in helping me with all my queries I had. I booked their private apartment which was very close to the school. Actually I ended up staying at the apartment for two weeks and also wanted to extend my studies halfway through but unfortunately the school was already fully booked... I am pretty sure I'll visit Meiji again for my next long vacation in Japan as I did really enjoy the friendly atmosphere and good relationship that all students seem to have with the teachers. Next time I'll make sure to apply in advance to avoid any full bookings:) Arigato gozaimashta

Don't know where to start but the last three months were a journey that changed my entire life. Even though this wasn't my first time in Japan, it was my first time in Kyushu and let me tell y'all this was a looot of fun. Didn't expect to turn out so well that after my four weeks of business japanese I just ended up to get to know a few people through some startup business networking events and Japanese business manners DO MATTER! Other than in the States where you might be able to get around certain things, when it comes to work then Japanese DO CARE a lot about keigo, proper Business card exchange attire and your overall business attitude in understanding the corporate mindset over here. Long story short, I got a job! And even though it wasn't directly through Meiji I do think they heavily contributed to the outcome. The Japanese Business Manner Workshop was very interactive and had a lot of practical usages for different business settings. I wasn't expecting that there were so many different refine differences when it comes to interacting and communicating with Japanese salary men. I felt the full 4 weeks gave me the best practice and outlook what I would expect when doing business with Japanese or working in Japan. I think combining your stay with also actively engaging in the many activities that Meiji holds will help you a lot not to run short on the social aspect of your time here. The only thing I didn't really like were that almost all my classes took place in the morning. I would have preferred afternoon classes but unfortunately my teacher and the specific Japanese level wasn't available for my time at Meiji. Will miss all the lovely staff and awesome teachers. I'll be back in June but not as a student but working in Fukuoka. Haha. Hope to see all soon. Big hugs and kisses to the whole Meiji Family!♡

Simply stunning! From start to end, these guys did a great job and my Japanese speaking literally shot through the roof! Did 6 weeks of standard Course with a few weeks private lessons and added up conversational Japanese and the japanese business manners module (highly recommend). All in all the teaching was superb and the lessons were properly structured. I organized my own accommodation so can't say too much about the housing, except that many students seemed happy with the sharehouse. I went to a few events there as well. Seemed fun. Activities were also good. Especially the cultural outdoor activities. All in all a well rounded program and didn't regret my decision. Peace ✌?

If there is something that I can say about my experience with Meiji Academy in Sapporo then it was truly unique how much was going on every day. I joined this fun and friendly bunch of people last Winter and they didn't come short on surprising me how much fun this often looked over part of Japan can be. Spent 2 weeks homestay and a full month in the sharehouse which can be also named super fun student dormitory. I had such a good time with everybody there and the seasonal activities were great. I cannot stress enough how much there is to be done and how much I'm still missing. Snow Festival, Winter sports, Mountain hiking, Otaru city strolling, Adventure down in Hakodate. I did a looot and will continue my adventure the upcoming Summer. You won't get rid of me so quick Meiji. Peace to Nakamura-sensei for his support throughout.

Japan i japanski jezik su me veoma interesirali od djetinjstva ali nisam nikada imala mogućnost da posjetim Japan. Prije nego što sam otputovala u Japan morala sam upisati u apsolventsku godinu. Meiji Academy mi je puno pomagla sa cijelom procedurom i isto su organizovali ze mene studenski dom i organizirali su razne kulturne aktivnosti za mene. Puno bih preporučio Meiji Academy. Hvala za sve!

Not sure where to start or how to sum this up. I'm not usually somebody who writes reviews but this considering the great work all teachers and employees at Meiji Academy did I feel like I should express my thoughts here:) I am Taiwanese so for me I was to Japan several times with my parents before, this time was my first time alone and my parents were a bit worried. The support and care of Meiji is definitely the thing that made my trip so good. I studied just 3 weeks but everybody was very friendly and teachers highly qualified. My main goal was to become independent and also study a lot for the JLPT I want to take this Autumn. So did 3 private lessons per week and also tried to join their language exchanges with other Japanese local students. I think Meiji did a very good job and most of students are from Europe and America so I could also practice my English sometimes:P

Japan and Fukuoka in particular was my most memorable experience for spending almost two months studyin Japanese and doing the business Japanese manner course. The classes were small sized with 3-7 people with very speaking focused lessons and grammar topics weekly revised from Genki textbook. I chose the program because some of my friends went last year with the university for the Meiji Academy Summer Group Program and I heard a lot of positive feedback. The accommodation was was awesome and the commute of around 30mins walk from the sharehouse to the school was also not too far away. There are many places to grab food around the school and downtown Tenjin is just across the street so we all hit the Karaoke on weekends or went clubbing. Fukuoka is definitely legit and I'll be back sometime soon. Peace!

One of the most rewarding study experiences I had so far I could've chosen to do. Kyushu is an amazing tropical island down south of Japan and its main city Fukuoka is a bustling hub with so many things going on. It's the best place to study and all people at Meiji made it priceless. Studying Japanese for the past six weeks was so much fun and I loved the diversity of teaching styles I could encounter with the 6 different teachers I had during this time. Most of the classes were scheduled in the mornings so I had the afternoons to explore the city. Ohori Park and strolling through Daimyo were one of my favorite places. I recommend checking out the cute little pop up shops hiding in the small alleys along Daimyo and Tenjin. If I could change one thing I would say to do the sharehouse experience as many fellow girls told me the female sharehouse was so much fun. I stayed in an accommodation I organized by myself close to Meiji and I can say prices on Airbnb and other local housing companies were quite high with around 40,000 Yen per week for Hakata or Tenjin for furnished apartments. So I would advise to consider some of the deals that the school offers. Anyway I still did not regret my choices as it was a good learning curve.

Japan war und ist für mich meine Traumdestination und Hokkaido hat mich schon immer fasziniert. Dies war mein 3. Japantrip und die letzten Male habe ich Touristenorte schon alle abgeklappert. 2. Trip war mit Meiji Academy in Fukuoka letzten Sommer einfach nur genial! Jetzt hab ich mich Anfang dieses auf ein neues Abenteuer eingelassen und wollte mal schauen ob die Kollegen von Meiji im Norden denn mithalten können mit Fukuoka:-P Ich kann nur Respekt! Die Schule besteht nicht nur aus mehreren Klassenräumen in einem Gebäude wie in Fukuoka, sondern umfasst ein komplettes Gebäude mit einer riesigen Studentlounge, Bibliothek, komplett neuen Klassenräumen und einer Vielfalt an Freizeitaktivitäten. Ich fand dass der Lehrinhalt und die Qualität vom Unterricht genauso gut war wie in Fukuoka. Die Location der Schule in Downtown Sapporo direkt neben Susukino ist auch super. Meine 4 Wochen waren schnell rum, aber nächsten Herbst komm ich euch wieder besuchen. Eure Sabi, hab euch lieb!

