Born in 1959 into a Chinese–Filipino family in the Philippines, Cynthia Usui, Chief Empowerment Officer of Sekaia Inc., came to Japan in 1980 as a government-sponsored international student and graduated from Tokyo University of Foreign Studies. She once imagined a traditional professional path, but life took her across countries and roles, including a long period as a full-time homemaker. Married to a Japanese diplomat, she spent nearly two decades raising her daughter while living in multiple countries before eventually becoming a Japanese national and calling Tokyo home.

At age 47—when most people believe “it’s too late to start over”—Cynthia re-entered the workforce with a part-time cafeteria job. She began what would become one of Japan’s most remarkable second-career stories. From hospitality roles at major hotels, including ANA InterContinental Tokyo and Shangri-La, she went on to lead Tokyo 2020 hospitality at Coca-Cola. She later became a country manager in the hotel industry and then a manager at a major global IT company. Today, she serves as an advisor to an NPO that supports single mothers, while being recognized as a LinkedIn influencer and published author who advocates for career breaks.

Career Breaks by Cynthia Usui

Cynthia’s beliefs are rooted in lived experience. After a 17-year career break, she learned firsthand that stepping away from work is not the end of a career. It can become the beginning of a more authentic one. She calls herself the “Cinderella of stay-at-home moms,” not because she waited for the clock to strike midnight. But because she transformed “ordinary” and “unemployed” into extraordinary and unstoppable through curiosity, humility and persistence.

Her message is simple but radical:

“A career break is not a career end.”

Career pauses also create space for growth, resilience and new perspectives—qualities that enrich professional life later. Through storytelling, writing and mentoring, she now champions women who are restarting professional journeys after motherhood, caregiving, relocation or personal transitions.

What makes Cynthia inspiring is not only that she achieved senior roles. It is the fact that she began again when most people believe the window has closed. She has proven, through her own example, that it is never too late to reinvent oneself. Opportunity doesn’t fade with age, gender or circumstance. She stands for possibility, for second chances and for the power of saying “yes” even when your confidence says “not yet.”

Today, through Career Hub, her books and her platform on LinkedIn, Cynthia empowers a new generation of women to believe that every chapter counts—and that the time spent away from work doesn’t erase your potential. It expands it.

Cynthia’s Japan Recommendations

• Take the train and get out of central Tokyo to see how regular people live.

Visit Cynthia’s website for more information about her and her work.

Her books are all available on Amazon (Japanese language):

• 人生は、もっと、自分で決めていい (Jinsei wa, motto, jibun de kimete ii; “You’re allowed to decide more of your own life.”)
• ハーバード、イェール、プリンストン大学に合格した娘は、どう育てられたか ママ・シンシアの自力のつく子育て術33 (Hābādo, Yēru, Purinsuton Daigaku ni gōkaku shita musume wa, dō sodaterareta ka: Mama Shinshia no jiriki no tsuku kosodatejutsu 33; “How was the daughter who got into Harvard, Yale and Princeton raised? Cynthia’s 33 child-raising methods for building independence.”)
• 専業主婦が就職するまでにやっておくべき8つのこと (Sengyō shufu ga shūshoku suru made ni yatte oku beki yattsu no koto; “Eight things a full-time homemaker should do before getting a job.”)

If you would like to follow Cynthia Usui personally, you can find her over on LinkedIn, X and Facebook.

If you have someone in mind you would like us to interview for Savvy Spotlight, please leave a comment below with your recommendations.

Finding a part-time job in Japan as a parent—or really in any country—can be a challenging and time-consuming undertaking. Throw in different cultural norms and a foreign language, and it can feel nearly impossible.

In America, I might show up and ask one of the staff members if they were hiring, but I wasn’t sure if it would come across as too aggressive in Japan. Thankfully, after hours of scouring the internet, painstakingly filling out resumes by hand and on the computer and making plenty of mistakes, I can share my knowledge to help others be better prepared than I was.

Why Choose A Part-Time Job?

© Photo by iStock: maroke

Many housewives and househusbands turn to アルバイト (arubaito; “part-time jobs“) for the flexible schedule and the well-known practice of maintaining spousal social insurance dependency. Not only that, but working a part-time job helps you connect more with your community and offers you a chance to improve your Japanese language skills. You might find that part-time work is more rewarding than you expected, gaining more knowledge and confidence to live in Japan.

Daycare & School Hours

It’s no surprise that being a parent comes with the unfortunate task of juggling different schedules, events, activities and finances. The moment I became a mom, I was overwhelmed with keeping up with my son’s ever-changing schedule and needs. Now that my son is starting daycare, I find myself trying to squeeze in as much work as possible during the day while also keeping our shared family calendar up to date to know who is picking up and dropping off our son.

Daycare hours in Japan vary by area and individual schools. Standard hours are usually between 7 a.m. and 6 p.m. Depending on the certification given to you by your local municipality, you might only be permitted to use shortened hours, which are from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Anything outside of the standard or shortened hours is considered extended hours, which come with an extra fee.

On paper, the schedule sounds manageable. Realistically, however, depending on your work, your commute and the location of your daycare, you might find yourself sprinting from one place to the next. If daycare ends at 6 p.m. and the typical Japanese workday also ends at 6 p.m., it becomes clear how impossible it can feel.

Applying to daycares near your home doesn’t always guarantee you will get in.

All the daycares near us were filled, from public to private to unlicensed. We were then forced to apply to ones outside of our city and prefecture. When we finally got accepted, it was a 50-minute commute from door to door. A commute like that is manageable for an adult, but for a squirmy toddler, it can be a nightmare.

What can be even more taxing are the shorter elementary school hours, with children returning home around 3 p.m. School also starts later in the morning, meaning parents might leave the house before their children do. Thankfully, most children in Japan attend elementary schools located in their neighborhoods and are easily accessible on foot. Designated volunteers in the community are stationed at some crosswalks to ensure children reach school safely, but this can make it difficult for parents to maintain a work-life balance.

Taxes & Dependency Status

Japan offers maternity leave and childcare leave to those who have ‌full-time jobs in Japan. As a foreigner who worked on English teaching contract jobs, I wasn’t one of those lucky people to get such benefits. Thankfully, while freelancing during my pregnancy and raising our son while out of work, my husband was able to claim me as a dependent. His company provided both of us with social insurance and handled our taxes every year.

In fact, many mothers in Japan are in similar situations. They often feel pressure from their managers or societal demands to be the perfect mom, which can lead them to leave their full-time jobs. On top of it all, the price of daycare can be even higher if both parents are working. To make matters worse, the daycare application process requires an overwhelming amount of paperwork that must be resubmitted, which can put a strain on an already busy work schedule.

However, working a part-time job that earns less than ¥1.3 million a year, which is approximately 20 hours of work a week at the typical Tokyo minimum wage, allows a spouse to remain a dependent. This reduces the amount a household is taxed and allows the spouse to remain on the other’s social insurance plan.

After December 1, 2025, these numbers will change slightly, but realistically, the amount‌ isn’t enough. With ever-increasing prices of goods and stagnant salaries, families are struggling and need more assistance and leniency from the government.

Applying For Part-Time Jobs

© Photo by iStock: Prostock-Studio

The easiest and most straightforward way to start applying is to look online. If you don’t have any Japanese language skills or lack the confidence to interview in Japanese, there are plenty of part-time jobs that don’t require it.

GaijinPot Jobs can not only help you find places that welcome foreign staff. You can also refine your search using advanced options, such as filtering by industry and remote work availability. They also offer jobs that provide full-time or contract work, should you decide to change your work style.

If you have basic Japanese conversation skills or don’t mind navigating Japanese websites for part-time work, I recommend using these sites to get you started:

• Baitoru (バイトル)
• Townwork (タウンワーク)
• Shufu Job (しゅふJOB)

Here are some phrases you can use while searching for a job in Japanese:

After submitting your application, some jobs will contact you by phone or email to invite you in for an interview. From personal experience, a rare few will ask you to bring in a resume. Most of them had an original form they wanted me to fill out at their shop on the day of the interview.

Japanese Resumes

© Photo by iStock: Takatoshi

For me, this was the hardest part. Resumes in Japan differ significantly from those in my home country, with far more rules and requirements. I found myself rushing to my local train station to sit in a photo booth to take a proper resume picture, which is meant to be 40mm x 30mm.

When listing your work history and education, keep in mind that Japan might have a different order than you’re used to. List your educational background first, including details about your junior high school and high school experiences. Your work history should be listed in order from your first job to the last job or the one you’re currently working.

If you are confident in your writing abilities, you can purchase resumes at the convenience store. There are two different kinds. The blue one, 履歴書用紙 (rirekisho yoshi), is typically used for changing companies or by recent graduates entering a company. The red one, パート・アルバイト用履歴書用紙(paato/arubaito you rirekisho yoshi), is more for part-time or casual work.

As a housewife or parent, you don’t need to handwrite your resume. Finding a free online template or using a free service like Canva is a great way to fill it out on your computer and save yourself the sanity of squeezing kanji into small boxes. Sites like GaijinPot Jobs allow you to upload your resume in English and Japanese, lessening the hassle of having to print one out every time you go in for an interview.

Interviewing For Part-Time Jobs

© Photo by iStock: mapo

After applying for jobs online or by phone, you should have a date set up for an interview. Since this is a part-time job, it isn’t quite as serious as applying for a corporate job. However, you should go to your interview dressed well and looking professional. Arrive 10 minutes early to complete any necessary paperwork and start the interview on a positive note.

Many of the websites and videos I watched in preparation for my interview mentioned the importance of giving a self-introduction. However, none of my interviewers asked me to introduce myself. They seemed much more interested in my reasons for choosing the job, the hours I was willing to work, whether I could work during holidays and if I wanted to remain dependent on my husband’s social insurance.

When you arrive at the store, find an employee who isn’t busy or wait patiently until you can talk to an employee. Let them know you’re there for your interview (try the Japanese below). They will likely escort you to the manager or lead you to a designated area to conduct the interview.

Here are some example questions or information you might be asked to answer during your interview, and some possible examples of how to respond.

Please give a self-introduction.

Please tell us why you chose our store.

Why did you want to start working again?

What days and times can you work?

Do you want to work within the dependent’s allowance?

When can you start working?

How long will you be working for us?

Can you work overtime?

How long is your commute and how will you get to the store?

What will you do if you’re working and your child gets sick?

Closing Thoughts

© Photo by iStock: pixelfit

In the end, whether you choose part-time work or full-time work, job hunting can be stressful. Do what’s best for you and your family’s situation and, of course, find a store that will be enjoyable to work at. Be honest and don’t be afraid to tell them your limits. I found that many store managers understood my situation as a mom, listened to my limits and called me in for the job.

Are you thinking about finding a part-time job or already have one? Let me know in the comments how it went or what your favorite thing about working part-time in Japan is!

Early this year, the Tokyo Metropolitan Government announced a subsidy of up to ¥100,000 to help cover the cost of epidural deliveries, which took effect on October 1, 2025. It marks the first time a major local government has acknowledged that pain relief during labour deserves real, practical support. That may seem routine in countries like the U.S. or Australia, but in Japan, epidurals have long taken a back seat in maternal care.

Seen for years as unnecessary, expensive or challenging to get, epidurals have remained out of reach for many women in Japan. But that perception is changing. As more women share their birth stories, support for better access to pain relief in labour continues to grow.

The Reality Of Pain Relief During Childbirth in Japan

© Photo by iStock: PonyWang

Ideas about “natural birth,” endurance and ganbaru (pushing through difficulty without complaint) have long shaped expectations around labor in Japan. Many women grew up hearing that pain was simply part of becoming a mother, making pain relief seem unnecessary or even indulgent. These attitudes didn’t appear overnight; they were passed down through families, echoed in maternity classes and normalized within hospital culture.

As a result, 硬膜外麻酔 (koumakugai masui; “epidural anesthesia”) rates in Japan remain far lower than in many Western countries. In 2018, only about five percent of births involved an epidural. As conversations around pain relief grow and expectations slowly shift, that number is rising. By 2024, the Japan Association of Obstetricians and Gynecologists reported usage had reached just under 14 percent. It’s a noticeable shift, though still well below the 70 to 80 percent reported in countries such as the U.K. and the U.S.

However, cultural attitudes are only one part of the story. Despite growing interest, the availability of epidural services in Japan is still limited. A national review found that out of more than 2,300 hospitals and clinics offering maternity care, only about 720 listed epidural services as an option. Even then, some hospitals could provide them only during daytime hours or when an anesthesiologist was on duty.

How Tokyo Is Expanding Access To Epidurals

© Photo by iStock: Beano5

Tokyo’s new subsidy is simple but meaningful. From October 1, 2025, residents who give birth at an approved hospital can claim up to ¥100,000 toward the cost of 無痛分娩 (mutsū bunben; “painless childbirth”) with the epidural procedure and anesthetic drugs.

To be eligible, you must:

1. Have registered your pregnancy with the local government in Tokyo and remain registered in Tokyo until you apply for the subsidy
2. Deliver at a 対象医療機関 (taishō iryō kikan; “approved medical institution”) published by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government
3. Receive epidural or combined spinal–epidural labor analgesia
4. Apply for the subsidy within one year of the delivery date.

Applications can be submitted via the Tokyo Welfare Bureau’s online form.

What Expectant Parents Should Know

© Photo by iStock: NataliaDeriabina

If you’re considering pain relief during labour in Japan, the most important thing is to ask early. Not every hospital offers epidurals, and even those that do may only provide them during certain hours.

How To Ask Your Doctor Or Clinic

Keep it simple and direct. You can say:

• 無痛分娩はできますか (mutsu bunben wa dekimasu ka; “Do you offer painless delivery?”)
• 硬膜外麻酔は使えますか (komakugai masui wa tsukaemasu ka; “Do you provide epidurals?”)
• 夜間や週末も対応できますか (yakan ya shumatsu mo taio dekimasu ka; “Is it available at night or on weekends?”)
• 追加料金はいくらですか (tsuika ryokin wa ikura desu ka; “How much is the additional cost?”)

These phrases will help you find out what’s available at your hospital or clinic. 

How to Find a Hospital That Offers Epidurals

In Tokyo

Start by checking whether your hospital is listed as an approved medical institution on the Tokyo Metropolitan Government’s official website. These are the only facilities where you can receive the ¥100,000 epidural subsidy.

You can also ask your clinic directly. Many will display a notice stating 当院は対象医療機関です (toin wa taisho iryo kikan desu; “This hospital is an approved facility”).

Across Japan

Availability varies widely, so here are a few tips.

