9 Best Japanese Language Classes In Singapore

The popularity of Japanese language classes in Singapore has surged as more Singaporeans embrace Japanese culture through anime, cuisine, and travel.

But, aside from gaining cultural knowledge, many experts have also concluded that learning Japanese brings several advantages, such as enhancing cognitive abilities and boosting career prospects in fields like tourism, hospitality, and international trade.

Because of that, Japanese has been one of the most commonly studied languages in Singapore, with some schools offering Japanese-Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) preparation courses to help students achieve internationally recognised certifications.

With these advantages in mind, whether you’re a beginner or looking to advance your skills, there are numerous classes available to meet your needs.

Here’s a list of the best Japanese language classes in Singapore to kickstart your journey!

What are the Benefits of Attending Japanese Language Classes?

Are you deciding whether to self-learn Japanese or attend Japanese language classes? If you are, then know that attending Japanese classes offers a wealth of benefits that go beyond language acquisition, such as:

1. Structured Curriculum: Classes follow a systematic syllabus designed to develop your skills progressively, covering grammar, vocabulary, kanji, and conversational techniques suited to your level.
2. Expert Instruction: Experienced instructors, often native speakers, provide real-time corrections, cultural insights, and effective teaching strategies to accelerate learning.
3. Comprehensive Skill Development: Classes ensure balanced progress in speaking, listening, reading, and writing, enabling you to use Japanese effectively in real-world scenarios.
4. Accountability and Motivation: Regular schedules and assignments foster discipline and consistency, crucial for language retention and mastery.
5. Cultural Exposure: Many programs integrate lessons on Japanese etiquette, traditions, and values, offering a holistic understanding of the language within its cultural framework.
6. Certification Readiness: Courses are often aligned with the JLPT framework, equipping you to earn internationally recognised credentials that validate your proficiency.
7. Social and Professional Networking: Group settings encourage collaboration and practice, while proficiency in Japanese can enhance career prospects in industries like trade, tourism, and technology.

By joining Japanese classes, learners not only gain linguistic competency but also cultural fluency, valuable certifications, and opportunities for personal and professional growth.

How Long Will It Take For Me to Learn Japanese?

The time it takes to learn Japanese depends on your goals, study habits, and the intensity of your learning. To achieve basic conversational skills for everyday situations, consistent study of 1–2 hours daily or attending weekly classes can take about 6 months to 1 year.

For intermediate proficiency, such as passing JLPT N4 or N3 and gaining a deeper understanding of grammar and vocabulary, it may require 1–3 years of regular study. This level allows for more complex conversations and comprehension of commonly used expressions.

Advanced proficiency, including fluency for professional or academic use, typically takes 3–5 years or more, depending on the level of immersion and practice. At this stage, you can engage in discussions on specialised topics and handle complex language structures.

For those in full-time courses or immersed in Japan, conversational fluency can be achieved in as little as 6–12 months. Factors like your native language, dedication, access to resources, and opportunities for real-life practice significantly impact your progress. Regular exposure to Japanese media, conversation, and study tools can further accelerate learning.

1) Bunka Language School

Bunka Language School is a premier language institution that uses a learning approach centered games, roleplay, and conversations, making learning the Japanese language through their school engaging and effective.

• Types of Classes: Bunka offers courses tailored to different proficiency levels, including pre-elementary, elementary, intermediate, pre-advance, advanced classes. They also provide specialized courses focusing on conversational Japanese and Business Japanese, as well as preparation for the JLPT.
  
• Learning Format: The school provides both in-person and online classes designed to facilitate direct interaction and immediate feedback. All classes listed in their website are hybrid unless otherwise stated.
  
• Skills Focus: Bunka’s curriculum covers comprehensive language skills, including reading, writing, speaking, listening, grammar, kanji, and vocabulary. The emphasis on practical communication skills ensures students can effectively use Japanese in real-life situations.
  
• Learning Methods: The school employs interactive learning techniques such as games, role-playing, and conversational practice to create an engaging educational experience. This approach helps students internalize the language naturally and enjoyably.
  
• Instructor Expertise: Bunka’s instructors are experienced and dedicated professionals committed to providing high-quality Japanese language education. Their expertise ensures that students receive accurate and insightful instruction throughout their learning journey.