I just finished my three months in Hokkaido at Meiji Academy and looking back it was so mesmerizing. The friendly people, the great food and the whole program was very well planned out by all staff. I loved the personalized classes and strong focus on speaking practice. I think this place has so much to offer for students who really want to discover Japan off the beaten path with all the beauties hidden in Hokkaido. I can only recommend to take a few weekend trips to Upopoi Cultural Center and Hakodate where I had amazing sea food. I will join their student visa course again this October so looking forward to see new and old faces during my next trip:)

My stay nears to an end and looking back to my last 2 weeks I loved Fukuoka so much though I'm not used to big cities. When I joined classes first I felt a bit scared of the cultural shock and language barrier but the teachers made me feel comfortable right from the beginning. As a beginner my Japanese was and still is very limited but I think these two weeks taught me so much. Moemi and Tone-sensei are so lovely people and they made me feel confident and comfortable during my whole stay. The classes were mostly focusing on verbal excercises and Japanese that can be applied in real-life situations with Japanese locals. I also liked they were using Genki as this is my main textbook I use back home. The private apartment I stayed was also very close to the school around 5 minutes by foot. Just the accommodation provider does not provide any towels so I had to buy my own one which was fine as there are 100 Yen Shops anywhere and it also helped me getting accustomed with my new neighborhood quickly. I am very glad I did this program and hope other people will consider Fukuoka as an alternative study place than the common cities like Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka. Might do Hokkaido next time, let's see.

By far Hokkaido is the best place to study Japanese and experience the unique culture of Ainu. Sapporo has the perfect balance between city vibes, nightlife, great food and wonderful nature all in one spot. I felt the whole environment was simply perfect for first timers in Japan and it gave me a safe place to study Japanese to the most. I think the people and activities at Meiji Academy made a huge impact in my perception and I think everything was properly planned out. I still have a long way to go with my Japanese but now I know where to get back when I want to study again in Japan. Thanks for all and sunny greetings from Melbourne.

My studies at Meiji were a blast and I couldn't think of it turning out better without the help and support I got from all the staff. The Meiji team is extremely dedicated and very much concerned about you having a good time during your studies. I felt that the 4 weeks I was there passed by so fast. I think you should count in the Japanese conversational and traditional culture modules as a must if you really want to get most out of your stay. I found the sharehouse to be the best place for making friends and also not feeling lonely. I also advise anybody to chill in their student lounge where they also host many language exchanges and cooking parties. Fair to say there is no family like cozy study alternative in Fukuoka besides Meiji. I'll be back folks!

I have been abroad several times and did have the opportunity to attend Japanese language schools twice in the past. Many years ago I went to Meiji Academy's Fukuoka school but last year I wanted to discover what the Hokkaido school was about. I had studied Japanese 4 years at Berkeley University and wanted to further equip myself with verbal practice and conversational Japanese. I found that the Hokkaido school was not missing anything. From very experienced and highly motivated teachers to super genki staff members that took me everywhere I really had a blast there. The cultural activities were a lot of fun and I do think it makes a huge difference going with a dedicated school which manages and organizes all the activities with a bunch of fellow Japan fans than search all these activities by yourself. In terms of housing I organized my own apartment but I visited the student dormitory that most Meiji students were staying at.v Super fun place for cooking parties on weekends. Next time Hokkaido over Fukuoka for sure!!

I found my time in Japan to be very enjoyable, I found that even though I felt somewhat shy the school staff was always trying to go out of their way to accommodate and integrate me in different groups. It was very comfortable for me to make loads of new friends from around the world. Their were many fellow students from Australia and New Zealand which was great. I felt very welcome by the staff and teachers, who helped me with all the questions I had. I would recommend the shared housing to any future student as it is a good way to make friends and also meet local Japanese university students who live there.

I took only one week class, which I fully enjoyed. The Japanese placement test was accurate, the online test and also the Japanese teacher on-site being very good at assessing my language skills. I was about N4 and they gave me two options; one class that fits my level and one that is a bit more challenging. I went for challenging option and really liked the small classes they had. I had 7 classmates which I found just about right. Location is very good in central Sapporo. You can walk to Susukino in 5 minutes and good connection with metro and trains. The school is close to other amenities - Lawson, Family Mart and a 24/7 famous sandwich shop called "Sandria" this one I really recommend.

I had a great time at Meiji Academy Hokkaido. Everybody was so friendly and the teachers were very experienced. I loved the warm and welcome atmosphere you could find there and the staff really took great care of me. The events and sightseeing trips we had were so much fun and I loved the chocolate factory excursion we did for the Pop Culture module. So much fun.

Being a huge Otaku and having been twice to Japan (both times Tokyo) it was time for me to try something new. This was my first time coming to Japan to study and I felt Tokyo is a bit overwhelming as a study environment. So I chose Hokkaido which was the perfect balance between city life and natural beauty spots to discover. I only had two classmates during my stay what meant that the teacher had a lot of time to focus on each of our study needs. I found the Meiji teachers to be very experienced and motivated in helping students with any questions. Except of one teacher who could not understand any English all the other ones were able to communicate in Basic English, if needed. Just be warned, no English allowed in class! They really want you to speak Japanese as much as possible, but I did not find this intimidating. On the contrary it was very encouraging for me as I am a bit shy when it comes to speaking Japanese. My stay was short but fun and the Meiji Team did a great job accommodating me. I stayed in a furbished private apartment close to the school. The apartment was well equipped with all necessary amenities but the real estate company does not towels so make sure to bring some with you. Otherwise 100 Yen shops are all within walking distance and they sell all the necessary goods there.

Growing up as a Kiwi in Aussie's countryside impacted me already with a wider view on the world, but I've only been once on a short vacation trip with my family to Malaysia. So you can imagine I know what it meant for me to leave for the whole Summer (3 months) to go for the first time to Japan. My parents were quite worried and so was I, but it was always my dream to go to Japan. Tokyo or Osaka felt so overwhelming for a first timer and I decided I wanted to choose a big city but still have a balanced lifestyle with going out in the nature and enjoying the overall atmosphere. I've researched quite a few schools and Meiji seemed to be the most responsive and friendly email interaction I had. They even scheduled with me and my mother several video calls to answer all our questions we had. The airport pickup and my stay at the host family were superb. I've had a great time chatting with my lovely host mother and the two daughters she had which were 16 and 17 years old. They took me out for shopping trips and other outdoor activities on weekends. I stayed with them for the first two months and the last one I decided to go for the Sharehouse which was a completely different experience for me as I never lived with other people in a dormitory style housing. The environment was very friendly and international and I loved the whole mix of international students and local Japanese university students that were there. The only thing that I disliked was that the public kitchen used by everybody was getting quite messy. Especially on weekends...I would recommend for people who can't get used to it to choose the private accommodation option as I only heard good things about it. However it's more on the pricy end of the spectrum. The classes were among the best parts of my whole trip and I can't remember when I used to look so much forward for going to school haha I think the whole layout of small groups size classes and their focus on communicative applicable Japanese is really unique. Except of two weeks where we had 9 students in the class, it was usually around 5-7 students on average. But it's true that Summer season is the peak season for Japan and apparently most schools become overcrowded during this season. I would definitely say that I will come back to Japan and will go with Meiji again as their support throughout my stay was simply great. Hope to see all of you again this Summer. Much love from Tasmania your Betsy♡

I was struggling between Fukuoka and Hokkaido as I have been to Fukuoka before I wanted to give it a chance and see how Hokkaido would turn out. In short it was amazing! Meiji's school campus is brandnew and consists of a whole building with a huge student lounge, library, study rooms and all other facilities you can think of. The teachers are super nice and well trained. Reminded me a lot of their school teachers in Fukuoka. You can tell it's Meiji because of the friendly family-like atmosphere and the fun events with locals that I enjoyed a lot. Next time I think I'll choose Hokkaido over Fukuoka, it just fitted my vibe and style so well. I would advise to do some of the fun outdoor activities like skiing, hot springs and mountain hiking. Simply a huge fan of the nature over there! Hokkaido I'll be back!

