The Japanese Spirit:
What is it like to live and study in Japan?
Studying in Japan is crossing the portal into a parallel reality where the past and the future coexist in perfect harmony. It is the country of ultra-fast bullet trains, illuminated skyscrapers, and artificial intelligence, but also the country of silent shamanic shrines, tea ceremonies, and the philosophy of absolute respect for others.
Living in Japan as an international student is a lesson in citizenship and a daily adventure. You will learn to navigate iconic neighbourhoods like Akihabara or Harajuku, experience the best gastronomy in the world in street markets, and live in a society where crime is practically non-existent. Japanese schools offer a welcoming and dynamic environment, focused not only on grammar, but on making you live the local day-to-day through visits and cultural dynamics. It is the definitive destination for those who want to expand their horizons in a radical way.
What are the benefits of studying in Japan?
Absolute Safety and Civility:
O Japão é consistentemente eleito um dos países mais seguros do mundo. Losing a wallet or smartphone on the subway and receiving them intact a few hours later is the norm, providing invaluable peace of mind for parents and students.
Immersion in the World Capital of Pop Culture:
If you are a fan of Anime, Manga, Gaming, or J-Pop, studying in Japan allows you to explore the cradle of these industries, with access to exclusive events, shops, and themed cafés that only exist in the archipelago.
Huge Professional Appreciation:
Japanese is the language of one of the world’s greatest economic powers. Knowing how to speak the language, even at an intermediate level, opens golden doors in technological, design, automotive, gaming, and international trade industries.
Most Popular Subject Areas and Courses
General & Intensive Japanese
Focused on the four main skills (conversation, writing/Kanji, reading, and listening),
with classes strictly divided by levels.
Japanese + Pop Culture (Otaku Culture)
Unique programs that combine language classes in the morning with manga drawing workshops,
guided visits to animation studios, and exploration of geek culture in the afternoon.
Business Japanese and JLPT Preparation
Intensive courses for those who want to learn the strict rules of Japanese corporate etiquette (Keigo) or
pass the official proficiency exams (JLPT).
Traditional Summer Courses
Short-term summer courses that integrate light lessons with activities such as cooking, Japanese calligraphy, visits to temples, and summer festivals (Matsuri).
Programmes You Can Study in Japan
Language Courses
Flexible programs from 2 weeks up to several months.
You can stay in modern student residences, shared apartments (Share Houses), or live with a local family (Homestay) for maximum immersion.
Summer Courses
Seasonal all-inclusive packages (course, accommodation, activities, and excursions) designed for young people and adults who want to make the most of their summer holidays to discover Japan in a structured and fun way.
Where will you study? The major Japanese hubs.
We have mapped out the best schools in the country’s most strategic cities:
Tokyo:
As the largest and most stimulating metropolitan area in the world, this city is the nerve center of fashion, technology, and entertainment. It is ideal for those looking for an intense cosmopolitan life and wanting to study in neighborhoods like Shinjuku, Shibuya, or Ikebukuro.
Kyoto:
As the traditional heart of Japan, this city is full of UNESCO World Heritage temples, bamboo forests, and geisha districts. It is perfect for those looking for a calmer pace focused on historical cultural immersion.
Osaka:
Known as “Japan’s kitchen” and for the extreme and relaxed friendliness of its inhabitants, this city is a young, vibrant hub famous for its nightlife and exceptional street food.
Entry Pathways and Academic Requirements
Quick and Simple Enrollment
Entering a language school in Japan is a direct process, simply managed by StudyWing:
NLevel Zero Accepted: You do not need to know any Japanese before embarking. Schools welcome students from the absolute zero level (Beginner).
Deadlines for Long-Term: If you want to take a language course longer than 3 months (with a student visa), schools require the application to be submitted about 5 to 6 months in advance, due to strict immigration deadlines.
How Much Does It Cost to Study in Japan?
Short-Term Programs (Up to 3 months):
The average cost of a Course + Accommodation package is around 450€ to 650€ per week. Youth Summer Courses with daily activities and full board are at the top of this range.
Long-Term Courses (Semester/Annual):
Tuition fees for language schools are generally between 5.500€ and 7.000€ per year (accommodation paid separately).
Cost of Living
Estimated Budget:
Between 600€ and 900€ per month. Contrary to popular myth, eating in Japan is very affordable (there are excellent restaurant chains with full meals at 5€-7€). The greatest financial weight lies in accommodation and local transport (train/subway).
Visa Information and Legal Requirements
Tourist Visa Exemption (Up to 90 days):
Most European Union countries do not need a prior visa for language courses lasting less than 90 days. They travel only with their passport and receive a landing stamp at the airport.
Student Visa (More than 3 months):
Mandatory for long-term courses. The Japanese school applies for the CoE (Certificate of Eligibility) with immigration in Japan and, after approval, the final visa is issued at the Embassy of your country of origin. Proof of financial funds for the stay is required.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Yes, but only if they have a long-term Student Visa (stays longer than 3 months). With this visa, you can apply for a part-time work permit (Shikakugai Katsudou Kyoka) at the airport upon arrival. With tourist status (up to 90 days), working is strictly prohibited.
General courses for adults accept students from 16 or 18 years old, with no upper age limit. Meanwhile, Summer Courses and youth holiday camps have specific programs designed for teenagers (usually between 14 and 17 years old).
You don’t need to! The schools are perfectly prepared to teach you everything from absolute zero. However, if you want a little “superpower” for your first few days, taking a look at the two basic alphabets (Hiragana and Katakana) is an excellent idea. You can get your eyes used to them in just a few days using free mobile apps. It’s not mandatory, but it will give you a huge wave of satisfaction when you can read the first street signs and menus right after landing!