• University hospitals and larger perinatal centers are your best bet.
• Private clinics in major cities like Osaka, Nagoya, Fukuoka and Yokohama increasingly offer painless deliveries.
• In regional or rural areas, options may be limited, so it’s best to start researching early in pregnancy.
• Always ask about staffing hours, because many hospitals can only offer epidurals when an anesthesiologist is present.

Cost of Epidurals in Japan

For most people outside Tokyo, epidurals are not covered by National Health Insurance, unless they become medically necessary, such as during an emergency c-section. The typical additional fee ranges from ¥100,000 to ¥150,000, depending on the hospital.

A Quiet Shift in Japan’s Birth Culture

© Photo by iStock: Yusuke Ide

Pain relief during childbirth is slowly becoming a more visible and supported part of maternal care in Japan. Tokyo’s new subsidy won’t fix every challenge overnight, but it signals a fundamental shift. More parents are talking openly about their birth experiences, more hospitals are exploring how to expand services and the national conversation around labour pain is beginning to soften.

At the heart of all this is choice. You deserve to understand your options, ask questions and feel heard throughout your pregnancy and birth. Whether an epidural becomes part of your plan or you choose another path, what matters most is feeling informed, respected and supported as you welcome your baby into the world.

Feel free to share your birthing experience in our comment section! We’d appreciate you sharing it.

When my husband and I went in for our first ultrasound, our jaws dropped when the doctor confirmed two heartbeats. “Futago desu (they’re twins),” he said matter-of-factly. Twins? We were shocked.

Back in Trinidad, our mothers worried. “I’m coming,” said one mom. “We’ll be fine,” I assured them.

When the twins were delivered, we were ecstatic. Then the pandemic hit—lockdown. No one could come. I had been granted maternity leave, but what did I know about being a twin mom in Japan? I had to learn fast.

That week I spent in the hospital post-delivery was definitely worth it. While I recovered, the staff took care of my babies. In the maternity ward, I learned how to hand-express milk. In the NICU (Neonatal Intensive Care Unit), I learned how to breastfeed, change and bathe my babies. If I hadn’t spent that extra time there, I don’t think I would have been prepared for the world of work when the twins came home.

I Needed An Extra Pair Of Hands

© Photo by iStock: SanyaSM

Raising twins alone as a foreign mom in Japan seemed insurmountable. In my case, with the pandemic and no family support, my husband had to man up. Thankfully, he did and was granted childcare leave from his company.

We became a team. It was essential, especially with those round-the-clock three-hour feeds and diaper changes. While I breastfed one twin and pumped afterward, he bottlefed the other. We burped and rocked our babies back to sleep in synchronicity.

Because Japanese society is patriarchal, whenever my husband wore one of the twins in an infant carrier, he sometimes endured some strange looks from older folk in the neighborhood. However, today, the Japanese workplace is slowly softening its attitude towards paternity leave. One Japanese company has even taken it a step further, making it mandatory!

After six months, my husband returned to work. I was now on my own, but thankfully, the babies were a little older and I was a bit more seasoned. I tried tandem breastfeeding, which occasionally worked. In general, however, I managed to feed, change and clean the babies one after the other. Occasionally, when I really needed another pair of hands at the doctor’s office or with babysitting, I asked my landlady to help.

Surviving The Eat, Poop, Sleep Months

© Photo by iStock: mapo

In those first months when the twins spit up, peed and pooped around the clock, we needed to change and clean them efficiently. We ordered diapers and baby wipes in bulk from Rakuten. For bigger messes, we relied on our Angelcare mesh baby bath. Bathtime was one-on-one and anxiety-free because the baby rested in the mesh incline while he was shampooed, soaped and rinsed.

We also invested in easy-to-change baby clothes. Kimono-shiki and jimbei worked wonders! Unlike Western-style onesies, Japanese-style baby clothes lie flat and have adjustable ties, making outfit changes a cinch! They also “grew” with the twins, so we didn’t have to keep buying baby clothes every couple of weeks. We used these clothes during the day.

At night, however, we relied on two-way zipper onesies, presents from our friends in Australia. We could do these on autopilot, despite dim lighting and bleary eyes.

In hindsight, however, we did struggle with cooking, laundry and cleaning during those early months. If I had to do it all over again, I would have definitely used the cleaning and childcare services available from the city at a subsidized rate.

Cosleeping Is Just Right For Twins

© Photo by iStock: Sorapop

One thing I learned as a mom raising twin babies in Japan was how convenient cosleeping was. Although some foreigners may think it’s unusual for a family to sleep in one room, having the twins in the same space was the perfect setup. We all slept on futons 川 (kawa; “river”) style, with the swaddled twins in the middle and us parents on either end.

Unlike in some Western homes, I didn’t need to leave the comfort of my bedroom to attend to crying babies in a separate nursery. When it was time to breastfeed, I just rolled over and fed one kid while my husband got a bottle ready for the other. Readymade formula cubes were really helpful when he was too sleepy to measure out the formula. That being said, he wished we had a hot water dispenser for those early morning feedings!

When the kids started rolling around, we didn’t worry about them falling from or climbing out of cribs because they were already on the floor! We became so comfortable on our futons that the double bassinet/playard setup we bought during pregnancy became a storage space for baby supplies.

Out & About With Twins

© Photo by Suzanne Bhagan

When my husband returned to work, raising twins as a solo act was often chaotic. What kept me grounded were long walks on the river and visits to the local park. Thankfully, there are many safe green spaces in Japan, so moms don’t need to worry too much while getting fresh air.

Just allowing the kids to dip their toes in the sandbox helped keep me and them happy. Plus, they made their earliest friends there! I also made my first mama-tomo (mom friend) at the park. She, too, was worried about the pandemic and chose to let her baby play outside rather than indoors.

To get around alone, I depended on an Evenflo double stroller. When strangers saw me pushing it, they often commented, “Sugoi bebi ka! (What an amazing stroller!)” Unlike other double strollers available at the time in Japan, my stroller’s seat positioning was super customizable (front facing, back facing, diagonal).

This feature came in handy when I needed to fit through narrow doors and tight public spaces. It was also easy to maneuver on the local train. However, I could not take the double stroller on the bus unless I folded it up. I get it. A double stroller does take up a lot of space.

Using the bus became another team effort where my husband and I swapped the double stroller for two infant carriers and foldable GB Pockit strollers. The GB Pockits also came in handy whenever we used the shinkansen (bullet train) and when we flew back home (they did not need to be checked).

If I could go back in time, however, I would have definitely invested in a twin-friendly mamachari (mom’s bicycle). Pushing that stroller became a workout as the twins got older and heavier.

Surviving Those Doctor Visits

© Photo by Suzanne Bhagan

In the first year, the mandatory home visits were very convenient. The public nurses came to our apartment armed with everything they needed to check, measure and weigh the babies. Unlike our routine hospital visits, we were very comfortable during these consultations. The nurses were very friendly and tried to answer all our questions about the twins’ development and other child-rearing issues.

For immunizations, however, we had to go to the pediatrician as a team. During the first visit, we struggled to fill out routine forms with the babies strapped to our chests. After that, the nurses provided us with an English translation and the necessary forms for the next visit so that we could fill them out at home in advance. Crisis averted.

With time, however, being a twin mom in Japan became my new normal. Now that the twins are older, I look back and think, I survived, pandemic and all! It was challenging, but I learned a great deal and continue to learn to this day.