The whole Meiji team and support was so well organized and good from the beginning to the end. I loved every bit of it. I think going to Sapporo for the Winter season is the best time so you can see the Snow Festival and the beautiful sculptures they make. I would recommend doing the Conversational module and pop culture as I had a good time discovering the Otaku scene in Susukino and Tanukikoji. Classes were very easy going and teacher were super friendly. I loved my stay in the sharehouse a lot. Next time I'll try the host family and also want to do the Summer course. Hokkaido is really my favourite place!!

My studies at Meiji Academy in Hokkadio gave a completely new perspective of what it means to study and live in Japan. On my previous trips I stayed in Tokyo and Kyoto but Sapporo just gavce me this new view on what it means to be in Japan. The local people were super friendly and I loved a friendly & chummily Meiji staff made my stay so good. Almost no mozzies in Sapporo made that Summer even better. I loved the small size classes with a lot of speaking practices we had. Sometimes the pace went a bit quick, but if you tell the teachers that you need more time to learn they will be very attentive and make sure to slow down the speed. I also like the events they held. Definitely try the famous miso ramen places around the school. I highly recommend the famous Ebisoba Ichigen that is literally just around the corner of the school campus.

Summer in Hokkaido with Meiji Academy was fantastic and an unforgettable memory I will hold in my heart for a very very long time. The whole staff team and teachers were so friendly and accommodating all the time. The program was very well structured with a lot of cultural events, excursions to Furano and Otaru, international foodie parties and a lot of city hikes and tours. Finally watching the Summer fireworks with my fellow class mates and teachers summed up all my wonderful time I had in Hokkaido perfectly. I think staying for at least 6 weeks is needed to really discover all the different spots and try the amazing food there.

Meiji Academy's Hokkaido branch is simply the best! I've been to their school in Fukuoka before, but Hokkaido is just another league. The campus is huge and all facilities are brandnew. Not to mention how absolutely adorable Hokkaido and Sapporo's people are! I felt in love with this Nordic flair you can only find in Hokkaido and Sapporo is simply the best place to live and study Japanese. Meiji's school is less than 10 mins by foot from Susukino station and around that area are so many great restaurants and other places to shop and hang out. I really liked their events a lot and my advice is to stay at the shared house dorms they offer. It is really a great place to make friends with Japanese and other international students. The classes were sometimes a bit intense but I did not regret taking them after I learned so much over the month I was there. Just make sure to dress warm when coming in Winter. Hokkaido's winter is no Joke!!!

My goals might be quite different from many students as I am planning to work and live in Japan. I communicated my wishes to the staff and the teachers made a lot of effort to prepare me very well about all the cultural differences and unique business etiquettes that Japanese businessmen apply in professional settings. As a former business student in the Netherlands it was important for me to master these priceless soft skills in better communicating with my Japanese counterparts. I have heard they partner with an internship provider and offer placements in Japan but I am not familiar about Hokkaido. Either way Hokkaido is really one of the best places to make friends and business connections with local and international companies from my experience. Meiji definitely helped with ther applicable business seminars. Doumo airgatou gozaimashita Nakamua-sensei. I will be back soon in my favorite city Sapporo!

My time at Meiji went by so quick and the whole staff did make a huge impact in my memories I made in Hokkaido. The whole program was really well planned and my host family was also amazing. I loved every bit of my time at Meiji Academy with all their events and excursions we made. Make sure to visit Furano and the beautiful lavendel fields when you are there for their summer course. I came towards the end of the season so I couldnt see the full blooming. The Japanese classes were sometimes a bit intensive but they had a great mix of group speaking practices and applied grammar excercises we did during different intervals when we finished the chapters. My japanese improved quite rapidly during the 6 weeks I was there. I think it is fair to say you won't go wrong with choosing them for your next trip away from major spots like Tokyo or Osaka. Hope to come back one day again.

For many years I have wanted to visit Japan and this program gave me the opportunity to discover Japan from a completely unknown perspective. Japan is one of the most dynamic societies with futuristic technology and a deeply rich culture to explore. I wanted to take the more unusual choice and picked Sapporo as my first destination in Japan. I have heard many good things about Meiji Academy from my fellow friends from Melbourne and Sydney who studied at Meiji Academy in Fukuoka last Summer. I was about to choose Fukuoka but the staff really recommended me to consider Sapporo as their program was fully booked for Fukuoka. So I gave it a shot and felt like I made the right choice for me. The slow life, endless beautiful cafes and peaceful place was just about the perfect balance I was looking for my study environment. There are also plenty of events and regular parties that they hold. Meiji Academy also advertised a lot of external events they promoted. My stay in the sharehouse was a very enjoyable and the atmosphere is very friendly. We had a lot of cooking events and hangouts on the weekend which really helped me connecting with the locals and other international students from around Sapporo. Overall the city is very welcoming to those who love nature and city life combined, so I encourage everybody to take the leap and consider Hokkaido. The only thing I recommend is to have some basic knowledge about Japanese culture and be more sensitive when approaching the locals. Other than that I am sure you will have a great time in Sapporo.

Meiji's study program was the perfect mix of rigor culture experience and intensive fun studies. I enjoyed every part of my life in Hokkaido from going to school, participating in cultural field trips and getting to know my new peers. As a huge Japanese culture lover it was the perfect package for me to experience all parts of Japanese life and culture. I fully enjoyed my tea ceremony, taiko drum playing and kimono wearing. The best part was the katana sword fight practice we did. I felt being sent back hundreds of years to feel the real Japanese spirit (Yamatodamashi). I think this program is perfect for those that prefer to experience both, bustling city life and traditional Japanese rural field activities. Pros - Huge variety of Food in Hokkaido and very fresh - Perfect Balance of City Life and Rural nature activities - Language Exchange and social events Cons - 4 weeks was too short, you should look at 2 months minimum - It takes a bit time to get used to the culture and make Japanese friends - More mangas in the library would be good, Jujutsu Kaisen and Spy Family

Last Summer felt like a dream. I departed from home with a bit of worries and even more excitement, after it was over I felt like I opened up a completely new chapter in my life. Let me start from the beginning. I really really wanted to study in Japan for the Summer and was debatting with a friend where to go in Japan. The main spots like Tokyo and Kyoto just felt too familiar to me as I have already been there (just on holidays, no studies). So I wanted to give it a go and try something more unknown and a b it exotic. I have heard a lot about Fukuoka but Hokkaido felt very new to me. So I got in touch with a couple of schools but Meiji Academy was the one being most responsive and patient with answering all my questions. The Japanese online test, guidance and all welcome package information I received before coming to Japan was very helpful. I decided to stay in a private apartment and it was the best decision I made as I do value my personal space and privacy a lot. The furnished apartment had all the basic amenities I needed and was about 10 minutes by foot from the school. The school facilities are all brand new and they even have a personal library/quiet study space that I often used. Their Summer program was definitely worth as you had the chance exploring so many different parts of Hokkaido and also engage in a ton of cultural activities we did. Overall two months went by so fast and if I would have the choice I would have done it all over again.

Simply fun and great 4 weeks I had here in Japan's Nordic island Hokkaido! Me being from Scandinavia felt a strong affinity with this region and its people. Japanese say Hokkaido is good visiting any season of the year and they are damn right! I felt this Nordic island has everything you want and Sapporo is really a huge city. Not a big fan of many words so I keep it simple. Pro - The school staff is super friendly, kind and always eager to help - The facilities are all new and the student lounge is perfect for studying and hanging out - Pub crawling became my new passion! Nightlife is great and the drinks are very affordable. Contra - Didn't like that my classes were in the morning as I am a night owl - Class size was too small with only 4 people (I prefer larger groups) - All events at school have a strict NO ALCOHOL policy which I found a bit exaggerating... All in all great school and the staff is really nice. I will be back in Hokkaido soon.

