Experienced Japanese Teachers

Nihongo-Pro teachers are professional, experienced Japanese teachers, many with experience teaching Japanese in an online classroom as well as traditional classrooms. With teachers located around the world, there is sure to be a Nihongo-Pro teacher that matches your Japanese language level, desired lesson time, and learning style.

All Nihongo-Pro teachers are professionally trained Japanese teachers, and many are experienced in teaching online Japanese lessons.

Masahiro ARAI
Introductory Japanese
Beginner Japanese
Intermediate Japanese
Advanced Japanese
JLPT
Yuko ARAKI
Introductory Japanese
Beginner Japanese
Intermediate Japanese
Advanced Japanese
JLPT N1 N2 N3 N4 N5
Yukiko ASAI
Introductory Japanese
Beginner Japanese
Intermediate Japanese
Advanced Japanese
JLPT N1 N2
Not currently accepting new students
Yutaka ASO
Introductory Japanese
Beginner Japanese
Intermediate Japanese
Advanced Japanese
JLPT N1 N2 N3 N4 N5
Not currently accepting new students
Hiroshi DOUMA
Introductory Japanese
Beginner Japanese
Intermediate Japanese
Advanced Japanese
JLPT N1 N2 N3 N4
Nami HAYASHI
Introductory Japanese
Beginner Japanese
Intermediate Japanese
Advanced Japanese
JLPT N3 N4 N5
Not currently accepting new students
Akiko ISSHIKI
Introductory Japanese
Beginner Japanese
Intermediate Japanese
Advanced Japanese
JLPT N2 N3 N4 N5
Not currently accepting new students
Chiaki KASPER
Introductory Japanese
Beginner Japanese
Intermediate Japanese
Advanced Japanese
JLPT N2 N3 N4 N5
Takako KATANO
Introductory Japanese
Beginner Japanese
Intermediate Japanese
Advanced Japanese
JLPT N3 N4 N5
Ayako KAWAKITA
Introductory Japanese
Beginner Japanese
Intermediate Japanese
Advanced Japanese
JLPT N2 N3 N4 N5
Mamiko KAWAMURA
Introductory Japanese
Beginner Japanese
Intermediate Japanese
Advanced Japanese
JLPT N3 N4 N5
Yumiko KUROKAWA
Introductory Japanese
Beginner Japanese
Intermediate Japanese
Advanced Japanese
JLPT N1 N2 N3 N4
Akiko MIURA
Introductory Japanese
Beginner Japanese
Intermediate Japanese
Advanced Japanese
JLPT N3 N4 N5
Not currently accepting new students
Hitoshi MUKAI
Introductory Japanese
Beginner Japanese
Intermediate Japanese
Advanced Japanese
JLPT N2 N3 N4 N5
Fusayo NAGATOMI
Introductory Japanese
Beginner Japanese
Intermediate Japanese
Advanced Japanese
JLPT N1 N2 N3 N4 N5
Not currently accepting new students
Machiko NAKAMURA
Introductory Japanese
Beginner Japanese
Intermediate Japanese
Advanced Japanese
JLPT N1 N2 N3 N4 N5
Michiko NAKANO
Introductory Japanese
Beginner Japanese
Intermediate Japanese
Advanced Japanese
JLPT N1 N2 N3 N4 N5
Not currently accepting new students
Aki OGIHARA
Introductory Japanese
Beginner Japanese
Intermediate Japanese
Advanced Japanese
JLPT N3 N4 N5
Namiko OHNO
Introductory Japanese
Beginner Japanese
Intermediate Japanese
Advanced Japanese
JLPT N1 N2 N3 N4 N5
Kazumi OKUBO
Introductory Japanese
Beginner Japanese
Intermediate Japanese
Advanced Japanese
JLPT N2 N3 N4 N5
Satoko OKUYAMA
Introductory Japanese
Beginner Japanese
Intermediate Japanese
Advanced Japanese
JLPT N2 N3 N4 N5
Kyoko TANOSHIMA
Introductory Japanese
Beginner Japanese
Intermediate Japanese
Advanced Japanese
JLPT N2 N3 N4 N5
Not currently accepting new students
Chie TSUYUGUCHI
Introductory Japanese
Beginner Japanese
Intermediate Japanese
Advanced Japanese
JLPT N1 N2 N3 N4
Miki YAMAMOTO
Introductory Japanese
Beginner Japanese
Intermediate Japanese
Advanced Japanese
JLPT N2 N3 N4 N5
Kyoji YAZAWA
Introductory Japanese
Beginner Japanese
Intermediate Japanese
Advanced Japanese
JLPT N1 N2 N3 N4 N5

Success in learning Japanese starts with a great teacher.

Nihongo-Pro teachers offer unsurpassed quality in online Japanese lessons. You can learn Japanese online from native-level speakers with professional Japanese teaching experience and credentials.

Nihongo-Pro teachers provide private Japanese lessons built just for you in our online Japanese classroom. No other online Japanese school can match our value with better teachers, better lessons, better classrooms, and better policies.

Our careful teacher selection and paid teacher training ensure your Nihongo-Pro teacher is expertly prepared for your lessons. Our teachers participate in continuing teacher education activities, such as workshops and simulated lessons, to ensure the highest possible quality of Japanese instruction.

Our teachers are committed to your success as you learn Japanese online.

Masahiro ARAI

新井(あらい) 正博(まさひろ)
  • Lives in Toronto, Canada
  • Bachelor's degree in Business Law, Faculty of Law at Toyo University
  • Master of Fine Arts, Graduate School at the University of New Orleans
  • Completed the 420-hour course for Teaching Japanese as a Foreign Language at Takushoku University
  • Active as an artist and lithographer, with works included in collections at the New Orleans Museum of Art, Georgetown University libraries, the Sprint Corporation, and others
  • Designed the cover and illustrations for Michiru Hano's Japanese Colloquialisms in the Kansai Dialect of the Osaka Region
  • Assistant instructor for a Japanese language course at the University of New Orleans
  • Several years' experience as English instructor and drawing instructor
  • Enjoys performing various wind instruments, including the shakuhachi, shinobue, flute, tin whistle, and clarinet
Arai-sensei's Private Lesson Features
  • 50-minute private Japanese lessons at the introductory, beginner, and intermediate levels
  • Arai-sensei provides customized private lessons from a variety of textbooks. If you have a specific textbook in mind, please let us know.
  • The spoken language is emphasized in Arai-sensei's lessons—he strives for an enjoyable lesson speaking with you in Japanese.
  • Arai-sensei welcomes email from students. If you have questions, please don't hesitate to write him.
  • He especially appreciates questions or interest from students regarding:
    • Japanese literature from 1900 to 1980 (the late Meiji era to the early 50s of the Shōwa era)
    • Japan television programs, manga, and culture from the 1960 to 1980 (30s to 50s of the Shōwa era)
  • Free Trial LessonTrial lesson at no charge offered to new students
  • Able to use English as an instructional language based on the student’s needs
  • Reservation deadline: 24 hours before class
  • Cancellation deadline: 24 hours before class
Arai-sensei's Available Times for Private Lessons
Choose your time zone:
Lesson TimeSundayMondayTuesdayWednesdayThursdayFridaySaturday
10:00 - 10:50 am
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
Available
11:00 - 11:50 am
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
Available
7:00 - 7:50 pm
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Available
Saturday

