おかえり! Return students get ¥22,000 OFF – thank you for learning with us again!
おかえり! Return students get ¥22,000 OFF – thank you for learning with us again!
A seaside city offering an authentic Japanese experience away from tourist crowds, Akashi blends historical charm, local vibrancy, and breathtaking coastal views.
Just 2 minutes from Akashi Station and Akashi Castle Park, our school is perfectly placed for both convenience and inspiration.
With small, focused classes, a warm family-like atmosphere, and programs designed for 1 to 12 weeks, every day here is an opportunity to live, learn, and truly experience Japan.
Our flexible, communicative curriculum adapts to your goals—whether you’re here for a short break, a study vacation, or a cultural deep dive.
With a dedicated bilingual team and thoughtful local support, you can relax, feel safe, and focus on what matters most: discovering Japan, learning the language, and making memories that last.
Personalise your learning journey to fit your schedule. Start any Monday and study for 1 to 50 weeks.
Our native Japanese instructors receive ongoing training to ensure top-quality teaching.
Immerse in Japanese traditions through engaging workshops led by local experts.
Build genuine connections with locals and experience Japan beyond the classroom.
With an average of five students per class and a maximum of 9 for personalised attention.
Explore Japan’s vibrant subculture, including anime, fashion, and music, guided by passionate experts.
Explore Japan’s most iconic castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and marvel at its stunning architecture and rich history that spans centuries.
With a history of over 1300 years, Arima Onsen is one of Japan’s oldest hot spring town - a serene mountain hideaway beloved by locals.
Known as the birthplace of Japan. Just a short ride from Akashi, it offers a peaceful escape where ancient legends meet breathtaking nature.
From rooftop views to bustling izakayas, Sannomiya’s nightlife blends energy and charm—perfect for a night out after class.
From street food in Dotonbori to comedy shows and neon lights. Big, bold, and full of flavour - Osaka is the perfect day trip for energy and fun.
Wander through temples, sip matcha in centuries-old tea houses, and experience the beauty of tradition - the heart of Japan.
Kurashiki is where old Japan meets quiet charm — canals, white walls, and timeless streets.
Nara is known for a peaceful retreat filled with sacred deer, ancient temples and Japan's spiritual roots.
From cherry blossoms to autumn leaves, summer festivals to winter onsen—our programs are designed to help you experience Japan’s seasonal magic to the fullest.
Cafes/ Restaurants / Convenience Store/ Supermarket / Tabehodai / 100 yen store
Train Station/ Local Market / Shopping Malls / Historical Park / Libraries / Pharmacy
Harbour Area / Museum / Art Gallery / Sports Facility / Cycling / Ferry to Awaji Island
Beach / Kobe / Chinatown / Flower Field / Mountain / Sea World / Museums / Nightlife
Osaka (40 min) / Himeji (25 min) / Arima Onsen (60 min) / Awaji Island (15 min)
Universal Studio Japan / Nara Deer Park / Hello Kitty Park / Nijigen no Mori
Tokyo (50 min Flight) / Kyoto (30 min Bullet Train or 1h Train) / Nagoya (1h Bullet Train) / Kurashiki (1.5h Train) / Fukuoka (2.5h Bullet Train)
Kobe Airport (35 min)
Osaka Itami Airport (70 min)
Kansai International Airport (90 min)
Nishi-Akashi Station (4 min)
Shin-Kobe Station (34 min)
Shin-Osaka Station (45 min)
Born in Tokyo and raised across Japan, China, and the UK, Yuriko brings a global perspective and a deep understanding of the challenges—and beauty—of living between cultures.
Her journey with language began with Japanese and Mandarin, followed by English. Today, she’s fluent in all three and understands firsthand that learning a language isn’t just about grammar and vocabulary—it’s about building real connections through culture, community, and daily life.
Yuriko holds a Master’s from the #1 education institute in the world (UCL), as well as top-level teaching certifications including CELTA from Cambridge. These academic credentials, paired with her own personal journey, shape everything Local Life Japan stands for.
“I wanted to build the kind of school I wished existed when I first moved abroad—a place that supports you, challenges you, and helps you feel like you belong.”
Hilary’s journey with Japan began through a short-term language program after high school, but it was her homestay experience that left a lasting impression. Living with a host family and experiencing day-to-day life in Japanese gave her the confidence to communicate naturally and deepened her passion for cross-cultural exchange.
With a background in global education programs, cross-cultural engagement, and marketing, she supports student experience, storytelling and outreach at Local Life Japan. Her insights from working with international teams bring a unique perspective to building inclusive, people-first programs.
“For me, Japan became more than a destination—it became part of my story. I want to help others feel the same connection.”
Hilary works closely with schools and students from around the world to share what makes Local Life Japan so unique: community, warmth, and real connection through language and culture.
Born and raised in the Akashi/Kobe area, Hiroko is the heart of Local Life Japan’s cultural and community experience.
With 14 years of homestay hosting experience and 7 years teaching Japanese, she knows what it takes to create a truly welcoming environment. Over the years, Hiroko has helped students from all over the world experience the real Japan—not through tourist attractions, but through family dinners, local traditions, and everyday conversations.
“Language is more than grammar. It’s about connection, emotion, and sharing life with others.”
Hiroko leads homestay placements and designs immersive local activities that bring the language to life. Her passion lies in helping students feel safe, connected, and at home in Japan.
At Local Life Japan, we offer a unique blend of short-term, immersive Japanese language courses focused on real-world communication. Our programs are designed to help you gain conversational fluency, connect with locals, and navigate daily life in Japan with confidence.
We believe language is more than grammar—it’s about people and connection. That’s why we combine high-quality teaching with hands-on cultural experiences that bring your learning to life.
Above all, we pride ourselves on creating a nurturing, family-like environment where every learner is valued. You’ll find a warm community that supports your growth—not just as a language learner, but as a person.
Our mission is to deliver the highest quality Japanese language education within a supportive, inclusive community of students, staff, and local families.
By the end of your stay, we want you to feel like they truly belong—as if this is your own hometown in Japan. We aim to build deep, lasting connections: with teachers, classmates, locals, and culture.
At Local Life Japan, your language journey becomes a transformative experience—filled with meaningful friendships, personal growth, and memories that last a lifetime.
At Local Life Japan, we believe that language is meant to be used, not just studied. That’s why our teaching focuses on helping you communicate naturally and confidently in real-life situations—from your very first lesson.
Our approach is built on four core principles:
🧑🎓 Student-Centred Learning
Every learner is different. Our teachers personalise lessons based on your level, pace, goals, and learning style—whether you’re aiming to pass the JLPT or simply want to speak Japanese in daily life.
🗣 Real-World Communication
You won’t just memorise grammar or vocabulary—you’ll use Japanese to order at cafés, navigate stations, talk with locals, and more. Whenever possible, we take lessons outside the classroom to help you apply what you’ve learned immediately.
💬 Confidence First
We prioritise building your speaking confidence, especially as a beginner. Mistakes are part of learning, and our environment is safe, friendly, and supportive—so you feel comfortable using Japanese from day one.
📈 Visible Progress
Our short-term programs are designed to show clear results. With small group sizes, practical activities, and personalised attention, you’ll feel your improvement and motivation grow week by week.
Local Life Japan
8F Shiragiku Grand Bldg, 1-7-4 Oakashi-cho, Akashi, Hyogo 673-0891
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