I studied with Meiji Academy Hokkaido for just two weeks last November but it was the two most intense weeks I have ever had. Every day was a new adventure of exploring new unknown places, learning more Japanese, eating my way through the local Hokkaido cuisine (which is amazing and really different from standard Japanese cuisine!). The staff and teacher really made so much effort of accommodating me with all my requests. I have to mention that I am vegetarian so I was a bit worried that it might be a challenge to find places where I can eat out. Soon I found out that Hokkaido is filled with fresh veggies, fruits and all type of organic dishes for vegans and vegetarians. Much better than back in the US! The classes were a lot of fun and their modules were also very good. I recommend doing the conversational Japanese sessions as they really help you to connect with locals and better apply the learned skills from the class outside of school. I hope I will see everybody again and I left with tears of joy in my eyes. Thanks for everything!

I took the challenge and studied with Meiji for 5 weeks last October. Although classes were full-time with 20 lessons per week and I also overestimated the workload so booked 2 extra private lessons with conversational Japanese module. I can say for sure I did not get bored! haha I still had a lot of time for sightseeing depending on which weekday and if the classes were held in the morning or afternoon. This is one thing to point out that depending on the student numbers, certain teachers' availability for different Japanese levels, the class schedule can change for different weeks. Mine was most of the time in the morning except of one week where it was scheduled for the afternoon. The tuition fees and price for value is also great considering you get 20 fully structured lessons by very experienced teachers. One major difference I noticed were the small classes and the really cozy library or study room they had on the third floor in the school that you can always use. I noticed a huge difference of my speaking and listening abilities after my studies were done. Overall I think this school is perfect for anybody who wants to have customized Japanese studies for any length and time during the year.

I emailed many Japanese language schools and chose Sapporo and some other less popular destinations because I wanted to see the real Japan life and get to know more locals. From all language schools Meiji was the most responsive and detailed in terms of guidance. They answered all my questions and was very helpful during the whole process. I ended up studying with them for 6 weeks and it was a lot of fun. I recommend to do some skying to enjoy the powder snow as it is really unique. For me we have a lot of snow in Finland but this was very different and so much fun to visit all the sky resorts that are easily accessible from Sapporo. Meiji staff also took us once for skying which I won't forget. Pro - A lot of events and activities after class - Classes are small size and very interactive fun with a lot of practices - The school location is right in city center, easy access to everywhere Con - Sometimes grammar lectures are too intense - I stayed in both Private apartment for two weeks and rest in sharehouse. Sharehouse definietly preferred much more social fun - Public transportation can be unreliable in Winter due to lot of snow fall so don't go far away from center

From August until October 2023 I was studying in Sapporo and decided to enroll with Meiji Academy's Hokkaido School. The program I chose was the standard course combined with conversational Japanese and traditional culture modules. The staff was so kind and answered all of my questions in a timely manner never making me wait for replies longer than 1 to 2 days which made it very easy to communicate with them. The Japanese level test they provide you to do online before you arrive, the welcome package and all additional information on how to get around in Sapporo were very helpful. The best thing about my stay were the Japanese lectures and the very strong focus on communication and speaking practices. I found the grammar lessons to be a bit difficult sometimes, but I made a lot of effort asking my teacher for additional help and we even slowed down the pace of some of the grammar topics which took me and a few other classmates more time to master. It took some time to adjust to Hokkaido as this was my first time and I was a bit lost at some times of getting around. After a few days and thanks to the nice student advisors I found myself navigating around the city and understanding where to get all my necessities for suriving in japan:) The biggest advice I can give anybody is to really go for it and give Hokkaido a consideration as a great study location for your Japanese. Next time I would like to experience the snow season too.

Hokkaido was simply marvelous and Meiji made it just an even better experience. I spent 6 weeks doing the Summer program followed by another 6 weeks packed with all types of cultural activities, conversational speaking sessions and trips to all parts of this beautiful island. The teachers were very professional and experienced making me feel at ease studying Japanese in a safe and calm environment. You should see their fun study room and all the additional events they organized like takoyaki parties and the pancake party was so much fun! The sharehouse is definitely the best option for anybody to make friends with the locals and really immerse yourself with the culture. Hokkaido is such a unique place in Japan as it really felt like back in Europe but full with Japanese people, kanji and yummy food! haha Make sure to try the soup curry and lamb BBQ. It took me some time to get used to but can't stop thinking about it. Will be back one day Thanks Meiji Academy

This is my second time studying in Hokkaido Japanese but my first time with Meiji. I was a bit concerned on how this experience would turn out as the school is pretty new and not as old as their Fukuoka school. Just let me tell you it's brand new and even though I don't know their other schools this one was really well organized. The Japanese classes were small size with just 3 students in my class over the 4 weeks I stayed, but there was overall around 20 students back in November when I studied. Mostly classes were focused on communication, dialogue and grammar application from Genki 1 and 2. I was in an advanced class and I felt I was placed correctly to my Japanese level. The sharehouse was also great! Just 10 mins walk from the school and it had a good mix of mostly foreign students from many different universities and language schools in Sapporo. Some Japanese were also living there and we had regular food parties at weekends. So just the perfect place to make friends and get to know locals. I wish I would have done more of their traditional culture activities as they did many different activities from mountain hiking, shrine visits and taiko drum playing. Maybe next time. All in all I am satisfied with this trip.

My time in Hokkaido was so much fun last Summer. I was a bit worried because I just turned 16 years when I went there last Summer and I was to go for 6 weeks. But all staff were so friendly and also organized several video calls with my mother together. All Meiji staff are so helpfull and always tried to listen to all my requests. I stayed with a host family and they were so nice. The family had one younger daughter who helped me with my Japanese and also they took me out on several trips on weekends. The classes were also very good and the teachers paid a lot of attention to me and all my questions I had. My favorite part was the Summer fireworks we watched together will all my classmates and I also wore a yukata!!! I hope I can visit Hokkaido and Meiji again. Arigatou for everything!!!

Ciao a tutti! One thing when going with Meiji Academy is you won't get bored. It was opposite for me, it was just too much extracurricular activities! Thanks god it was mostly optional participation. haha The classes I enjoyed lot and the small size with a lot of exercises and group learnings for vocabulary and kanji helped me so much to prepare for JLPT N4. I think all teachers are very nice and helpful. I like Ebina-sensei very much as she is very patient and always explained me many things in detail. . I stay with share house and it is just best way making friends and meeting Japanese people also. Grazie mille Meiji.

Hokkaido is the only place I know that you can visit any season of the year and you will have an amazing time. Especially the Summer is super nice and not too hot. Just about the perfect spot to learn Japanese with a school that pays so much attention to the special care and support that me as a complete newbie in Japan needed. The staff is tremendously friendly and very engaging with any request I had. They even went out of their way and took all of my fellow classmates around during the city tour to exploare a few more yummy places for lunch. Make sure to take the Summer package as it is fully loaded with a bunch of activities and regular cultural workshops. My favorite was the kyaraben workshop we did (character cute bento box). I would recommend to take additionally the Conversational module as it really helps to refine your communicational skills and sentence structure when talking with Japanese.

Just finished my studies in Fukuoka and looking back at the last two months I can say for sure that this school has it all right. Great vibes, lovely teachers, interesting extracurricular activities and a lovely team that you can call a home away from home. The focus on communicative classe paired with intense study focus on grammar and other practices was just about the right mix for anybody who wants to further improve their Japanese. I had a few private lessons which I found very useful. Thanks for everything and hope to see you soon again.