Yuko ARAKI

荒木(あらき) 裕子(ゆうこ)
  • Lives in Japan (previously lived in Honolulu, Japan)
  • Graduated from Hiroshima University, Faculty of Education, Program in Teaching Japanese as a Second Language
  • Certified as a Japanese instructor, having passed the Japanese Language Teaching Competency Test
  • Certified as junior-high and high-school teacher of Japanese (as a native language)
  • Japanese teaching experience spans over 17 years, including:
    • Japanese language teacher at Hiroshima area Japanese language schools
    • Teaching Japanese to businesspersons at an international school
    • Teaching Japanese to English language teachers on behalf of the Hiroshima Board of Education
    • Japanese language instruction in Honolulu
  • Enjoys traveling abroad, visiting onsen (Japanese hot springs), tabearuki (going from one restaurant to another, sampling various foods), watching anime and drama programs, reading (loves manga!), and karaoke
Araki-sensei's Private Lesson Features
  • 50-minute private Japanese lessons at all skill levels (introductory, beginner, intermediate, and advanced), including JLPT N1, JLPT N2, JLPT N3, JLPT N4, and JLPT N5 preparation
  • Araki-sensei provides customized private lessons from a variety of textbooks. If you have a specific textbook in mind, please let us know.
  • Experienced in the following types of lessons:
    • Living in Japan: Speaking with Japanese friends, language for everyday life in Japan
    • Business Japanese: Working in Japan or for a Japanese company
    • Survival Japanese: Essential Japanese to learn before a trip to Japan or study abroad in Japan
    • Lessons based on manga and anime
    • Japanese used by young people
    • Japanese used on the Internet
    • Writing emails
    • Writing essays or other short compositions
    • Preparing for the JLPT test
    • Preparing for the J.TEST: Test of Practical Japanese
    • Something else? Araki-sensei builds a lesson plan to fit your goals and interests.
  • Offers lessons in Japanese only, English only, or a mixture of English and Japanese. (At the intermediate level and above, Araki-sensei uses Japanese exclusively as much as possible.)
  • Free Trial LessonTrial lesson at no charge offered to new students
  • Able to use English as an instructional language based on the student’s needs
  • Reservation deadline: 24 hours before class
  • Cancellation deadline: 24 hours before class
Araki-sensei's Available Times for Private Lessons
Choose your time zone:
Lesson TimeSundayMondayTuesdayWednesdayThursdayFridaySaturday
12:00 - 12:50 am
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Available
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
1:00 - 1:50 am
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Available
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
2:00 - 2:50 am
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Available
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
5:00 - 5:50 am
Sunday
Available
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
6:00 - 6:50 pm
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
Available
9:00 - 9:50 pm
Sunday
Monday
Available
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
10:00 - 10:50 pm
Sunday
Monday
Available
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
11:00 - 11:50 pm
Sunday
Monday
Available
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday

Yukiko ASAI

浅井(あさい) 幸子(ゆきこ)
  • Lives in Japan (previously lived in North Carolina, New Jersey, Malaysia, Japan)
  • Graduated from Yamawaki Gakuen Junior College, Department of English Language and Literature
  • Certified as an English teacher for junior-high schools in Japan
  • Completed the 420-hour course for Teaching Japanese as a Foreign Language at Human Academy
  • Japanese teaching experience includes:
    • Volunteer instructor in group and private Japanese lessons in Tokyo (2004-2005)
    • Instructor at a Japanese language school in Tokyo (2005-2007, 2010-2011)
  • Enjoys zumba, pilates, tennis, snowboarding, making candies and sweets, reading, and travel
Asai-sensei's Private Lesson Features
  • 50-minute private Japanese lessons at beginner, intermediate, and advanced levels, including JLPT N1 and JLPT N2 preparation
  • Asai-sensei provides private lessons customized to your needs. If you have a specific textbook in mind, please let us know.
  • Provides private lessons focused on a variety of goals, including:
    • Using Japanese newspaper articles as learning material, learning Japanese and current events in Japan
    • Learning Japanese and Japan-related information you will need before traveling to Japan or starting a foreign exchange in Japan
    • Learning how to use commonly used Japanese phrases in different situations
    • Learning business Japanese conversation
    • Learning how to read and understand your favorite Japanese literature
  • Follow-up emails for your study and review
  • Homework provided, if you prefer
  • Periodic progress reports emailed to you
  • Asai-sensei uses the direct method, with instruction and explanation in Japanese; however, depending on the student's needs, she can offer simple explanations in English.
  • Free Trial LessonTrial lesson at no charge offered to new students
  • Reservation deadline: 24 hours before class
  • Cancellation deadline: 24 hours before class
Asai-sensei's Available Times for Private Lessons
Choose your time zone:
Lesson TimeSundayMondayTuesdayWednesdayThursdayFridaySaturday
ASAI Yukiko-sensei is not currently accepting new students.

Yutaka ASO

阿蘇(あそ) (ゆたか)
  • Lives in Japan
  • Graduated from School of Humanities, Wako University
  • Master's degree from J.F. Oberlin University, Graduate School of International Studies, in Japanese Language Education
  • Certified as a Japanese instructor, having passed the Japanese Language Teaching Competency Test
  • Decades of experience teaching Japanese, including:
    • Lead teacher at a Taiwan-based branch of Japanese Language School of the Tokyo Foreign Language Academy (TGN) (1984-1986)
    • Lead teacher at TGN Academy (1986-2005)
    • Directed Japanese language course for foreign-exchange students at the Gateway to Japan, University of Malaya, Malaysia (2005-2008)
    • Directed an intensive Japanese course at Hanoi University of Science and Technology (HEDSPI) in Hanoi, Vietnam (2008-2010)
    • Vice principal and lead teacher at the Kaizen Yoshida School in Hochimin City, Vietnam (2011-2012)
  • Poetry awards and publications
    • Published three poetry collections: 『窓がほんの少しあいていて』, 『ア』, and 『とほく とほい 知らない場所で』
    • Named a recommended poet by Shigaku magazine, a monthly journal devoted to Japanese poetry
    • Winner of 16th annual Yamagata Prefectural Poetry Tournament
    • Winner of 63rd annual Takayama Chogyū Award
    • Other published works: 『シテ』, 『布』, and 『ひょうたん』
  • Enjoys tennis, books, poetry, nature, movies, and good food
Aso-sensei's Private Lesson Features
  • 50-minute private Japanese lessons at beginner, intermediate, and advanced levels, including JLPT N1, JLPT N2, JLPT N3, JLPT N4, and JLPT N5 preparation
  • Aso-sensei provides customized private lessons from a variety of textbooks. If you have a specific textbook in mind, please let us know.
  • Remarks from Aso-sensei on his teaching style:
    • “There are no written letters in actual conversation, only sounds. In order to help you learn to speak Japanese through listening, my lessons include a lot of pronunciation practice.”
    • “Think of my classroom, not as a place where I teach you, but as a place where you and I practice Japanese together.”
    • “I am easy-going and upbeat. I’m looking forward to having lessons with you.”
  • Free Trial LessonTrial lesson at no charge offered to new students
  • Reservation deadline: 12 hours before class
  • Cancellation deadline: 24 hours before class
Aso-sensei's Available Times for Private Lessons
Choose your time zone:
Lesson TimeSundayMondayTuesdayWednesdayThursdayFridaySaturday
ASO Yutaka-sensei is not currently accepting new students.

