
★Introducing testimonials from student’s of ILS (Iidabashi Language School) before it became Coto Japanese Academy
“I am no longer living in that small English bubble in Tokyo”
Private lesson/ Nihongo cafe
Before joining Iidabashi Language School, I had become rather cynical about Japanese language learning in Japan.
I had tried studying in a variety of settings: language schools, volunteer centers, and even private lessons at cafes. However, I always felt dissatisfied. The lessons were usually too teacher centered, taught by teachers with little experience who provided scant error correction.
I wasn’t making much progress and worst of all learning Japanese was not much fun. I was beginning to resign myself to living in a small English bubble in Tokyo.
However, one day I decided to try the “Nihongo Cafe” at ILS. I thought if nothing else, I could enjoy a nice cup of coffee. The day started badly when I got lost and had to phone the staff for help. Fortunately, Hidari sensei came and rescued me and guided me to the school. I didn’t know it at that time but that act of kindness is typical of the staff’s attitude towards its students. I would discover that later.
Impressed with the warmth at the school and the sincerity of the teachers and staff, I signed up for private lessons that very day. Watanabe sensei assessed my level precisely and recommended a textbook to begin my studies. Now 18 months later, thanks to the support of my teachers, my Japanese has progressed and studying is fun.
I really appreciate the flexibility the school allows with the private lessons, especially when I am busy. I like it that I can sometimes change the day and time of the lessons. Also, when I am less busy I can take additional lessons to intensify my study.
I like it that the teachers at ILS correct my errors when I speak. I learn a lot from “free talk.” Because my errors are corrected, I am always motivated to speak. That motivation carries over outside the classroom as I look for opportunities to practise and apply what I am learning.
The school helps with that too as they often organize social events outside of school. I now have a solid basic grammar foundation which enables me to interact with greater confidence in Japan and enjoy my life here more fully.
Thanks to ILS, I am no longer living in that small English bubble in Tokyo.
Read my testimonial in Japanese!

Your ability to speak Japanese with precision made an impression on us since the first time we met you.
With your natural creativity and intelligence, you matched what you wanted to know with what you wanted to express, prepared carefully, and practiced thoroughly.Your speaking ability, listening ability and vocabulary have all improved dramatically. Now you are able to have everyday conversations smoothly and at natural speed, and we are always pleased to see the big changes every time we meet you at events.