Hokkaido was a cultural immersion and I had a great time with this language school every single day for the 5 weeks I was there. My host family, which consisted of a 16 and 17 year old girl, was awesome and super fun to hang out with. They always helped me out with my Japanese and taught me so many slang words which was so much fun to learn about. My host mother always corrected my Japanese and was so understanding about my motivation to learn Japanese and live here one day. Not only that, but they helped me meet people with many events they took part in like Christmas parties and some small trips we made to Otaru. Meiji Academy does not have a lot of Host Families but the ones they have are amazing. The school and its classes were very engaging and teachers were so friendly to talk to. And the lesson structure was very well planned with grammar and kanji practices for the intermediate level I was in. I was just about finishing Genki 2 and we went into a lot of discussion and writing exercises which helped improve my Japanese so quickly. Some tips that I would have for future students are to learn at least Hiragana and Katakana before going. You should always ask questions and keep on making friends with local Japanese. I learned very quickly, that Japan is not coming to you, You have to come to Japan and get out of your comfort zone where the real fun lies.

Studying and understanding Japanese is to a deeper extend is something that always triggered my interest to a very deep level. I have been in Japan before twice. One time in Tokyo and one time studying in Osaka with very mixed feelings. I have attended different language schools but always felt something was missing. This time I decided to study and explore the mysterious northern island of Japan known as Hokkaido or in the native Ainu language “Ainu Moshiri” (“Land of the Ainu”). I had quite mixed feelings about Japanese Language Schools due to my past experience but I was very positively surprised on how well structured and organised Meiji Academy was. The staff took a lot of time to answer all my questions making my stay very well organised and gave me a relief not to worry about all the details from housing, airport pickup and module choices that were plenty available. As being already done with university I was happy to learn that there were fellow students in their late twenties. The majority of students are either university or early twenties with a few elderly people in their 30s and 40s. Still I felt there was never an age barrier and everybody got along very well! The good thing was the calligraphy and excursion we took to the Upopoi Ainu Museum which gave me a thorough perspective on the unique Hokkaido culture. On the other hand the focus on small class size combined with a lot of communicative group practices was simply perfect! First time that a language school got it right and did not just slam through the textbooks with intense academic learning streams. The teachers were also very qualified and many of them had more than 10 years of experience with a few younger ones which gave that great dynamic in terms of teaching styles. I would highly advise anybody who plans to study in Japan to consider Hokkaido and Meiji as a choice for a very interesting study approach I rarely experienced at other Japanese language schools. Domo arigatou gozaimashita. Your Betsy B.

I went with a fellow friend for 6 weeks and we flew all the way from London to Sapporo which was quite a journey but the whole support organized by Meiji Academy was top notch. From airport pickup the fully furnished private apartment and the amazing school facilities all was more than satisfying. The fireworks along the kimono wearing and traditional fan making was an amazing experience. Plus the weather is just about right. Remember there is NO RAINY SEASON in Hokkaido so the Summer is superb! I can't recommend the Summer Course more than any other package they offer. So much fund and good school vibes.

For me it was clear to go last year summer to Japan, but I was undecided which place. I have heard from some people who went for Meiji Academy's courses before from my uni and I wanted to give it a try. I heard many good things about Hokkaido but I did not have a proper idea how much fun it would be! To get directly to the point, time flew by how fun it was. The community events and extracurricular activities was the best part and I would go for it again. The Japanese classes were also well organized and I am happy I did not do extra private lessons as it would be too much for me. If your focus is primarily on experiencing the culture and doing a lot of cultural and outdoor activities than this program is right for you. Otherwise if you want more japanese study focus I think private lessons in addition would be good.

First I should mention that I'm a second year university student in Ireland studying business and management. I might not be the typical japanese Langauge student but I certainly wanted to connect my business studies by also experiencing the Langauge and culture. Meiji Academy's business manner module is sometimething where I found a connection. The 10 weeks I've been there last Autumn were mesmerizing and so much fun. The teachers and staff do really care about you and sometimes I almost got annoyed by them always following up on me if all is okay. haha The Japanese classes were fun and except of one week where there were 9 students in my class, the other weeks we were around 5 or 6 students. The teachers are very patient and really try to focus on each students study needs. Except of two teachers the other four I had were able to speak basic English which helped a lot. Vocab and grammar lessons were well structured and we did a lot of group exercises in between the grammar sessions. I recommend the sharehouse as the community atmosphere is priceless and the location is in walking distance to the school. There is also no need for public transport as everything is in walking distance and you can easily go out on weekends for shopping and dining around Susukino and Tanukikoji. All in all a good experience and honestly before coming to Meiji Academy in Hokkaido I wasn't even sure what Sapporo and this northern island is all about but it surprised me positvitely in many ways. Definitely a good location to study Japanese.

Last Summer was simply the best 6 weeks in my life. I went for their Summer course and the school really put a lot of emphasis on the outdoor activities and cultural exchanges we had with Japanese students. I wish there was more cultural activities as I had them when I was studying in Fukuoka with Meiji, but the range of nature activities and hiking trips they do was also a great experience. Hokkaido is good to visit during any season and so colouful. The Japanese classes were also lovely and very interactive with teachers constantly getting us out of our comfort zone and interacting with fellow students in grammar and speaking exercises. Will be back soon. Cheerio!

Meiji Academy did a good job with placing me in a correct japanese class from the beginning. They have an online test and video call interview which tested my japanese level. Very nice and caring teachers and the Moemi-san was extra sweet always helping me with answers about all my questions. You check out nearby places and also the fresh fish market near Soen. This was very interesting for me as we don't have in Poland this type of markets. I would love to go back to Japan again sometime in the futyre. Arigato from Aleksy

Last year was an unforgettable time with so much fun events, interactive studies and hanami fireworks in Sapporo. I stayed for two weeks with a host family because I couldn't get the place for longer which was a bit disappointing. But the sharehouse was really lovely and I met so many warm people from all around the world and Japan. I would really advise on doing their Summer course due to the variety of activities we did. The field trip to Otaru and Kobito's chocolate factory for making your own sweets was really a highlight. The classes were sometimes a bit intense so I don't recommend people taking extra private lessons if you want to focus on the fun part Sapporo has to offer. All in all a wonderful Summer break!

I got everything I could’ve hoped for from studying abroad with Meiji Academy. I found was that the courses were challenging, but incredibly helpful in developing my Japanese language skills both in communicative Japanese and academic writing while out and about in Sapporo. Additionally, we went on field trips as part of courses throughout Sapporo, Otaru and Tomakomai. I saw things that I know I would not have known or been able to do otherwise like the Upopoi Ainu Cultural Centre and the Chocolate Factory Royce. The classes were very well structured it also made it easy to be involved in extracurriculars, travel, or just explore the city. The staff would post on a bulletin board whenever a cultural event or Japanese art activity was coming up, in addition to any information about local community events. Personally, I didn’t use the events too much but the staff were very helpful. The school's location was unbeatable right in the city centre of Susukino. My favorite memories are related to visiting a Japanese high school and exchanging with local Japanese students. This and the high school teachers were so friendly. We even had altogether lunch at their school canteen. Such s unique experience I am so grateful for! Thanks Meiji Academy!