Hiroshi DOUMA

堂馬(どうま) 浩司(ひろし)
  • Lives in Japan
  • Bachelor's degree in legal studies from Faculty of Law, Nanzan University
  • Completed the 420-hour course for Teaching Japanese as a Foreign Language at Human Academy
  • Japanese language teaching experience includes:
    • Instructor at a Japanese language school in Nishinomiya (2015-2021)
  • Hobbies include machine embroidery, leathercraft, making things, drawing, art appreciation, and music appreciation
Douma-sensei's Private Lesson Features
  • 50-minute private Japanese lessons at beginner, intermediate, and advanced levels, including JLPT N1, JPLT N2, JLPT N3, and JLPT N4.
  • Douma-sensei provides customized private lessons from a variety of textbooks. If you have a specific textbook in mind, please let us know.
  • A fan of Japanese anime, manga, and music from the late 1960s to the 1980s, Douma-sensei would be delighted to help you learn about those topics.
  • Douma-sensei enjoys singing, and welcomes your interest in songs and singing.
  • Free Trial LessonTrial lesson at no charge offered to new students
  • Reservation deadline: 48 hours before class
  • Cancellation deadline: 24 hours before class
Douma-sensei's Available Times for Private Lessons
Choose your time zone:
Lesson TimeSundayMondayTuesdayWednesdayThursdayFridaySaturday
12:00 - 12:50 am
Sunday
Monday
Available
Tuesday
Available
Wednesday
Thursday
Available
Friday
Available
Saturday
1:00 - 1:50 am
Sunday
Monday
Available
Tuesday
Available
Wednesday
Thursday
Available
Friday
Available
Saturday
2:00 - 2:50 am
Sunday
Monday
Available
Tuesday
Available
Wednesday
Thursday
Available
Friday
Available
Saturday
3:00 - 3:50 am
Sunday
Monday
Available
Tuesday
Available
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Available
Saturday
Available
4:00 - 4:50 am
Sunday
Monday
Available
Tuesday
Available
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Available
Saturday
Available
5:00 - 5:50 am
Sunday
Monday
Available
Tuesday
Available
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Available
Saturday
6:00 - 6:50 am
Sunday
Monday
Available
Tuesday
Available
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Available
Saturday
7:00 - 7:50 am
Sunday
Monday
Available
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Available
Saturday
8:00 - 8:50 am
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
Available
5:00 - 5:50 pm
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Available
Wednesday
Available
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
6:00 - 6:50 pm
Sunday
Monday
Available
Tuesday
Available
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
8:00 - 8:50 pm
Sunday
Available
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
9:00 - 9:50 pm
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Available
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
11:00 - 11:50 pm
Sunday
Available
Monday
Available
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Available
Friday
Saturday

Nami HAYASHI

(はやし) 奈美(なみ)
  • Lives in Belgium
  • Graduated from Meiji Gakuin University with a major in French literature
  • Spent a year in Lyon, France, as a foreign exchange student during her university studies
  • Completed a foreign exchange program in Sydney, Australia
  • Completed the 420-hour course for Teaching Japanese as a Foreign Language (Arc Academy)
  • Taught private Japanese lessons to French-speaking students, focused on Japanese grammar, essay correction, and free Japanese conversation (2 years)
  • Enjoys languages, travel, reading, Japanese sake, movies and TV dramas, and balloon art decoration
Hayashi-sensei's Private Lesson Features
  • 50-minute private Japanese lessons at introductory, beginner, and intermediate levels, including JLPT N3, JLPT N4, and JLPT N5
  • Hayashi-sensei provides customized private lessons from a variety of textbooks. If you have a specific textbook in mind, please let us know.
  • Hayashi-sensei strives to provide effective, one-on-one personalized online Japanese lessons, using textbooks and other content interesting to her students.
  • Free Trial LessonTrial lesson at no charge offered to new students
  • Able to use English or French as an instructional language based on the student’s needs
  • Reservation deadline: 24 hours before class
  • Cancellation deadline: 24 hours before class
Hayashi-sensei's Available Times for Private Lessons
Choose your time zone:
Lesson TimeSundayMondayTuesdayWednesdayThursdayFridaySaturday
HAYASHI Nami-sensei is not currently accepting new students.

Akiko ISSHIKI

一色(いっしき) 秋子(あきこ)
  • Lives in Japan
  • Master's degree in linguistics with an emphasis in Japanese language education from Tohoku University, Faculty of Arts and Letters
  • Japanese teaching experience includes:
    • Taught at a Japanese language school in Sendai (2004 to 2005 and 2006 to 2010)
    • Japanese teaching assistant at the Japan Foundation in Uzbekistan (2005 to 2006)
    • Provided training for Japanese language teachers who taught Japanese to technical trainees in Kanagawa prefecture (2010 to 2015)
    • Teaches at a Japanese language school in Yokohama (2017 to present)
    • Teaches on a volunteer basis private and group lessons at a Yokohama area school (2013 to present)
  • Enjoys walking, art, and creative projects with kids
Isshiki-sensei's Private Lesson Features
  • 50-minute private Japanese lessons at the beginner and intermediate levels, including JLPT N2, JLPT N3, JLPT N4, and JLPT N5 preparation
  • Isshiki-sensei provides private lessons to fit your learning goals. If you have a specific textbook in mind, please let us know.
  • She uses the direct method, with instruction and explanation in Japanese; however, depending on your needs, she can offer simple explanations in English as well.
  • Isshiki-sensei says, “I think learning Japanese is one tool a student can use to realize his or her own potential. Through learning about Japan and its language, I strive to help you achieve the things you want.
  • Free Trial LessonTrial lesson at no charge offered to new students
  • Able to use English as an instructional language based on the student’s needs
  • Reservation deadline: 24 hours before class
  • Cancellation deadline: 24 hours before class
Isshiki-sensei's Available Times for Private Lessons
Choose your time zone:
Lesson TimeSundayMondayTuesdayWednesdayThursdayFridaySaturday
ISSHIKI Akiko-sensei is not currently accepting new students.

Chiaki KASPER

カスパー( ) 千明(ちあき)
  • Lives in U.K. (previously lived in U.S., Germany, Australia, Japan)
  • Bachelor's degree in German language, School of Humanities, Fukuoka University
  • Completed the 420-hour course for Teaching Japanese as a Foreign Language
  • Certified as high-school teacher
  • Japanese language teaching experience includes:
    • Taught Japanese at a Japanese language school in Fukuoka (2009-2010, 2012-2016)
    • Taught Japanese at a Japanese language school in Australia (2010-2011)
    • Taught private Japanese lessons (2016-2017)
  • Enjoys travel and ballet
Kasper-sensei's Private Lesson Features
  • 50-minute private Japanese lessons at introductory, beginner, and intermediate levels, including JLPT N2, JLPT N3, JLPT N4, and JLPT N5 preparation
  • Flexible teaching style to fit your individual learning goals. Please let her know if you have a specific textbook in mind.
  • Kasper-sensei teaches in the direct method, using as much Japanese as possible, but can also supplement with basic English as needed.
  • She adds, "I strive for lessons with staying power—making sure you retain what you learn. We'll take up points you want to focus on repeatedly, making sure each grammar point or sentence form sticks with you."
  • Free Trial LessonTrial lesson at no charge offered to new students
  • Able to use English or German as an instructional language based on the student’s needs
  • Reservation deadline: 48 hours before class
  • Cancellation deadline: 24 hours before class
Kasper-sensei's Available Times for Private Lessons
Choose your time zone:
Lesson TimeSundayMondayTuesdayWednesdayThursdayFridaySaturday
12:00 - 12:50 am
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Available
Thursday
Available
Friday
Saturday
7:00 - 7:50 pm
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Available
ends Jan 14
Wednesday
Available
ends Jan 14
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
8:00 - 8:50 pm
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Available
ends Jan 14
Wednesday
Available
ends Jan 14
Thursday
Available
Friday
Saturday
9:00 - 9:50 pm
Sunday
Monday
Available
Tuesday
Available
ends Jan 14
Wednesday
Available
ends Jan 14
Thursday
Available
Friday
Saturday
10:00 - 10:50 pm
Sunday
Monday
Available
Tuesday
Available
Wednesday
Available
Thursday
Available
Friday
Saturday
11:00 - 11:50 pm
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Available
Wednesday
Available
Thursday
Friday
Saturday

