Nihongo Center
Learn Japanese fast with a hands-on method focused on real communication.
Nihongo Center is a Japanese language school located in the heart of Kyoto, founded in 1979. It offers a unique educational method, designed for students to develop real communication skills in a few weeks. Its international atmosphere, central location, and hands-on approach make learning Japanese fast, stimulating, and effective.
APPLY NOW FOR 2026
Places are limited and we advise starting at least 8 months before the desired date.
Why choose to study at Nihongo Center?
Fast, communicative learning
The program allows students to have basic conversations in just 7 weeks thanks to a dynamic and practical method.
International environment with students from multiple countries
Daily interaction in Japanese with colleagues from different continents accelerates fluency and creates an active multicultural environment.
Prime location in central Kyoto
Located in Shijo Kawaramachi, an area with shops, restaurants and easy access to the metro and buses.
Cultural activities and events with Japanese people
The school organizes activities such as rafting, ceremonial tea, cultural visits, and events with Japanese university students.
Varied accommodation options
Individual apartments, share houses and homestay for those who want a deeper dive
Support for arubaito (part-time work)
Students with visas can work up to 28 hours per week.
Nihongo Center School Location and Accessibility
Shijo Kawaramachi is the modern commercial and entertainment heart of Kyoto, where department stores, shops, and Pontocho’s nightlife converge.
DISTANCE TO TRAIN STATIONS
Kyoto-Kawaramachi Station (4 min)
Programs Courses at Nihongo Center
GENERAL INTENSIVE JAPANESE COURSE
Rapid development of practical communication in Japanese, including essential grammar, conversation, polite expressions, and preparation for JLPT levels N5 to N1.
Course Duration
With a Study Visa: From 1 to 2 years old
Start of Classes
April and October
Schedule
Advanced: 9:00 to 12:30 (5 times a week)
Intermission: 9:00 to 12:30 (5 times a week)
Beginner: 1:15 p.m. to 4:45 p.m. (5 times per week)
Introduction 1:15 p.m. to 4:45 p.m. (5 times per week)
Proceeds
-
Environment and Location:
Nihongo Center is located in the heart of Kyoto, a vibrant area with shops, accessible public transportation, restaurants, supermarkets, and easy access to cultural activities. This location allows you to balance study, daily life and part-time work, offering students a complete urban experience.
-
Educational Method:
The school stands out for its fast and practical method. Students develop real communication skills in just seven weeks, thanks to a conversation-focused approach, active interaction, and a class structure designed to encourage the use of Japanese from day one. Levels cover from JLPT N5 to N1, with dynamic classes, pair work and group activities.
-
International Environment:
Students come from diverse countries, which creates a multicultural environment where Japanese becomes the common language. This environment facilitates constant practice, strengthens confidence and encourages cultural exchange, enriching both the academic and personal experience.
-
Student Life Support:
In addition to teaching, Nihongo Center organizes cultural activities such as rafting, tea ceremonies, festivals, sessions with Japanese guests, and excursions. It also provides support with accommodation (single apartment, share house or homestay) and guidance on arubaito for visa students, allowing for deep integration into Japanese life.
DO YOU WANT TO STUDY AT THIS SCHOOL?
Take the 150-hour online Japanese course with us that will obtain the level required to study in Japan and get ready to live your experience in Japan. With Doki Doki Japan, the journey starts today.
Step inside Nihongo Center
Dates and costs to study at Nihongo Center:
Did you know that Japanese language schools in Japan have 4 key start dates per year?
The start date you choose not only defines when you start your studies, but also the maximum duration of your visa. For example, if you start in April, you can opt for a full 2-year program, which is the maximum duration allowed. On the other hand, if you choose July, October or January, the visa time will be adjusted to the duration of the course you select, which can range from 1 year and 3 months to 1 year and 9 months.
April (2 years): Ideal for those looking to learn the language from scratch and prepare for university studies or specialized jobs.
July (1 year and 9 months): An option that covers all course content with added flexibility.
October (1 year and 6 months): Perfect for those who want an intensive program that accelerates their learning.
January (1 year and 3 months): A shorter duration but equally focused on achieving results.
