Since 2000, Coto Academy has helped more than 15,000 learners not only study Japanese but also fall in love with the language. What began as a volunteer-run class in a two-bedroom apartment has grown into a global community.
Today, Coto Academy welcomes students from more than 50 countries, including residents, short-term visitors, expats, travelers, and university students. We have four campuses across Tokyo and Yokohama operating under the same mission: to make Japanese accessible, personal, and deeply connected to life in Japan.
Next year, we are proud to announce an exciting new chapter in our journey: the opening of Coto Japanese Institute. Coto Japanese Institute will be a visa-eligible language school, reviewed by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT). This milestone allows us, for the first time, to accept applications from overseas and sponsor student visas, enabling you to begin your Japanese journey directly from abroad.
What is the Coto Japanese Institute?
For over 25 years, Coto Academy has been a leading language school in Tokyo and Yokohama, best known for short-term, conversation-focused Japanese lessons. While this approach has helped thousands, it also means that we were not (yet!) ready to bring students to Japan.
Coto Japanese Institute is Coto Academy’s long-term Japanese language school that can finally sponsor student visas. For the first time, we are accepting students from overseas and sponsoring them to come to Japan to learn the language and build a future!
Even the name reflects this new direction. Institute implies a place of depth, commitment, and growth — not just a temporary stop, but a foundation. It represents our dedication to our students’ long-term success while preserving the flexibility and learner-centered philosophy that define Coto Academy.
Where is the Coto Japanese Institute located?
Our brand-new Japanese language school, Coto Japanese Institute, will be located in Kokubunji, a quiet and welcoming residential area in West Tokyo.
The area is served by the JR Chuo Line, which takes you to Shinjuku via the Special Rapid Line in just 20 minutes. The Seibu Kokubunji Line also connects Kokubunji Station to Higashi-Murayama and extends toward Kawagoe. Around twenty universities are located in the area, including Tokyo Gakugei University, which has shaped some of Japan’s most integral educational policies.
Beyond its academic appeal, Kokubunji is not short of scenic and historical landmarks. The historic Musashi Kokubunji Temple offers tranquil ponds, walking trails, and open green spaces that reflect the area’s deep cultural roots. Just two minutes from the station, Tonogayato Garden features vibrant momiji (maple leaves), bamboo groves reminiscent of Kyoto, and preserved Musashino Plateau landscapes.
Course Overview
Coto Japanese Institute offers both long-term and short-term Japanese language courses, though we encourage students to take full advantage of our long-term study. Here, we emphasize career success and sustained progress. Our standard long-term program is one year in duration, with the option to extend based on individual learning goals and visa eligibility.
1. Practical Japanese & Career Readiness
This one-year curriculum progresses from beginner to intermediate to provide students with a solid foundation in the Japanese skills needed for daily life. You’ll gradually build vocabulary, confidence, and communication skills.
2. Advanced Japanese Communication & Career Growth
This advanced course is designed for learners who aim to use Japanese in professional settings, with a strong focus on real-life application. Students prepare for the JLPT while expanding their vocabulary, refining grammar, and strengthening practical communication skills for both everyday interactions and the workplace.
How Much Support Do I Get From Coto Japanese Institute?
A lot! At Coto Japanese Institute, students receive a far more comprehensive education from start to finish, and beyond.
Our support begins even before you arrive in Japan. We assist with the student visa application process, provide pre-arrival guidance, and support you through your transition to life in Japan. Yes, this includes helping you get settled during your first week on essential procedures and daily necessities. This includes assistance with housing, local amenities, and everyday life in Japan.
Most importantly, Coto Japanese Institute offers robust career support and cultural integration programs. What does this mean?
- Career guidance from dedicated counselors
- Support with Japanese-style resumes and job interviews
- Networking events and career-focused workshops
- Opportunities to connect with local communities through events
Application Timeline: Application for 2026 Opening Soon!
Applications for the 2026 intake at Coto Japanese Institute will open soon.
We encourage prospective students to join our waitlist to be among the first to receive updates, including application launch announcements, special offers, and exclusive sneak peeks as we prepare for opening. Waitlist members will also have opportunities to stay more closely involved with the launch of Coto Japanese Institute and receive early guidance on the application process.
FAQ
How is Coto Japanese Institute different from Coto Japanese Academy?
While Coto Japanese Academy focuses on short-term courses and does not offer a student visa, Coto Japanese Institute offers a 1-year program and can issue a student visa for its overseas students. The curriculum also focuses on not just Japanese language, but preparation for job hunting and career support.
Can I join Coto Japanese Institute if I am a beginner?
Yes! We offer a 1-year language program tailored for beginners to help them build a strong foundation in the Japanese language. However, we always recommend learning some Japanese beforehand to get a head start. In some cases, we may also require students to have completed at least 150 hours of Japanese study.
Will classes be in Japanese or English-supported?
Can I work part-time on a student visa?
Yes, students who come to Japan on a student visa can work up to 28 hours per week if they have a part-time work permit. We always advise students to ensure their part-time commitments do not distract from their main purpose: learning Japanese.
What are the requirements to apply for a student visa?
In general, we require applicants to be at least 18 years old by the time they arrive in Japan. We might also ask you for other documents, such as proof of financial income, a copy of your passport, a high school or university diploma, and a bank certificate. Applying for a student visa is a very personal process, so our staff will be able to provide you more details once we get in touch!