Japan’s 150 Hour Japanese Study Requirement Explained (2026 Update)
Planning to study in Japan? Learn whether JLPT N5 or 150 hours of Japanese study are still required for language school applications in 2026.
Planning to study in Japan? Learn whether JLPT N5 or 150 hours of Japanese study are still required for language school applications in 2026.
Japan offers many different types of visas, officially called statuses of residence (在留資格, zairyū shikaku). Each visa lets you stay in Japan for a specific purpose, such as tourism, study, work, job hunting, or long-term residency. Many people planning to come to Japan for the first time or already here on a tourist visa often wonder: Which visa should I choose? How do I switch visas? What are the requirements? This guide explains everything you need to know.
Learn what you need to apply to study in Japan: passport, education, finances, motivation, and how DEOW Japan supports you step by step.
July intake lets you study Japanese in Japan for 1.5–2 years, enjoy summer culture, settle in by fall, and experience momiji. Apply early with DEOW Japan before the February deadline.
Reflect on studying in Japan this year and plan your next step. Learn about intakes, language schools, and study options with DEOW Japan support.
Learn what to expect when renting an apartment in Japan, from fees to contracts. Get tips, avoid pitfalls, and explore DEOW Japan housing like Casa Tokiwa.
Looking to study in Japan? Discover the best schools for international students — from top Japanese language schools to vocational and university programs. Explore options and get support from DEOW Japan to find your perfect match.
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.
Studying Japanese in Japan is a life-changing experience, but before you pack your bags, it’s important to understand how much it costs. The overall expenses depend on the type of program you choose, the city where you live, and the school you enroll in. On average, students should expect to prepare between ¥2,000,000 and ¥3,000,000 JPY for tuition and living costs when studying long-term in Japan.
So, you’ve decided to take on the monumental challenge of learning Japanese? Well, kudos to you! But before you dive headfirst into kanji characters and verb conjugations, you might want to familiarize yourself with the various Japanese language tests out there. After all, you need to show off your skills somehow, right?