I went to Sapporo with Meiji for 2 months last Autumn and it was so lovely. The unique culture of Hokkaido is really interesting and completely different from any other part of Japan. At first it felt a bit diffcult to make friends with locals, but thanks to Meiji's abundance of meet ups and language exchanges they organizes it really made it easy to make friends with Japanese locals. It really warms your heart when you see Japanese people trying to talk with you in Japanese and are so curious about British culture. I've never thought to meet so many enthusiasts about British English, roast beef and scones and all other stereotypes. haha The classes can be sometimes a bit intense but the teachers were realy lovely and nice to me all the time. Anytime I had questions or got lost about life in Japan they assisted me fully. I can really recommend the conversational Japanese module as you will learn so much about using casual Japanese in so many daily life situations. Make sure to try the Traditional Culture activities too. I loved the kimono wearing and tea ceremony.

Mein Sommer in Sapporo war einfach nur geil. Die Mitarbeiter von Meiji waren auf jeden Fall sehr freundlich und haben immer ausgeholfen mit allen Fragen und Sorgen die ich hatte. Die Japanischkurse waren sehr strukturiert und es wurde ein Schwerpunkt auf Kommunikation gelegt (was mir sehr gefallen hat!). Ich fasse mal die Hauptpunkte zusammen. Vorteile - Extrem flexibel was Kursstart und Module angeht. Man hat wortwörtlich die Qual der Wahl. - Summer Course ist mein absoluter Geheimtipp da wir viele Events und Ausflüge hatten. - Das Studentenwohnheim hat eine super Atmosphäre und es ist 10 Minuten zu Fuss von der Schule Nachteile - Leider ist die Kirschblütensaison recht spät und auch nicht so farbenprächtig wie in Fukuoka, Osaka oder anderorts - Jingisukan (Lammfleisch) und Suppencurry waren nicht gerade meine Favoriten. Also Essen war naja...Geschmackssache! - Der Flughafen ist recht weit weg und ich hab mir leider keinen Airport Pickup organisiert...großer Fehler! Ansonsten wars auf jeden Fall top und eine japanische Freundin hab ich jetzt auch:P Grüße an Nakamura-sensei und auch Ebina-sensei!

Sapporo was my home for 6 weeks last Autumn and it was an absolutely amazing experience. As someone with little to no prior knowledge of the Japanese language, going to the land of the rising sun up in the Northern part of Japan was pretty intimidating at first. Fortunately, it didn't take long for me to get used to living in Hokkaido and Meiji staff helped a lot with accommodating me throughout my stay. The school's location is great and within walking distance of Sapporo's downtown called Susukino. I stayed in a private apartment and it was fully equipped extremely close to the school. I didn't have a TV but heard from other students they had a sTV set in their apartment. I guess it depends on the apartment and accommodation provider they work with. The Classes were engaging and the teachers focused a lot on grammar practice, speaking sessions and interaction through several role-plays we did. Another great part was making friends from all over the world come together and also the language exchange they host with local Japanese university students. I will definitely return to Sapporo again.

Meiji was a great experience during my 7 weeks I spent in Sapporo. I stayed in a private apartment within 5 minutes walking distance to the school so I did not have to take the train or subway to get to the school. The staff was very welcoming and willing help out all the time. I did participate in the majority of the events and I was very lucky to find great Japanese university friends through their language exchanges and other events they organized during my stay. I still keep in contact with them and plan on meeting them again this year. The teachers are absolutely amazing and our class got so close with them that we went out for lunch and also karaoke on our farewell party together. Meiji felt like a family to me and I absolutely loved every little part about my experience and I plan to come back to Japan this Summer again.

I studied at Meiji Academy Hokkaido over the summer for six weeks, which was very affordable compared to many other language schools in Sapporo. Nakanishi-sensei and Kubo-sensei were my main teachers and everything was fantastic. All teachers were very experienced and teaching quality was also very good. My class moved through the Genki material at a very good pace and the speaking practice sessions were also very well designed. You definitely DO NOT WANT TO MISS the activities. Some of them were free like, language exchange with Japanese high school students, city walking tours and hanami fireworks. Some were included into our summer package like kimono wearing, tea ceremony or pottery. The best thing was our day trip to Furano to see the beautiful lavender fields. I will for sure come back to Japan, Hokkaido and Meiji as I have very good memories from last Summer. Arrigato!

My name is Cathy and I am 16 years old from Houston, Texas. This was my first trip abroad alone. This summer trip was my favorite vacation ever and I have made so many friends from Japan and learned so much about the culture. I was only with Meiji Academy for 8 weeks but I learned a decent amount of Japanese while I was there. While in Sapporo you have a lot of free time and the events that Meiji held were really fun. I really loved the kimono wearing and walking around the city. There is even a ferris wheel on top of a building and so many cute gaming centers to enjoy an afternoon with friends. My host family was 30 minutes away by subway from the school which is in the heart of Susukino which is the best shoping place. One thing I didn’t like about the school was the time of the classes because some days they were starting at 9am and some weeks it was in the afternoon. I loved meeting new people while I was in Japan especially Japanese people because it gave me a new perspective of life in Japan. I made a Japanese friend that took me too his home town’s festival. If you go to Meiji Academy you will have so much fun and make so many friends no matter how long you go. I really recommend Hokkaido even if you are like me and knew zero Japanese you will be fine. The school staff is very friendly and they helped me so much with everything like public transportation card, food recommendations and fund events. Oh and the food is sooo good. You should try soup curry and miso ramen are my favorites Meiji Academy arigato gozaimasu!

My 12 weeks with Meiji Academy were hardly get bored. The classes were always practicing speaking and listening with many dialogues. Every week we learned new things and the topics for the conversational modules were so diverse. We spend a lot of time outside classes to implement what we learnt in the lessons. Sapporo is just the perfect mix between a big city and local flair you can expeirence here. I ended up making so many Japanese friends from nearby universities as Meiji held a lot of international language exchanges. Just make sure not to miss any class or the teacher will give you extra homework if you ask for :P haha

Last Summer in Hokkaido was a mindblowing and Meiji Academy's staff did a fantastic job of making this experience memorable for the rest of my life. This was my first time in Hokkaido but my third in Japan. After checking all the touristy spots on my previous trips I wanted to see what's hiding up there in the North. And I was positively surprised how much I have missed. I came by myself but joined most of Meiji's Summer activities with another large group of Australian students that were there as well. From Kimono wearing, going up the Ferris wheel in Susukino, Hanami fireworks and the colorful lavender fields. All the activities were absolutely stunning and very well planned. The classes were a bit intense but I have learned so much during my 8 weeks at Meiji. The facitlities are completely new and felt almost untouched but the location was also right in the middle of Sapporo. If I have a chance again to go to Japan, I will come back again to Hokkaido. Definitely my top destination!

I studied at Meiji Academy for about a month. I had previously studied Japanese in high school, but had a break for over a year since then so a. bit for me to catch up on my Kanji and especially the speaking. Upon arriving at school, they placed me accordingly to my online placement test I took. After a few days I noticed that my Japanese was way better than I thought and after I told the teacher I was placed in a new more closer class to my level just after two days:) The classes were based of skills and ranged from 2-5 people with the teachers rotated among the classes. It really helped to provided a variety of teaching styles. Especially the listening and speaking improved immensely through this great practice. My classmates and other Meiji students were also awesome as there was so much cultural diversity in one single class! I highly recommend Meiji Academy to someone who is serious about learning Japanese and also engaging into conversational Japanese settings. I definitely loved Hokkaido much more than my experience I had in Osaka or Tokyo as it is much more relaxed and gives you perfect atmosphere to study Japanese.

