If you’ve ever wondered how to improve your Japanese, you’re not alone. Japanese is a complex language for English speakers to learn. The grammar, writing systems and pronunciation (depending on your accent) can all impact your ability to learn the language.

That being said, it’s not impossible. It’s the same with picking up any skill—no one starts out as an expert. Anyone can reach a casual conversation level through effort and a willingness to make mistakes and learn.

What’s Your Goal?

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Defining your goal is the first step in taking on any kind of study or training program. Learning a language means devoting time and effort to the process.

• Do you want to get around Japan and ask simple questions?
• Read your favorite manga or play video games in Japanese?
• Conduct an in-depth doctoral study of The Pillow Book of Sei Shonagon in the original Heian-era Japanese?

All three are doable goals—though each comes with very different study timelines.

Most people interested in learning Japanese will be familiar with the Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT). Broken down into five levels, the JLPT evaluates and certifies the Japanese proficiency of non-native speakers.

N5 and N4 are the most basic levels, while N2 and N1 are close to fluent, with N1 considered a near-native understanding. N3 is the middle ground. N3 speakers may have a broad vocabulary but a weaker grasp of grammar, etc. The level of understanding you need depends on your goal, but the JLPT website has resources to help you assess your Japanese level.

How Can You Reach Your Goal?

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If you intend to study Japanese in Japan, you can attend free classes or language exchanges at ward offices—and of course, there are plenty of people to talk to.

Other options include short-term immersion programs, online or app-based study programs, or joining a language school. These vary in price and availability, so researching your options is essential. Whether you can study at a school may depend on your visa type, so using a service such as GaijinPot Study can help you determine your best course of action.

If you’re living outside Japan but want to study here, GaijinPot Study can also help you with information on how to apply for your visa.

Tips for Absolute & Moderate Beginners

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If you’ve never studied Japanese before or have only a minimal understanding, there are literally hundreds of options available. How you choose to study might depend on how much you’re willing to spend.

As mentioned earlier, there are numerous free language classes and exchanges to attend, but physical textbooks are also a solid option. Learning the three Japanese writing systems is often the biggest challenge. For hiragana and katakana, you can find numerous textbooks for adults, though they can be a bit dull.

If you visit the language studies or children’s section of your local bookstore, you’ll find plenty of books that teach children how to write Japanese—many of them come with stickers too. There are Disney Princesses, Pokémon, cute animals, Japanese fairy tales and even poop-themed character books that make learning fun.

Kanji in particular can be difficult. Learning them via an app isn’t ideal for retention or writing practice, so picking up a book that teaches various readings, provides vocabulary examples and shows how to write characters is ideal.

You can find kanji drill books similar to the hiragana and katakana ones mentioned above. If you prefer one comprehensive resource over several smaller ones, a dictionary or textbook will serve you better.

Tips For Mixed Levels

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At the intermediate level, your Japanese skills can vary greatly. Some learners are great speakers with excellent grammar but limited vocabulary; others are strong readers but struggle to speak fluently. There’s nothing wrong with that.

If you’re hoping to improve but feeling stuck, try picking up something you enjoy in your native language—and work on it in Japanese.

For example, if you’re a fan of art, reading about art in Japanese can be a good challenge. The Miffy the Rabbit book on Hokusai’s art is a great place to start. It’s written in basic Japanese and includes furigana (pronunciation guides) for difficult kanji, making it easier to look them up.

Another method a friend of mine swears by is focusing on one aspect of the language at a time. For example, choose a textbook dedicated to Japanese adjectives and drill those until they become second nature.

To improve your listening, try watching Japanese TV or movies (either the original Japanese version or a dubbed version) with Japanese subtitles. Hearing and reading simultaneously can help you pick up conversational Japanese, grammar patterns and vocabulary you might not otherwise study.

Tips For Fluent-ish Speakers

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At the fluent or near-native level, it can be tough to find new ways to study. It’s also easy to forget grammar points or vocabulary you don’t use often.

In those cases, Japanese books for teachers can be helpful. Grammar guides, such as those pictured above, can teach new phrasing or structures you might not have encountered. You could also try writing a 500-character diary entry every day to improve your grammar and vocabulary. Practicing Japanese calligraphy is another excellent way to refine your writing.

Bilingual books written in Japanese and English cover topics from philosophy to Japanese cooking techniques. These can help you learn new vocabulary and concepts, and they might even inspire new hobbies that take you into group settings where you can practice speaking.

Listening to Japanese radio or podcasts is another great way to boost fluency. Or, if you prefer music, try translating song lyrics from Japanese to English. You could even learn a third language using Japanese as your base, rather than English. It may seem impossible at first, but it can make you a more proficient Japanese speaker.

Regardless of your level, if you want to improve your Japanese, there’s a method that will work for you. All you need to do is find it. Ganbatte!

One of the joys of raising children in Japan is discovering the magical world created by Japanese children’s book authors. Although I could have easily doubled this list, the five authors and illustrators below are must-reads for your little ones.

While most have at least some of their works published in English translation, for their full collections, you’ll need to read in Japanese. Of course, this can double as language practice—but one of the beautiful things about children’s books is that their drawings and emotions speak across cultures and languages.

1. Taro Gomi

Perhaps one of Japan’s most prolific children’s book authors is Taro Gomi. From his first work, “Michi” (Road), in 1973, Gomi established his unique art style, characterized by bold colors and humor. Through his meticulous attention to a kid’s eye view of the world, his books allow adults to rediscover the souls of their childhood selves. Look no further than some of Gomi’s most enduring works, like my daughters’ favorite, Kingyo ga nigeta! or The Goldfish Got Away in its English translation.

While he has published over 400 titles in Japanese, only a handful have been translated into English. One of the most notable is the entertaining toddler and preschooler favorite Minna Unchi (Everyone Poops).

Besides standard children’s books, Gomi is also the author of the popular Rakugaki (doodle) series. These interactive books encourage kids to participate in the creative process by drawing, coloring, doing mazes, and more.

2. Rieko Nakagawa

The author of one of Japan’s most popular and enduring picture books, Nakagawa was born Omura Rieko in 1935. She worked as a nursery school teacher for fifteen years. This experience enabled her to write children’s books that resonated with the hearts of young readers. Many of her books were illustrated by her younger sister, Yuriko Omura (later Yamawaki). Omura did not attend art school but loved to illustrate her older sister’s uplifting stories.

Nakagawa and Omura’s most famous collaboration is the Guri to Gura series. It was first published in the monthly magazine Haha no Tomo in 1963 and later released as a hardcover in 1967. Many sequels and media adaptations followed and the food-loving field mice protagonists became a constant in bookstores across the country. In addition to writing children’s books, Nakagawa also wrote lyrics, with perhaps the most famous being the opening song “Sanpo” (Hey Let’s Go) in Studio Ghibli’s smash hit, My Neighbor Totoro.

3. Mamoru Suzuki

A dropout from the prestigious Tokyo University of the Arts, Suzuki has created many evocative picture books for children of all ages. His heart-warming stories, often co-written with his wife, Takeshita Fumiko, draw on their experiences from child-rearing. A bird lover and researcher, he has also penned children’s books about birds, like Fushigi na tori no su (The Mysteries of Birds’ Nests).

Whether centered on animals or humans, Suzuki’s detailed drawings beautifully capture everyday life and the tender love between parent and child. This is especially evident in his popular book Anata ga daisuki (You Belong to Me).

Colors play a key role in Suzuki’s work. He begins each piece with a color image that shifts as the story unfolds. The book above, for instance, moves from pink to blue as the character grows. When depicting scenes of daily Japan, such as in his series on transportation vehicles, his vibrant illustrations inspire children to notice and delight in their surroundings—from the buzz of a city train station to the calm of a mountain road.

4. Mitsumasa Anno

From his first publication in the late 1960s to his representative work, Tabi no ehon (Anno’s Journey), Mitsumasa Anno’s (1926–2020) richly detailed work has captivated children’s imaginations. After serving in the Japanese military during World War II, Anno obtained his teaching license and taught elementary school in Tokyo for 10 years before becoming an illustrator. Most of his children’s books were illustrated using pen and ink as well as distinctive light-colored watercolors.

His books are known for their exquisite, people-filled landscapes and subtle references to literature, science and mathematics. The Journey series, in particular, portrays European, American and Japanese historical towns. It is widely praised for helping children develop cross-cultural awareness.

Anno’s artistic career extended far beyond picture books, too. His creative legacy even includes a museum dedicated to his work in Kyoto Prefecture.

5. Sachiko Kiyono

Sachiko Kiyono (1947–2008) is the author of the wildly popular series, Nontan. Nontan, an extremely mischievous white cat, plays and jokes with his animal friends in the engaging short books aimed at babies, toddlers and preschoolers. Kiyono’s drawings, which render the main character in wavy lines drawn by a thick marker, are very distinctive and speak to children. Indeed, many kids themselves must be eager to copy her style, following a drawing guide in the books, as my eldest daughter did. Pre-publication, Nontan was originally drawn as a fox, but after receiving editor feedback, he was changed to a cat to be more child-friendly.

Before publication, Nontan was initially drawn as a fox. After receiving editor feedback, he was changed to a cat to be more child-friendly. Since 1976, when the first Nontan volume was published, Kiyono has received some backlash for her beloved character. Critics have called Nontan selfish and ill-mannered. However, Kiyono always defended her artistic choices. She explained that she wanted to create books that children would truly enjoy and that were distinct from the moralistic tone of much of children’s literature.

So, if you’re looking for a Christmas or birthday gift—or adding to your bedtime collection—check out the works by the Japanese children’s book authors above for something truly special.

Bullying in Japanese schools, or ijime, is an entrenched problem. To the degree that modern bullying attacks not just the odd ones out, the pressure on foreign or part-foreign children in Japan may have decreased compared to previous generations, but the odds are not in their favor, nor in anyone else’s. Every child is a potential victim of modern bullying.

A recent scandal involving a senior high school baseball team that withdrew from Japan’s national tournament after alleged abuse of a junior member has brought renewed attention to this issue. Recent increased efforts by educational institutions to resolve and eradicate the harassment offer some hope.

What’s Considered Bullying in Japan?

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Japan’s Ministry of Education (MEXT) has monitored ijime cases since 1985, gradually broadening definitions to reflect modern realities—including bullying outside school grounds and online harassment.

MEXT defines bullying as:

An act by a student or students toward another student that causes physical or psychological suffering, as judged from the standpoint of the child who feels bullied.

Whether suffering has been caused or not is judged based on the standpoint of the child who has been bullied. It’s a broad definition aimed at encompassing the diverse nature of today’s cruel tactics.

A Persistent Issue

Bullying in Japanese schools has been deeply ingrained for generations. A 2013 study by the Tokyo Metropolitan School Personnel Training Center found that 66.2% of children surveyed had been bullied, and 46.9% had both been bullied and bullied.

Though awareness and policies have improved since then, the landscape has evolved rather than disappeared, and reported bullying cases continue to climb.

Latest National Figures (FY2024, Reported in 2025)

Although these numbers reflect reported cases, experts note that substantial underreporting may still exist.

Types Of Bullying in Japan

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In recent years, bullying has shifted to target children over minor misunderstandings, group conflicts or online rumors. While diversity visibility has increased, children of mixed cultural backgrounds or newly arrived foreign families can still face exclusion or misunderstanding.

Most forms of modern bullying leave no visible signs, and some camouflage it in ambiguity. It includes actions that might otherwise be regarded as just fooling around, such as hiding a person’s bags or shoes or scribbling on their books.

In many cases, the rest of a group or class bullies a single child and may even band together to deny those actions if questioned by a parent or teacher. For bullies, being part of a group of people doing the same thing diminishes their sense of responsibility for their actions.

The internet has also provided new and anonymous forms of ijime, further advancing the bullies’ sense of it being a game. Victims may find slanderous comments about them on social media platforms, or have photos or their address posted online, or repeatedly receive insulting messages.

MEXT data shows:

• Teasing, insults, repeated negative comments: Still the most common
• Group exclusion and silent treatment: A uniquely persistent form in Japan
• “Play-acting” violence: Poking, hitting, kicking disguised as “jokes”
• Online harassment and social media exclusion: Rapidly increasing, often happening in private chat groups or group LINE messages among classmates
• Forced acts, humiliation: This includes coerced “apologies” or dares

Bullying Peaks Around Middle School

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An examination of when bullying occurs reveals one key reason as to why it occurs. MEXT research shows that cases rapidly increase from grade five of elementary school through to junior high school, with the majority of reported incidents emerging in the first grade of junior high school.

That period—around 13 years of age—coincides with adolescence and the physical and emotional growth of children, particularly the formulation of self-identity. Kids’ growth on the physical and emotional levels at this time can cause them stress and dissatisfaction, and bullying acts as an outlet for those feelings.

For bullies, experts note that many have issues at home or at school that are causing them stress, worry or a sense of inferiority, and they release those frustrations via their attempts to control others or attack them.

The Onlooker Issue

The dynamics of ijime include not only the bully—or bullies—and the victim, but also those nearby: onlookers who fall into two categories, the audience and the bystanders. The audience enjoys the show that the bullies put on. Bullies interpret that enjoyment as support for their actions, and that intensifies their actions.

Bystanders pretend they haven’t seen what is going on, most often because they fear that voicing an objection to it will make them a target. The bullies interpret this as implicit support. Many experts believe that the actions of onlookers can alter the direction of ijime.

If students could see that, in the long run, verbally objecting to the bullies helps their own situation because it weakens the bully and his actions, a key mechanism of ijime would wind down—but that’s a hard ask for a young child.

The social view of ijime has been a dark one: inhumane actions shrouded in silence and impossible to resolve. If there is no prospect of a solution, there is little incentive to report it to a teacher or parent.

Government Action & Policy Progress

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In 2013, Japan passed the Ijime Prevention Methods Promotion Law, which requires schools to:

• Investigate bullying regularly (student surveys)
• Report suspected cases immediately
• Develop structured response systems
• Train educators and monitor cases closely

The law was passed after public outcry over the handling by a junior high school in Otsu City, Shiga Prefecture, and the board of education there, of the 2011 suicide of a second-grade student who was being bullied intensely.

The school initially denied that such actions had occurred. However, questionnaires among their students returned numerous accounts of bullying of the boy, verifying that the school tried to keep the information secret. When such accounts eventually emerged in news reports, the board of education downplayed the answers as being only hearsay.

A number of students also stated in the questionnaires that the boy’s homeroom teacher was aware of the bullying, had even witnessed it and laughed about it. Numerous other accounts said the boy had been repeatedly punched and kicked, told to die and forced to “practice” committing suicide almost daily.

It was widely considered that both the school and the local board of education had attempted to cover up the bullying, its connection to the child’s death—which occurred at home—and their responsibility for the events.

Does The Ijime Prevention Law Actually Work?

The law aims to prevent the recurrence of the structural problems that allowed the Otsu City boy’s case to go unchecked. It places responsibility for bullying on national and local authorities, as well as schools.

Although other cases of bullying have come to light even after its introduction, the ijime prevention law is at least a step in the right direction. It helps bring the problem out of the shadows so that we can see what is going on.

Under MEXT’s instruction, teachers are taking the stance—and teaching students—that ijime is unconscionable. The history of it so far has taught us that even though students may downplay it as just a little slap or joke, just like all the other kids are doing, every act of bullying causes pain.

To uphold our own sense of morality against an opposing wave—during adolescence of all times—may be one of life’s most challenging tasks, but in the end, it is the only way forward.

Supporting Your Child

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Our children need our support. Make it a habit to talk with your child about their day and things that have happened at school, so that they feel comfortable coming to you if they have a problem. To prevent raising a bully, help your child experience compassion and caring for others from an early age.

If you suspect your child is being bullied but isn’t saying so, ask them how they spend their school recess periods and with whom, and inquire about how their good friends are doing lately.

Signs Of Bullying

• Silence
• Reluctance to attend school
• End of contact with good friends
• Talks less about school and friends
• Stealing money from home
• Unexplained bruises
• Damaged school supplies
• Excessive concern about their phone

If your child encounters bullying, listen carefully to what they say and how they want to approach the problem. Discuss the issue with their homeroom teacher and ensure that the principal is also informed. You will need to work closely with the school to overcome the problem.

Here are some options if you want to seek advice from other sources, too:

• The Tokyo Metropolitan Education Consultation Center: Holds English phone consultations on the Friday of each month, from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. (Tel: 03-3360-4175). This free service can also arrange an in-person consultation. It is closed on public holidays.
• TELL Lifeline: Offers assistance in English to both children and parents from 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. (Tel: 0800-300-8355).
• 24-Hour Children’s SOS Hotline: Nationwide toll-free line for students facing bullying or school-related stress. Available 24 hours. (Tel: 0120-0-78310) (Japanese)
• Childline Japan: Anonymous support for children under 18, every day from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. (Tel: 0120-99-7777) (Japanese; website available in English)
• Children’s Rights Hotline (Ministry of Justice): For human-rights issues, including bullying. Weekdays 8:30 a.m. to 5:15 p.m. (Tel: 0120-007-110) (Japanese)
• SNS Educational Counseling (Tokyo Metropolitan Board of Education): Consultation via LINE for school-related issues. (Japanese)

Bullying may never disappear entirely, but with increasing awareness, dedicated resources and open dialogue among educators, parents and students, continued progress is possible.

This article has been republished with the latest information.

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

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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!

Probably the most important piece of paper your child will bring home from Japanese elementary school is the yearly event schedule—it basically determines the whole family’s plans for the next 12 months. It’s a long list of too many to-dos, which for many foreign moms can be a tad frustrating to figure out and make sense of. Having spent a long time trying to decipher this important list myself, I decided to put my experience into practice and share everything I’ve learned over the years here with you.

So if you’re a mom to a child who attends a Japanese school and want to make sure that your return home in summer doesn’t interfere with sports day, parent-teacher meetings and irregular holidays, read on!

Japanese School Event Calendar Kanji & Kana

行事予定 (gyouji yotei; “Event Schedule”)

These detail the main events that the school has planned for a particular period. You should receive an annual (年間, nenkan; “yearly”) one at the start of each school year. It will probably be in a list or chart format, with a title like this:
令和７年度 主な行事予定 (reiwa shichinendo omona gyouji yotei; “2025 main event schedule”)

4月行事予定 (shigatsu gyouji yotei; “April Event Schedule”)

You will also regularly receive a monthly plan, which will be more detailed and up to date. The above example is just for April.

Key Ceremonies & Events

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始業式 (shigyou-shiki; “Commencement Ceremony”)

This gathering is held at the start of the school year, and on the first day back at school after vacation, but it usually doesn’t involve parents.

入学式 (nyuugaku-shiki; “Entrance Ceremony”)

This big day may be held on the same day as the commencement ceremony, or the day after.

給食開始 (kyuushoku kaishi; “Start Of School Lunch”)

Love it or hate it, catered school lunches are a quintessential part of Japanese elementary school life. You might also see the abbreviated version, 給食始 (kyuushoku hajime; “lunch start”). The end of the lunch service is marked by 給食終了 (kyuushoku shuuryou; “end of lunch”).

保護者会 (hogosha-kai; “Parent-Teacher Meeting”)

Group parent-teacher meetings for each class are usually held in the afternoon, around the start and end of each semester. The teacher will explain how the class is going, what the kids have been doing and what they will be working on next.

There is usually an opportunity to ask questions. PTA representatives are typically determined at the first such meeting of the school year—which is not a reason to miss it.

家庭訪問 (katei houmon; “Home Visit”)

Under this tradition, the teacher of each class visits the home of each student to talk with a parent. The visits are arranged in advance. Some schools have phased this out and instead conduct area visits, 地域訪問 (chiiki houmon; “area visit”) to confirm where students live and if there are any safety issues in their neighborhoods.

公開 (koukai; “Open To The Public”)

A few days a year, schools open their classes to public viewing. It may appear on the event schedule as either 公開授業 (koukai jugyou; “open lesson”) or 学校公開 (gakkou koukai; “open school”). Remember to take slippers with you when visiting the school, and bring your name tag if you’ve been issued one. You may know this by the term that’s more often used at kindergarten; 参観日 (sankan-bi; “Observation Day”).

Excursions & Special Lessons

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遠足 (ensoku; “Excursion”)

You will probably need to make a bento (lunchbox) for your child to take along. Also, check what will happen if it rains, and make plans as needed. A 予備日 (yobibi; “day to reserve”) is usually also set, and if the event gets delayed, it will be rescheduled to that day.

水泳指導 (suiei shidou; “Swimming Instruction”)

It’s also known as pool opening プール開き (puuru biraki; “pool opening”). Remember to stamp your child’s pool card!

夏季休業日始 (kaki kyuugyoubi hajime; “Start Of Summer Holidays”)

This is a complicated way of saying 休み (yasumi; “Holiday”). The end of vacation is noted in a similarly difficult fashion, like 冬季休業日終 (touki kyuugyoubi owari; “end of winter holidays”).

開校記念日 (kaikou kinenbi; “School Anniversary”)

The anniversary of the day the school first opened is usually celebrated with a holiday. Because the date is unique to each school, this is a great day for a weekday visit to somewhere that’s usually very crowded—like Disneyland!

Major School Events

運動会 (undoukai; “Sports Day”)

Every Japanese school takes this day extremely seriously. This big event is at the mercy of the elements, so check what will happen in the case of bad weather. Also, confirm whether you’ll be eating a self-prepared lunch with your child, or separately, or whether a catered school lunch will be provided, which is likely if the event is postponed to a weekday.

Since sports days are usually held on Saturdays, schools give kids a compensatory holiday, 振替休業日 (furikae kyuugyouubi; “substitute holiday”), on the following weekday. An alternative term for this is 代休日 (daikyuubi; “compensatory day off”).

展覧会 (tenrankai; “Exhibition”)

This is a collective showing of the students’ artwork, usually held in the school gym.

引き渡し訓練 (hikiwatashi kunren; “Child Pick-up Emergency Training”)

Although students participate in a number of 避難訓練 (hinan kunren; “emergency drill”) sessions at school throughout the year, this one involves the parents, who have to collect their children from school, as they would be expected to do after a large earthquake.

Trips & Study Programs

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移動教室 (idou kyoushitsu; “Study Trip”)

Literally translated as “mobile classroom,” this refers to school trips of two or more days, usually made by the senior students.

修学旅行 (shuugaku ryokou; “Graduation Trip”)

This is exclusive to sixth graders only. It’s a few-day trip held, usually a few months before the children’s graduation. You will receive plenty of other detailed information prior to this event.

Ceremonies To Mark The End Of School Terms

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終業式 (shuugyou-shiki; “End Of Term Ceremony”)

修了式 (shuuryou-shiki; “Completion Of School Year Ceremony”)

卒業式 (sotsugyou-shiki; “Graduation Ceremony”)

The big day has finally come. Fifth-grade students will also be involved in the graduation ceremony for sixth years, but other grades will have the day off.

Now that you know what all the important school terms mean, get your calendars and pens out and plan the rest of the year accordingly—stress-free!

Is there anything else on your elementary school event schedule you’re struggling to understand? If you have any other general questions about Japanese school life, let us know in the comments below. We would be happy to address them in a separate article!

Have trouble with appliances in Japanese? Check out our kanji cheat sheet articles for general appliances, washers and dryers, microwave ovens and air conditioners.

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!

Whether you own a separate washer and dryer, a combined unit, or just a washing machine, doing laundry can be a challenge, especially in Japan. Japanese washing machines often have controls and settings labeled only in Japanese, making them tricky for newcomers to master.

To help you navigate these appliances with confidence and get your laundry done right the first time, here’s a handy list of common terms and characters you’ll find on Japanese washing machines.

Washing Machine

© Photo by iStock: Wako Megumi

Washing Modes

Water

Dryers & Washer/Dryer Combo

© Photo by iStock: maroke

Maintenance & Special Functions

Controls & Safety

Laundry Products For Your Japanese Washing Machine

© Photo by iStock: shironagasukujira

Choosing the right laundry products can make all the difference when using Japanese washing machines, especially if you’re navigating the language barrier.

Common Laundry Product Terms

The Most Popular Laundry Products

From powerful detergents to fabric softeners designed for Japan’s humid climate, these are some of the most popular and effective options:

1. アタックZERO (Attack ZERO): A concentrated liquid detergent from Kao that removes stubborn stains even in cold water. Eco-friendly refill packs and a nozzle for direct application make it perfect for small apartments.
2. トップ スーパーNANOX (Top Super NANOX): Lion’s ultra-compact detergent designed for short cycles. It penetrates deep into fibers, saving both water and time without sacrificing cleanliness.
3. レノア ハピネス アロマジュエル (Lenor Happiness Aroma Jewel): In-wash fragrance beads from P&G that leave clothes, towels, and bedding smelling fresh for days. A great way to combat the musty odors of Japan’s humid summers.
4. ソフラン プレミアム消臭 (Soflan Premium Deodorizer): This fabric softener neutralizes odors rather than masking them, making it a top choice for sports gear, uniforms, and laundry dried indoors during tsuyu (rainy season).
5. ニュービーズ すずらんの香り(New Beads Suzuran no Kaori): A gentle, floral-scented detergent suitable for sensitive skin and children’s clothes. Soft on fabrics while still providing a fresh, clean finish.

An Example Of Running A Washing Cycle

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Choose Your Washing Mode

• For everyday laundry, press 標準 (hyōjun; “Standard”).
• If you’re in a hurry, select お急ぎ (oisogi; “Fast”).

Adjust the Water Settings

• Select 水量 (suiryō; “Water volume”) to set how much water to use.
• For temperature, choose 冷水 (reisui; “Cold water”) or 温水 (onsui; “Warm water”).

Add Laundry Products

• Pour 洗剤 (senzai; “Detergent”) into the main compartment.
• If needed, add 柔軟剤 (nyūnanzai; “Fabric softener”) in the softener compartment.
• For white items, you might also add 漂白剤 (hyōhaku-zai; “Bleach”).

Start the Cycle

• Press 洗濯/洗い (sentaku/arai; “Wash”) to begin.
• The machine will automatically move through すすぎ (susugi; “Rinse”) and 脱水 (dassui; “Spin dry”) stages.

Pause if Needed

• To stop mid-cycle, press 一時停止 (ichiji teishi; “Pause”). This is handy if you forgot to add a sock.

Optional Drying

• If your machine has a dryer function, switch to 乾燥のみ (kansō nomi; “Dry only”) or use 洗・乾切替 (arai・inui kirikae; “Switch between washing/drying”).

Cycle Complete

• Once the cycle ends, open the door and remove your clean laundry.

If we’ve missed any confusing or important buttons or terms, leave us a comment. We hope that with these decoded buttons, you can finally have a nice, clean set of clothes that have been washed with the right settings!

For globally minded families in Japan, boarding schools offer a unique chance to nurture independence, curiosity and confidence in young learners. From the U.S. and Canada to the UK, Japan, and beyond, these schools focus on holistic development—blending academics with sports, the arts, community engagement and real-world learning that goes far beyond the classroom. But with so many options to choose from, boarding school admissions can feel like an overwhelming journey to navigate.

What Are Boarding Schools?

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Boarding schools are private institutions where students live and study on campus during the academic year. These schools attract students from all over the globe due to their robust academic programs, extensive extracurricular offerings, and emphasis on character development. 

The boarding experience is designed to foster independence, self-discipline and a sense of community. A typical day includes:

• Attending challenging, college-preparatory classes
• Participating in afternoon activities, sports, or the arts
• Dedicated evening study hours
• Living in dormitories supervised by faculty or house parents

Many schools offer a home-like environment with strong community values, mentorship and extensive access to academic support.

While boarding schools typically serve students in their final years of secondary education, junior boarding schools are designed for younger students. These schools prepare students in grades five through nine for future success at top high schools by providing a nurturing yet academically challenging environment. Junior boarding schools often attract motivated, curious students with strong academic or personal interests and help them develop essential skills such as time management, personal responsibility, and English fluency in an immersive setting. 

Summer & Academic Enrichment Opportunities

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Beyond the academic year, many boarding schools offer summer programs and enrichment courses designed to extend learning and build skills, such as time management, socioemotional skills, etc. These programs serve a dual purpose: they offer students a chance to explore subjects of interest while also giving them an early introduction to boarding school life. 

Some summer programs mirror the school-year experience, combining academics with afternoon activities and residential life. Others offer intensive academic tracks, such as: 

• Advanced math
• Robotics
• Creative writing
• Debate

They can also focus on soft skills like leadership, teamwork or college readiness. English language immersion programs are especially popular among international students who want to strengthen their confidence in an English-speaking environment.

The Admissions Process

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Applying to a boarding school requires much more than just filling out an application. Families must manage: 

• School research
• Application portal logins
• Test registrations (SSAT, ISEE, UKiset and/or IELTS/TOEFL for non-native English speakers)

Students will need to write application essays, collect recommendation letters and prepare for admissions interviews—all while adhering to different application deadlines. 

Application platforms vary. While US boarding schools typically use Gateway to Prep Schools or the SAO (Standard Application Online), UK and Canadian boarding schools often require direct applications. Each school has its own expectations for what makes a strong candidate, including academic performance, extracurricular achievements, writing ability and interview presence. 

How Tokyo Academics Can Help

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Deciding whether boarding school is the right fit for you and your family can be a difficult decision. It can quickly become overwhelming, especially for families who are not familiar with the process of applying to multiple schools. With years of experience guiding and supporting students and families, Tokyo Academics offers comprehensive support with every phase of the boarding school application journey. 

Tokyo Academics’ Boarding School Admissions Consulting and Application Management services are designed to remove guesswork and ambiguity from the application process, providing families with peace of mind. 

Their team works with families to:

• Identify the best-fit schools based on students’ academic profile, personal interests, and long-term goals
• Map out a manageable timeline that includes standardized test preparation and summer planning
• Guide students through essay writing and interview preparation, ensuring that students are able to convey their most authentic selves on paper as well as verbally
• Work with parents to brainstorm ideas and guide them throughout the writing process for parent essays
• Handle application logistics by navigating multiple application platforms, registering for standardized tests, and scheduling interviews

Tokyo Academics consultants know the ins and outs of international admissions—from junior boarding schools in Massachusetts to sixth form colleges in the UK, top schools in Canada and elite boarding schools across the US. They’re dedicated to helping families in Japan make confident choices and submit standout applications that highlight each student’s unique strengths and passions.

As the school year hits the halfway mark and you’re looking for fun activities to entertain your little ones, why not consider bug-catching? Before you wince too much at the thought of seeking out, catching and potentially housing insects this summer, know that interest in insects and bug-catching for children has a long history in Japan, stretching back centuries. Still not convinced? Read on!

Gotta Catch ‘Em All!

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In a way, capturing insects is at the root of one of the largest popular culture franchises in history: Pokémon. Like many Japanese youth, Pokémon’s creator, Tajiri Satoshi, grew up catching bugs. As a game developer, Tajiri took the childhood joys of researching, strategizing and capturing insects and crafted the game that millions of us enjoy today.

So, whether this is your first foray into your local greenery or you’re a seasoned bug hunter, read on to learn about four popular insects to add to your collection this summer!

1. Sawtooth Stag Beetles

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Nokogiri kuwagata (sawtooth stag beetles) are among some of the most sought-after insects during bug-catching season. While stag beetles come in hundreds of varieties, the sawtooth type has distinctive antler-like jaws that jut out from its reddish-dark brown body.

Found throughout Japan, these beetles are valuable catches to add to your collection. Although males can measure over 70 millimeters long, they can also be less than half that length. Females tend to be much smaller at 20-40 millimeters with shorter jaws.

Catching Tips

Catch this beetle from June to the middle of July. When trying to hunt them down, check out wooded and mountainous areas. They are known to like kunugi (sawtooth oak) and konara (pin oak) trees, whose sap they enjoy drinking.

Sawtooth stag beetles are nocturnal, meaning (unfortunately!) they are most active at night and early morning. Although bug catching in wooded areas at night is not recommended for little ones due to potential dangers, a proven way is to shine a bright light into tree hollows and roots to attract their attention. Since they are also attracted to sources of light, you can always check vending machines and light posts in the wee hours to catch a glimpse of one.

2. Cicadas

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Few things mark the end of the rainy season and the beginning of a scorching summer in Japan more quintessentially than when the cacophonous sound of semi (cicadas) fills the air. Cicadas can be found all across Japan, from Hokkaido to Okinawa, come in several varieties and are a popular choice for bug catchers.

Kumazemi (bear cicadas) are the largest in Japan, measuring about 60-70 millimeters in length. They are active around the end of July and into September. These greenish-yellow insects with transparent wings can be found early to mid-morning and can be identified by their washa-washa-washa and sha-sha-sha sounds.

Aburazemi (large brown cicadas) are a little smaller, at around 50-60 millimeters long. They are quite common throughout Japan, China and Korea. Their characteristically opaque wings make them a rare find in other parts of the world. Be on the lookout for this one in late August through September.

Minmin cicada, named after its distinctive miin-min-min-miin sound, is the most often heard species and most represented in popular culture. Measuring about 55-60 millimeters, these semi usually hang out on tree trunks at the park from late July to early September.

Catching Tips

Semi are found throughout the summer (although the exact timing depends on the type, as explained above) in wooded areas and can be caught using a bug-catching net. However, their wings and legs are fragile, so be careful when catching and transferring them to a bug box. Also, cicadas do fly, but not while singing, so a good time to catch one is mid-song!

3. Japanese Rhinoceros Beetles

© Photo by iStock: ruiruito

Another popular choice for bug catchers and collectors is kabutomushi (rhinoceros beetles). These reddish-brown insects are known for the unique y-shaped horns that sit atop male bodies, a feature that recalls the samurai helmets of the feudal era.

Like many of the bugs that appear on this list, males are longer than their female counterparts, measuring up to 80 millimeters long compared to 60 millimeters, respectively. These beetles spend most of their lives underground and appear aboveground in their final months looking to mate.

Catching Tips

Kabutomushi most enjoy chestnut, oak and gingko trees and are most active between June and August. To find them, check in areas with exposed sap or fallen leaves around these trees’ roots. Rhinoceros beetles are nocturnal, so at night or early morning would be the best times to catch one. If you see one in a tree with a thin trunk, you can also shake or lightly kick the tree to knock the beetle down.

4. Praying Mantis

© Photo by iStock: SAIGLOBALNT

Found across Japan, but mainly in Honshu, Shikoku and Kyushu, kamakiri (praying mantises) are known for their long bodies, which can grow to 90 millimeters for males and 105 millimeters for females. They have triangular-shaped heads and folded forelegs, which resemble the act of praying. However, there are slight differences between the types of mantises you’ll find in Japan.

For example, those living in the south tend to be larger, with males coming close to the size of females, while mantises in northern areas are typically smaller. The color of their bodies will also differ, with some being greener and others more brown.

Catching Tips

All kamakiri are active in the later part of summer and into the autumn months. From July to October, find them in grassy or fielded areas and near riverbanks. They’re usually resting in the grass or perched on a branch and can be caught with bare hands or a net, making them a relatively easy catch for beginners!

What To Have In Your Bug Catching Kit

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Before you head out into nature in search of summer bugs, you’ll need to pick up some supplies. Luckily, most of them are available at your local 100 yen shop. A net, preferably one attached to the end of a long rod, and a box or container are the absolute minimum you’ll need. To up your bug-catching game, check out some of the following:

100 Yen Shop Bug Catching Buys

• Gloves: You’ll sometimes have to lift rocks or move through bushes to chase down your catch. Gloves may save you from scratches and cuts.
• Flashlight: This will be handy if you’re hunting at night or in the early morning. Not only will it help you see in dark areas, it may also attract some bugs your way!
• Trowel: Bugs like the earth, and it can be useful to dig to find some that have burrowed beneath.

Other Item/Buys

• Boots: For those heading down to the river, boots will certainly be handy to keep your feet dry as you step through water.
• Sprays of all kinds: Ones to repel insects you don’t want to attract, such as mosquitoes and ticks. You’ll also want sprays to help with the itchiness in the event you do get bitten.
• Cap or hat with a visor: With Japan’s summer sun overhead, it’s always a good idea to keep its rays out of your eyes and off your face.
• Water: Stay hydrated out there!

Once prepared with your bug-catching kit, you’re well on your way to starting a collection of critters in Japan.

Next time you see some neighborhood kids armed with nets and boxes, take a look around and see if you can spot (or hear) one of the bugs featured on this list!

When we first moved to Japan and enrolled our child in elementary school, I had no idea about 教職員人事異動 (kyoshokuin jinji ido), the nationwide system of teacher transfers. I expected to get to know the teaching staff over many years and maybe even see the same faces until graduation, as is common back in New Zealand. So, when my child’s beloved teacher (along with what felt like half the faculty) suddenly disappeared at the end of the school year, I was confused and, honestly, a little emotional.

I’ve since learned that this isn’t unusual at all. It’s part of a long-standing system in Japan where teachers are regularly rotated between schools. For foreign parents who are used to seeing the same staff year after year, this can be a surprising and sometimes difficult adjustment.

What Are Teacher Transfers & Why Do They Happen?

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In Japan, public school teachers are employed by the local Board of Education rather than individual schools. This means that teachers aren’t permanently attached to one school but are seen as part of the wider prefectural system.  Every few years (typically every three to five), they’re reassigned to a different school within the region or city.

Unlike in some other countries, these transfers don’t usually happen because a teacher has performed poorly or done something wrong. Instead, they’re part of a planned rotation system designed to support teacher growth and benefit the school system as a whole.

The idea behind the transfers is to help teachers develop professionally and keep things fair across schools. By changing schools and grade levels, teachers gain new experiences, stay motivated and bring fresh ideas to different classrooms. For students, it means being exposed to a variety of teaching styles.

Although there’s some debate about how effective the system always is in practice, it’s a normal part of school life in Japan.

How Teacher Transfers Happen

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One of the most difficult parts of teacher transfers in Japan, especially for parents, is the timing. Unlike in many other countries where staffing updates are shared well in advance, Japanese schools tend to announce teacher changes just days before the school year ends in March. Even the teachers themselves often don’t find out about their new assignments until late in the school year.

Once the transfers are confirmed, a short notice or letter is usually sent home with students. On the last day of school, during the shuryo-shiki (closing ceremony), there’s often a farewell segment where teachers who are leaving give short speeches and are presented with flowers.

After spring break, students often come back to school and find many new faces among the staff. You usually won’t know who your child’s new teacher is until they come home from their first day back in April. At that point, homeroom teachers typically send home an introductory letter to help families get to know them.

While many parents are used to the system, as a foreign parent, I found the uncertainty really challenging.

How to Navigate Teacher Transfers As A Parent

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Adjusting to teacher transfers takes time, but once you know what to expect, it becomes easier to manage. Here are some strategies that have helped me as a foreign parent:

Build School Relationships Early

Try to get to know other teachers and staff at the school, not just your child’s main teacher. This can help things feel more familiar if there are changes.

Ask Questions

Don’t be afraid to contact the school with questions about your child’s new teacher. Ask about their experience, language ability or anything else relevant, especially if your child has specific learning or communication needs.

Prepare Your Child

Talk to your child ahead of time about the possibility of teacher changes. Let them share how they feel and try to focus on the positives, like meeting new teachers or learning in a different way. You might even find they weren’t too sad to say goodbye to some staff after all!

Keep Communication Open

If your child has additional learning needs or language barriers, it’s helpful to introduce these to the new teacher early. You don’t need to wait for a formal parent-teacher interview. You can send a note or ask the school if someone can help you communicate in Japanese if needed.

Teacher transfers can be one of the more surprising parts of the Japanese school system for foreign parents. It’s one of those “learn as you go” aspects of adjusting to life in Japan. With time, you’ll find your own way to support your child through these changes and grow more confident navigating school life here.

Have the teacher transfers been challenging for your family in Japan? Share your experiences or tips with other parents in the comments below!