Takako KATANO

片野(かたの) 崇子(たかこ)
  • Lives in France
  • Completed the Japanese language teacher training course of study at the Tokyo Foreign Language College
  • Passed the Zenyoukyou certification examination for Japanese teachers
  • Japanese teaching experience includes:
    • Volunteered as a Japanese teacher in Chiba prefecture (2009)
    • Taught private Japanese lessons in Tokyo (2010)
    • Taught at a Japanese language school in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam (2011 to 2013)
  • Enjoys sewing, puzzles such as suduoku and picture logic, singing, and stamp collecting
Katano-sensei's Private Lesson Features
  • 50-minute private Japanese lessons at the introductory, beginner, and intermediate levels, including JLPT N3, JLPT N4, and JLPT N5 preparation
  • Katano-sensei provides flexible private lessons to fit your learning goals. If you have a specific textbook in mind, please let us know.
  • She uses the direct method, with instruction and explanation in Japanese as much as possible.
  • If you like, Katano-sensei will assign homework and provide a periodic progress report.
  • Free Trial LessonTrial lesson at no charge offered to new students
  • Able to use English or French as an instructional language based on the student’s needs
  • Reservation deadline: 24 hours before class
  • Cancellation deadline: 24 hours before class
Katano-sensei's Available Times for Private Lessons
Choose your time zone:
Lesson TimeSundayMondayTuesdayWednesdayThursdayFridaySaturday
3:00 - 3:50 pm
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Available
Wednesday
Thursday
Available
Friday
Saturday
4:00 - 4:50 pm
Sunday
Monday
Available
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Available
Friday
Saturday

Ayako KAWAKITA

川北(かわきた) 文子(あやこ)
  • Lives in Japan
  • Bachelor's degree in Modern Social Studies from Otemae University
  • Completed Japanese language education course (new standard)
  • Certified business presenter
  • Passed the Japanese Language Teacher Proficiency Test
  • Japanese language teaching experience includes:
    • Training instructor at a company located in Kagawa prefecture (2011 to present)
    • Japanese language instructor at a long-term care facility (2018 to present)
    • Volunteer Japanese language teacher at an international exchange association (2010 to present)
  • Enjoys tennis, walking, travel, Esperanto, and the shamisen (Japanese lute)
Kawakita-sensei's Private Lesson Features
  • 50-minute private Japanese lessons at beginner and intermediate levels, including JPLT N2, JLPT N3, JLPT N4, and JLPT N5.
  • Primarily uses only Japanese, but can use instructional language (English or Esperanto) if requested.
  • Builds a customized lesson plan after carefully listening to each student's individual needs.
  • Homework and summary/review emails are available on request.
  • Kawakita-sensei would be delighted to introduce Kagawa prefecture's sightseeing spots.
  • She welcomes email from students and looks forward to helping you learn Japanese!
  • Free Trial LessonTrial lesson at no charge offered to new students
  • Able to use English as an instructional language based on the student’s needs; also speaks a little Esperanto
  • Reservation deadline: 24 hours before class
  • Cancellation deadline: 24 hours before class
Kawakita-sensei's Available Times for Private Lessons
Choose your time zone:
Lesson TimeSundayMondayTuesdayWednesdayThursdayFridaySaturday
7:00 - 7:50 pm
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Available
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
8:00 - 8:50 pm
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Available
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
9:00 - 9:50 pm
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Available
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
10:00 - 10:50 pm
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Available
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday

Mamiko KAWAMURA

河村(かわむら) 麻実子(まみこ)
  • Lives in Japan
  • Graduated from Japan Women's University, Faculty of Home Economics, Department of Food and Nutrition
  • Completed the 420-hour course for Teaching Japanese as a Foreign Language
  • Certified as a Japanese instructor, having passed the Japanese Language Teaching Competency Test
  • Wide-ranging Japanese teaching experience, including:
    • Worked as a volunteer Japanese teacher in New Zealand
    • Worked as a Japanese teacher at a Japanese language school in Fukuoka prefecture
    • Taught Japanese to international students at a Fukuoka-based organization
    • Taught online Japanese classes at an online Japanese school
  • Enjoys travel, language study, reading, and walking
Kawamura-sensei's Private Lesson Features
  • 50-minute private Japanese lessons at the introductory, beginner, and intermediate levels, including JLPT N5, JLPT N4, and JLPT N3
  • Kawamura-sensei provides customized private lessons from a variety of textbooks. If you have a specific textbook in mind, please let us know.
  • Free Trial LessonTrial lesson at no charge offered to new students
  • Able to use English as an instructional language based on the student’s needs
  • Reservation deadline: 24 hours before class
  • Cancellation deadline: 24 hours before class
Kawamura-sensei's Available Times for Private Lessons
Choose your time zone:
Lesson TimeSundayMondayTuesdayWednesdayThursdayFridaySaturday
8:00 - 8:50 pm
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Available
Wednesday
Available
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
9:00 - 9:50 pm
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Available
Wednesday
Thursday
Available
Friday
Saturday

Yumiko KUROKAWA

黒川(くろかわ) 祐三子(ゆみこ)
  • Lives in Japan
  • Bachelor's degree in Culture, Linguistics, and Japanese Language Education from Kagawa University, Faculty of Education, School of Integrated Arts and Science
  • Doctoral studies in Japanese language education at Hiroshima University, Graduate School of Education
  • Doctoral studies in Japanese language and culture education (formerly Japanese language education) at Hiroshima University, Graduate School of Education (not complete)
  • Certifications include:
    • Japanese language teacher at junior high school level in Japan
    • ACTFL OPI (Oral Proficiency Interview) tester (certification not active)
    • Full professor in saga-goryū style of kadō (Japanese flower arranging)
  • Japanese teaching experience includes:
    • Taught Japanese at a Taiwan-based technical school (1997-1999)
    • Taught Japanese at Japanese language schools in Kagawa and Hiroshima prefectures (1999-2017)
    • Provides instruction in Japanese language and Japan current events to college-level exchange students in Kagawa prefecture (2016 to present)
    • Trains prospective Japanese language teachers at a teacher training facility (2009-2013, 2020 to present)
  • Enjoys kadō (flower arranging), shodō (calligraphy), swimming, pilates, walking, and reading
  • Shodō (calligraphy) awards include:
    • Highest honors in modern poetry calligraphy at 42nd annual tournament hosted by Mainichi Shodō Society (2015)
    • Honorable mention in modern poetry calligraphy at 43rd annual tournament hosted by Mainichi Shodō Society (2016)
    • Highest honors in modern poetry calligraphy at 44th annual tournament hosted by Mainichi Shodō Society (2017)
    • Excellence award in modern poetry calligraphy at 46th annual tournament hosted by Mainichi Shodō Society (2019)
Kurokawa-sensei's Private Lesson Features
  • 50-minute private Japanese lessons at beginner, intermediate, and advanced levels, including JLPT N1, JPLT N2, JLPT N3, and JLPT N4.
  • Kurokawa-sensei offers lessons customized to each student's goals. If you have a specific textbook in mind, please let us know.
  • Kurokawa-sensei can help you learn Japanese for a variety of goals, including:
    • Preparation for the JLPT (N4, N3, N2, and N1) or BJT (Business Japanese Test)
    • Reading comprehension
    • Writing essays and short compositions
    • Everyday Japanese conversation
    • Giving speeches
    • Japanese in business situations or when looking for work
    • Japan culture and current events
    • Kanji
    • Japanese pronunciation and intonation
  • Free Trial LessonTrial lesson at no charge offered to new students
  • Able to use English as an instructional language based on the student’s needs; also speaks a little Chinese
  • Reservation deadline: 24 hours before class
  • Cancellation deadline: 24 hours before class
Kurokawa-sensei's Available Times for Private Lessons
Choose your time zone:
Lesson TimeSundayMondayTuesdayWednesdayThursdayFridaySaturday
8:00 - 8:50 am
Sunday
Monday
Available
Tuesday
Available
Wednesday
Thursday
Available
Friday
Available
Saturday
6:00 - 6:50 pm
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Available
Saturday