This is my 2nd time in Hokkaido and my 2nd time with Meiji Academy. I have studied with them before in Fukuoka but was curious to see what it's like to study up North of Japan during the Summer. Their facilities and learning space is literally HUGE! They have built a completely new school with a large student lounge, library and so much more space they use for all type of activities and parties we had there. The staff were very friendly and patience with all the requests I had during my stay. My 8 weeks Summer course was the perfectly planned Summer package I could have asked for. In terms of teachings, the teachers in Hokkaido were as experienced and qualified as the ones I had bvefore in Fukuoka. The largest difference was the whole classroom outline and unfortunately it got at some weeks a bit crowdy...We usually had between 3-7 students per class but for two weeks it was 9 students, which felt a bit too much but then again it was not their fault as they have advertised it on their website before. The actitivities were lovely and we did so many of them! From Yosakoi Festival, Hanabi Fireworks watching to visiting the beautiful lanvender fields, everything was just a wonderful Summer dream that felt so special! I highly recommend going there during Summer as you won't have to endure the rainy season that is present everywhere else in Japan. haha Thank you so much Meiji and looking to visit you again for some snow next time;)

Die 8 Wochen in Hokkaido sind wie im Flug vergangen und waren die beste Zeit meines Lebens! Die Mitarbeiter von Meiji und allen voran der Einsatz Nakamura-sensei waren einfach Spitze. Ich habe die ganze Zeit über im Sharehouse übernachtet und es war eine super unterhaltsame Zeit wo ich viele Freundschaften fürs Leben geknüpft habe. Meiji's Sommerkurs war vollgepackt mit Aktivitäten und Kurzausflügen nach Otaru und Furano wo wir die wunderschönen Lavenderfelder besucht haben. Besonders gut hat mir der Japanischunterricht in den kleinen Gruppen gefallen. Ich war in einer Klasse mit 4 bis 6 Schülern während meines Aufenthaltes. Ich habe aber von anderen Mitschülern gehört, dass es schon mal recht voll werden kann mit bis zu 9 Schülern während den Sommermonaten da es anscheinend Hochsaison ist für die Schule. Der Unterricht war sehr fokusiert auf Konversation und dem Genki Textbuch, was ich zuvor schon ein bisschen gelernt habe. Alles in allem super Aufenthalt und dieses Jahr werde ich wiederkommen. Merci Meiji! :)

Einfach super organisiert und sehr freundliche Lehrer. Dies war mein erstes Mal in Japan und sogar in Asien!!! Ich war extrem aufgeregt aber der sehr nette und gut organisierte Service von allen Meiji Academy Mitarbeitern war einfach nur spitze! Ich habe in den 8 Wochen die ich im Sommer dort verbracht habe super viel gelernt und ich kann mit Gewissheit sagen, dass mein japanisch sich von komplett Anfänger auf fast JLPT N5 gesteigert hat! Ich möchte a liebsten wieder nach Hokkaido und dann auch nochmal mit Meiji Academy für ein ganzes Jahr studieren. Sapporo ist einfach die beste Stadt um japanisch zu lernen.

Servus Meiji! Ich sags mal auf gut deutsch. Mein Aufenthalt in Sapporo mit Meiji Academy war einfach nur spitze!!! Super nettes Personal, sehr organisiert und mega geile Events die gangze Zeit über!:) Ich empfehle auf jeden Fall deren Sharehouse wo ich die Gelegenheit hatte super nette Leute zu treffen und ein authentisches Student Life in Japan zu erleben. Der Unterricht ist maßgeschneidert und sehr fokusiert auf Conversational Japanese. Meiji Academy in Hokkaido hat ein komplett neu errichtetes Gebäude, dass eine sehr geräumige Student Lounge und sogar eine Bibliothek hat mit einer Vielzahl and Mangas was für jeden Otaku (mich inbegriffen) ein absoluter Traum war. Immer wieder gerne und im Januar bin ich auch wieder da!! Grüsse aus dem sonnigen Bayern

My 3 weeks in Hokkaido passed by so quickly when I studied with them back in January 2023. I loved the support and personalized classes they offered. As their school campus in Sapporo is much bigger than the school in Fukuoka it was a completely different experience. This was my third time studying with Meiji Academy, yet the first time on their Hokkaido campus. The school is much bigger and completely modern than the school in Fukuoka. However, the classes were the same high-standard as in Fukuoka. The major thing about Meiji Academy that really distinguishes it from other Japanese language schools is the strong focus on conversational Japanese rather than academic Japanese which is exactly what I am looking for. Anybody who wants to be able to communicate in day-to-day Japanese and even find a job in Japan will have all the support and help of Meiji. The staff and teachers are simply caring people.

The six weeks I spent in Hokkaido last Summer were simply amazing! The staff and teachers at Meiji were extremely helpful and the classes were well structured. I loved the variety of cultural activities we experienced. We went for Kimono wearing and a classic tea ceremony that was unforgettable. Especially the Furano trip to the magnificent lavender fields was so much fun. I will be back for studying for a whole year with them on a student visa next year as they got me accepted into their long term study program. I recommend to go with their share house option they offer as that was a great experience to make local friends as well as Japanese students. Thanks Meiji and see you again next April:)

I had bad previous experience with Japanese classes at my university - the professor seemed unbothered, and my classmates even more uninterested. For this reason the classes were always stale with minimal engagement. Meiji on the other hand is the complete opposite. I felt like the teachers really encourage participation, even if you consider yourself as particularly weak with the language. They inspired me to step beyond my comfort zone, and I was able to make significant gains even in a relatively short time frame. I’ll sing the praises of Meiji for years to come! Aside from having incredible teachers, Fukuoka is also place you cannot miss during the summer time. We are talking sunshine, awesome food, festivals, beaches, temples, forests… I hate to sound cliché but this summer was like a movie for me! Considering all thats on offer in Fukuoka, it’s actually a surprisingly affordable city, so don’t be expecting to pay Tokyo prices. In fact, I would even go as far to say you get 100% of the Tokyo experience for 50% of the Tokyo prices!

Loved every minute of it!! Such a cool way to approach learning a language, this is definitely a rare school and I’m so glad I found it :) I am especially somebody who learns best through experiences, so having Japanese lessons at the same time as cultural experiences was the perfect balance for me. We were guided through many different activities that introduced the culture of Japan to us - my favourite was visiting Atago Shrine, I’ve never felt so much peace in my life… One thing I didn’t expect to gain from this was so much confidence. Taking part in these activities showed me that actually it isn’t so scary to be out alone in Japan without speaking Japanese. Theres so much to see and everyone is so friendly - sometimes you have to just do it!

Here in Fukuoka I think that I have the best summer ever! First because I study with the Meiji Academy with some really kind and amazing teachers. They are professional but importantly they can know how to have fun! We was laughing a lot in the classes, and it was really fun when to teach them about the French culture. Fukuoka has some really nice places and I think it is a really good place for the summer time. I spent a lot of time going to nice scenery places like climbing mountains, or going to the beach. With Meiji they made an event for a BBQ on the beach which was so fun. At the event I meet lots of Japanese who are wanting to speak English, so we exchange informations and became friends. The school gave me some good knowledge and experiences. Now I have to go back to France but I will not stop with the learning Japanese. For me it is just the beginning!

Combining my interest in both the Japanese language and the culture that comes with it was what really drew me towards this course, it’s such a good idea! I was provided the opportunity to try all of the classic elements of Japanese culture you’d expect to see (wearing a kimono, tea ceremonies, festivals etc.), whilst also being taught Japanese by honestly some of the most passionate teachers I’ve met in my life. Fukuoka is also a city well worth visiting, and you’ll most likely be surprised at how underrated it is :) Don’t let the visa requirements scare you off - Japan is definitely open to foreigners right now, and there’s never been a better time to visit! Taking a trip to Kyoto and seeing absolutely 0 tourists was a rare sight that I think I’ll treasure for my entire life. Without all the crowds, it is absolutely gorgeous. This was truly an unforgettable experience!

