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5 recommended Japanese language schools in Kyoto and their fees

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Kinkakuji Temple in Kyoto

Many foreigners may be interested in learning Japanese at a Japanese school in Kyoto. Kyoto is dotted with many Japanese language schools. It is also home to many of Japan's most popular tourist attractions, so it is a place where you can get a good sense of Japanese culture. Here we will introduce the cost of Japanese schools in Kyoto and some points to consider when choosing a Japanese school.

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How much does it cost to attend a Japanese language school in Kyoto?

There are more than 20 diverse Japanese language schools in Kyoto City (as of 2024). (As of 2024) Each school has different characteristics and curriculum, but the common feature is that they provide high quality Japanese language education.

Cost of Japanese Language School in Kyoto

The tuition at Japanese language schools in Kyoto is approximately 600,000 to 800,000 yen, and most schools charge an entrance fee of 50,000 to 100,000 yen. However, this is only a guideline, and the amount varies from school to school.

In many cases, fees for educational materials, insurance, and extracurricular activities are separate from tuition fees, so we recommend that you check with each school for details.

Estimated cost of living in Kyoto City: What is the cost of rent and food for a single person?

The cost of living while studying abroad is also an important consideration, although it is often overlooked. Prices in Kyoto are slightly higher than the national average, but tend to be lower than in regional cities. Rent for a one-room apartment ranges from 40,000 yen to 70,000 yen. Food expenses are generally between 30,000 yen and 40,000 yen per month. In addition, utilities, communication, and entertainment expenses will also be necessary, so it is important to plan your finances well in advance.

Points to consider when choosing a Japanese language school in Kyoto

There are several important points to consider when selecting a Japanese language school in Kyoto. Cost is of course an important factor, but it is also crucial to find a school that meets your goals and needs in terms of school characteristics and initiatives, dormitory availability, and the timing of enrollment.

Choose by cost

Many people want to keep costs as low as possible. There is a scholarship program that grants scholarships to students who meet certain criteria. Students who are confident in their enthusiasm and academic ability may wish to apply. The following are examples of schools that offer scholarships

  • ISI Language School Kyoto
  • Japanese Language Center
  • Kyoto Japanese Language Education Center Kyoto Japanese Language School
  • Kyoto International Japanese Language School
  • Kyoto YMCA International College of Welfare, Japanese Language Department
  • Kyoto Asuka Academia
  • Japan International Language Academy Kyoto
  • Kyoshin Language Academy Kyoto Chuo School, etc.

Select by Initiatives

Another important point is to choose a school based on its unique activities and initiatives. Check each school's website or pamphlet to learn what kind of classes and activities the school offers.

Many of the brochures also include a description of a typical day at the school. Please take a look at the pamphlet as it will give you a better idea of what it is like to be at that school.

Select by dormitory availability

Some Japanese language schools have dormitories owned by the school. Living in a dormitory is recommended because it is considerably less expensive than renting a regular apartment.

The following are examples of Japanese language schools that have student dormitories.

  • Ikueikan Kansai Language and Culture Academy
  • Kyoto YMCA International College of Welfare, Japanese Language Department
  • Japan International Language Academy Kyoto
  • Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (Japan)
  • ISI Language School Kyoto
  • Keishin Language Academy Kyoto Chuo School
  • Kyoto Japanese Language Education Center Kyoto Japanese Language School
  • Kyoto International Japanese Language School
  • Kyoto Exhbition International Academy
  • Kyoto Asuka Academia
  • Uryuyama Gakuen Kyoto Culture and Japanese Language School, etc.

Select by Admission Period

Enrollment times vary from school to school, but in most cases it is twice a year, in April and September. Some schools offer enrollment at other times of the year, so you can choose the one that best fits your schedule.

Preparation before entering a Japanese language school in Kyoto

Once you have decided to enroll in a Japanese language school in Kyoto, you must first apply for a Certificate of Eligibility. Prepare the necessary documents and submit them to the Immigration Office through the school. Once you receive the Certificate of Eligibility, proceed with visa issuance procedures at the Japanese embassy or consulate general in your home country.

It is also a good idea to have the necessary items for daily life ready before arriving in Japan. It is a good idea to prepare in advance items that are difficult to obtain in Japan.

After arriving in Japan, students will register as residents at the city hall or ward office and enroll in the National Health Insurance system. School procedures include payment of tuition fees and purchase of textbooks. At the pre-entrance orientation, you will receive a detailed explanation of school life, so please do not hesitate to ask the school any questions you do not understand.

