For families relocating to Japan with children, choosing between international and local schooling is one of the most consequential decisions of the move. This guide covers Japan’s international school landscape — the types of schools, curriculum options, locations, costs, and how to choose the right fit for your family.
Types of International Schools in Japan
Japan’s international school sector divides into several distinct categories:
- Western curriculum schools (American, British, IB): Teach in English using home-country curricula. Designed for children who may return to their home country or continue international education. Examples: American School in Japan (ASIJ), British School in Tokyo, Canadian International School of Tokyo.
- International Baccalaureate (IB) schools: Offer the globally recognized IB curriculum (PYP, MYP, DP programs). Many international schools in Japan are IB-authorized. Strong preparation for university entry worldwide.
- European national schools: German, French, Swiss, and other national schools serve their respective communities. Often government-subsidized, making tuition lower than purely private international schools.
- International sections of Japanese schools (国際学級): Some Japanese public and private schools have international student sections that teach in multiple languages. A middle path between fully international and fully Japanese education.
Major International Schools by City
Tokyo:
- American School in Japan (ASIJ) — Chofu. One of Asia’s most established international schools. American curriculum, PreK–12.
- British School in Tokyo — Shinjuku/Shibuya. British curriculum (EYFS through A-levels).
- Canadian International School — Minato-ku. IB curriculum.
- Tokyo International School — Minato-ku. IB PYP and MYP.
- Deutsche Schule Tokyo — Yokohama. German national curriculum, government-subsidized.
- Lycée Français International de Tokyo — Minami-Azabu. French national curriculum, partially subsidized.
- Nishimachi International School — Minato-ku. Bilingual (English/Japanese), IB.
- New International School of Japan (NISJ) — Multiple locations. More affordable international option.
Osaka/Kansai:
- Osaka International School — Mino City (Osaka). American/IB curriculum, PreK–12.
- Canadian Academy — Kobe. IB, longstanding international school community.
- Marist Brothers International School — Kobe. Catholic, IB curriculum.
- Kyoto International School — Kyoto. IB PYP and MYP.
Nagoya:
- Nagoya International School — American curriculum, PreK–12.
Fukuoka:
- Fukuoka International School — IB, PreK–12.
Tuition Costs
International school tuition in Japan is substantial:
- Major Tokyo international schools (ASIJ, British School): ¥2,500,000–¥4,000,000/year per child
- Mid-tier international schools: ¥1,500,000–¥2,500,000/year
- European national schools (German, French): ¥800,000–¥1,500,000/year (government subsidy reduces fees)
- Application and enrollment fees: typically ¥200,000–¥500,000 additional
Many corporate relocation packages include international school tuition as a benefit — confirm what your employer covers before selecting a school based on cost alone.
Application Process and Timing
International schools in Japan are oversubscribed, particularly in Tokyo. Key timing considerations:
- Begin the application process as early as possible — ideally 12–18 months before your target start date
- Many top schools have waiting lists; apply to multiple schools simultaneously
- Academic year in international schools typically follows the home-country calendar (September start for UK/US schools; April for some Japanese-schedule schools)
- Most schools require: application form, academic records from previous school, teacher recommendations, and sometimes an entrance assessment
Choosing the Right School
Key factors to evaluate:
- Curriculum alignment: Will your child return to your home country’s school system? Choose a curriculum that maintains that pathway.
- Language of instruction: Fully English, bilingual (English/Japanese), or other languages.
- Location and commute: Japan’s international schools are not evenly distributed — school location can significantly influence where you live.
- Community fit: Visit, talk to current families, and assess the school culture. International school communities are often tight-knit; the right fit matters beyond curriculum.
- Duration of stay: If your stay is short-term (1–3 years), prioritizing continuity with your home curriculum makes sense. For long-term stays, bilingual or IB options offer more flexibility.
School availability, tuition fees, and application requirements change annually. Contact schools directly for current information. This guide provides practical orientation, not educational advice.