Especially in the summer, Fukuoka is the perfect city. Theres a beach, water sports, there are forests, festivals, food, sunshine. It has everything you need for a good summer. I am a big fan of water sports, so I was often taking trips to Itoshima where you can surf and jetski, all whilst enjoying the beautiful coastal scenery. Make sure to get the international driving license BEFORE you come to Japan!! It was really useful to me, and many of my friends missed out because they forgot to do it. With a car you can reach so many amazing spots that you would usually not be able to get to so easily. Sometimes it is really nice to just take a trip into the countryside and get lost, it feels like a true adventure. The Japanese language classes really helped me have an even better summer, as I was able to communicate with the locals and really immerse in the culture. My classes were scheduled in the morning, which was good for my schedule. I studied in the mornings, then had the whole afternoon to enjoy the Japanese lifestyle. If you come here, expect to make many friends that are not only Japanese, but from all over the world!

I organised a summer away in Fukuoka to tackle the Japanese language this year, and I was all set and ready to go. That was all until I realised just days before departing that I booked the completely wrong dates for my flight, and was left about £1000 out of pocket to book a new flight. As you can imagine, it was not a great start to my time in Japan. But soon after I arrived and met everybody at Meiji, it was like my stress just dissolved away. What a bright, caring, lovely bunch of people. To me it seems they really understand how to teach in a way that is engaging and effective, at times I couldn't tell if I was learning Japanese or just chatting with a mate. I felt that I could ask my teachers anything (and trust me I did)… all I’ll say is there are a lot of interesting things that you wont find in a textbook. So the classes were great, but the city? Excellent. Coming from London where the weather is awful, prices are high, and people are rude, Fukuoka was a breath of fresh air. I was almost shocked that there are people in the world that have the privilege of being born in such a perfect city (and immensely jealous). Having the pleasure of eating the freshest sushi without going bankrupt is definitely something you can’t do in London, so I made the most of it all while I could. This was a 10/10 summer for me, and I’m glad I came to know about Fukuoka and build a decent network of friends here. Now I’ll always have that option in the back of my head when I inevitably get tired of London again.

If you’re reading this review, I guess you’re considering studying at Meiji Academy. That’s one thing you’ve got right, the next is to get over here and do it! I came here with a friend to study Japanese but also to experience a summer in Japan in a place that is far different from Tokyo. Because of the Visa implications going to Japan for a summer vacation is pretty much impossible, so this seemed like an ideal option. I’m so glad I finally found a school I actually enjoy waking up in the morning and going to, because my previous education experience is so much different. The teachers were not teachers, they were friends who wanted to teach you Japanese! We shared many laughs, occasionally shared meals, and I also enjoyed sharing my own culture with them. It didn't even feel like a school, more like a social club with the added benefit of learning one of the most difficult languages in the world along the way. Honestly, we had too much fun in Fukuoka! I spent more time on momochi beach than I care to admit, and ate more food than I’m comfortable talking about xD As a side note - Fukuoka actually has some of the best Mexican food in Japan (just for your information hehe). If you’re looking for somewhere you can kick back, but also get to taste a bit of the downtown urban lifestyle, Fukuoka is the place. It now sits proudly at the top of my favourite cities in Japan ;)

I was literally heartbroken leaving Meiji… They became my family during the summer, and I owe them so much </3 I learnt a lot of Japanese, made so many friends, and experienced a lot of things through their events and activities that you wouldn't normally be able to do as a solo traveller. I mean, playing Nintendo Switch with a group of native Japanese has got to be the best way to practice Japanese right? I think that Summer is 100% the best time to be in Fukuoka, the city just felt so alive! If you make it down to Meiji, expect a smile every day from everyone, they’re such a lovely bunch of people. Also, expect to eat A LOT. The food if Fukuoka is dangerously good, unfortunately for me a lot of the unhealthiest food was most attractive to me, so it’s safe to say I indulged a little too much… Looking back through all of the pictures from this summer honestly brings a tear to my eye, this was one of, if not THE best summer of my life!

Most of the time I just waste away my summers lounging around at home, but this time I wanted it to be different! I moved to Fukuoka for the summer and studied Japanese with Meiji Academy… best decision I could’ve possibly made!! On my first day I was surprised because I met so many people from all over the world (even some of the staff are from other countries), and instantly I made so many friends! Little did I know I would be travelling all over Kyushu with these people :) I initially chose the private apartment option, but actually I wish I went for the share house because living with all of my friends sounded so amazing - I can’t complain though because the apartment was perfect. Meiji hosted a lot of their own events, we did fun things like beach parties, karaoke with local Japanese students. I did so many memorable things, but my favourites were all the trips to the local festivals. I really had too much fun here, and this was a summer I will never ever forget. I am so glad I chose to actually do something with my summer this year.

I studied with Meiji Academy for 1 month in Fukuoka. I had never studied Japanese before coming apart from the study materials they gave me for hiragana and katakana, so I was basically a beginner. I was put in a class of a couple students who had a similar level of Japanese to me, which was great because we could learn at the same pace. They also rotated the teachers around so we never had the same teacher two days in a row, this really kept things refreshing. The other students all came from different countries, so it was nice to see some cultural diversity at the school. Even though I was there for only 1 month, I learned a lot of Japanese and made a lot of good friends.

Arriving in Japan I felt waaaaay out of depth, and honestly I was ready to quit. But I’m very glad I decided to hold on, because I instantly fit in at Meiji and I ended up enjoying every day of my time there. I met many incredible friends and was able to learn from everyone, I really want to go back again in the future. Meiji Academy is a place I would recommend to anybody who would like to experience the best things about Japan, and learn the amazing language.

Uni had been pretty intense this past year, and I was really put through my paces. As a treat for my hard work, I thought I’d spend the summer in Japan learning Japanese (I know, treating myself to more school for my hard work at school?). This was honestly one of the best decisions of my life. It’s now about time I head back to my regular old uni life, but I’ll miss all the banter I had at this school and all the mates I made in Fukuoka. This place is top notch.

Japanese is hard, but that doesn't mean it isn’t fun! I was self-studying before I came here but things were moving pretty slowly and my progress was embarassing. I was just about ready to give up until I thought about giving a language school a shot. I can’t lie I was so nervous coming here, but the nerves didn't last long and I felt comfortable almost immediately. I’m usually someone who can’t focus during class, so I was surprised to find that the teachers were able to hold my concentration so well; that’s how good they were!

Best Japanese language school ever! Nothing else to say honestly. 明治アカデミーは素晴らしいですよ！I cant wait to return to this groovy school, and once again stick my face into a big bowl of steamy ramen :P 行ってきますね！

Being the land of the wild and wacky, it felt only right to do a pop culture course in Japan. Honestly it was worth every penny and I enjoyed every minute of it. I mean, you get to learn Japanese AND hang around with kawaii girls at a maid cafe? Sign me up! I can't recommend this school enough, I would do my course 100 times over if I could!

I did a summer course with Meiji where I was able to enjoy the delights of the Kyushu summer season whilst also studying Japanese. I was a complete beginner at the time, so i wanted serious lessons but also the opportunity to really enjoy life in Japan at the same time. Overall the course was perfect for me, and I really had a lot of fun.