One of the most common questions we receive from future students is: “Can I live and study in Japan without speaking Japanese?”
The short answer: Yes, it’s possible. But the more realistic answer is: it will be challenging, and in some cases, nearly impossible without at least a basic understanding of the language.
Setting Up Your Life in Japan
When you first arrive in Japan, there are several important steps you’ll need to take—opening a bank account, registering your address, setting up a phone, and applying for health insurance. We’ve put together a detailed guide on this process here: Timeline to Set Up Your Life in Japan.
While this guide will give you a clear roadmap, keep in mind that many of these steps involve communication with ward offices, banks, and phone providers. Some ward offices may offer English support, but others may not. Certain banks even have strict rules that require you to bring a Japanese friend to complete paperwork. Without language support, this part of your journey can become overwhelming.
Studying in Japan Without Japanese
In the classroom, some universities and specialized schools offer programs taught entirely in English (Kyoto University of Advanced Science (KUAS)). However, everyday life in Japan—shopping, visiting the doctor, asking for directions—almost always requires at least a basic level of Japanese. Even if you study at an English-friendly school, your daily life outside of class will be much easier if you can communicate in Japanese.
Preparing Before You Arrive
To make your transition smoother, DEOW Japan offers resources to help you build confidence before arriving:
- 150-Hour Japanese Language Preparation Program: Designed to give you a strong foundation, this program is ideal if you plan to study or live long-term in Japan. Completing it will not only help with daily communication but also prepare you for formal requirements like opening bank accounts or communicating with landlords.
- Private Online Japanese Lessons: Flexible and personalized, these classes let you study at your own pace before departure. Whether you want to focus on daily conversation or prepare for the JLPT, our instructors will tailor lessons to your needs.
Why Learning Japanese Matters
Even if you plan to study in an English-speaking environment, learning Japanese will enrich your experience. It allows you to make local friends, better understand cultural nuances, and navigate unexpected situations with confidence. More importantly, it opens doors to part-time work opportunities and helps you adapt smoothly to Japanese society.
DEOW Japan is also partnered with a wide range of Japanese language schools across the country to help you continue your learning once you arrive. Many of these schools go beyond language education by offering career counseling and advancement pathways—including entry into senmon gakko (specialized colleges) where you can train in fields such as design, technology, anime, or business. This means that by investing in your Japanese studies, you’re not only easing daily life but also creating long-term opportunities for your career and education in Japan.
Final Thoughts
So, can you live and study in Japan without speaking Japanese? Technically yes—but you’ll face challenges at nearly every step. From opening a bank account to completing basic paperwork, language skills will make your life much easier.
At DEOW Japan, we’re here to support you not only in choosing the right school but also in preparing for the reality of daily life in Japan. By starting your language studies early with our preparation program or online private lessons, you’ll set yourself up for a smoother, more rewarding experience abroad.
Ready to begin your journey?
Contact us today and take the first step toward studying and living successfully in Japan.