Are you a twin mom in Japan? How did you manage those early years?

Japanese hair salons are renowned for their precision and exceptional service. Even a simple bob cut can take hours as stylists carefully perfect every angle before recommending the best products to maintain your look. But when it comes to afro-hair care in Tokyo, the experience isn’t always as straightforward.

While Japan’s salon culture is renowned for its attention to detail, many individuals with afro-textured hair struggle to access the same level of care. Spend just a few minutes in a typical beauty aisle and you’ll notice that most products cater to straight hair, often marketed to “tame” frizz or curliness—leaving those with natural textures searching for alternatives that actually work for them.

Salons in Japan often lack the training and resources to accommodate individuals with afro-hair. They frequently resort to recommending straightening treatments or outright refusing service. However, as awareness of Black and African cultures increases in Japan, we’re finding more and more stylists and products that cater to the sensitive needs of the Afro-hair community, especially in big cities like Tokyo.

Shopping For Hair Products

© Photo by iStock: Zinkevych

The limited availability of salons specializing in Afro-hair care in Tokyo often prompts many people to take care of their hair at home with simple styling techniques.

Shampoo & Conditioner

You likely won’t find Shea Moisture or Aunt Jackie’s in any physical store here, but you’ll still be able to partake in using shampoos, conditioners, oils and even hair treatments. Product lines such as the Tsubaki Premium Moist Shampoo and Conditioner, as well as the Pantene Rich Moisture Shampoo and Conditioner, are highly recommended for curly and afro-textured hair.

Hair Masks & Shops To Check

As for hair masks, the Fino Premium Touch is highly recommended for all hair types in Japan. Stores like Ales Shop, while still limited in their selection, offer hair products such as extensions, creams, sprays, accessories and so much more for both straight and afro-hair textures. I highly recommend visiting the store in Shibuya, as their online shop doesn’t carry everything they have.

N Brand is produced by the Nepenji Hair Salon, known for its Devacurl treatment. The brand was specifically designed for individuals with curly and coarse hair. Lush and The Body Shop stores are also readily available international brands in Japan that offer ethically produced body products for people with all hair and skin types.

Aside from buying locally, there are also a few stores that ship international products to Japan. The prices tend to be a little higher than what you would expect in your home country, but it’s often the sacrifice you make when living overseas.

• iHerb 
• Strawberry Japan 
• Amazon Japan

Connect With Local Salons

© Photo by iStock: AleksandarNakic

Despite the difficulty in finding Afro-hair stylists in Japan, some residents have taken up the challenge to cater specifically to the needs of the Afro-hair community.

Salons such as Roppongi The Room 806 have been around for years, with an extensive list of clients ranging from residents to celebrities, and provide excellent space and service for afro-hair care.

Other hair salons and barbers have been emerging slowly over the years as demand for additional hair services increases. A perk about visiting Black-owned hair salons is that many of them carry international brands specific to afro-hair, such as T.G.I.N., Shea Moisture and much more.

It’s also important not to disregard the Japanese-owned salons that have stylists with specialized training in afro-hair styling. While the price range does tend to be higher compared to smaller salons, the service you receive often matches the price. Unfortunately, these Afro-hair salons are typically located in Japan’s larger cities. There may be smaller salons in local areas as well, but it’s more of an “if you know, you know” situation.

More salons and barbers in the Tokyo/Kanagawa area:

• Assort International Hair Salon
• Foreign Cutz
• P.B.E Tokyo
• AfroCurlys
• Angel’s Beauty & Barber Shop Yokota
• The Barber
• Shop Brooklyn Tokyo

Connect With The Community

© Photo by iStock: electravk

Regardless of the salons you visit or the number of products you order online, nothing trumps having a solid connection with your community.

Special interest groups not only provide resources on afro-hair care but also a space to discuss culturally sensitive topics, share stories and allow us to learn from and support each other as we build a community here in Japan. More importantly, you’re able to connect with people who look similar to you and can relate to you on a much deeper level outside of hair care.

Facebook groups such as Black Women in Japan, Black in Japan and Black Creatives Japan all provide resources and support for people of the African diaspora to connect with each other. Here you’ll find tips and resources on what others are doing for their own afro-hair care regimen and you might find yourself coming in contact with local hairstylists. These are also the groups that will help provide DIY recipes for how to create products at home, offer reviews of hair salons in Japan and even offer tutorials on how to style your hair.

As the wider Japanese community becomes more aware of Afro-hair care practices, we’re seeing many organizations offering more inclusive services to address the concerns of their community better. Organizations such as the Legacy Foundation Japan and HBA Beauty Academy offer culturally inclusive classes to parents of children with Afro-hair, teaching them proper care and styling techniques.

More Interests for People from the African Diaspora:

• JETS of African Descent 
• Africa in Japan 
• Jaspora 
• Igbo Association of Japan 
• Tokyo Black Professionals 
• Black Tokyo

Afro-hair does require some extra attention for proper care, but that shouldn’t stop you from enjoying yourself while living in Japan. You likely won’t be able to experience a lot of the same comforts you had back home, but that just means you’ll have to find the beauty in the local experience here.

Even if you’re the only Afro-hair individual living on a small rural island, remember there is a whole community of people here going through the same struggles as you. With some careful research and patience, you’ll quickly find that your hair thrives just as well in Japan as it does anywhere else.

If you’re someone with Afro-hair, we’d love to know how you take care of it in Tokyo! Let us know in the comments.

At precisely noon each day, a small carton of milk, a steaming bowl of rice and a perfectly portioned side of fish arrive on every desk in my kids’ classroom. There’s no packed lunch from home, no chatter and no choice. This is kyushoku (Japan’s beloved school lunch system), and for many foreign families, it’s a cultural experience that takes some getting used to. When my Kiwi-born child started second grade in Japan, this daily ritual quickly became one of our biggest challenges as we learned to adjust to Japan’s school lunches.

I’d expected the language barrier to be hard. I didn’t expect lunch to be harder.

From Lunchboxes To Kyushoku

© Photo by Pixta: akira

In Japan, kyushoku is not just a meal. It is considered part of the curriculum, teaching children about nutrition, teamwork, etiquette and respect for food. Students take turns serving their classmates, eat the same dishes together and clean up afterward in the name of equality and community. It is a beautiful concept in theory and in practice, but for newcomers, it can be overwhelming.

Back home in New Zealand, lunchtime was a relaxed and social affair. We would take our lunchboxes outside, sit in groups and talk during the break. Teachers encouraged healthy food choices with rules against lollies and chips, but every child brought something different and the occasional quiet sandwich-for-home-baking trade was practically a rite of passage. If you did not finish all your lunch, that was your choice and your lesson to learn later.

Lunchtime in a Japanese classroom could not have been more different. Every student eats the same meal at their desk. There is no talking, a rule introduced during COVID-19 that still lingers in many schools. The result is a quiet, almost ritualistic meal where the only sounds are thirty-five children chewing, slurping and sipping milk in unison. For a child with sensory sensitivities, this was overwhelming. The combination of silence and the sounds of eating was difficult enough, but the food itself posed its own challenges.

Japanese school lunches are wonderfully balanced, often including rice, miso soup, a salad and a meat or fish dish, all carefully planned by a licensed dietitian. Yet for a child unaccustomed to these flavors or textures, it was a steep learning curve. The fish-heavy menus were the hardest. Tiny fried fish (shishamo) with their eyes still staring up were particularly confronting. Most days, my kid stuck to rice, bread and milk, sometimes facing a tray of food that had cooled by the time it reached the desk.

