If you’re in Nagoya anyway, learning Japanese can make it a much more enriching experience. Not only will it help you communicate better with your Japanese co-workers, but it can also make your stay in Japan more enjoyable and meaningful. Fortunately, there are many options available for learning Japanese in Nagoya, from private lessons to full-time courses. To help you get started, we’ve compiled a list of the most highly recommended schools in the area.
Nagoya YWCA School of Japanese Language
I PERSONALLY recommend this option, especially the full-time courses. The Nagoya YWCA School of Japanese Language is a popular choice among expat wives who want to learn Japanese. The school offers longer and more intensive courses that focus on passing Japanese language qualifications or entering a Japanese university. The Nagoya YWCA uses traditional teaching methods in a friendly environment, which is not as corporate as other schools. Additionally, you can arrange private instructors through the YWCA, which also trains Japanese Language Instructors in a different program.
ywca.nagoya/en
Location: 2 Chome-3 Shinsakaemachi, Naka Ward, Nagoya, Aichi 460-0004 (Map)
TEL: 052-951-5527
E-mail: nihongo(at)nagoya-ywca.or.jp
IPE Academy
IPE Academy is a language school located in Nagoya that has been providing Japanese lessons for more than 35 years. Unlike traditional schools that follow a strict curriculum and teach in large classrooms, IPE Academy offers personalized lessons in small groups. The school’s approach is conversational, creative, and highly customizable, making it a popular choice among students who want to learn Japanese in a fun and engaging way. The owner is actually very active in the local foreign theater community and helps Nagoya Players run their children’s theater program. Highly recommended.
www.ipeacademy.com
464-0076 Aichi, Nagoya, Chikusa Ward, Honencho, 14−13 クリーンビル 2階 (map)
052-712-6200
The Yamasa Institute
www.yamasa.org
1 Chome-2-1 Hane Higashimachi, Okazaki, Aichi 444-0832 (map)
0564558111
Berlitz Japanese
If a major multinational corporation employs you, it is highly likely that your organization has utilized the services of Berlitz, either in Japan or in any of the 60 other countries where they operate language centers. Due to their extensive reach, Berlitz is the most popular choice among expats in Nagoya. However, they are also the most expensive and rigid option available. Berlitz employs conventional teaching techniques in a corporate environment.
www.berlitz.co.jp/english
Various – Nagoya-Ekimae, Nagoya-Kanayama, Nagoya-Sakae
0120-5-109-23
I.C. Nagoya
I.C. Nagoya is a popular choice among expats in Nagoya, second only to Berlitz. It has been a long-time provider of language classes and is known for its NOT relaxed Japanese university-like atmosphere. The classes are flexible and offer both full-time programs and customized individual sessions, catering to the needs of young students from overseas.
icn.gr.jp/en-school
Dainagoya Bldg 3F 3-28-12 Meieki, Nakamura-ku, Nagoya-shi, 450-0002 (map)
ECC Japanese Language Institute
ECC Japanese Language Institute offers traditional teaching methods for Japanese learners.
www.ecc-nihongo.com/en
Aichi, Nagoya, Naka ku, Kanayama 1-16-16, Kanayama building 5F (map)
Free or Cheap “Community Center” Classes
This is a great way to meet a wide variety of students from around the world, and have some fun. If you’re looking for less formal classes, check out the Nagoya International Center’s Calendar. It’s a free monthly magazine designed for foreign residents in the Nagoya area. In addition to community center classes, you can find details about local events, opportunities to experience Japanese culture, and practical advice for daily life in Japan.
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