Bunka Language School also prepares students for the JLPT, offering courses that align with the test’s requirements. Additionally, their programs are eligible for UTAP and SkillsFuture funding, providing learners with recognized avenues for financial support.

The school has earned a steady 4.8 rating in Google Reviews, with customer testimonials centering its innovative teaching methods, easily understandable pace and structure, and their teachers’ commitment to language education.

Their emphasis on interactive learning through games and roleplay has been well-received by students seeking an engaging approach to mastering Japanese.

Schedule of Classes:

Classes are open Mondays to Sundays. Duration of each class usually ranges from 4-12 sessions, 3 hours per session. Specific schedule of classes per level can be checked here.

Price:

• Pre-Elementary: $180 (In-Person)
• Elementary 1: $450 (In-Person); $405 (Online)
• Elementary 2: $450 (In-Person)
• Elementary 3: $450 (In-Person); $405 (Online)
• Intermediate 1: $480 (In-Person); $432 (Online)
• Intermediate 2: $480 (In-Person); $432 (Online)
• Intermediate 3: $480 (In-Person); $432 (Online)
• Intermediate 4: $480 (In-Person); $432 (Online)
• Pre-Advance 1: $270 (In-Person)
• Pre-Advance 2: $270 (In-Person); $300 (Online – 12 sessions)
• Pre-Advance 3: $270 (In-Person)
• Advanced: $270
• Business Japanese: $270

Contact:

231 Bain Street #02-39 Bras Basah Complex, Singapore 180231
Phone: 9465 8892

2) Berlitz Singapore Language & Assessment

Berlitz Singapore’s Japanese language course, along with their other language courses are primarily designed for adults, utilizing the renowned Berlitz Method of perform, an immersive teaching approach proven to be one of the fastest ways to learn a new language. Their courses are tailored to suit a variety of learning preferences, ensuring accessibility and effectiveness for all students.

• Types of Classes: Berlitz Singapore provides in-person and online private instruction, semi-private small group classes, and self-paced online courses, catering to different learning needs and schedules.
  
• Learning Format: Every lesson follows the present, practice and perform structure. New learning content is first presented by your instructor, after which you will learn through guided and general practice, ending the lesson with a performance of what you have learnt.
  
  Private and semi-private lessons are delivered live with an instructor, while self-paced courses allow learners to progress at their own pace, supplemented by occasional instructor support.
  
• Skills Focus: The courses emphasize practical communication skills, focusing on speaking, listening, reading, and writing. Through the Berlitz Method, students engage in immersive language use from the first session.
  
• Learning Methods: The Berlitz Method incorporates real-life language application through conversation, role-playing, and situational exercises. Lessons are interactive and designed to simulate real-world scenarios for immediate practical use.
  
• Instructor Expertise: Berlitz instructors are highly qualified professionals with extensive teaching experience. They provide personalized attention, guiding students toward their specific language goals.

Berlitz is a globally recognized language education provider with over 140 years of expertise. Students receive certification upon course completion, reflecting the high-quality and reputable standards of Berlitz education

The school also garners a steady 4.9 rating on Google Reviews, showing that Berlitz’s longstanding presence and global reputation in language education underscore its commitment to effective teaching methodologies and student success.

Schedule of Classes:

Berlitz Singapore offers both in-person and online Japanese language courses tailored to various learning preferences. tudents can personalise their learning schedule at their local language center depending on their availability.

For Intensive full-day lessons, if full-day classes are not practical, students can also select shorter sessions to suit their needs.

Note that the center’s office hours are Mondays to Fridays, 8:30am to 9:15pm, Saturdays, 8:30am to 5:30pm, Sundays, 8:30am to 1pm, and are closed on public holidays.

Price:

• Private In-person Classes: $1900 (20 lessons); $3300 (40 lessons)
• Private Online Classes: $1800 (20 lessons); $3100 (40 lessons)
• Semi-private In-person Classes: $1000 (20 lessons)
• Semi-private Online Classes: $950 (20 lessons)
• Intensive In-person Classes: Price varies depending on number of lesson and lesson structure. To get price estimate, please fill out the form in this link.

Installment payment is available for private students enrolling/re-enrolling in a minimum of 80 lessons.