Cultural Expectations Meet Individual Needs

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In Japan, finishing everything on your plate is not only polite but also a sign of respect. It is still considered a moral value. The concept of mottainai, meaning “waste nothing,” is deeply ingrained. Teachers encourage children to eat every bite, both to teach gratitude and to help them experience a wide variety of foods. It is an admirable approach, but for children who cannot finish their meals because of sensory issues or appetite loss, it can also be distressing.

During my kid’s first year, the classroom teacher was strict and followed every rule closely. Every student was expected to clear their plate with no exceptions. The pressure around lunch built up day after day and soon my kid began to dread school altogether.

The following year brought a very different experience. The new teacher was patient, kind and understanding. He encouraged tasting new foods without pressure and allowed small accommodations, such as wearing noise-canceling earmuffs to reduce sensory overload. That simple change transformed lunchtime from something stressful into something manageable.

Helping Your Kids Adjust To Japan’s School Lunch System

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The biggest lesson I learned was that communication matters and the sooner the better. Speaking up respectfully about your child’s needs can make a world of difference. Each teacher handles lunchtime differently. Some are flexible, while others are more traditional, but most respond well when parents communicate calmly and show appreciation for the system, explaining individual challenges.

Here are a few things that helped our family:

• Wearing Noise-canceling headphones: We discussed this with the school in advance and the teachers approved it. It allowed my kid to focus on eating instead of the sensory chaos around them.
• A doctor’s note: If your child struggles to finish meals due to medical reasons, such as a reduced appetite caused by ADHD medication, a note from a doctor can help teachers understand that it is not a matter of defiance.
• Big breakfasts and after-school snacks: For a while, my kid barely ate at school. We compensated with hearty breakfasts and snacks later in the day. Japanese schools do not have a morning tea break like in New Zealand, so this helped bridge the long gap until lunchtime.
• Preparation at home: Talking about upcoming meals, explaining ingredients, or trying similar foods in a low-pressure setting helped reduce anxiety and made new dishes seem less intimidating.

Finding Balance At The Lunch Table

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I have come to respect Japan’s school lunch system, not just for the nutritious and affordable meals, but also for the relief of not having to prepare lunches every morning. Although it can be difficult to adapt to at first, especially for children used to a freer and more casual eating environment, kyushoku has encouraged my child to try foods they might never have been brave enough to taste before.

It takes time, support and a great deal of understanding. If your child comes home hungry or upset about lunch, it does not mean they are ungrateful or failing to fit in. It simply means they are human and adjusting to a new rhythm. Over time, they will adapt, build resilience and even begin to enjoy parts of the experience. Mine still does not love the cold soup days, but now eats happily with the rest of the class and celebrates their favorite meals.

Every foreign parent raising children in Japan will eventually find themselves walking the line between honoring local culture and protecting their child’s well-being. So if you are sending your child off to school and worrying about lunchtime, here is my reassurance:

They will not starve, they will not fall behind and they will learn at their own pace to navigate this unique part of Japanese school life.

How did your child adjust to Japan’s school lunches? Let us know if you have any advice or experience!

When I used to vacation in Japan, I had fun getting creative with the kitchens or kitchenettes in my Airbnb. The lack of Japanese kitchen appliances and space made for both excitement and last-minute trips to the 100 yen shop. Could I cook pasta, a sauce and a side vegetable all on one hot plate? Could I produce a tasty stir-fry on a burner that inexplicably turned itself off every two minutes?

When I moved here with my family, however, amusing inconveniences became a closer part of my reality. Unlike the four-burner stove and oven setup I was accustomed to in Canada, I initially had only two occasionally temperamental gas burners, with a small fish grill positioned underneath them. Because I love cooking and I am feeding a family, we outgrew this setup almost immediately.

While my pocketbook wept, we quickly added a rice cooker to the mix, alongside some other small appliances to make procuring three meals a day much more pleasant and convenient. Below is my list of five that won’t be leaving my kitchen anytime soon. I heartily recommend them to help you get on track with home cooking and all the health benefits it brings.

1. Hot Plate

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The first item on this list is perhaps as well-used as the stove in my house: the Bruno hot plate. The Bruno, with its sleek design, fashionable colors and multi-insert functionality, first wowed me years ago in a Tokyu Hands display on a trip to Japan. The base model and the “grande” large model both come with a non-stick flat pan and a takoyaki (grilled octopus ball) pan, allowing for endless riffs on meals and snacks.

Indeed, in one of its forms (including the grill pan, which I bought separately), the Bruno is in use every lunch and supper. It’s great for vegetable side dishes, such as roasting eggplants or bell peppers. It also frequently takes on pancake duty in the morning when the two stove burners are in use.

With its powerful cooking ability and adjustable heat, I also confidently cook meat and fish on it. Long story short: consider this fancy hot plate the solution to many of your mansion cooking needs.

2. Toaster Oven

© Photo by iStock: Katelin Kinney

While toasting our bread over the fish grill did provide a certain enviable crispiness for the first few months, it wasn’t long before I caved and bought a toaster oven. More than just producing beautiful roasted bread, however, I was interested in rekindling another pre-Japan hobby of mine: baking.

By choosing a toaster oven that has customizable temperature dials, we were soon awash in muffins, brownies and cakes. Although certainly smaller than a conventional oven, my toaster oven fits conveniently in my small kitchen, while providing the same benefits.

Of course, you can also use it to bake vegetables, fish and meat, making it a multi-functional item. But, for our family, its real value lies in the ability to whip up sweet and savory treats. It fills the home with a much-needed inimitable perfume of baked goods.

3. Food Processor

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I have seen kitchen blogs and magazines label compact food processors as useless. But hear me out! I’m not sure they ever tried to cook in a tiny apartment kitchen without an oven or four burners. You need to upgrade your appliances, but admittedly, the space to put them is also limited. Thus, your cooking prep space will be reduced to…not much. This is where the food processor comes in!

While I have no problem cutting all my veggies by hand (I actually find it rather meditative for whatever reason), I do run out of space, especially if we are chopping on separate cutting boards. Our compact food processor, which can be easily relocated, condenses the time and space necessary to, for example, chop carrots for a sauce. And with two little ones around, saving on time and space simultaneously is worth another purchase!

For the record, I went brand-loyal and matched the set. I have the Bruno blender and food processor combo, but a simple food processor will also accomplish the same thing.

4. Portable Gas Grill

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A portable gas grill is more than just a convenient way to do yakiniku (Japanese barbecue) at the beach or while camping (although that is a lot of fun!). Indeed, with the interchangeable attachments, such as the yakiniku grill plate or the nabe (hot pot) pan, this appliance also significantly expanded the range of cooking options in my small kitchen and dining room.

Gas grills are also undoubtedly practical as they can be ported wherever you go. Most of the time, mine is simply brought to the kitchen-adjacent dining room table. For example, I’ve lost count of all the cold wintery days where we have warmed up in front of a bubbling nabe while my little ones delight in food cooking on the table in front of them.

Additionally, let’s not forget the importance of gas grills during natural disasters. You can easily keep spare gas canisters in your home emergency kit and use the grill to provide food for your family in case of an electricity outage.

5. Water Boiler

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Last, but no less essential, is a water boiler. No, it isn’t a kettle. This is a key appliance in any Japanese household, thanks to its ability to maintain the temperature of boiling water for extended periods. I personally lugged a water boiler with numerous functions from Narita to Canada, enduring the mocking of a Canadian customs agent.

No matter whether in my home country or in Japan, I didn’t want to be without the convenience of never needing to wait for the water to boil to get a late-night ramen fix or having to cool down my own water to make the perfect cup of sencha.

At home in our Japanese mansion, the water boiler is indispensable in compensating for the lack of more gas burners on our stove. The pre-boiled water can be transferred to a pan to steam or boil vegetables quickly, and cook pasta or noodles. I went with a Zoujirushi, but only you know how much customization you need!

In the wonder-inducing consumer paradise (or prison, depending on your viewpoint!) that is a Japanese electronics and home appliance store, I stand by these powerhouse kitchen appliances. With a hot plate, toaster oven, food processor, gas grill and water boiler, your little kitchen will buzz along more smoothly than ever before.

What Japanese kitchen appliances do you have in your apartment that you can’t live without?

Congratulations on your incoming little one(s)! After you register your pregnancy at the local ward office and start getting the essentials for the baby, you and your partner should start thinking about maternity and paternity leave. In Japan, there are leave programs for mothers and fathers. In an effort to ease the declining birthrate, the Japanese government has been providing additional financial benefits and leave programs to encourage people to have children.

While there are some overlapping options for both parents, namely Childcare Leave (育児休業, ikuji kyuugyou), there are also ones unique to mothers or fathers before and after the birth of a child. Keep reading for a primer on maternity and paternity leave in Japan.

Who Can Take Maternity & Paternity Leave in Japan?

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Under Japanese law, all employed women, regardless of the type or duration of their contract, are entitled to take maternity leave. Unfortunately, freelancers and self-employed women are not considered eligible and, thus, cannot receive the government leave benefits discussed below.

As for men, full-time permanent employees, as well as contract and dispatch workers, are able to take leave. However, there are several situations that may prevent a male employee from taking leave, including:

• Working less than two days a week 
• Having less than a year remaining in their contract following their return from childcare leave 
• Working at the company for less than a year 

For more information about your or your partner’s specific case, it is always best to inquire with the employer and local labor bureau.

Do People Take Childcare Leave in Japan?

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Although many types of workers are eligible for childcare leave, not everyone takes it.

Statistics On Childcare Leave in Japan

Approximately 86% of eligible women and 40% of men took some kind of childcare leave in 2024. If the difference between men and women is surprising, that’s actually a big improvement from recent years. In 2023 and 2022, only 30% and 18% of fathers, respectively, took advantage of a leave program.

Barriers To Taking Leave

While rates are increasing, men have opted not to take leave in greater numbers for several reasons:

• Conservative ideas about women as caregivers and men as financial providers
• Employers who discourage men from taking leave, leading to harassment and punishment 

Meanwhile, women have also faced harassment from employers for taking leave or pressure to return to work early following the birth of their child. Both are prohibited under Japanese law.

How To Apply For Maternity & Childcare Leave Through Your Employer

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Before parents can take leave from work, there are a few steps to follow:

1. Verify the eligibility requirements for leave to ensure you meet the qualifications. 
2. Notify your employer in advance, at least two weeks but ideally one month, before your intended start date of leave.
3. You will typically need to submit a written application form to your employer. In this application, you will need to clearly indicate the start and end dates of your intended leave.
4. Your employer or HR department will handle the formal application process and will submit the social insurance exemption notices on your behalf.

For more information about eligibility requirements and for a sample of a leave application form, please read this document produced by the Japanese Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare.

Women Only: Childcare Leave Before/After Birth

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Women are eligible to apply for Childcare Before Birth (産前休業, sanzen kyuugyou) for a maximum of six weeks prior to the expected date of delivery. If there are multiple births, such as twins or triplets, the period is extended to 14 weeks.

Under Japanese law, women must take Childcare Leave After Birth (産後休業, sango kyuugyou) for the eight weeks following the child’s birth. As a result, employers cannot require women to return to work before their child is eight weeks old, and women who wish to resume work must obtain permission from a doctor. To calculate the maximum duration of your Childcare Leave Before/After Birth, input your expected due date and whether you are having multiple births in this handy calculator.

Both Parents: Childcare Leave

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Childcare Leave (育児休業, ikuji kyuugyou) is available to both men and women and lasts until the day before the child’s first birthday. For women, the start of Child Care Leave must begin sometime after the end of Childcare Leave After Birth. For men, Childcare Leave can start at any time from the child’s date of birth. Both parents can take Childcare Leave concurrently, if desired.

In terms of salary, you will receive:

• 67% of your salary for the first 180 days of Childcare Leave
• 50% of your salary for the period following the initial 180 days of Childcare Leave 

Childcare Leave can be taken for any duration until the day before the child’s first birthday. Also, a parent can take Childcare Leave in one or two chunks. For example, a father can stay home from the time the child is three to six months and nine to 11 months old.

Men Only: Childcare At Birth Leave

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In the eight weeks following the birth of a child, fathers are allowed to take four weeks off from work with Childcare at Birth Leave (出生児育児休業, shusshouji ikuji kyuugyou).

The four weeks can be divided into two separate periods as long as they both fall within the first eight weeks after birth. For instance, men can take leave in the first two weeks after the birth of the child and when the baby is seven to eight weeks old.

Men must submit a plan, including start and end dates, to their employer prior to taking leave. If not, employers may legally prohibit the second part of the leave.

Compensation will be 67% of the employee’s salary for a maximum of ¥15,190 per day.

Papa & Mama Childcare Leave Plus

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Although the standard Childcare Leave program allows parents to take leaves until the day before the child’s first birthday, there is a way to extend that by two months. The Papa and Mama Childcare Leave (パパ・ママ育休プラス, papa/mama ikukyuu purasu) allows one parent to take leave until the child is 14 months old, if the following conditions are met:

• Both parents must be eligible for Childcare Leave
• The parent who takes Childcare Leave Plus begins on the same day or after the start of their spouse’s Childcare Leave 
• The combined duration of Childcare Leave and Childcare Leave Plus cannot exceed one year

If the total duration of Childcare Leave and Childcare Leave Plus is equal to 180 days or less, the parent will receive 67% of their salary. If applicable, the salary earnings decrease to 50% for the period that exceeds 180 days. For several example scenarios and additional information, consult the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare website. 

Returning to Work After Maternity & Childcare Leave

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About one month before the maternity or childcare leave comes to an end, it’s ideal to schedule a return-to-work meeting with your employer to finalize paperwork and discuss work options:

• Employees can request reduced working hours and ask for exemptions from overtime and night shift work until their children have reached elementary school age.
• Under Japanese labor laws, employees are entitled to their same “role” upon their return to work, but not necessarily the same “position.”
• Discrimination and power harassment, including pressuring parents into working longer hours than they desire, are considered illegal practices and can be reported to the Labor Standards Bureau, as these actions may violate Japan’s Labour Standards Act and the Equal Employment Opportunity Act. Please view the Labor Standards site managed by the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare for further details.

For advice on employer issues and free consultations regarding employee rights and entitlements, please visit the General Union website for more information.  

Have you or your spouse ever taken maternity or paternity leave in Japan? Let us know your experiences in the comments!

For many mothers in Japan, the journey into motherhood brings joy, sleepless nights and an unexpected sense of loneliness. While parenting is a universally challenging experience, Japanese social norms, cultural expectations and the structure of community life can make it particularly difficult for moms to form lasting friendships.

These past two years were full of change for me as I transitioned into motherhood and moved to a new prefecture. With this big change came job loss, daycare-waiting-list limbo, and worst of all, loneliness. I was struggling to cope with the monumental task of making new friends in a new city.

But maybe luck took pity on me because I somehow managed to make one friend. She’s a Japanese mother of two, and it was beyond refreshing to hear her honesty about the problems women face as mothers in Japan. She noted that finding long-term mama-tomo (mom friends) is equally difficult for Japanese mothers.

The Isolation Begins Early

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For many new mothers, isolation starts during pregnancy or immediately after birth. Maternity leave can cause resentment in the workplace, especially if the mother’s coworkers take on her workload. If the search for daycare extends beyond expectations, this can increase tensions in the office. Many working moms abandon stable careers for part-time jobs for this reason.

In addition, cultural attitudes about burdening others often prevent women from reaching out. The Japanese value of enryo (restraint or modesty) means mothers may hesitate to invite others over or ask for help—even if they’re struggling. For non-Japanese mothers, it can be even harder if their extended family is out of the country. They have to rely on friends or in-laws, which might make some people uncomfortable.

The “Perfect Mother” Pressure

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Before getting pregnant, I attended many lunches with friends who had children. I could see the burden they carried to prove they were the perfect mothers—organized, nurturing, modest and wholly devoted to motherhood. This can be one of the main reasons many mothers might put up walls to avoid criticism.

For working mothers, it can be even harder. There’s little time or energy left for socializing. And since many mama-tomo groups revolve around school activities scheduled during the day, working moms often feel left out. Even when opportunities arise, they might experience guilt for their lack of participation in their child’s school life. This can further alienate them from potential friendships.

Opportunities For Connection

© Photo by Aspen Kumagai

As a first-time mom and a foreigner, attending events or classes was intimidating. The first time I went to a kodomokan (children’s hall), I begged my husband to go with me. The idea of showing up at an unfamiliar place with my four-month-old in tow terrified me. By sharing my experience, I hope to ease your fears about visiting Japan’s children’s centers.

The kodomokan was large, for all ages, and had a small entrance fee of ¥200. There were no forms to sign or reservations necessary. There was a designated baby area for children from zero months to two years of age. A diaper changing station with hot water was a few steps away, should I need anything at all. In fact, I didn’t talk to the staff the entire time I was there.

As for my local jidoukan (children’s center)‌, I ended up filling out a form on my second visit. The staff wanted to make my son a cute name tag to wear during his visits. They also invited us to join the upcoming club, Paruniko Kurabu, which was a designated club for my son’s age. Different clubs are available for various age groups, and they offer unique, fun activities monthly.

Among the many events they hold, my local jidoukan also has a toy library where children can rent a toy for a month. The experienced staff happily distract or guide your child during events, giving moms a much-needed break. Overall, it’s a place meant to help children blow off steam and moms to relax.

A Path Forward

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After talking with many moms, both Japanese and non-Japanese, I’ve come to realize that we’re all struggling to find a solid group of friends. Some of these friendships might be surface-level, centering on playdates, and amount to nothing more. Despite these challenges, many moms in Japan do eventually find their people—it just takes time, intention and resilience.

Some strategies that help include:

• Joining local parenting groups or classes and making a habit of attending regularly.
• Volunteering at school or community events, even in small ways. If you’re a working mom, this can be slightly embarrassing, but even the most minor effort counts. Plus, other working moms will find comfort in knowing they’re not alone.
• Taking the initiative to invite other moms for coffee or playdates, despite the fear of rejection.
• Being open and a little vulnerable can help others feel safe to do the same.
• Connecting online, where many moms find supportive spaces to vent, share and meet others.

Perhaps most importantly, please know that if you feel lonely, you’re far from alone. Nearly every mother I spoke to mentioned the struggle to make friends. They even admitted that the friendships were sometimes shallow or limited. These connections may come slowly, but for many moms, those hard-won friendships become a lifeline on the long, beautiful and often lonely journey of parenting.

If you’ve found your mama-tomo or have tips on making connections with other moms, then leave a comment down below. Let us know what worked for you or where you met them so that other moms can do the same and make some friends in Japan.

School holidays in Tokyo, especially the long-awaited autumn half-term and winter break, are special times. For children, they’re a chance to recharge, explore and enjoy new experiences. For parents, however, it can often feel like a balancing act: finding a safe, engaging place where kids can thrive while also managing busy work and family schedules.

This is where Elev8 steps in. Known for its small-group approach, passionate teachers and balance of academics and fun, Elev8 has quickly become one of Tokyo’s most trusted names in holiday camps. After welcoming a record number of students to its Summer 2025 programme, Elev8 is now preparing for an exciting season ahead with Autumn and Winter Camps in central Tokyo.

If you’re looking for a school holiday programme in Tokyo that combines learning with unforgettable experiences, here’s why Elev8 deserves a place on your family calendar.

Why Holiday Camps Matter

© Photo by Elev8

Holiday camps aren’t just a way to fill time between school terms. In the right environment, they provide children with the chance to:

• Build confidence by trying new activities
• Make lasting friendships with peers
• Strengthen academic foundations through hands-on learning
• Discover passions they might not find in regular classrooms

Elev8’s philosophy is rooted in this balance. Every day at camp blends structured academic lessons in small groups with sports, creative activities and exciting excursions. With a maximum 5:1 student-to-teacher ratio, campers are not only supported but truly seen, creating a space where every child can grow.

Elev8 2025 Autumn Holiday Camps in Tokyo

© Photo by Elev8

For families seeking a half-term or fall break camp in Tokyo, Elev8’s Autumn 2025 sessions provide the perfect solution:

• Autumn Camp 1: October 13–17, 2025
• Autumn Camp 2: October 20–24, 2025

Children ages 5–12 can choose from maths, programming, English and Japanese, tailoring the week to their individual needs. Mornings focus on academics with project-based lessons, while afternoons include sports, games and creative group activities.

New For 2025: Flexible Daily Booking

Recognizing that school breaks don’t always align perfectly with family schedules, Elev8 has introduced single-day bookings.

• Daily Rate: ¥23,000 (+10% tax)
• Full-Week Bonus: 5% off when booking the entire week

Learn More About Autumn Holiday Camps in Tokyo

Elev8 2025 Winter & Christmas Camps in Tokyo

© Photo by Elev8

December in Tokyo brings not only cooler weather but also festive excitement. For families staying in town during the winter school holidays, it’s the perfect time for a camp that combines study with seasonal fun.

• Winter Camp 1: December 15–19, 2025
• Winter Camp 2: December 22–26, 2025

These sessions align with most international school winter breaks, ensuring kids stay engaged during their time off from school. Campers will continue with their chosen subjects, maths, programming, English or Japanese, while also enjoying creative projects, holiday-themed activities and group games. Each day is designed to keep children engaged, active and happy during the holiday season.

One parent captured the experience perfectly in a recent review:

“The program is tailor-made to kids’ needs, including English, math and computer science. Outdoor activities are very good. My son really enjoyed the sessions.” —Kevin

Learn More About Winter Holiday Camps in Tokyo

What Other Parents Are Saying

© Photo by Elev8

Parent feedback has been one of Elev8’s strongest endorsements. Here’s what families had to share after Summer 2025:

“It was honestly one of the best experiences we’ve had! The teachers are full of energy and positivity. My daughter came home every day excited to tell us what she learned—and even started counting in Japanese after just five days.” — Parent from Thailand

“Daniel and the other counselors were great—after the first day they reached out to me to suggest adding specific activities to my son’s schedule that they thought he would enjoy.” — Kaitlin

“Legendary teachers. The children never want to leave at the end of the day! My 5-year-old loved her Japanese lessons with crafts and language foundations.” — Samantha H.

Parents consistently highlight the energy of the teachers, the quality of the lessons, and the joy their children bring home each day.

Ready to Register?

© Photo by Elev8

Spots at Elev8 fill quickly, Summer 2025 sold out in advance, and demand for the Autumn and Winter sessions is already building. 

Exclusive For Savvy Tokyo Readers

With the code Savvy2025, enjoy 10% off any 2025 Autumn or Winter camp booking made by September 30, 2025.

Click here to secure your child’s place this Autumn and Winter.

At Elev8, every camp is more than just childcare; it’s a chance for children to learn, grow and create memories that last a lifetime.

About Elev8

© Photo by Elev8

Elev8 is Tokyo’s leading provider of kids’ holiday camps, specialising in Maths, Programming, English and Japanese for ages 5–12. With a central learning centre in Nihonbashi-Hamacho, small class sizes and free chaperone pick-up from Tokyo, Shinjuku, Shibuya, Hiroo and Yokohama Stations, Elev8 makes holiday learning both enriching and convenient for families.

Learn more at www.elev8.co.jp

From youchien (preschool) to high school and beyond, all students need support. And, if you and your child are going through the Japanese school system for the first time, there’s an extra learning curve to getting an education in Japan. The Savvy team has already helped you with everything you need to know before starting elementary school, a guide to Japanese school lunches and buying randoseru (school bags). Still, this time, we’re talking about supporting your kid at school.

While a few of our suggestions to support your kids transcend national borders, like networking with parents and volunteering, there are some cultural nuances that you may experience as a foreigner. Then, there are tips that are uniquely Japanese, such as learning the language and celebrating traditional holidays.

1. Work On Your Japanese Skills

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This is number one for a reason. Unless your child is enrolled in an English or international school, it will be hard, if not impossible, to keep up with the administrative tasks and social obligations without Japanese language skills.

While reading and writing are useful for forms like the school event schedule and scanning their jikanwari (timetable), your speaking and listening skills are the most valuable here. Even if you’re just starting out, the effort will be appreciated by teachers and other parents. But, if possible, having conversational Japanese skills comes in handy for just about every potential school issue, from friend problems to calling in sick.

2. Network With Other Parents

© Photo by Pixta: YUMIK

In school in Japan, like elsewhere, networking with other parents can be both stressful and key to supporting your child. When I accidentally threw out the name tag for my preschooler’s asobigi (playclothes for school), another mother was quick to give me an extra one when I contacted the group Line.

Make sure you fulfill your networking debts in kind with a thank-you note or present. Plus, your foreign cultural capital may be useful when someone wants to know what to gift the resident ALT at graduation!

3. Go To Omukae (Pick-Up) 

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Would my life be easier if I put my preschooler on the school bus to come home? Undoubtedly. We could all use an extra hour for work and chores! But, if I did that, the teacher wouldn’t see me every day, which serves two purposes the way I see it:

1. She can get used to me and feel more comfortable talking to me, should problems occur
2. I can get a short daily report on my little one, which is especially useful in the early days

Also, being at the pick-up gives me the chance to meet other parents and more easily establish play dates.

4. Go To Every Teacher Meeting (Even The Optional Ones)

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One of the best ways to hear about how your child is doing in school is to hear from the person who sees them every day. Meeting with the teacher will give you a sense of how your kid is doing in school and give you a more formal environment to air concerns and grievances (should you have any) than at pick-up or drop-off. And, it’s not just about academics.

These meetings can be a great place to learn about your kid’s social interactions with peers and teachers alike, as well as the teacher’s tips for improving their everyday life there.

5. Volunteer

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Depending on your kid’s school, parental volunteering may be encouraged or even mandatory (which is my case). Regardless, it’s a good idea to get involved in your child’s school. As a foreigner, it can be helpful to show your friendly face around school and offer your services, like yomikikase (reading aloud) in English to the kids.

There can be some unexpected benefits, too. At my child’s school, parents who help to set up the tents and seats for the annual undoukai (sports festival) receive first dibs on seating for the big event. Support your kid by cheering from the front row!

6. Get To Know Your Kids’ Friends & Their Families 

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For some, making friends is easy, while others find it a challenge. In both cases, especially if you have young children, there are ways you can support them.

• Ask who they talked to or played with on a given day
• Learn the names of classmates and their personalities
• Bring your kid to the nearby park after school and introduce yourself to other parents

By reinforcing the friendships your kids are making by organizing playdates or helping to choose friends’ birthday presents, you can help them develop these relationships.

7. Include Japanese Holidays & Events In Your Family Calendar

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One way to help your child in school is to embrace Japanese cultural events at home. For instance, why not dress up like an oni (demon) and prepare to be pelted by an onslaught of beans for setsubun, a traditional holiday celebrated in early February? Or, relearn how to celebrate familiar holidays, like Valentine’s Day and Christmas, complete with homemade chocolates and KFC, respectively.

By integrating some Japanese events into your family calendar, you’ll not only have fun, but also give your kids the chance to enjoy the same cultural experiences as their peers.

8. Support Study Habits With (Fun) Drill Books

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Although the Japanese education system is a rigorous journey involving plenty of rote memorization and regular testing, it’s also fairly standardized. This means until the end of high school, most students in the public system will learn the same content within a given grade.

So, with that in mind, why not give your child an extra advantage by introducing future material before they see it at school? Or, strengthen weaker skills with some additional practice? Japan has a vast market of self-study books that match the public curriculum.

Plus, if your kid doesn’t like the idea of you teaching multiplication, maybe they’ll enjoy a fashionable, transforming magical girl or Pikachu as their sensei (teacher) instead.

9. Use Extracurriculars To Boost Skills & Engagement 

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Known as naraigoto in Japanese, extracurricular activities are a great way to nurture emerging interests and build new or existing skills. Some of the most popular naraigoto for children in Japan are piano, swimming and sports such as baseball and soccer. Juku or cram school is another common naraigoto, but one that focuses on academic skills, including math, Japanese or even English.

If you choose a nearby extracurricular, your kids can form connections with other kids at the same local school, but in a new context. And, some skills that don’t seem 100% academic, like reading music and swimming, are also part of the school curriculum, where your little one may appreciate the leg up.

10. Contact The School If Problems Occur

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If you have any worries about bullying or any other problems, contact the school earlier rather than later. Getting in touch with the teacher is a good place to start. After you raise your concerns, the teacher will usually give their perspective on the issue.

Sometimes they may already be aware of a problem, but not always. In either case, the teacher can pay extra attention to your child and make appropriate interventions to better support your child. Be sure to follow up with your kid regularly to see if the situation has changed and update the teacher should the problem persist.

If the issue continues or the teacher is the problem, you may have to contact the school administration. 

Do you have any other ideas on how best to support your child in the Japanese school system? Let us know in the comments below!