5 of the Best Japanese Language Schools London Has to Offer

I don’t know about you, but I always say that choosing the right language school is similar to picking the right pair of boots. It has to fit well.

You’re considering Japanese classes, but you also need to consider several factors. These include class size, how they teach, and whether they offer online classes for days when you can’t leave home.

Most Japanese language schools in London have a system. They’ll place you in a class that matches your skill level, even if you’ve been studying on your own for a while. They’re really good at figuring out what’s right for you.

For those Londoners who want an immersive, personal Japanese experience, we’re going to take a look at some of the best Japanese language schools in London.

Understanding the Importance of Learning Japanese in London

Okay, so learning any language is an adventure, but there’s something extra special about learning Japanese in London.

London has a huge Japanese expat community. There’s estimated to be around 33,000 Japanese nationals living in Greater London!

As a result, London’s got all these cultural experiences that you can tie right into your studies.

I’m talking about Japanese film screenings, exhibits, seminars, and top-notch cuisine, – things you can really sink your teeth into while you’re perfecting your Japanese.

There’s the epic Japan Matsuri that takes place each year in Trafalgar Square, and the Hyper Japan experience for pop-culture enthusiasts.

And with cultural centres like Japan House and the Japan Foundation, you’ll be learning Japanese and living it all wrapped up into one!

Plus, you’ll have the chance to meet and make friends with a diverse group of people, both in and out of the classroom. So, in addition to learning the language, you’ll also build a cool circle of friends.

Getting into Japanese in London doesn’t just help you learn the language; it opens up a world of opportunities. It’s like stepping into a new and exciting world.

Are you ready for it?

ITO Japanese School London – Premier Choice for In-depth Language Learning

When it comes to Japanese language schools in London, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a better place than the ITO Japanese School. Located on Oxford Street in the heart of London, this school is like a direct flight to Japan.

ITO uses the ‘Direct Method’ of teaching, which means all classes are fully in Japanese from the get-go! You’re going to be speaking Japanese faster than you can say ‘sushi’.

The school offers classes at every level, from beginner to advanced. And with free level checks and trial lessons, there’s nothing to lose. You won’t go wrong with ITO!

• Website: https://www.itojapanese.com/
• Email: info@itojapanese.com

LingoClass Asian Language School – Offering a Multi-Faceted Approach to Japanese language

LingoClass Asian Language School teach Japanese alongside Korean and Chinese. Featuring both group and private Japanese lessons, they make learning a new language as easy as eating sushi with chopsticks. 

Their classes are conveniently located in the centre of Holborn, easy enough to find if you ask me. With an average of just 6 people per class, there’s plenty of one-on-one time with the instructor. Plus, with a maximum of just 10 students per class, you’re not going to feel lost in the crowd.

By the way, they don’t only offer your standard language learning. At LingoClass you can also experience cultural activities, and they even teach Japanese business etiquette for those corporate high flyers.

• Website: https://lingoclass.co.uk/ 
• Email:  info@lingoclass.co.uk
• Address: 20 Red Lion Street, London, WC1R 4PS
• Phone: 0208 935 5183
• Prices: From £210 per term

Japan Foundation London

The Japan Foundation is not just a language school – it’s a cultural hub promoting Japanese arts, culture and language in the UK. Which means not only do you get to learn Japanese, you benefit from the full immersion experience with plenty of opportunities to go above and beyond your studies!

The Japan Foundation offer classes at the beginner and intermediate levels from their location in Kensington, London. Live further away? They also have a handy directory of Japanese tutors and schools all over the UK!

• Website: https://www.jpf.org.uk/language/courses.php
• Email:  info.language@jpf.go.jp 
• Address: 101-111 Kensington High Street, London, W8 5SA

SOAS Language Center – A Promising Option for Advanced Learners

The SOAS Language Center is London’s premier hub for the study of Asian languages. As you’d expect, they’re like a well-oiled machine when it comes to conducting Japanese language courses.

SOAS is part of the University of London, but you don’t have to be a student to attend their Japanese short courses.

They offer several courses, tailored according to the learner’s proficiency level, each running for about 10 weeks. Beginner, elementary, pre-intermediate, intermediate, and upper intermediate courses, they’ve got it all.

So, whether you’ve just boarded the train or you’re speeding along, there’s something for everyone. And the best part, they do offer courses that could be individually tailored. I think that’s pretty neat!

• Website: https://www.soas.ac.uk/languagecentre/ 
• Email: languages@soas.ac.uk
• Address: SOAS University of London, 10 Thornhaugh Street, Russell Square, London, WC1H 0XG
• Phone: +44 020 7898 4888 

The Robust Curriculum at City Lit

City Lit is for the folks who love options. Do you want to learn in a classroom or from the comfort of your couch? They offer both in-person and online options to teach Japanese, so you can choose what suits you best.

As you would expect from such a London institution, there are courses at several levels, and even specialisms such as writing and Japanese etiquette.

• Website: https://www.citylit.ac.uk/courses/languages 
• Address: 1-10 Keeley St, London WC2B 4BA
• Phone: 020 3871 3111

Summing Up the Best Japanese Language Schools London Provides for Global Learners

The bottom line is, whether you’ve dabbled in Japanese on your own or are starting off fresh, the language schools in London are a total game changer.

They offer everything from beginner courses to advanced lessons, all taught by top-notch Japanese tutors.

But we’re not just talking about your run-of-the-mill, pen and paper lessons here. No siree. These schools get you involved in the language in a whole new way, gearing you up to master speaking skills, reading, and writing.

Now, when it comes to the quality of teaching, you’ll find some of the most competent Japanese teachers in London at these schools. They’re not just native speakers, but passionate educators who’ll guide you through the ins and outs of Japanese.

And hey, if you’re big on technology, that’s okay too. Several of these schools offer both in-person and online courses in London.

One more thing. If your aim is to study Japanese in an environment that’s as close to a Japanese setting as possible, Japanese London’s language schools are your best bet. They’re some of the best places to learn Japanese, with their cultural immersion programs and a wealth of experiences. 

Fancy learning online at your own pace instead? Here’s our top recommended online course: