Intercultural Institute of Japan

Tokyo

About

Intercultural Institute of Japan (Intercult) is more than just a language school — it’s a vibrant, global community based in the heart of Tokyo. Since its founding in 1977, students from 50+ countries have come together here, united by the goal of learning Japanese and building bridges across cultures. The only common language on campus? Japanese — making it a full-immersion experience from day one.

At Intercult, they believe in cross-cultural communication (CCC): the idea that truly understanding each other means going beyond differences in nationality, values, and customs. Under this philosophy, the school not only teaches Japanese, but also nurtures globally minded individuals who can contribute to a more connected world.

Whether you’re a complete beginner or someone aiming to become a Japanese language teacher, Intercult has a track record of excellence. Over 20,000 students have graduated from its language programs, and more than 2,000 have trained as teachers at its dedicated teacher training institute.

Main Features

Over 45 Years of Japanese Education Experience

A long-established school with proven teaching quality and a strong reputation since 1977.

Students from 50+ Countries

A welcoming, multicultural environment where you can make friends from around the world while practicing Japanese daily.

Qualified, Experienced Instructors

Teachers certified through the Japanese Language Teaching Competency Test or 420-hour training course ensure high-quality, consistent lessons.

Tokyo Location With Easy Access to Culture and Daily Life

Situated in central Taitō-ku, it gives students the perfect mix of traditional and modern Tokyo for study, exploration, and immersion.

Intercultural Institute of Japan Available Courses

Long-Term Course

Description

The Long-Term Japanese Course at the Intercultural Institute of Japan offers a comprehensive and flexible path for international students who want to study Japanese in Tokyo for 1–2 years with a student visa. With four annual intakes, multi-level classes from beginner to advanced, and specialized electives such as JLPT preparation, EJU preparation, business Japanese, and cultural studies, students can progress toward their academic or career goals at their own pace. The school provides strong university and graduate school guidance, personalized support through a homeroom teacher system, and frequent cultural exchange opportunities. With structured lessons, small classes, and dedicated support for both kanji and non-kanji learners, this long-term program is ideal for students who want serious Japanese language training and a full immersion experience in Japan.

Key Features

Beginner to Advanced Levels (N5–N1 / CEFR A1–C2)

The program is designed for all learners—students with basic study experience to highly advanced students. Each level corresponds to internationally recognized standards such as JLPT (N5–N1) and CEFR (A1–C2), ensuring structured, measurable progress. Students can enter at the level that matches their current ability and advance step-by-step through a curriculum focused on building real communication skills.

JLPT, EJU, university prep, and business Japanese courses

Students can choose specialized classes tailored to their goals. Whether you’re aiming for JLPT certification, preparing for the EJU to enter a Japanese university, or wanting to improve your academic Japanese, the school offers targeted lessons taught by experienced instructors. Business Japanese electives help learners master keigo, business etiquette, and workplace communication—ideal for those pursuing internships or careers in Japan.

Strong university and graduate school counseling

The school provides exceptional support for students who want to continue their studies in Japan. Advisors offer one-on-one counseling, help with school selection, guidance for research plans and statements of purpose, and interview preparation. A dedicated graduate school counseling system supports those aiming for master’s programs, helping students strengthen their applications and improve acceptance outcomes.

Cultural activities and Japanese exchange events

Beyond classroom learning, students participate in regular cultural experiences such as traditional arts, seasonal events, and excursions around Tokyo. The school also hosts交流会 (exchange events) where students can meet and interact with Japanese people, giving them real-life opportunities to practice conversation, make friends, and deepen cultural understanding.

Scholarships available for high-performing students

Students who maintain excellent attendance, strong academic performance, and positive classroom behavior may qualify for school scholarships. These include monthly stipends that help reduce financial burden. The school also guides students through external scholarship opportunities like JASSO, offering additional financial support for committed, motivated learners.

Enrollment Periods & Duration

Intake	Duration
April	1 year / 2 years
July	1 year 9 months
October	1 year 6 months
January	1 year 3 months

Total school fees
1 year	¥989,000
1 year and 3 months	¥1,218,350
1 year 6 months	¥1,432,600
1 year and 9 months	¥1,676,150
2 years	¥1,890,000

Fees included and payment

These totals match the school’s current website and 2026 Admission Guideline. Tax included. Screening ¥22,000 and admission ¥66,000 are already included, together with tuition, activities, facilities, insurance and materials; do not add them again. Housing and living costs are separate. In the one-year total of ¥989,000, tuition is ¥792,000, activities ¥44,000, facilities ¥33,000, insurance ¥10,000 and materials ¥22,000. The guide schedules screening ¥22,000 at application, ¥571,000 at COE issuance and tuition ¥396,000 after six months; longer courses have further payments. Confirm the applicable fees and final invoice for your intake.

