Hokuriku University

Kanazawa

About

Since its launch in April 1994, the Japanese Language Course for International Students at Hokuriku University in Kanazawa, Ishikawa Prefecture, has been a leading program for learners who want to master Japanese language skills and experience Japanese culture firsthand. This intensive one-year program is designed not only for students preparing to enter Japanese universities but also for those seeking to build strong communication abilities, pass proficiency exams such as the JLPT (Japanese Language Proficiency Test) or EJU (Examination for Japanese University Admission for International Students), and enjoy a deeply immersive cultural experience in Japan.

Why Choose Hokuriku University’s Japanese Language Course?

Intensive Academic Training: With around 21 hours of classes per week, students study reading, writing, listening, speaking, grammar, and conversation in a structured environment that ensures steady progress.
University Pathway Support: Many graduates advance to undergraduate or graduate studies in Japan. The program provides exam preparation, guidance on research proposals, and academic support for students aiming to continue their education.
Cultural Immersion in Kanazawa: Known as “Little Kyoto,” Kanazawa offers the perfect backdrop for cultural learning. Students enjoy hands-on experiences such as tea ceremonies, kimono wearing, flower arranging, and gold-leaf crafts, along with excursions to historical sites and traditional neighborhoods.
Dedicated Student Support: Each student is assigned a homeroom teacher who provides academic advice and daily life support, making it easier to adapt to living in Japan.

Academic and Career Support

The university supports progression to undergraduate and graduate study, including entrance-test preparation and research proposals. Outcomes depend on individual results; the undated progression percentages in the university’s profile are not a current-cohort guarantee.

Hokuriku University Available Courses

Japanese Language Course

Description

Hokuriku University’s Japanese Language Course for International Students emphasizes balanced learning across the four core language skills: reading, writing, speaking, and listening. The curriculum also includes specialized classes in grammar, composition, conversation, listening comprehension, and exam preparation, ensuring students gain comprehensive language proficiency.

Classes are held Monday through Friday, with an average of 21 hours of instruction per week, providing an intensive and immersive learning environment. Advanced students may audit university subjects where available, while those aiming for graduate studies receive support in preparing research proposals and dissertations.

Enrollment Periods & Duration

April and September intakes. The course is normally one academic year; study up to two years may be arranged according to individual objectives. Confirm the appropriate length with the university. The published upcoming intake starts April 1, 2027.

Classes are held Monday to Friday, averaging 21 contact hours per week. The university’s sample timetable includes morning classes from 9:15 to 12:30 and afternoon sessions from 13:20 to 16:35; actual subjects and times depend on placement.

Course fees

Fee	April enrollment	September enrollment
Admission	¥50,000	¥50,000
One-year tuition	¥700,000	¥700,000
Accident and injury insurance	¥1,000	¥2,000
Payable after acceptance	¥751,000	¥752,000

The examination fee of ¥10,000 is paid separately when applying. Including it, the calculated first-year total is ¥761,000 for April or ¥762,000 for September. September insurance covers two financial years. Housing, living expenses and any costs outside the listed fees are separate. Confirm the fee applicable to a future intake.

April 2027 applications

Applications: September 25–October 30, 2026. Additional applications: November 1–December 27, 2026, only if places remain.

Admission requirements

Applicants must be non-Japanese nationals, aged 18 or over, with 12 years of schooling abroad or university-recognised equivalent. Japanese proof: JLPT N5, NAT-Test 5, J-TEST E, JPT 315, or 150 study hours. A guarantor and financial-support documents are required. Ask the university to confirm translations and the complete document checklist.

Official admission procedures for September 2026 / April 2027

Location and Housing

International Exchange Center: 1-1 Taiyogaoka, Kanazawa, Ishikawa 920-1180. Ask the center about current accommodation options and availability; rent and initial housing costs require a separate quote.