Contact:

391B Orchard Road #16-01 Ngee Ann City Tower B Singapore, 238874
Phone: 6733 7472

3) Hougang Japanese Language School

Hougang Japanese Language School, established in 1983 by Mr. Kenji Kitahara, is Singapore’s first Japanese language school. Registered with the Ministry of Education, the school offers affordable courses for all proficiency levels, with in-person and online learning options.

The school has two branches where they conduct in-person classes, one in Hougang and in Jurong.

• Types of Classes: Hougang Japanese Language School offers a range of classes, including Elementary 1 and Elementary 2, which focus on foundational language skills. It also provides Intermediate and Advanced levels for students who want to deepen their proficiency.
  
  In addition, the school offers specialized JLPT preparatory courses and practice workbooks to help students achieve certification.
  
• Learning Format: Classes are conducted both in-person at Hougang and Jurong locations, and online with small class sizes (max 8 students) to ensure personalized learning.
  
• Skills Focus: Students develop reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills, with an emphasis on pronunciation and mastery of the Japanese writing system.
  
• Learning Methods: Courses are supported by proprietary textbooks, class recordings, and homework assignments, giving students multiple resources to reinforce their learning.
  
• Instructor Expertise: Classes are taught by certified local educators and native Japanese speakers, with Mr. Kenji Kitahara providing leadership and over 40 years of teaching experience.

Students receive a certificate upon course completion. The school also offers JLPT preparation classes, equipping students with the skills to succeed in the internationally recognized proficiency test.

Hougang Japanese Language School has also garnered a consistent 5.0 rating in Google Reviews, showcasing the school’s 40-year legacy and strong reputation. Students appreciate its experienced instructors, accessible pricing, and supportive learning environment, making it a trusted option for Japanese language education.

Schedule of Classes:

For the Hougang School, classes are available on Mondays to Fridays, starting from 1pm to 8pm, and on Saturdays and Sundays, 10:30am to 3:30pm.

For the Jurong School, classes are available on Mondays to Fridays, also starting from 1pm to 8pm, on Saturdays, 9am to 4pm, and Sundays, 10am to 4pm.

Each session typically lasting 1.5 hours. Enrolled classes amount to 30 hours cumulatively, providing students with comprehensive instruction. Specific schedule of classes can be checked here.

Price:

Online Classes:

• Elementary 1 – $330
• Elementary 2 – $300
• Intermediate 1 – $320

In Person (Hougang School)

• Elementary 1 to Elementary 3– $330
• Intermediate 1 – Intermediate 2 – $350
• JLPT N3 – $380
• JLPT N1 – $400

Contact:

Blk 204 #04-113/119 Hougang Street 21 (Hougang School)
Phone: 6282 7590

134 Jurong Gateway #02-303A (Jurong School)
Phone: 8202 4268

4) Tsubasa Learning Services

Tsubasa Language Services (TLS) is a Singapore-based Japanese language school dedicated to providing affordable and comprehensive Japanese education.

Founded with the mission to teach not only the language but also Japanese culture, cuisine, travel planning, and the Japanese way of thinking, TLS offers a holistic learning experience to students who want to learn the Japanese method of learning Japanese.

• Types of Classes: TLS offers a range of courses, including Beginner Foundation Studies, Intermediate Lessons, and JLPT N2 Preparation Classes. Each course is designed to cater to different proficiency levels, ensuring a structured progression for students.
  
• Learning Format: Classes are conducted in-person, providing a supportive and conducive environment for learning. The school is conveniently located next to an MRT station, enhancing accessibility for students.
  
• Skills Focus: The curriculum emphasizes comprehensive language skills, including reading, wand listening. Additionally, students learn about Japanese culture, professional ethics, and business Japanese phrases, providing a well-rounded education.
  
• Learning Methods: TLS employs effective learning materials and allocates time for conversational practice in each class. Students engage in pair work to converse and ask questions in Japanese, enhancing their practical communication skills.
  
• Instructor Expertise: The teaching team comprises expert and caring teachers who hold N1 certificates for 10+ years and accent correction training. Despite being locals, they possess proficiency comparable to native speakers as they are taught the Japanese method of learning Japanese instead of how foreigners learn Japanese, ensuring high-quality instruction.

