Japanese + Culture + Homestay

No! We welcome complete beginners as well as students with previous experience. 

Start dates for complete beginners are: 

Jan 7, Feb 10, Mar 17, Apr 21, May 26, Jun 30, Aug 4, Sep 8, Oct 13, Nov 17.

Learners with previous experience will be asked to complete a short online placement test and have a brief online interview with one of our teachers. This helps us recommend the most suitable class for your level and learning goals. 

All our host families are carefully interviewed and selected. 

We match students based on their hobbies, dietary needs, and personal preferences (e.g., host siblings, Japanese/English speaking, proximity to school). Our families are passionate about cultural exchange and excited to welcome you. 

Our program is designed around full immersion, so homestay is included.

However, if you prefer to arrange your own accommodation, we're happy to be flexible. 

Please contact us at info@local-life-japan.com for a customised quote. 

We provide full support to ensure students feel safe, comfortable, and cared for throughout their stay:

• 24/7 emergency contact in both Japanese and English
• On-site student support for any issues or concerns during their program
• Local host family to help with daily life and provide a warm, welcoming environment
• Personalised care from our dedicated team before, during, and after the stay

Monday - Thursday:

9:30 - 12:20 (3 of 50 min) Japanese lessons

12:20 - 13:30 LUNCH 

13:30 - 16:30 Social-Cultural Activities

Friday:

9:30 - 12:20 (3 of 50 min) Japanese lessons

+ Breakfast and dinner with your host family

+ Long weekends (from Friday afternoon) to explore, study or join local events!

*Timetable and experiences may vary slightly based on the weather and local events, ensuring you always enjoy the best of what Japan has to offer.

Our program focuses on practical, real-life communication, not just textbook memorisation.

Students learn how to express themselves naturally in everyday situations—whether ordering food, chatting with locals, or joining community events.

Lessons are taught by certified native instructors in small groups, using a communicative approach designed to build confidence, fluency, and cultural understanding from day one.

Our curriculum also includes real-world practice whenever possible. For example, after a lesson on ordering in a café, students will actually go out and order in person—maximising the value of their time in Japan and helping them apply what they’ve learned immediately.

We keep our classes small - usually 3-6 students, max 9 students per class - to ensure lots speaking time and individual support. 

- Travellers looking for a real cultural immersion 

- Student taking a gap year or study break

- Working adults seeking short-term study abroad

- Individuals considering relocation and wanting to experience "real Japan" first

- Anyone passionate about Japan and wanting a deeper, more authentic experience than typical tourism offers