Thinking about studying Japanese in Japan but not sure how long to stay? Whether you’re planning a brief language and culture experience or aiming to reach fluency and build a career in Japan, choosing between a short-term or long-term Japanese language program is a key decision.
Let’s break down the differences, benefits, and how each path can shape your future in Japan.
Short-Term Japanese Language Programs
Duration: Usually from 2 weeks to 3 months
Visa type: Temporary Visitor Visa (no student visa required)
Short-term programs are perfect for those who want a taste of life in Japan without a long-term commitment. You’ll attend intensive language classes, participate in cultural activities, and meet international classmates — all while improving your communication skills in a short time.
Benefits of Short-Term Study
- Flexible duration: Great for summer, winter, or gap-year breaks
- Cultural immersion: Participate in festivals, workshops, and city tours
- No long visa process: Easy entry on a tourist visa
- Boost your skills quickly: Ideal for beginners or travelers wanting a crash course
- Affordable: Lower tuition and living costs compared to long-term programs
Recommended for: Students, working professionals, or travelers who want to experience daily life in Japan while improving their Japanese in a fun, interactive way.
Long-Term Japanese Language Programs
Duration: Usually 6 months to 2 years
Visa type: Student Visa (requires school sponsorship)
Long-term programs are designed for students who are serious about achieving fluency and possibly building a career or pursuing higher education in Japan. Classes focus not only on grammar and conversation but also on reading, writing, JLPT preparation, and cultural understanding.
Benefits of Long-Term Study
- Deeper language mastery: Develop reading and writing fluency for daily life and work
- JLPT (Japanese Language Proficiency Test) preparation: Essential for university and job applications
- Cultural and career guidance: Many schools offer job-hunting support or university prep courses
- Visa extension opportunities: Stay longer and transition into work or higher education
- Networking: Build lasting friendships and connections in Japan
Recommended for: Students aiming to enter a Japanese university, specialized college, or start a career in Japan after language school.
Learn more about schools offering long-term programs through DEOW Japan’s partner language schools.
From Language Study to a Career in Japan
Many students begin with a long-term Japanese language program and transition into:
- Vocational schools (専門学校 / Senmon Gakkō)
- Universities (大学 / Daigaku)
- Employment opportunities in Japan
Language proficiency opens doors to industries such as IT, design, hospitality, and education. Schools often provide career support services, including resume workshops, mock interviews, and company introductions.
If you’re aiming to build your future in Japan, long-term study is the first step toward your career path.
When to Apply
Applications for Japanese language schools in Japan open four times a year:
April (Spring Term)
July (Summer Term)
October (Autumn Term)
January (Winter Term)
April and October are the most popular intakes and tend to fill up quickly — spots are limited!
How DEOW Japan Helps You Apply
At DEOW Japan, we work directly with Japanese language schools to guide you through every step of your application — at no cost to you!
Our team helps you:
- Choose the right school and program length
- Prepare your application documents and visa (learn more)
- Connect with accommodation partners in Japan
- Receive ongoing support before and after your arrival
Whether you’re planning a 2-week immersion or a 2-year language journey, DEOW Japan ensures a smooth and successful experience from start to finish.
Contact us today
to find the perfect Japanese language program for you — applications for the next intake are open now! Apply Below!
See our Partnered schools here!
