If your question is not answered below, please do not hesitate to contact WLE.
We would be happy to assist you!
Where is the Academy?
The Academy of Japanese Language and Culture is located right in the heart of Tokyo's city center, Chiyoda District. The Academy is close to Tokyo's main business and financial district, as well as universities and numerous bookstores and retail offerings. It is conveniently located a minutes walk to nearby train stations such as Jimbo-cho, Kudanshita and Suidobashi Stations. A 15 minute train ride will take you to other major areas of Tokyo city such as Shibuya, Shinjuku, or Ikebukuro.
Is the Academy accredited?
Yes, the Academy of Language and Culture in Tokyo is accredited by The Association for Promotion of Japanese Language Education.
How far is the Academy from my accommodation?
The distance and travel time to and from school vary greatly depending on the location of the accommodation. Generally travel times in Tokyo range from 45 to 90 minutes.
What are the requirements?
World Link Education's Japan Programs are open to all persons worldwide provided they are:
i. 18 to 60 years old (or 15 to 60 years old for Language & Culture Programs)
ii. Have completed high school (except Language & Culture Programs)
iii. In good health
For exceptions, please contact WLE
When should I apply?
For programs from 3 weeks to 12 weeks, the application deadline is 6 weeks before the program starts.
For programs from 1 semester to 1 year, the application deadline is 4 months before the program starts.
Applicants should apply as early as possible before the deadlines. For late applications contact WLE.
How do I know what proficiency level I am?
On the first day of the program you will sit a Proficiency Test to determine your current level of Japanese. You will then be placed in the appropriate class depending on the results.
What time are the classes held?
The Japanese Language Programs consist of 20 classes per week, held from 9.10am to 12.40pm or 1.30pm to 5pm, Monday to Friday. Classes are 45 to 50 minutes long. Whether you have morning or afternoon classes depends on your level of Japanese, which is determined by the Proficiency Test held on the first day of the program.
How many students are in a class?
The Japanese Language Immersion Programs offer small Language classes, with an average of 15 - 20 students per class.
What teaching method is used?
The Academy uses the "Direct Method" which is a language teaching
technique which involves learning a foreign language in the target language, for example, Japanese is taught in Japanese and French is taught in French. We believe this teaching method is one of the best ways to learn a foreign language as you are fully immersed in the target language. In fact, most Japanese language schools within Japan teach using the Direct Method.
The Direct Method thrives for the very reason that an environment is created where Japanese is the common language between students of various language backgrounds. At first it takes time, but as time progresses, a great difference appears through the cognition and speed of understanding Japanese. The level of dependence upon one's native language decreases from extremely early steps.
Which text books are used for the Intensive Program?
Level 1 - Total Beginner: "Beginning Japanese" (Nyumon Nihongo)
Level 2 - Elementary: "Japanese for Everyone 1" (Minna no Nihongo 1)
Level 3 - High Elementary: "Japanese for Everyone 2" (Minna no Nihongo 2)
Level 4 - Intermediate: "Intermediate Japanese Reading" (Chukyu Dokkai Nyumon)
Level 5 - High Intermediate: "Intermediate Level Japanese on Various Topics" (Chukyu kara manabu temabetsu Nihongo)
Level 6 - Advanced: "Advanced Japanese: Reading comprehension and Grammar" (Kanzen Masuta 1kyu: Dokkaihen Bunpouhen)
Level 7 - High Advanced: "Comprehensive Japanese Exercises on Various Topics" (Topikku niyoru Nihongo sogo enshu Jokyu)
How much Japanese will I learn during my stay?
Attaining fluency in a language depends on a variety of factors including program intensity and duration, your innate ability to learn languages, your previous knowledge of foreign languages, and the amount of time you put into practicing and using the language after class hours. The average durations are listed below along with the corresponding grade for the Japanese Language Proficiency Test:
| Proficiency Level |
Approx. Duration |
JLPT Grade
|
| Level 1: |
Total Beginner |
1 month |
|
| Level 2: |
Elementary |
3 months |
Grade 4
|
| Level 3: |
High Elementary |
3 months |
Grade 3
|
| Level 4: |
Intermediate |
9 months |
Grade 2
|
| Level 5: |
High Intermediate |
9 months |
Grade 2
|
| Level 6: |
Advanced |
9 months |
Grade 1
|
| Level 7: |
High Advanced |
9 months |
Grade 1 |
What is the difference between the Intensive and Regular programs?
The Intensive Program language classes integrate all aspects of Japanese including reading, writing, speaking, listening, grammar, and vocabulary. Topics studied include everyday situations, as well as Japanese culture, society, and history. Listening and speaking skills are emphasized to enable participants to attain communicative proficiency. Designed for Elementary to High Advanced levels (levels 2 - 7), the curriculum is based on the needs of each proficiency level and designed to allow participants to progress rapidly and gain language fluency. Class work focuses on developing oral expression, listening comprehension, reading comprehension, writing, and grammar.
