Eng 
日本語 
Whether you’re a short-term visitor looking to explore Tokyo while learning Japanese, or a full-time student seeking to master the language on a student visa, Shibuya is home to some of the top-rated Japanese language schools.
In Shibuya, you can enjoy the vibrant restaurant scene and karaoke bars, and visit iconic landmarks like the famous Shibuya Crossing. All of this might make you think that Shibuya isn’t an ideal place to study, when in fact, this is where can experience the best of both worlds: fun and education!
In this article, we’ll dive into the best Japanese language schools in Shibuya. With experienced teachers, immersive courses, and modern facilities, these language schools offer a fantastic learning experience that caters to different goals and preferences.
Whether you’re interested in long-term or short-term programs, we hope this list will help you find the perfect fit for your language learning journey.
Coto Academy Shibuya (Short-term School)
Of course, we can’t miss this article without mentioning Coto Academy! Our fourth location will be in Shibuya and is due to open in the autumn of 2023, making it even more convenient for students to learn Japanese with us.
What makes Coto Academy unique is that we put more focus on conversation practices and practical skill development. Our goal isn’t just to help students achieve Japanese language fluency, but to help them create an enjoyable, barrier-free life in Japan. Because of this, our courses are geared to help you be confident in speaking Japanese.
Inside the classroom, we also keep the class fun and casual by allowing more chances for interaction between teachers and students. Outside the classroom, we host a lot of community events and speaking practices, like our popular Coffee Chat, sumo tournament, hiking, and more!
Key takeaway:
- Part-time, flexible classes for short-term visitors and residents in Tokyo
- Classes focus on conversation practices and helping you build confidence in speaking Japanese
- Fun, friendly classes
- You can enroll anytime you want
If you are interested in studying in a fun, flexible class in Shibuya or Tokyo, join Coto Academy! You can contact us for a free consultation and level check to get started!
Shibuya Gaigo Gakuin (Long Term School)
Shibuya Gaigo Gakuin stands out among long-term language schools in Tokyo for its less-intensive curriculum. While many schools prioritize academics for specific goals like university entrance exams or job hunting, Shibuya Gaigo Gakuin focuses on Japanese language communication.
Because of this, it’s popular among foreigners who want to stay in Japan for more than one year to simply explore the country and keep their choices open!
This may seem counter-intuitive to some, as most international students studying Japanese have the goal of building a long-term life in Japan. However, for those who prefer a more laid-back curriculum and wish to have more free time after class, Shibuya Gaigo Gakuin is a perfect choice.
We’ve directly heard from students there who said they love the school because they don’t feel the need to “compete” in a class, and they don’t spend the majority of their time prepping for the next day’s lesson and quizzes. This allows them to pursue their interests outside of class.
If you’re looking for a student-visa-sponsored language program that immerses you in Japanese culture and provides opportunities for exploration while having fun, Shibuya Gaigo Gakuin is an ideal option.
Key takeaway:
- Ideal for students who prefer a relaxed and fun class that is less intensive
- Diverse students in a small school
- The enrollment period is April, July, October, and January
Location: 八光ビル 2F-3F, 1-34-6 Takadanobaba, Shijuku-ku, Tokyo 169-0075
Note: currently, the school has temporarily relocated to Takadonbaba in Shinjuku.
As a partner of top language schools across Japan, Coto offers free support for applying to Shibuya Gaigo Gakuin and provides information on how to apply. Simply contact us, and we will get back to you within 24 hours!
ISI Harajuku & Shibuya (Long Term School)
ISI is one of the largest Japanese language schools in Japan, with six schools in different locations, including Kyoto and Nagano. Each school branch focuses on different course programs.
If you’re interested in pursuing a career in Japan, ISI’s Harajuku and Shibuya campuses are specially designed with comprehensive job-hunting support and a business Japanese curriculum. Because it’s designed for individuals who want to secure employment in Japan after graduation, note that a Bachelor’s degree is typically required.
ISI Shibuya, in particular, hosts a lot of job fairs and internship programs through their extensive network and corporate partnerships. In class, students have the opportunity to participate in group work and practice delivering presentations. Currently, the Harajuku campus has 300 students while the Shibuya campus has 600. Contact us to learn more about ISI and how to apply!
Key takeaway:
- Perfect for students who want to find a job in Japan
- Focus on business Japanese
- Relatively big school with diverse students
- The enrollment period is April, July, October, and January
Naganuma Japanese Language School (Long-Term School)
Founded in 1948, Naganuma Japanese Language School is one of the oldest language schools in Tokyo. What sets this school apart is its diverse range of programs that cater to students’ needs and residency status.
For those applying from overseas, you can study Japanese under specialized programs designed for university preparation, business communication, and graduate school preparation. As an approved institution by the Governor of Tokyo, the school can also provide support to students with visa and employment-related matters.
Like most long-term Japanese language schools in Shibuya, they also offer student visa sponsorship.
Younger students above the age of 15 can also take advantage of Naganuma’s short-term winter and summer programs. For residents already living in Tokyo, evening and private lessons are available to fit busy schedules.
