About School
Established in 1970, Shibuya Gaigo Gakuin welcomes students from around the world into a vibrant learning community, helping them discover the Japanese culture through high-quality courses and cross-cultural activities. The Japanese language school is conveniently located in the heart of Tokyo, allowing you to experience traditional and modern Japan from the metropolis’ prime district.
With a strong curriculum that emphasizes practical Japanese skills, Shibuya Gaigo Gakuin Japanese Language School has a reputation for providing fun and friendly classes for students from around the world.
The school, known for its casual approach and lively class atmosphere, offers a one or two-year long-term course, with admissions open throughout the year. They’ve also built an excellent student-teacher community.
Shibuya Gaigo Gakuin is located in Takadanobaba, an already popular student hangout spot in Tokyo. It is only three train stops from Shibuya, the capital city’s main commercial and entertainment. With tons of nightlife and entertainment activities, shopping and dining options, the school’s strategic location makes it the perfect place for students to study and have fun.
Multilingual staff who speaks English, France, Italy, Chinese and Japanese will be there to support you in your new life in Japan.
School Facilities
School building is new, so expect clean learning equipments and an ideal classroom environment.
Student Support
Shibuya Gaigo Gakuin offers essential student support, including career guidance, part-time job support and assisting your life in Japan.
Available Courses
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Student Testimonial
Other reasons?
The second reason is the location. I first studied here when the school was in Shibuya, which is always a really fun place to explore.
Speaking of lessons, how do you like your classes, classmates and teachers?
I came from a small town in Italy, so going to a big city like Tokyo was a big shock. Still, everyone here felt like family. The classes are slower-paced when you’re starting out because you need time to learn basic Japanese, but eventually, as you get to more advanced levels, the pace will speed up.
What do you enjoy most about studying here?
I feel like I’ve grown alongside the school, which also relocated a few times. That’s why I love it here: you feel like you’re part of a community.
We used to go out to dinners with our teachers. That was a cool experience because you get to see them outside the classroom, so it feels like you’re seeing them in a different light!
Any favorite place you like to go to near the school?
When I have the time, I’ll go to a cafe. In Italy, the cafe culture is entirely different: you sit, you order an espresso, you drink it and you’re done. Here, a cafe is a place for you to wind down, do some work and hang out with friends. I like this approach more. I would order an Americano and use it to catch up on my homework or do some research.
Who do you think this particular school is perfect for?
Definitely, those who want a balance between enjoying life in Japan and studying Japanese. The teachers are well-prepared for their lessons, and they have years of teaching experience under their belt. You’ll have time to do part-time jobs, explore the country and get a deeper knowledge of the language.
Graduate Interview
Why did you choose Shibuya Gaigo Gakuin?
This school was what I was looking for: more relaxed and casual lessons, with more focus on practical communication.
What did you miss the most about studying there?
Definitely my morning classes — just waking up, meeting my friends and studying Japanese for three and a half hours. Retrospectively, I really miss studying and having that set of schedules. The teachers were so kind too — I was impressed with how they handled class, even online. In the last few semesters, we had a solid class. Everyone was super motivated and friendly.
What are you doing now? How has your life been?
It’s been great! I have a juggle between a few part-time jobs. I worked for an eikawa, which I actually started working at while I was in school. I teach English classes at an academy for kindergarten to high school students. I’m also doing some translation work for a Japanese company.
What did you find surprising (or not surprising) when you studied in this school?
There was no English spoken, even on the first day of class. I knew a bit of textbook Japanese, but I was still very much a beginner. It’s way different when it’s real conversations with a native speaker. That was probably the most shocking part, but it was the most rewarding too. You realize you can learn more by not understanding everything.
How has the school prepared and supported you for life in Japan after you graduated?
They taught me a lot of patience, for sure. Learning a new language can be really frustrating, so it gave me a lot of empathy. That’s how I manage to take on a lot of work.
Any goals you want to accomplish while you’re in Japan?
I’d want to have more solid Japanese skills. My goal is to pass JLPT N2 — not for work but to challenge myself. There are a lot of things I want to do, too. I want to hike all over Japan, live outside Toyo and experience living in rural areas.
Any advice for those who want to study in Japan?
Just do it. That’s the best way to learn. Once you step out of that comfort zone and find that it’s okay to make mistakes — and not be embarrassed about it — that will make the difference.
Teacher Interview
What do you enjoy most teaching at Shibuya Gaigo Gakuin?
That would be having a close relationship with my students. I get to meet everyone from different countries, and it’s always been rewarding and fun when teaching them.
We have a unique curriculum where the lessons progress gradually. The transition to talk basic to advanced Japanese seem effortless because of it.
Tell us about the time you felt most proud or accomplished for your students here.
When my students tell me that they find the classes actually fun. To help someone discover the joy of learning Japanese — that’s probably on my top list.
And then there are moments when you’re teaching, and you hear them say, “Oh! This Japanese is practical! We can use it.” You see their eyes lit up.
How would you describe Shibuya Gaigo Gakuin?
It’s a Japanese language school and community that will connect with people from all over the globe. Our school welcomes diverse nationalities, so it’s the perfect place for people who want to make international friends, explore Japanese culture and learn to speak Japanese.
What’s your teaching philosophy?
Teach Japanese that is useful and make classes fun.
I always encourage the idea and feeling that studying Japanese is fun — a motivation that all of them share, even when they all have different reasons to learn the language. I want to make a direct impact on each student and help them achieve their goals by teaching practical Japanese.
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