Akiko MIURA

三浦(みうら) 明子(あきこ)
  • Lives in Oregon, U.S.
  • Bachelor's degree in food science, Faculty of Home Economics, Nara Women's University
  • Master of Science from Oregon State University
  • Completed the 420-hour course for Teaching Japanese as a Foreign Language at Arc Academy
  • Passed the Japanese Language Teacher Proficiency Test
  • Japanese language teaching experience includes:
    • Taught Japanese at a Yokohama language school (2001-2002, 2003-2004)
    • Taught Japanese at a YMCA in Taiwan (2002-2003)
    • Taught Japanese at a Japanese Language Training Center sponsored by AOTS, an international program sponsored by the Japanese government (2003-2004)
    • Taught Japanese classes at Rogue Community College (2007-2009)
    • Taught private Japanese lessons (2010 to present)
  • Enjoys aikido, gardening, reading (as well as audio books), and studying Spanish
Miura-sensei's Private Lesson Features
  • 50-minute private Japanese lessons at introductory, beginner, and intermediate levels, including JLPT N3, JLPT N4, and JLPT N5
  • Miura-sensei offers lessons customized to each student's goals. If you have a specific textbook in mind, please let us know.
  • Do you have a specific goal in mind? Miura-sensei offers a wide variety of lessons, including:
    • Japanese for travel, plus useful information for your Japan trip
    • Japanese for everyday living
    • Japanese for business situations
  • Miura-sensei can teach using Japanese only, or, if you prefer, using a mixture of Japanese and English.
  • After each lesson, you'll receive a follow-up email that summarizes what you studied. You can contact Miura-sensei by email with any questions.
  • Homework is offered, if desired.
  • Progress reports are available, if desired.
  • Miura-sensei strives for enjoyable lessons where you can speak a lot in Japanese, regardless of your level.
  • Free Trial LessonTrial lesson at no charge offered to new students
  • Able to use English as an instructional language based on the student’s needs
  • Reservation deadline: 48 hours before class
  • Cancellation deadline: 24 hours before class
Miura-sensei's Available Times for Private Lessons
Choose your time zone:
Lesson TimeSundayMondayTuesdayWednesdayThursdayFridaySaturday
MIURA Akiko-sensei is not currently accepting new students.

Hitoshi MUKAI

(むかい) 比登志(ひとし)
  • Lives in Vietnam
  • Attended Kansai University, Faculty of Sociology
  • Completed the 420-hour course for Teaching Japanese as a Foreign Language (NAFL Institute)
  • Certified as a Japanese instructor, having passed the Japanese Language Teaching Competency Test
  • Japanese teaching experience includes:
    • Private lessons (2011 to 2012)
    • Japanese teacher at a university and high school in Hungary (2012 to 2014)
    • Japanese teacher at a Japanese language school in Vietnam (2014 to present)
  • Enjoys travel, historic sites, sake enthusiast, sports watching, movies, and reading
Mukai-sensei's Private Lesson Features
  • 50-minute private Japanese lessons at introductory, beginner, and intermediate levels, including JLPT N2, JLPT N3, JLPT N4, and JLPT N5 preparation
  • Mukai-sensei provides customized private lessons from a variety of textbooks. If you have a specific textbook in mind, please let us know.
  • Follow-up emails for your study and review
  • Mukai-sensei welcomes emails from his students
  • Excellent at Osaka-ben (Osaka dialect of Japanese)
  • Free Trial LessonTrial lesson at no charge offered to new students
  • Able to use English as an instructional language based on the student’s needs
  • Reservation deadline: 24 hours before class
  • Cancellation deadline: 24 hours before class
Mukai-sensei's Available Times for Private Lessons
Choose your time zone:
Lesson TimeSundayMondayTuesdayWednesdayThursdayFridaySaturday
12:00 - 12:50 am
Sunday
Monday
Available
Tuesday
Available
Wednesday
Available
Thursday
Available
Friday
Available
Saturday
5:00 - 5:50 am
Sunday
Monday
Available
Tuesday
Available
Wednesday
Available
Thursday
Available
Friday
Available
Saturday

Fusayo NAGATOMI

永富(ながとみ) 房代(ふさよ)
  • Lives in Japan
  • Graduated from Kyorin University, School of Foreign Language, Department of Japanese Language
  • Graduated from Aoyamagakuin Junior College, Department of English Language
  • Completed the 420-hour course for Teaching Japanese as a Foreign Language at Human Academy
  • Passed the Japanese Language Teacher Proficiency Test
  • Over 20 years' experience teaching Japanese, including:
    • Taught Japanese at Nanjing Language School in China (1997-1998)
    • Taught Japanese at in Maryland, U.S. (1999-2000)
    • Taught Japanese at a Tokyo-area Japanese language school (2000-2004)
    • Taught Japanese at a Japanese language school in Chiba prefecture (2008-2020)
    • Teaches Japanese at a business school (2020 to present)
  • Enjoys a variety of leisure activities, including:
    • Anime (my daughter, who loves anime, got me hooked)
    • Movies, especially suspense and thrillers
    • Music and concerts (J-POP, R&B, K-POP)
    • Learning languages (I've studied six languages so far, but am currently focused on Chinese)
    • Yoga
    • Cooking (Chinese is my specialty)
    • Learning about all the various sakes (Japanese rice wines)
Nagatomi-sensei's Private Lesson Features
  • 50-minute private Japanese lessons at all skill levels (introductory, beginner, intermediate, and advanced), including JLPT N1, JLPT N2, JLPT N3, JLPT N4, and JLPT N5 preparation
  • Nagatomi-sensei provides customized private lessons from a variety of textbooks. If you have a specific textbook in mind, please let us know.
  • Follow-up email after each lesson for your study and review
  • Nagatomi-sensei welcomes email from her students
  • Free Trial LessonTrial lesson at no charge offered to new students
  • Able to use English or Chinese as an instructional language based on the student’s needs
  • Reservation deadline: 24 hours before class
  • Cancellation deadline: 24 hours before class
Nagatomi-sensei's Available Times for Private Lessons
Choose your time zone:
Lesson TimeSundayMondayTuesdayWednesdayThursdayFridaySaturday
NAGATOMI Fusayo-sensei is not currently accepting new students.