5 Recommended Japanese Language Schools in Kyoto

Please take a look at our recommendations for Japanese language schools in Kyoto.

1. school corporation Ikueikan Kansai Language and Culture Academy

This Japanese school trains students to be internationally active, and is recommended for those who wish to enroll in top-ranked universities and graduate schools in Japan.

Our graduates have gone on to top-ranked universities in Japan, including the University of Tokyo and Nagoya University. Chinese, Korean, English, and Vietnamese speakers are on staff. Those who are new to Japan and anxious will feel at ease.

Annual tuition is 800,000 yen per year.

Tuition is for a 2-year course.
80,000 yen will be charged separately for the admission fee and other expenses for the first year.

Reference:Kansai Gakuin Language Institute

Uryuyama Gakuen Kyoto Culture and Japanese Language School

Our motto is "to develop human resources to build a better international society through understanding of Japan.

Courses are also offered according to the level of Japanese language proficiency. This program is suitable for those who have concerns about their Japanese language skills, as well as for those who are confident in their Japanese and wish to improve their Japanese language skills.

We also conduct projects in cooperation with Kyoto University of Art and Design and Kyoto College of Art and Design. We recommend this program for those who want to challenge themselves in various ways, such as classes to learn about Kyoto's culture and participation in clubs and societies.

Annual tuition and other fees are 864,000 yen.

This is the case of the Department of General Japanese.
120,000 yen will be charged separately for the first year for entrance fee, examination fee, etc.

Reference:Kyoto Culture Japanese Language School

3. Japanese Language Center

There are many students from various countries, 60% from Western countries and 40% from Asian countries.

Recommended for those who want to interact with people from all over the world.

The goal is also to learn practical Japanese so that students will be able to actually use the language.

They also offer a variety of activities to experience Japanese culture for a participation fee.

The cost, etc. is 891,000 yen per year.

This is for a one-year course.
Includes examination fee, registration fee, and materials fee.

Reference:Japanese Language Center　

Kyoto Japanese Language School

Our motto is to connect hearts and minds through language.

Divided into four different courses, students can choose to study full time or for a short period of time, depending on their objectives and time available. This course is also recommended for those who wish to study Japanese while balancing their time with other commitments.

The annual tuition is 752,400 yen.

The screening fee and enrollment fee of 88,000 yen will be charged separately for the first year.
The annual insurance fee of 28,000 yen will be charged separately.

Reference:Kyoto Japanese Language School

5. Kyoto Exhbition International Academy

Our motto is to "touch each other" through Japanese language education.

The way the classes are conducted is also unique. Many of the classes are taught using PowerPoint. Students will be able to download the slides and review them anywhere, making it easier for them to consolidate their learning.

We also place great importance on learning through actual experience, and put a lot of effort into field trips and hands-on activities. Students can experience a variety of activities such as Tanabata Festival, Christmas party, and speech contests.

Annual tuition and other expenses are 720,000 yen.

The admission fee, examination fee, etc. are included.

Reference:Kyoto Exhbition International Academy

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summary

There are many Japanese language schools with diverse characteristics in Kyoto. When selecting a school, it is important to carefully assess your goals and needs. In addition to tuition, living expenses, and other costs, you should also comprehensively consider the school's initiatives, the availability of dormitories, and the timing of enrollment.

To get a feel for the actual atmosphere of the school, we also recommend attending an open campus or information session. By hearing directly from school staff and current students, you will have a more concrete image of the school.

Preparation for admission is also complicated and time-consuming, including application for a certificate of eligibility, visa acquisition, and various procedures after arriving in Japan. It is important to make a schedule with enough time to spare and proceed systematically.

Osaka, which like Kyoto is located in the Kansai region, also has many excellent Japanese language schools, and we recommend that you consider both Kyoto and Osaka as options. Please see the article below for more information on Japanese language schools in Osaka.
▶︎ 5 Recommended Japanese Language Schools in Osaka: Including Schools with Low Tuition Fees

In addition, the following articles may be helpful when considering your career path after graduation from a Japanese language school. It contains comprehensive information on studying at Japanese universities and vocational schools.
▶︎ How to study in Japan and what are the procedures? Introducing recommended high schools, universities, vocational schools and scholarships.

Please take a look. You will find useful information for your study abroad planning.

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