Classes and applications

Monday to Friday: 9:15–13:05 or 13:25–17:15, four 50-minute lessons per day, maximum 20 students. Placement depends on level. The school’s domestic-document deadlines are late October of the previous year for April, late February for July, late April for October, and late August of the previous year for January. Overseas applicants should arrange the process with the school/office about six months ahead and confirm the deadline.

The 2026 guide lists high-school graduation or equivalent, financial support and at least 150 hours of Japanese study; higher-education applicants need 12 years of education. The comparison chart lists age 18+, while the detailed higher-education condition states 18 by school graduation: confirm individual age eligibility and the nationality-specific documents with the school. Admission and visa applications are reviewed individually. Scholarship availability and awards are subject to selection.

Official long-term course · Official fees · Official application guide

Weekly Course

Description

The Weekly Course at the Intercultural Institute of Japan (IIJ) is a flexible, communicative Japanese-language program designed for learners who want to study in Japan without committing to a long-term visa course. You can enroll on Mondays; complete beginners start on the first Monday of the month, and the course runs for as little as one week, making it ideal for people balancing work, school, or travel plans. Classes focus on real-life communication—with daily “I can do … in Japanese” themes, small class sizes for active participation, and engaging training to improve your speaking, vocabulary, kanji, and pronunciation. It’s a great way to build practical Japanese skills in a short time, supported by IIJ’s structured curriculum and original teaching materials.

Key Features

Flexible Enrollment & Duration

The Weekly Course allows students to start any Monday and study for as little as one week, making it ideal for travelers, short-term learners, or those with busy schedules. Beginners start at the beginning of each month, while more advanced students can join any week.

CEFR-Based Levels

The school organizes communicative levels based on CEFR and uses a placement assessment. Lessons are designed to build practical skills step by step, from basic greetings and routines to fluent conversation on social topics.

Practical Communication-Focused Lessons

Each lesson centers on a clear “I can do” goal, integrating grammar, vocabulary, kanji, and daily conversation practice. Shadowing exercises improve pronunciation, intonation, and natural speech, while focused kanji lessons build reading and writing skills.

Small Class Size & Personalized Support

Classes are small, usually 5–8 students, with a maximum of 14, allowing ample speaking time and one-on-one support from teachers. This interactive environment encourages active participation and faster language development.

Original Textbooks & Structured Materials

The program uses IIJ’s custom textbooks designed for short-term learning. Each lesson combines communication practice, grammar, kanji, and shadowing in a structured format, giving students a balanced and efficient learning experience.

Enrollment Periods & Duration

Duration	Tuition / returning student	New student total including admission
1 week	¥27,500	¥49,500
2 weeks	¥55,000	¥77,000
3 weeks	¥82,500	¥104,500
4 weeks	¥110,000	¥132,000
5 weeks	¥137,500	¥159,500
6 weeks	¥165,000	¥187,000
7 weeks	¥192,500	¥214,500
8 weeks	¥220,000	¥242,000
9 weeks	¥247,500	¥269,500
10 weeks	¥275,000	¥297,000
11 weeks	¥302,500	¥324,500
12 weeks	¥330,000	¥352,000

Tax included. New students pay admission ¥22,000 in addition to tuition; admission is waived for students who previously attended the Weekly or Long-Term Course. Textbooks and materials are charged separately according to level. Housing, insurance where required and living expenses are separate. Confirm the final quote before payment.

Schedule and eligibility

Study from one to 12 weeks. Classes are Monday to Friday, 10:00–13:10, four 40-minute lessons per day, excluding school holidays. The school publishes an average of 5–8 students, maximum 14. The 2026 guide lists a minimum age of 15 at the start. Complete beginners enter on the first Monday of the month; other levels can enter on Mondays, subject to availability and holidays. Confirm that your permitted stay covers the course period.

Official Weekly Course · Official fees

Accommodation

The school publishes dormitory rooms at ¥72,000–¥75,000 per month for shared twin rooms and ¥138,000 for private occupancy, with utilities included. The three-month initial payment is ¥296,000 / ¥305,000 for shared room types or ¥544,000 for private occupancy, including entry/deposit/facilities. Optional bedding is ¥13,000; renewal is normally every three months with a ¥10,000 renewal fee plus rent. Confirm vacancies, deposit conditions and the final quote. Hotel, homestay and other private options are also available by arrangement.

Official accommodation guide