Machiko NAKAMURA

中村(なかむら) 真智子(まちこ)
  • Lives in Japan
  • Six years' experience teaching Japanese at a Tokyo area Japanese language school
  • Certified as junior-high and high-school teacher of Japanese (as a native language) and librarian teacher
  • Holds certification as a museum curator, psychologist, and supporter of special needs education
  • Completed the 420-hour course for Teaching Japanese as a Foreign Language at Human Academy
  • Passed the Japanese Language Teacher Proficiency Test
  • Enjoys reading (history, psychology, essays, etc.), movies (horror, mystery, and action), tennis, swimming, archery, ceramics, karaoke, and travel
Nakamura-sensei's Private Lesson Features
  • 50-minute private Japanese lessons at beginner, intermediate, and advanced levels, including JLPT N1, JLPT N2, JLPT N3, JLPT N4, and JLPT N5 preparation
  • Nakamura-sensei provides customized private lessons from a variety of textbooks. If you have a specific textbook in mind, please let us know.
  • Free Trial LessonTrial lesson at no charge offered to new students
  • Reservation deadline: 24 hours before class
  • Cancellation deadline: 24 hours before class
Nakamura-sensei's Available Times for Private Lessons
Choose your time zone:
Lesson TimeSundayMondayTuesdayWednesdayThursdayFridaySaturday
12:00 - 12:50 am
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Available
Saturday
1:00 - 1:50 am
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Available
Saturday
2:00 - 2:50 am
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Available
Saturday
7:00 - 7:50 am
Sunday
Available
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
Available
8:00 - 8:50 am
Sunday
Available
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
Available
9:00 - 9:50 am
Sunday
Monday
Available
Tuesday
Available
Wednesday
Available
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
11:00 - 11:50 pm
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Available
Friday
Saturday

Michiko NAKANO

中野(なかの) 美千子(みちこ)
  • Lives in Matsue City, Shimane-ken, Japan (previously lived in Minnesota, Mississippi, California)
  • Graduated from Kokugakuin University, Department of Literature, Japanese Literature Course (graduation thesis was on the well-known Japanese poet Nakahara Chuuya
  • Completed the course for Teaching Japanese as a Foreign Language, NAFL Institute correspondence course
  • Certified as junior-high and high-school teacher of Japanese (as a native language) and as a librarian teacher
  • Diverse educational experience, including:
    • Taught online Japanese lessons at a Japan-based online Japanese school (2009-2010)
    • Taught at the North Mississippi Japanese Language Supplementary School (2008-2009)
    • Served as librarian teacher at the Schurr High School, California (2003-2007)
  • Starting with her work as a DJ during college, Nakano-sensei has held positions related to words and language, including a broadcast writer, copywriter, editor, and Japanese translator. The more she has worked in the field, the more she has been drawn to the Japanese language in particular. Through her online Japanese lessons, Nakano-sensei strives to share that fascination with her students.
Nakano-sensei's Private Lesson Features
  • 50-minute private Japanese lessons at all skill levels (introductory, beginner, intermediate, and advanced), including JLPT N1, JLPT N2, JLPT N3, JLPT N4, and JLPT N5 preparation
  • Specializes in a variety of private lessons, including:
    • Japanese literature
    • Assisting students in preparing academic papers
    • Assisting students in Japanese translation and interpretation
    • Business Japanese
    • Writing Japanese essays and other compositions
    • Japanese cooking, culture, and more
  • Nakano-sensei welcomes students of any age, from the youngest to the oldest.
  • Nakano-sensei provides customized private lessons from a variety of textbooks. If you have a specific textbook in mind, please let us know.
  • Follow-up email after each lesson for your study and review
  • Monthly progress report emailed to you
  • Nakano-sensei loves to exchange emails with her students
  • She'll be delighted to show you around the next time you visit Matsue!
  • Free Trial LessonTrial lesson at no charge offered to new students
  • Able to use English as an instructional language based on the student’s needs
  • Reservation deadline: 24 hours before class
  • Cancellation deadline: 24 hours before class
Nakano-sensei's Available Times for Private Lessons
Choose your time zone:
Lesson TimeSundayMondayTuesdayWednesdayThursdayFridaySaturday
NAKANO Michiko-sensei is not currently accepting new students.

Aki OGIHARA

荻原(おぎはら) あき( )
  • Lives in California, U.S.
  • Bachelor's degree in Japanese language education from the University of the Sacred Heart, Tokyo
  • Japanese teaching experience includes:
    • Taught Japanese at a university and Japanese society located in Chile (2009 to 2014)
    • Taught private Japanese lessons (2000 to present)
  • Enjoys travel, playing the piano, and working out. Recent interests include playing beach volleyball and watching foreign dramas. (Ogihara-sensei adds, “I hope the latter helps me with language learning...”)
Ogihara-sensei's Private Lesson Features
  • 50-minute private Japanese lessons at the introductory, beginner, and intermediate levels, including JLPT N3, JLPT N4, and JLPT N5 preparation
  • Ogihara-sensei provides private lessons to fit your goals. If you have a specific textbook in mind, please let us know.
  • In addition to comprehensive Japanese lessons, Ogihara-sensei can provide lessons focused on business Japanese, keigo (Japanese honorific language), travel Japanese, and other topics. She can also include information you want to learn before traveling to or relocating to Japan.
  • Lessons can be conducted in Japanese only, or in English or Spanish only, according to your preference.
  • Following each lesson, Ogihara-sensei emails a summary of the lesson for your study and review.
  • Homework is available if desired.
  • Periodic progress reports are available if desired.
  • Ogihara-sensei says of herself: “I am always looking to challenge myself to learn something new. The latest is jazz piano, which I started learning a year ago. I've been close to giving up several times already, but each time I set an easy, near-term goal and keep working at it. I hope that approach helps me—even if just a little—relate to my students and their points of view.”
  • Free Trial LessonTrial lesson at no charge offered to new students
  • Able to use English or Spanish as an instructional language based on the student’s needs
  • Reservation deadline: 24 hours before class
  • Cancellation deadline: 24 hours before class
Ogihara-sensei's Available Times for Private Lessons
Choose your time zone:
Lesson TimeSundayMondayTuesdayWednesdayThursdayFridaySaturday
1:00 - 1:50 pm
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Available
Friday
Saturday
2:00 - 2:50 pm
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Available
Friday
Saturday
5:00 - 5:50 pm
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Available
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
7:00 - 7:50 pm
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Available
Friday
Saturday

Namiko OHNO

大野(おおの) 渚美子(なみこ)
  • Lives in Brazil
  • Bachelor's degree in transnational sociology, School of Education, Yokohama National University
  • Completed a university foreign exchange at the University of Bern, Switzerland
  • Completed the 420-hour course for Teaching Japanese as a Foreign Language
  • Passed the Japanese Language Teacher Proficiency Test
  • Japanese language teaching experience includes:
    • Taught Japanese in Indonesia under the Nihongo Partners program of the Japan Foundation
    • Taught Japanese in Brazil as a volunteer under JICA's program to support Japanese expats
  • Enjoys pilates, cooking (working on Brazilian home cooking right now), and travel (loves onsen hot springs in Japan)
Ohno-sensei's Private Lesson Features
  • 50-minute private Japanese lessons at all skill levels (introductory, beginner, intermediate, and advanced), including JLPT N1, JLPT N2, JLPT N3, JLPT N4, and JLPT N5 preparation
  • Ohno-sensei provides customized private lessons from a variety of textbooks. If you have a specific textbook in mind, please let us know.
  • Ohno-sensei's lessons are tailored to each student's level and interests. "Learning Japanese should be fun!" she adds.
  • Free Trial LessonTrial lesson at no charge offered to new students
  • Able to use English or Portuguese as an instructional language based on the student’s needs; also speaks a little German and Indonesian
  • Reservation deadline: 48 hours before class
  • Cancellation deadline: 24 hours before class
Ohno-sensei's Available Times for Private Lessons
Choose your time zone:
Lesson TimeSundayMondayTuesdayWednesdayThursdayFridaySaturday
1:00 - 1:50 pm
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Available
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday

Kazumi OKUBO

大久保(おおくぼ) 和美(かずみ)
  • Lives in Germany
  • Graduated from Sophia University, Faculty of Foreign Studies, Department of Russian Studies
  • Completed the 420-hour course for Teaching Japanese as a Foreign Language
  • Passed the Zenyoukyou certification examination for Japanese teachers
  • Japanese teaching experience includes:
    • Taught Japanese at a Japanese language school in Japan (2007-2008)
    • Taught Japanese at a Russian university (2008-2010)
    • Teaches private Japanese lessons (2007 to present)
  • Enjoys reading, travel, and cooking
Okubo-sensei's Private Lesson Features
  • 50-minute private Japanese lessons at the introductory, beginner, and intermediate levels, including JLPT N5, JLPT N4, JLPT N3, and JLPT N2
  • Okubo-sensei provides customized private lessons from a variety of textbooks. If you have a specific textbook in mind, please let us know.
  • Free Trial LessonTrial lesson at no charge offered to new students
  • Able to use Russian or German as an instructional language based on the student’s needs
  • Reservation deadline: 48 hours before class
  • Cancellation deadline: 24 hours before class
Okubo-sensei's Available Times for Private Lessons
Choose your time zone:
Lesson TimeSundayMondayTuesdayWednesdayThursdayFridaySaturday
4:00 - 4:50 am
Sunday
Monday
Available
Tuesday
Available
Wednesday
Available
Thursday
Available
Friday
Saturday
5:00 - 5:50 am
Sunday
Monday
Available
Tuesday
Available
Wednesday
Available
Thursday
Available
Friday
Saturday
6:00 - 6:50 am
Sunday
Monday
Available
Tuesday
Available
Wednesday
Available
Thursday
Available
Friday
Saturday

Satoko OKUYAMA

奥山(おくやま) 聡子(さとこ)
  • Lives in Japan (previously lived in Washington, D.C., Bangkok)
  • Master's degree in international development and research (linguistics specialization) from Nagoya University
    (In particular, focused on sociolinguistics and second-language acquisition, and, using the methods of field linguistics, carried out research on Japanese learners' acquisition of Japanese regional dialects.)
  • Completed the 420-hour course for Teaching Japanese as a Foreign Language
  • Japanese language teaching experience includes:
    • Instructor at a Japanese language school in Nagoya (2010-2011)
    • Adjunct instructor in the Japanese language program at a Kagoshima university (2011-2014)
    • Instructor at a Japanese language school in Hiroshima (2018 to present)
  • Hobbies include:
    • Violin (studying violin since the age of 3)
    • Watching Japanese entertainment, such as dramas, movies, anime, comedy sketches, music, dance
    • Trying out various ethnic restaurants (Thai food is Okuyama-sensei's passion)
    • Watching sports, such as rugby, baseball, soccer, basketball, volleyball
    • Visiting aquariums (particularly fond of whales)
    • Loves dogs and cats (has one little dog)
Okuyama-sensei's Private Lesson Features
  • 50-minute private Japanese lessons at beginner and intermediate levels, including JPLT N2, JLPT N3, JLPT N4, and JLPT N5.
  • Okuyama-sensei provides private lessons matched to your goals. If you have a specific textbook in mind, please let us know.
  • Homework can be provided, if you so desire, and customized in amount and content. Working with Japanese just a few minutes every day is the key to achieving your goal.
  • Lessons are taught primarily in Japanese, but, as necessary, instruction in English can be provided as well.
  • Using simple Japanese, Okuyama-sensei focuses on communication—understanding and being understood in Japanese.
  • Through Okuyama-sensei's lessons, you'll acquire Japanese skills naturally in a relaxed, enjoyable environment.
  • Okuyama-sensei can build customized lessons for Japanese slang and Japan's pop culture, and can answer your questions about how to use these words or phrases in different situations.
  • Meaningful lessons include plenty of conversation around your likes and interests. Okuyama-sensei looks forward to meeting you and helping you learn Japanese.
  • Free Trial LessonTrial lesson at no charge offered to new students
  • Able to use English as an instructional language based on the student’s needs
  • Reservation deadline: 48 hours before class
  • Cancellation deadline: 24 hours before class
Okuyama-sensei's Available Times for Private Lessons
Choose your time zone:
Lesson TimeSundayMondayTuesdayWednesdayThursdayFridaySaturday
12:00 - 12:50 am
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Available
Thursday
Available
Friday
Saturday
1:00 - 1:50 am
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Available
Thursday
Available
starts Jan 1
Friday
Saturday
2:00 - 2:50 am
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Available
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
8:00 - 8:50 am
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Available
Saturday
4:00 - 4:50 pm
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Available
Saturday

Kyoko TANOSHIMA

田野島(たのしま) 京子(きょうこ)
  • Lives in Philadelphia, U.S. (previously lived in Cleveland, Boston, North Carolina, Florida, Singapore, U.K., Japan)
  • Bachelor's degree in sociology from the School of Humanities and Social Sciences, Waseda University, Tokyo
  • Master's degree from the Department of Sociology, University of Essex, England
  • Completed the 420-hour course for Teaching Japanese as a Foreign Language at Takushoku University, Tokyo
  • Passed the Japanese Language Teacher Proficiency Test
  • Exceptional Japanese teaching experience, including:
    • Foundations located in Tokyo and Nagoya (1991 to 1994)
    • Polytechnic schools located in Singapore (1994 to 1998)
    • The Japan Society of Boston (2007 to 2009)
    • Japanese companies located in Boston (2009 to 2013)
    • Northeastern University (2014)
    • Boston University (2013 to 2016)
  • Enjoys piano, music, art (creating hanga prints, making Japanese paper), and travel
Tanoshima-sensei's Private Lesson Features
  • 50-minute private Japanese lessons at the introductory, beginner, and intermediate levels, including JLPT N2, JLPT N3, JLPT N4, and JLPT N5 preparation
  • Tanoshima-sensei provides private lessons to fit your goals. If you have a specific textbook in mind, please let us know.
  • In addition to comprehensive Japanese study, Tanoshima-sensei provides goal-focused lessons in the following categories:
    • Kanji
    • News and newspaper articles
    • Business Japanese speaking skills
    • Preparation for Japan travel or study abroad
    • Japanese for kids
    • Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) preparation
  • Lessons can be conducted in Japanese only, English only, or a mixture of both, according to your preference.
  • Following each lesson, Tanoshima-sensei emails a summary of the lesson for your study and review.
  • Homework is available if you like.
  • Periodic progress reports are available if desired.
  • Free Trial LessonTrial lesson at no charge offered to new students
  • Able to use English as an instructional language based on the student’s needs
  • Reservation deadline: 24 hours before class
  • Cancellation deadline: 24 hours before class
Tanoshima-sensei's Available Times for Private Lessons
Choose your time zone:
Lesson TimeSundayMondayTuesdayWednesdayThursdayFridaySaturday
TANOSHIMA Kyoko-sensei is not currently accepting new students.

