Language Schools in Japan

From language schools to private tutoring, there are many places to study languages in Japan. Some of the most popular cities for studying in Japan are Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka.

Tokyo. As Japan’s capital and largest city, Tokyo houses several hundred colleges and universities, many of which offer Japanese language courses. If a bustling metropolitan environment is the experience you’re looking for, there’s no better city to study languages abroad. The variety of businesses, subcultures, and sheer amount of people in Tokyo allow language learners a wide scope of activities to practice language skills.

Kyoto. Considered the cultural capital of Japan, Kyoto offers language study abroad in a more traditional environment. Studying languages in Kyoto enables language students to visit many well-known historical and cultural sites in the Kansai region. Another benefit of studying in Kyoto is that it can be slightly more inexpensive than Tokyo, and even nearby Osaka. Kyoto is also home to some of Japan’s top-ranked universities.

Osaka. Known to be the economical hub of Japan, studying in Osaka offers up opportunities to experience more of the language of business, and features some of Japan’s most famous food specialities. Osaka is also much more metropolitan than its nearby neighbor Kyoto.

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Frequently Asked Questions

The cost varies according to the type of program, duration, and location. Language programs can cost between $300 to $1,200 per month, with some more intensive courses costing up to $1,500 monthly.

7 Tips to Help You Find Cheap Language Schools in Japan

You can research programs that meet your preferences and goals, prepare the necessary documents and submit your application to the chosen language school. You may also consider working with a program provider who can guide you through the process.

It's possible! Some Japanese language institutions provide scholarships to international students for specific criteria. Additionally, several external scholarship programs provide support for language studies in Japan.

The length of Japanese language studies might vary on the program and the student's goals. Some language schools offer short-term programs lasting a few weeks or months, while others provide long-term programs that last up to two years or more.

Top 8 Language Schools in Japan

Latest Program Reviews

Summer Camp for 15yo

November 04, 2025by: A W - United StatesProgram: LTL Language School | Learn Japanese in Tokyo

10

My 15yo son attended the Tokyo Summer Camp for two weeks in June/July 2025 and he loved it! He enjoyed the language instruction and variety of planned activities. He also made good friends with fellow students and his homestay took him to several places to experience Tokyo as a local. It is well-worth the cost of the program and we plan to have him attend again next summer!

Amazing time at Tokyo JALS (:

October 31, 2025by: Michael Saalfeld - GermanyProgram: Japanese Language Study in Tokyo JaLS Shibuya Campus

10

I studied here for 4 weeks, and I can honestly say that Tokyo JALS is an amazing place to learn Japanese, and to experience Tokyo at its best! I started out as a complete beginner, and I had a great time! The organizers and the teachers are very friendly, funny, caring and responsible. Also, the school is just plain beautiful! It is located in the 23rd floor of a modern skyscraper in the center of Shibuya. The view is amazing! And the warm and stylish amenities make you feel really comfortable while studying. Thanks to the flexible model of the school, students from all age groups, all countries, and all walks of life studied with me. As the school provides a lot of afternoon activities, I got to meet my fellow students a lot, which was very enriching to me. Through these afternoon activities, I also got to see a lot of cool and interesting places in Tokyo I would have otherwise missed. I'm super thankful and happy that I got to study here (:

Summer Camp for 15yo

November 04, 2025by: A W - United StatesProgram: LTL Language School | Learn Japanese in Tokyo

10

My 15yo son attended the Tokyo Summer Camp for two weeks in June/July 2025 and he loved it! He enjoyed the language instruction and variety of planned activities. He also made good friends with fellow students and his homestay took him to several places to experience Tokyo as a local. It is well-worth the cost of the program and we plan to have him attend again next summer!

Amazing time at Tokyo JALS (:

October 31, 2025by: Michael Saalfeld - GermanyProgram: Japanese Language Study in Tokyo JaLS Shibuya Campus

10

I studied here for 4 weeks, and I can honestly say that Tokyo JALS is an amazing place to learn Japanese, and to experience Tokyo at its best! I started out as a complete beginner, and I had a great time! The organizers and the teachers are very friendly, funny, caring and responsible. Also, the school is just plain beautiful! It is located in the 23rd floor of a modern skyscraper in the center of Shibuya. The view is amazing! And the warm and stylish amenities make you feel really comfortable while studying. Thanks to the flexible model of the school, students from all age groups, all countries, and all walks of life studied with me. As the school provides a lot of afternoon activities, I got to meet my fellow students a lot, which was very enriching to me. Through these afternoon activities, I also got to see a lot of cool and interesting places in Tokyo I would have otherwise missed. I'm super thankful and happy that I got to study here (: