How long have you been teaching?
This is my 6th year.

Why did you decide to teach Japanese?
When I was a student, I studied abroad in New Zealand and had the chance to observe a Japanese class. It left a strong impression on me because it was completely different from the Japanese language education I had experienced in Japan. I was also inspired by seeing my university friends studying Japanese. In addition, I have always enjoyed sharing Japanese culture with people from other countries, which is why I chose this career.

How do you enjoy teaching Japanese at this school?
Although there are challenges, I truly enjoy it. In addition to teaching Japanese, I am also involved in introducing Japanese culture, etiquette, as well as providing guidance for students’ further education and career paths. Because of this, I often communicate with students outside of class as well. Every time I see a student feel that they have “achieved something” using Japanese, I feel a strong sense of fulfillment.

What do you value most when teaching Japanese?
I always focus on making learning student-centered. I choose teaching materials according to the students’ needs and current level. Since every class is different, I may use the same materials but approach them in different ways. I also make sure students don’t just sit passively by including plenty of pair and group activities in lessons.

What are the students at this school like? Can you share a moment when you felt a sense of achievement?
Many of our students aim to enter universities, graduate schools, or vocational schools in Japan, while others want to find employment here. They come from diverse backgrounds, including China, Vietnam, Myanmar, Thailand, Russia, and Taiwan. Because the students are multinational, the only common language is Japanese, and we teach Japanese in Japanese. Whenever students achieve their goals, I feel a sense of accomplishment myself. I’m especially happy when a student’s admission to a school or a job placement is decided.

How would you recommend this school to students who are still choosing where to study?
I believe Canaan Tokyo Japanese Language School is a place where you can “become the person you want to be.” Our teachers and staff respect each student’s goals and dreams, and we support them in achieving them. We don’t just teach Japanese; we also provide guidance in daily life and career planning, holding multiple one-on-one meetings to find solutions together with students. For students just arriving in Japan, there may be many unfamiliar challenges, but we always take the time to understand their situation and provide support. That’s why I would encourage students to come to Canaan Tokyo with confidence.

Apart from teaching, what other activities do you enjoy at this school?
We regularly organize events. Recently, we went on a school trip to the National Museum of Nature and Science in Ueno, Tokyo. Students used the Japanese they had learned in class to explore exhibits, walk around with friends, and participate in a quiz rally—it was a lot of fun for them. We also collaborate with local universities, inviting university students to join our classes, giving our students an opportunity to learn and interact together.

Do you have any advice for students who are choosing a school?
The most important thing is to choose a school that matches your own goals and needs. To do this, it’s a good idea to carefully check the school’s website or, if possible, talk directly with the staff and compare the information with your expectations. There are many Japanese language schools, each with very different teaching philosophies and student objectives. Before deciding, I strongly recommend doing thorough research to find the best fit for you.