Chie TSUYUGUCHI

露口(つゆぐち) 千恵(ちえ)
  • Lives in Japan (Kōbe City)
  • Bachelor's degree in Japanese language and culture education, School of Education, Hiroshima University
  • Master's degree in Japanese language and culture education, Graduate School of Education, Hiroshima University
  • Passed the Japanese Language Teacher Proficiency Test
  • Japanese teaching experience includes:
    • Taught Japanese at a Japanese language school in Hiroshima (2011 to 2013)
    • Taught Japanese at a Japanese language school in Osaka (2013 to 2015)
  • Enjoys a variety of hobbies, including:
    • Trying out local bakeries and coffee shops
    • Handicrafts such as knitting and sewing
    • Manga, anime, and video games
    • Karaoke
    • Has ranking in shodō (Japanese calligraphy) and kobudō (a traditional martial art)
Tsuyuguchi-sensei's Private Lesson Features
  • 50-minute private Japanese lessons at the beginner, intermediate, and advanced levels, including JLPT N1, JLPT N2, JLPT N3, and JLPT N4 preparation
  • Tsuyuguchi-sensei provides private lessons using a variety of textbooks to fit your needs. If you have a specific textbook in mind, please let us know.
  • Do you have one of these goals? Tsuyuguchi-sensei can help you learn Japanese in a variety of situations, including:
    • “I want to be able to talk with a Japanese friend.”
    • “I want to read Japanese manga and watch Japanese anime.”
    • “I want to learn Japanese for everyday situations or for travel in Japan.”
    • “I want to improve my skills in Japanese grammar.”
  • After each lesson, Tsuyuguchi-sensei sends you a follow-up email summarizing what was covered in the lesson.
  • Homework is assigned, if you like.
  • Free Trial LessonTrial lesson at no charge offered to new students
  • Able to use as an instructional language based on the student’s needs; also speaks a little English and Chinese
  • Reservation deadline: 48 hours before class
  • Cancellation deadline: 24 hours before class
Tsuyuguchi-sensei's Available Times for Private Lessons
Choose your time zone:
Lesson TimeSundayMondayTuesdayWednesdayThursdayFridaySaturday
9:00 - 9:50 am
Sunday
Available
Monday
Available
Tuesday
Available
Wednesday
Available
Thursday
Available
Friday
Available
Saturday
10:00 - 10:50 am
Sunday
Monday
Available
Tuesday
Available
Wednesday
Thursday
Available
Friday
Saturday
10:00 - 10:50 pm
Sunday
Available
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Available
Thursday
Friday
Saturday

Miki YAMAMOTO

山本(やまもと) 美紀(みき)
  • Lives in Japan (previously lived in California)
  • Bachelor's degree from Department of English-Speaking Cultures Studies, Faculty of Humanities, Keisen University
  • Completed TEFL program at University of California, Irvine
  • Completed the 420-hour course for Teaching Japanese as a Foreign Language at Arc Academy
  • Japanese teaching experience includes:
    • Teaches Japanese at a Tokyo Japanese language school (2013 to present)
    • Taught Japanese lessons for English language teachers from abroad (2015)
  • Enjoys travel, reading, binge-watching Friends on TV
Yamamoto-sensei's Private Lesson Features
  • 50-minute private Japanese lessons at the introductory, beginner, intermediate, and advanced levels, including JLPT N2, JLPT N3, JLPT N4, and JLPT N5 preparation
  • Yamamoto-sensei provides private lessons to fit your learning goals. If you have a specific textbook in mind, please let us know.
  • Above all, Yamamoto-sensei aims for enjoyable Japanese lessons where you can take pride: "Wow, I was able to say a lot in Japanese!"
  • After each lesson, Yamamoto-sensei sends you a follow-up email summarizing what was covered in the lesson.
  • Homework is assigned, if desired.
  • Free Trial LessonTrial lesson at no charge offered to new students
  • Able to use English as an instructional language based on the student’s needs
  • Reservation deadline: 24 hours before class
  • Cancellation deadline: 24 hours before class
Yamamoto-sensei's Available Times for Private Lessons
Choose your time zone:
Lesson TimeSundayMondayTuesdayWednesdayThursdayFridaySaturday
12:00 - 12:50 am
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Available
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday

Kyoji YAZAWA

谷澤(やざわ) 享司(きょうじ)
  • Lives in Japan
  • Bachelor's degree in law from Chuo University
  • Passed the Japanese Language Teacher Proficiency Test
  • Completed the 420-hour course for Teaching Japanese as a Foreign Language
  • Japanese language teaching experience includes:
    • Volunteer Japanese language instructor (2005 to present)
    • Japanese language instructor at an international business school (2016)
    • Japanese language instructor at ATYS International Academy (2016-2018)
    • Teacher assistant in Japanese classes for elementary and middle school students (2017 to present)
    • Japanese language teacher at Japan International Cooperation Center (JICE) (2019 to present)
  • Business experience:
    • 40 years' experience in Japan's financial industry, including sales, administration, human resources, and inspections. Key executive responsibility in operations for 16 years (1998-2014).
  • Enjoys playing the erhu fiddle (a Chinese instrument called niko in Japanese), playing tennis, cooking, and making soba noodles
Yazawa-sensei's Private Lesson Features
  • 50-minute private Japanese lessons at all levels (introductory, beginner, intermediate, and advanced), including JLPT N1, JLPT N2, JLPT N3, JLPT N4, and JLPT N5, as well as BJT (Business Japanese Proficiency Test) preparation
  • Yazawa-sensei offers lessons customized to each student's goals. If you have a specific textbook in mind, please let us know.
  • Lesson features
    • JLPT/BJT Lessons
      Yazawa-sensei will help you pass the JLPT N1, N2, N3, N4, or N5, or the BJT examination.
    • Customized Lessons
      Yazawa-sensei offers lessons tailored specifically to your level and needs. Perhaps you have one of the following goals in mind:
      Reading Japanese manga
      Conversing in Japanese when traveling to Japan
      Speaking correct business Japanese
      Singing JPOP
      ... and many more!
    • All Ages Are Welcome
      From young children to those not so young, students of all ages will find Yazawa-sensei's Japanese lessons fun and effective. He has ongoing experience as a Japanese teaching assistant to elementary and middle-school students.
    • Approachable Japanese
      Using clear, approachable Japanese, Yazawa-sensei's lessons are enjoyable and easy to understand for even the newest Japanese learner.
    • Business Japanese
      With 40 years' experience in Japan's financial industry, Yazawa-sensei can provide unique insights on Japan's economy and society, as well as the state of Japan business and commerce.
    • Japanese Culture
      Sightseeing  Learn about Japan's amazing places throughout the seasons.
      Cooking  Learn about each season's tastes, how to make soba noodles and other Japanese homecooking from chef Yazawa!
      Fashion  Yazawa-sensei is no slouch in the hipster department, either. He'll introduce you to the latest fashion trends in Japan.
      Culture  Learn more about Japan's many culture trends, including JPOP.
      Anime  Yazawa-sensei will show you new angles on popular Japanese anime.
  • Free Trial LessonTrial lesson at no charge offered to new students
  • Able to use English as an instructional language based on the student’s needs
  • Reservation deadline: 48 hours before class
  • Cancellation deadline: 24 hours before class
Yazawa-sensei's Available Times for Private Lessons
Choose your time zone:
Lesson TimeSundayMondayTuesdayWednesdayThursdayFridaySaturday
12:00 - 12:50 am
Sunday
Monday
Available
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
1:00 - 1:50 am
Sunday
Monday
Available
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
11:00 - 11:50 pm
Sunday
Available
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday