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.
At DEOW Japan, we work directly with partner schools across the country, helping students choose the right Japanese language school, apply for a student visa, and even arrange accommodation in Japan. Whether you want a short-term language experience or a full two-year study abroad program, we guide you every step of the way.
Short-Term vs. Long-Term Japanese Language Study
Short-Term Courses (1–3 months)
Perfect for students who want to experience Japan while improving their Japanese quickly. These programs usually do not require a student visa, and total costs are much lower, covering tuition, housing, and daily expenses.
Long-Term Courses (6 months–2 years)
If your goal is to reach JLPT N2 or N1, prepare for higher education, or seek job opportunities in Japan, then a long-term program is ideal. These require a student visa and a larger financial commitment, but they provide a deeper immersion into Japanese life and culture.
At DEOW Japan, we help students apply for both short-term and long-term courses, ensuring you find the program that fits your goals and budget.
Tuition Fees for Japanese Language Schools
Japanese language schools in Japan typically offer courses ranging from 6 months up to 2 years, depending on your study goals. The most common enrollment options are:
- 6 months (one semester)
- 1 year
- 1 year and 6 months
- 1 year and 9 months
- 2 years (maximum)
On average, tuition fees range from:
- ¥600,000 to ¥800,000 JPY per year for the most affordable schools
- ¥800,000 to ¥1,000,000 JPY per year for mid-range schools
- ¥1,000,000 to ¥1,300,000+ JPY per year for schools in Tokyo and larger cities, or schools with more specialized programs
The exact tuition depends on the school, city, and length of your stay. Schools in Tokyo and Osaka tend to be slightly more expensive compared to schools in Fukuoka, Nagoya, or regional cities.
At DEOW Japan, we partner with a wide network of Japanese language schools across Japan — from affordable regional schools to well-known Tokyo academies. We help you compare programs, apply for the right one, and prepare your documents so you can focus on your studies.
Living Costs in Japan
In addition to tuition, you should also budget for living costs:
- Accommodation: ¥40,000–¥80,000 per month, depending on city and housing type (DEOW Japan can help arrange dorms, share houses, or apartments).
- Food & Transportation: Around ¥30,000–¥50,000 per month.
- National Health Insurance: Approx. ¥20,000 per year.
- Personal Expenses: ¥10,000–¥30,000 per month depending on lifestyle.
Total estimated living expenses range from ¥100,000–¥150,000 per month in major cities like Tokyo and Osaka, while smaller cities may be more affordable.
👉 See our blog to read more about living expenses in other cities
How DEOW Japan Helps You
Applying to study abroad in Japan can feel overwhelming, but DEOW Japan makes the process smooth:
- Free counseling to choose the right Japanese language school
- Support with visa applications
- Assistance in finding accommodation near your school
- Continued support even after you arrive in Japan
We partner with top schools across Tokyo, Osaka, Nagoya, Kyoto, Fukuoka, and more, making it easy to find a program that matches your budget and goals.
👉 Learn more about our Japanese language preparation programs
👉 Explore our student accommodation options in Japan
Final Thoughts
Studying Japanese in Japan is an investment in your future. While tuition fees and living costs vary, most students prepare around ¥2,000,000–¥3,000,000 JPY for a year of study and daily living. With DEOW Japan’s support, you can focus on your studies while we handle the details of applications, visas, and housing.
