If you’re moving to Japan with children, choosing a school is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. Here’s what you need to know about international schools vs. Japanese public schools.
Options for Foreign Children in Japan
| Option | Language | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| International school | English (mostly) | Very high | Follows international curriculum |
| Japanese public school | Japanese | Free | Full immersion, challenges for non-speakers |
| Japanese private school | Japanese | Moderate–High | Higher academic standards |
| Bilingual school | Japanese + English | High | Growing option in major cities |
Japanese Public Schools
Children of foreign residents are entitled to attend Japanese public schools for free (elementary and junior high school). Your local city hall will direct you to the nearest school.
Pros
- Free — no tuition
- Children learn Japanese fast through immersion
- Form deep local friendships
- Excellent for families staying long-term
Cons
- Classes entirely in Japanese — no English support at most schools
- Difficult for children arriving without Japanese
- Different curriculum from international systems
- Adjustment period can be stressful for children
Best for: Families staying in Japan long-term, children who are young (easier language acquisition), families not planning to return to home-country schooling.
International Schools
Japan has numerous international schools, mostly in Tokyo, Osaka, Nagoya, Kobe, and Yokohama.
Curricula Available
| Curriculum | Notes |
|---|---|
| IB (International Baccalaureate) | Globally recognized, rigorous |
| British curriculum (IGCSE/A-Level) | Strong in science and humanities |
| American curriculum | Familiar to US-based families |
| Canadian / Australian | Available at some schools |
Major International Schools in Tokyo
| School | Location | Curriculum |
|---|---|---|
| British School in Tokyo | Shibuya / Nagamachi | British |
| American School in Japan (ASIJ) | Chofu | American |
| Tokyo International School | Minato | IB |
| St. Mary’s International | Setagaya | American (boys) |
| Seisen International | Setagaya | American (girls) |
| Canadian International School | Minato | Canadian / IB |
Cost
International school tuition in Japan is among the most expensive in the world.
| Level | Annual Tuition Range |
|---|---|
| Kindergarten | ¥1,500,000–¥2,500,000 |
| Elementary | ¥1,800,000–¥3,000,000 |
| Middle/High School | ¥2,000,000–¥4,000,000 |
Plus enrollment fees (¥500,000–¥1,500,000 one-time), annual fees, school supplies, uniforms, and activities.
Company expat packages often include school fee allowances — confirm with your employer before choosing a school.
Bilingual and Japanese-English Schools
Growing options in Tokyo and Osaka. These schools teach in both Japanese and English, preparing children for both systems.
Examples:
- Musashino Higashi School (Tokyo)
- Keisen Jogakuen (Tokyo) — bilingual program
- Various private schools with English programs
Cost: ¥800,000–¥2,000,000/year — cheaper than full international schools.
How to Choose
Questions to ask yourself:
How long are you staying? 2 years → international school. 10+ years → consider Japanese school for integration.
What age are your children? Under 8 → Japanese school immersion works well. Older children → harder language transition; international school may be better.
What’s your budget? International school costs are significant. Confirm employer support.
What curriculum continuity do you need? If returning to UK, British curriculum maintains continuity. Returning to US, American curriculum.
Where will you live? School location should factor into neighborhood choice — long commutes are hard on children.
Enrollment Process
Japanese Public School
- Notify your city hall of enrollment intent
- City hall assigns your school based on address
- Receive documents (usually in Japanese)
- Start — some cities provide Japanese language support teachers
International School
- Research and visit schools (waiting lists can be long — apply early)
- Submit application and school records
- Entrance assessment (some schools)
- Pay enrollment fee and secure place
- Apply for any student visa if required
Waiting lists: Top international schools in Tokyo often have waiting lists of 1–2 years. Start your research before you arrive in Japan if possible.
Bottom Line
Short-term expats: international school maintains curriculum continuity and avoids the language barrier. Long-term or permanent residents: Japanese public school offers full integration and is free. The best choice depends on your family’s timeline, the children’s ages, and your budget. In Tokyo, apply to international schools early — popular ones fill up fast.