Naganuma Japanese Language School boasts a network of more than 30,000 graduates and welcomes students from over 50 countries, offering a multicultural and immersive environment for language learning.
Key takeaway:
- It’s a great option for younger students looking to go to a vocational school or university
- The lesson pace can be too fast and intensive for some students
- The enrollment period is April, July, October, and January
J’s Language School (Short-Term School)
J’s Language School’s private Japanese lesson is particularly popular. With customizable course options, including telephone conversations, email writing, kanji, and even conversational study through reading Manga, you can tailor your studies to meet your specific needs. Group lessons consist of 2-4 students and run for either 50 or 80 minutes.
The school also has Japanese teachers with English language skills, which might be useful for English natives as it’ll help during explanations.
Key takeaway:
- Good choice for English-native speakers
- Popular private lesson
Location: 3-16-10 三浦ビル 2F, Higashi, Shibuya-ku, TOkyo 150-0011
AiiA Tokyo Ikuei Japanese School (Long Term School)
Relocated to Shibuya in 2014, Aiia Tokyo Ikuei Japanese Language School is managed under the AiiA cooperation. The company started in Southeast Asia and has successfully expanded its operations to countries all around the world. The President of the company established the school as the first step towards helping people work actively in the international field.
They offer various programs and curricula designed to help students memorize modern Japanese quickly and efficiently. Additionally, to ensure that students who have recently arrived in Japan feel at ease, they have staff members who can speak English, Chinese, Korean, and Vietnamese to assist with any problems related to life in Japan.
Their long-term language program with visa sponsorship is targeted at students who aim to go into graduate school, university, or vocational school.
Key takeaway:
- Multilingual support
- Popular among Asian students
- Good for students who want to pursue higher education in Japan
- The enrollment period is April, July, October and January
Location: 2-9-13 Shibuya, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo 150-0002
Bunka Institute of Language (Long-Term School)
Bunka Institute of Language (or BIL) offers two sets of courses unique from other Japanese language schools in Shibuya: a teacher training and an interpreter course.
The teacher training program prepares non-Japanese students to become language instructors in their home countries. Students (and soon-to-be teachers) are trained to meet the requirements set by the Agency for Cultural Affairs, Government of Japan.
The business Japanese interpreting course aims to develop professional expertise and advanced proficiency in interpretation and translation, preparing students for employment in Japan or their home countries.
Besides that, because BIL is technically part of Bunka Gakuen, students can also take exams in order to go on to study at any of the schools within Bunka Gakuen. The university is particularly famous for its fashion design program.
Key takeaway:
- Perfect for students who are passionate about learning Japanese
- Interpreter and teacher training program unique from other schools
- April and October intake
Location: 3-22-1 Yoyogi, Shibuya City, Tokyo 151-0053
Shibuya LALL Japanese Language School (Long-Term School)
Shibuya LALL Japanese Language School, established in October 2017, is operated by the LALL Group, a corporation consisting of 16 companies with expertise in real estate, finance, and amenity businesses.
The school offers a curriculum focused on college preparation, designed for those aspiring to advance to Japanese universities, graduate schools, vocational schools, or other academic institutions. The faculty and clerical staff at Shibuya LALL provide support for students to study in Japan, including academic career and work support, multilingual support,
Students also benefit from an academic career and work support, multilingual support, and health care and housing support through the LALL Group’s real estate company and hospital facilities.
Key takeaway:
- Complete life and after-graduation support
- Suitable for those who want to pursue higher education in Japan
- Admission is in April and October
Location: 1-29-9 Hatagaya, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo 151-0072
Study at the Best Japanese Language School in Shibuya!
With so many options for studying Japanese in Shibuya, finding the perfect course that aligns with your goals and needs can be challenging. One factor to consider is whether you are planning to study for a long duration on a student visa or a short period.
If you’re looking to study Japanese in Shibuya or at Coto Academy, please fill out the form below, and our knowledgeable staff will be in touch with you!
What are some options for studying Japanese in Shibuya?
There are several language schools in Shibuya that offer Japanese language courses for foreigners. Some popular options include Shibuya Gaigo Gakuin, Coto Academy Shibuya, and ISI Shibuya and Harajuku.
What should I consider when choosing a language school in Shibuya?
When choosing a language school in Shibuya, consider factors such as the school’s curriculum, teaching methods, class sizes, accreditation, location, and cost. It’s also important to determine whether you want a short-term or long-term course, and if the school offers support for obtaining a student visa if needed.
Can I study Japanese in Shibuya on a short-term basis?
Yes, many language schools in Shibuya offer short-term courses for tourists and short-term visitors who want to study Japanese for a limited period, like Coto Academy. These courses may range from a few weeks to a few months and may focus on conversational Japanese, basic Japanese, or specific skills such as business Japanese or JLPT exam preparation.
Can language schools in Shibuya help with obtaining a student visa?
Yes, many language schools in Shibuya provide support for obtaining a student visa for long-term courses. They can guide you through the visa application process, provide the necessary documents, and assist with any questions or concerns you may have.
How can I get started with my student visa application?
If you would like to know more visa application process, provide the necessary documents, kindly contact us at Coto School Finder and we will and assist you with any questions or concerns you may have.