The Regular Program, which caters for all proficiency levels from Total Beginner to Advanced (levels 1 - 7), introduces everyday expressions, grammar, vocabulary, and sentence patterns. It mainly focuses on Regular and will enable students to speak with confidence. Class work focuses on daily expression, sentence structure and idiomatic constructions with an emphasis on pronunciation. Oral exercises and drills ensure that participants learn from the start the correct pronunciation. The program aims to provide the language skills needed for effective communication. Class work focuses on developing oral expression, listening comprehension, vocabulary, Regular skills and grammar.
What will I learn in the Total Beginner's Program?
The Total Beginner's Program is designed for participants who have never learned Japanese or who have learned a few words but cannot express themselves in complete sentences. Classes focus on introducing basic vocabulary, grammar, sentence structures, and simple texts. Participants will be taught Hiragana and Katakana writing systems. Oral exercises and drills ensure that participants learn from the start the correct pronunciation and intonation. After completion of this program, students have completed the Beginner's level and should be able to participate in programs which require an Elementary level, such as the Intensive Program.
What are the 'Language & Culture Programs'?
The Language & Culture programs are compact programs (from 3 to 8 weeks) designed to immerse participants in the Japanese language, culture and way of life through class instruction, language exchange with native speakers, language workshops, sightseeing excursions, and numerous activities. These programs include a three to four day guided excursion to a destination outside of Tokyo, such as Kyoto or Mt. Fuji. These programs are ideal for students who would like to get an introduction into the Japanese language as well as the Japanese culture in a relatively short period of time. This program is designed for all proficiency levels (levels 1 - 7). Host Family accommodation is provided to fully immerse students in the Japanese way of life.
Is Private Tuition available?
Yes, we offer one-to-one Private lessons, which can be catered to your specific needs. Lessons are planned according to your level, purpose and pace. Private lessons are an effective way of improving your language skills in the shortest possible time. For more information, please contact WLE.
Where will I live while in Tokyo?
World Link Education makes all accommodation reservations and preparations for participants in the total program. A variety of accommodation options are offered to suit different needs. Students may choose from:
- Host Family
- Student Dormitory
- Residence
- Studio Apartment
- Hotel
For more information on the various accommodation options, click here
How long does it take to get to the Academy?
- Host Families are located in surrounding residential areas in Tokyo. Traveling time may range from 30 to 90 minutes.
- Student Dormitory traveling time is around 70 minutes.
- Residences are located in surrounding residential areas in Tokyo. Traveling time may range from 50 to 70 minutes.
- Studio Apartments traveling time is around 10 to 20 minutes.
- Hotel accommodation is conveniently located just a short walk to the Academy (approx. 3 minutes).
When does the accommodation start?
For most options* accommodation starts at 12pm on the Saturday prior to the first day of the program, and ends at 12 pm on Saturday following the last day of the program. Extra nights accommodation is available for an additional fee and is subject to availability. For participants' privacy and comfort, all rooms are individual rooms.
*For students staying at the Residence, accommodation is included from the Friday prior to the first day of the program. Students should arrive in Tokyo between 9am and 1.30pm, Monday to Friday, in order to be able to pick up their keys during office hours.
What is it like living with a Host Family?
The Accommodation Section has carefully selected nice and welcoming host families for all students. This will enable you to immerse in the Japanese culture and customs while living everyday life with the family. Students are provided a single room and meals (breakfast & dinner on weekdays; and breakfast, lunch & dinner on weekends). Bed linen, blankets, and laundry are also provided.
Some basic rules to be followed:
- Leave your room presentable
- Do not use any family belongings without permission
- Do not do the laundry by yourself
- Remember that each country has different habits and, therefore, accept, respect and learn them in order to be well integrated.
- Respect the meal schedule your host family establishes.
- You are not allowed to use the telephone without previous approval. You can receive personal phone calls at reasonable hours.
- You are not allowed to bring friends without previous approval.
- If there are any changes of previous agreements with your host family let them know at least 2 weeks in advance.
What is the difference between the Student Dormitory and the International Residence?
At the Student Dormitory you will have access to your own kitchenette and bathroom as well as washing machine, however, students need to bring or buy their own cooking equipment. A deposit is required to be paid. The Student Dormitory is approximately 70 minutes by train from the Academy.
International residences may have pool table, table tennis, and/or lounge (with free Internet access). There is a shared kitchen with cooking facilities and basic cooking utensils i.e. pots, pans, crockery etc. You may need to purchase some various items for personal use. A deposit of 10,000 to 20,000 yen is required to be paid to the landlord upon arrival. It is returned provided there are no damages. The Residence is approximately 50-70 minutes by train from the Academy.
What is the cost of living like in Tokyo?
The average cost of living in Japan varies greatly depending on the person. However, the following approximations may be used as a general guide.
