about
Founder: Yuriko Minagi
With a background in Japanese, Chinese, and English, I understand the challenges of learning a new language in a new environment.
I hold a Master’s degree from University College London’s Institute of Education, recognized as the world’s best education institute, and a teaching qualification from Cambridge. These qualifications, along with my personal journey, drive my passion for creating engaging language learning experiences.
Having lived, studied, and worked in Japan, China, and the UK, I’ve learned that language is more than just words—it’s a bridge to understanding and connection.
My journey began with Mandarin Chinese, followed by Japanese and English. Today, I’m fluent in all three, and I believe that mastering a language comes from immersing yourself in its culture, community, and daily life.
At Local Life Japan, our mission is to provide you with that same immersive experience. Our curriculum blends modern teaching techniques with deep cultural integration, helping you reach your language goals in a fun and effective way.
Whether you’re here for a week or for a year, we’re committed to making your experience meaningful, memorable, and transformative.
We provide practical and conversation-centered learning methods through a curriculum that anticipates real-life situations.
By blending into the local community and experiencing real-life through culture and customs, you can truly experience Japanese culture.
We can introduce facilities where you can experience Japanese living such as homestays and share houses.
Experience Japanese culture through various local activities.
Akashi is located in southern Hyōgo prefecture, along the Seto Inland Sea. Akashi was ranked 3rd on the list of top hidden gems in a 2024 survey in Japan.
Akashi is an enchanting seaside city that offers a unique blend of traditional culture and modern lifestyle, making it an ideal destination for students seeking an immersive Japanese language and cultural experience. Renowned for its picturesque Akashi Castle, the city also boasts a vibrant community, rich history and culinary options. Whether it’s the heritage sights, architectural marvels, bustling street markets or its wonderous natural beauty in the mountains or the sea, there is no shortage of everlasting memories to be had in this great city.
Our campus is located in a building facing the beautiful Akashi Castle, just a 2-minute walk from Akashi Station, with great connections to major cities and other parts of the region. There is a wide selection of restaurants, entertainment venues, heritage sights and facilities all available within walking distance. Whether you are in Japan for the first time or a long-term Japan lover, Akashi immerses you in a truly local environment where you can use Japanese in everyday life. The perfect learning environment to support Local Life’s focus on practical Japanese.
At Local Life Japan, we offer a unique blend of short-term, immersive Japanese language courses designed for real-world application. Our programs emphasize conversational fluency, equipping you to live confidently in Japan, connect with locals, and navigate daily situations with ease. Beyond the classroom, we immerse you in practical experiences, fostering a genuine connection with Japanese culture.
We pride ourselves on creating a nurturing, family-like environment where every learner is valued. Our commitment is to provide a supportive community that not only enhances your language skills but also deepens your cultural understanding, ensuring a memorable, enriching experience that inspires a lasting affection for Japan. Join us for a transformative journey where language learning meets cultural immersion, all within the warm embrace of our Local Life Japan family.
Local Life’s mission is to provide the highest quality Japanese language teaching through the creation of a nurturing family-like community of students, staff and the local people in the area.
By the end of the student’s time here, we want them to feel like they belong, as if this is their own hometown. This with a robust network of mentors, fellow students, friends and colleagues. Creating connections that are deep and profound that will last a lifetime.
Our campus is found in the building facing the beautiful Akashi Castle, just a 2-minute walk from Akashi Station, with great connections to all parts of the region.