TLS boasts a 100% pass rate for students taking the JLPT N2 to N5 levels, reflecting the effectiveness of their teaching methods and curriculum. The school also collaborates with Japanese employment agencies to help students find jobs, further enhancing their career prospects.

Students also commend TLS for its engaging and supportive learning environment, with the center garnering 5.0 rating in Google Reviews. Testimonials highlight the dedication of instructors, the practical application of language skills, and the incorporation of cultural insights into lessons, with most students attributing their success to the school’s unique teaching approach.

Schedule of Classes:

Classes are available on Mondays to Sundays, with varying schedules. Each class can cater maximum 6-8 students, and students can avail 1 free trial lesson for all group classes, except for those with no slots available.

N1, N2, Business Japanese classes are available on private requests. Readiness interview is required for all classes.

Note that schedule of classes is updated every month; for more updated information on the schedule, click here.

Price:

• Beginner 1 to Beginner 2: $370 for 10 sessions + $70 textbook fee
• Intermediate 1 to Intermediate 2: $400 for 10 sessions + $70 textbook fee
• Pre-Advanced 1: $420 for 10 sessions + $70 textbook fee
• N2 Prep (Online): $410 for 10 sessions + $70 textbook fee
• Private Japanese Lessons can be availed for $90-$120 per hour

Contact:

808 French Rd, Singapore 200808
Email: admin@learnJapanese.sg

5) Lingua Learn Singapore

Lingua Learn is a language training institute in Singapore offering a variety of Japanese courses tailored to individual learning needs. The institute is committed to providing flexible and effective language education, making it accessible to learners of all backgrounds and schedules.

• Types of Classes: Lingua Learn provides private one-on-one online training, public group online courses, and hourly private online sessions, offering options to suit diverse learning preferences.
  
• Learning Format: All classes are conducted online, featuring real-time interactive sessions with flexible scheduling to accommodate students’ availability.
  
• Skills Focus: The courses aim to develop comprehensive language skills, with a strong emphasis on improving speaking proficiency.
  
• Learning Methods: Lingua Learn employs immersion techniques, uses digital materials for enhanced understanding, and provides access to class recordings for easy revision.
  
• Instructor Expertise: Classes are taught by qualified native speakers who are experienced in delivering CEFR-aligned content.

Lingua Learn’s courses are aligned with the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR), offering internationally recognized certification upon course completion.

Customer testimonials center on its high-quality instruction, experienced teachers, and flexible online learning options, with the school garnering 4.6 rating in Trustpilot.

Schedule of Classes:

Private 1-on-1 Online Training have flexible start dates, days, and times, allowing students to arrange sessions that fit their personal schedules.

Public Group Online Courses are typically held on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM. Specific start dates are available upon enquiry. For specific schedules, visit this link.

Price:

• Pre-Language Course Assessment: SGD 20 for a detailed 15 minute evaluation to determine the learner’s current proficiency level and place them in the appropriate course.
• Japanese Private 20 Hours 1-on-1 Online Class Training: SGD 1,500 for 20 hours of personalized instruction.
• Japanese A1.1 Beginner Public Group Online Course: SGD 300 for 30 academic hours
• Japanese A1.2 Elementary Public Group Online Course: SGD 300 for 30 academic hours
• Japanese A2.1 Elementary Public Group Online Course: SGD 300 for 30 academic hours
• Japanese A2.2 Elementary Public Group Online Course: SGD 300 for 30 academic hours
• Japanese B1.1 Pre-Intermediate Public Group Online Course: SGD 300 for 30 academic hours
• Japanese B1.2 Pre-Intermediate Public Group Online Course: SGD 300 for 30 academic hours
• Japanese B1.3 Intermediate Public Group Online Course: SGD 300 for 30 academic hours
• Japanese B1.4 Intermediate Public Group Online Course: SGD 300 for 30 academic hours
• Japanese Private Hourly 1-on-1 Training: SGD 90 per hour, offering flexible scheduling for personalized learning.

Contact:

Email: Support@lingua-learn.sg
Phone: 9799 8190

6) Inspilingua

Inspilingua is a language training center in Singapore that provides a diverse range of language courses, including Japanese, tailored to individual learning goals. With a focus on practical communication, Inspilingua’s courses are designed to help learners confidently use the language in everyday situations.

The school combines modern teaching methods with personalized attention to create an engaging and effective learning environment for students of all levels.

• Types of Classes: Inspilingua offers Japanese language courses aimed at developing communication skills for real-world interactions. Classes are suitable for beginners to advanced learners and are structured to progressively build proficiency.
  
• Learning Format: Both in-person and online classes are available, allowing students to choose a format that suits their schedule and learning preferences.
  
• Skills Focus: The curriculum emphasizes listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills, with a strong focus on vocabulary and practical scenarios relevant to daily life and cultural nuances.
  
• Learning Methods: Inspilingua employs interactive teaching strategies, using activities and tasks designed to reinforce learning and make lessons enjoyable. Lessons are based on research-driven techniques to ensure maximum effectiveness.
  
• Instructor Expertise: Courses are taught by qualified and experienced instructors who offer personalized support and guidance to help learners achieve their language goals.

While specific accreditations are not detailed on the website, Inspilingua maintains high educational standards through regular quality inspections and adherence to recognized teaching methodologies. Certificates of completion may be available upon request to validate progress.

Students frequently praise Inspilingua for its approachable and knowledgeable instructors, helpful staff, and well-organized lesson plans. Testimonials highlight the interactive and fun nature of the classes, with students expressing appreciation for the patient and supportive teaching style.

Schedule of Classes:

Inspilingua offers flexible scheduling options to accommodate students’ availability. Classes can be arranged at times convenient for the learner, with both in-person and online options available.

For in-person classes, schedule of classes are as follows:

• Basic course: Mondays and Wednesdays (Evenings, 2 hours at a time convenient for the student)
• Intermediate course: Mondays and Wednesdays (Evenings, 2 hours at a time convenient for the student)

Price: Specific pricing details are not listed on the website. For accurate and up-to-date information on course fees, it’s recommended to contact Inspilingua directly.

Contact:

10 Anson Road #26-08A International Plaza Singapore 079903
Phone: 9899 4477

7) Alpha Language School

Alpha Language School, established in 2011 and registered with Singapore’s Ministry of Education, specializes in connecting expatriates with Southeast Asia’s multicultural landscape. They offer a diverse range of language courses, including Japanese, tailored to learners from essential to advanced proficiency levels.

• Types of Classes: The Japanese course comprises eight classes designed to provide a thorough introduction to the language, covering reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills.
  
• Learning Format: Classes are conducted once a week for 90 minutes, with options for in-person sessions at their Carpenter Street location or online via Zoom, offering flexibility to accommodate different learning preferences.
  
• Skills Focus: The curriculum emphasizes conversational skills applicable to various situations, aiming to develop practical communication abilities in both casual and polite forms. Students will also learn Hiragana, Katakana, basic Kanji, and up to 800 vocabulary words to prepare for the JLPT N5 level.
  
• Learning Methods: Alpha Language School employs immersive practice sessions focused on real-life scenarios, supplemented by diverse audio materials, dialogues, and recordings to enhance listening comprehension. Grammar and sentence structure are taught to provide a solid foundational base.
  
• Instructor Expertise: Courses are led by instructors with over five years of teaching experience and master’s degrees in their respective languages. They are excellent bilinguals, adept at seamless communication, and stay updated with the latest teaching techniques and exam requirements.

The course prepares students to attempt the JLPT N5, an internationally recognized certification of Japanese language proficiency. Note that at least three months of classes are recommended to be adequately prepared for the JLPT N5.

While specific student testimonials for the Japanese course are not prominently featured on the website, Alpha Language School is recognized for its personalized learning approach, small class sizes ranging from 2 to 8 learners, and qualified teachers. They offer free placement tests and trial classes to assess learners’ proficiency and needs.

Schedule of Classes: 90 minutes/week scheduled at the students’ convenience

Price: $680 for 8 classes

Contact:

36 Carpenter St #02-01 Singapore 059915 or Online via Zoom
Phone: 8271 9151
Email: info@alpha.sg

8) Japanese Explorer

Japanese Explorer is a premier Japanese language school in Singapore, offering quality and affordable courses tailored to various ages, proficiency levels, and learning preferences. Their team comprises native Japanese teachers who are bilingual in English and Japanese, ensuring effective communication and instruction. The school’s curriculum is accredited by the Association for Japanese-Language Teaching (AJALT), aligning with the JLPT standards.

• Types of Classes: Japanese Explorer offers a range of courses, including private one-on-one lessons, small group classes, and business Japanese courses, catering to beginners through advanced learners.
  
• Learning Format: Classes are available both in-person and online, providing flexibility to accommodate different learning preferences.
  
• Skills Focus: The curriculum emphasizes comprehensive language skills, including speaking, listening, reading, and writing, with a focus on practical communication and cultural understanding.
  
• Learning Methods: Japanese Explorer employs a unique teaching system that dedicates the first half of each class to grammar and the second half to speaking and listening skills, facilitating immediate application of learned concepts.
  
• Instructor Expertise: Courses are taught by certified native Japanese teachers who are bilingual, ensuring clear communication and personalized support for each learner.

Japanese Explorer’s courses are accredited by the AJALT and are aligned with the JLPT standards, providing learners with credible certification upon course completion.

Students have expressed satisfaction with Japanese Explorer’s courses, highlighting the experienced and friendly teachers, helpful staff, and well-thought-out materials.

Schedule of Classes:

Small Group Classes and online classes are available from Mondays to Sundays, depending on the specific schedule of each Beginner, Intermediate, and Business Japanese class. For the specific schedule of small group classes, click here.

Price: $650 for 12 sessions, 2 hours each (applicable both for physical fee and online fee)

Contact:

137 Cecil Street #07-04, Cecil building Singapore 069537
Phone: 8797 0995
Email: info@japaneseexplorer.com.sg

9) Lingo Language School

Lingo Language School, located in Orchard Road area, is a well-regarded institution offering beginner Japanese courses that lay a strong foundation in the language. Designed for individuals with little to no prior knowledge, these courses focus on practical language use, helping learners build essential skills for everyday communication.

• Types of Classes: Lingo offers both group and private beginner Japanese classes for Conversational Japanese and JLPT preparation, catering to diverse learning preferences. Group classes provide a collaborative environment, while private sessions allow for a more tailored learning experience to meet individual needs.
  
• Learning Format: Students can attend classes onsite at the conveniently located United House or opt for online sessions. This flexibility ensures that learners can find a format that best fits their schedules and preferences.
  
• Skills Focus: The beginner course emphasizes basic conversational skills, equipping students with the ability to engage in everyday dialogues. The curriculum also introduces foundational aspects of reading and writing, fostering confidence in using Japanese in real-world situations.
  
• Learning Methods: With a maximum of eight students per class, Lingo ensures personalized attention, creating a supportive learning environment. Interactive lessons are designed to be engaging, focusing on practical application and active participation to enhance language retention.
  
• Instructor Expertise: Courses are taught by highly qualified native Japanese speakers, providing students with authentic language instruction. Instructors also incorporate cultural insights into their lessons, enriching the learning experience and helping students gain a deeper understanding of Japanese culture.

Lingo aligns its courses with the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR), an internationally recognized standard for language education. Certificates of completion may be awarded, reflecting the student’s progress and proficiency.

Students have consistently praised Lingo for its small class sizes, garnering a 4.6 rating in Google Reviews. Many highlight the experienced and friendly instructors, noting their ability to make lessons both enjoyable and informative.

The school’s structured course materials and convenient location are also frequently commended. One student mentioned that the course was ideal for beginners and felt well-supported throughout their learning journey.

Schedule of Classes:

Classes are available throughout the week, with flexible scheduling options to accommodate students’ availability. Specific class times can be obtained by contacting the school directly.

Price:

• Group Classes: Starting at S$300 for 18 hours of instruction.
• Private Classes: Starting at S$80 per hour.

Contact:

United House, 20 Kramat Lane, #05-05, Singapore 228773
Phone: 6253 3320

Final Thoughts

Japanese language classes in Singapore offer a wealth of opportunities for learners to develop their skills while immersing themselves in Japanese culture. Whether you’re seeking personal growth, career advancement, or cultural understanding, these schools provide flexible formats, expert instructors, and engaging methods to suit your needs. Start your journey today and embrace the art of mastering Japanese!