Food
Breakfast: 380 to 560 yen
Lunch: 380 to 900 yen
Dinner: 650 to 1,400 yen
Average amount: 1,500 yen a day (45,000 yen/month)
Snacks: 10,000 to 15,000 yen/month
Transportation
Transportation costs vary greatly as Tokyo's train and subway system are charged according to distance traveled.
One way ticket: 200 to 1,700 yen (ave. 680 yen)
Monthly ticket: 6,000 to 36,000 yen/month (ave. 18,000 yen/month)
How can I get or exchange money while I am in Japan?
Currency exchange counters are available at the airport. Major banks also offer money exchange services. Please note that travelers’ checks are not as commonly accepted as in European countries or northern America either for currency exchange to yen or for shopping.
*ATMs at post offices allow you to withdraw money with foreign issued credit cards, but regular ATMs located in train stations, convenience stores or department stores often do not accept foreign cards.
Can I use my credit card in Japan?
Most restaurants, hotels and shops accept credit cards. The most commonly accepted cards are Visa and MasterCard. However, please note you may not be able to use credit cards at small businesses and in rural areas.
Is tipping customary in Japan?
No, tipping is not customary in Japan. However, some expensive restaurants and luxury hotels may add a service charge of 10-15%.
What is the climate like in Tokyo?
Japan has a generally mild climate however there is some variation throughout the year. Spring (March to May) and Fall (September to November) are the mildest seasons. Tokyo has relatively mild winters and hot, humid summers. Rain is more common in June and September than in other months.
| Average Temperatures for Tokyo |
| Month |
Degrees
Celsius (C) |
Degrees
Fahrenheit (F) |
| January |
5.3 |
41.5 |
| February |
7 |
44.6 |
| March |
10.1 |
50.2 |
| April |
16.3 |
61.3 |
| May |
20.5 |
68.9 |
| June |
21.5 |
70.7 |
| July |
25.5 |
77.5 |
| August |
27.2 |
81 |
| September |
24.4 |
76 |
| October |
20.1 |
68.2 |
| November |
13.9 |
57 |
| December |
9 |
48.2 |
Do I need a visa?
Participants from the USA, Australia, and some countries in the European Union studying for less than 90 days do not need a visa to enter Japan. Participants from the UK, Germany, Switzerland and Ireland studying for less than 180 days do not need a visa to enter Japan. Participants from all other countries should consult with their local Japanese consulate or embassy for visa requirements.
For a list of countries that have visa exemption arrangements with Japan, click here
For study durations from 6 months to 1 year, a Pre-College Visa is required. Applications for long term programs must be received at least 6 months before the program starts. For more information, contact WLE.
Can I work while studying in Japan?
Students staying under 6 months are not allowed to work, unless they have a 'Working Holiday' Visa. Students staying for 6 months or longer, and applying for a 'Pre-College' Visa can apply for a Work Permit. Students with a Work Permit can work up to 20 hours per week. For more information please contact your nearest Japan Embassy or Consulate.
When is the Academy closed in 2006?
No classes are held on the following holidays.
Public Holidays: Jan 1, 9; Feb 11; Mar 20, 21; Apr 29; May 3, 4, 5; Jul 17; Sep 18, 23; Oct 9; Nov 3, 23; Dec 23.
Golden Week: Apr 29 to May 7
Fall Break: Sep 23 to Oct 1
Winter Break: Dec 23, 2006 to Jan 8, 2007
For Intensive Program only:
Spring Break: Mar 18 to Apr 9
Golden Week: Apr 29 to May 7
Term Break: Jun 24 to Jul 2
Summer Break: Jul 29 to Aug 20
Fall Break: Sep 30 to Oct 9
Winter Break: Dec 16, 2006 to Jan 8, 2007
Will I be picked up at the airport?
Students enrolled in the Total Program will be picked up at the Tokyo Narita Airport and accompanied to their accommodation provided their arrival details are supplied at least 2 weeks before the start of the program.
Are there any excursions or activities?
To ensure a comprehensive learning experience, a range of free guided excursions, after-class activities, and social events are included as part of the Total Program. These after-class activities provide participants with education outside the classroom, expanding their vocabulary and knowledge of Japan's rich and varied culture, tradition, history, art and society. A calendar of scheduled events is provided at the start of the program and varies according to the program intake.
Admission and transportation are included at no additional cost. The program of scheduled activities varies. These excursions and activities are held on weekday afternoons or weekends and may include the following:
Imperial Palace, Yasukuni Shrine, Koto Performance, Odaiba, Bowling, Karaoke, Museums and Gardens around Tokyo, Tokyo Water Cruise, Asakusa, Tea Ceremony, Edo Lampworking, Furin (wind bell) Making, Farewell Evening, and more.
Optional weekend tours to other cities such as Kyoto and Osaka requiring overnight accommodation may be available at additional cost.
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