Hey guys,
I’ve been considering spending some 2 months in Japan in summer by the virtue of a language course. A common pitfall I’ve found with a lot of them are that they’re meant for beginners- I have a couple of Japanese friends over here and I speak 96% Japanese with them. That being said, I make a lot of mistakes and see a lot of room for improvement.
I’m looking for something challenging, but with enough time and days off to explore at least the main island to some extent.
With the influx of Japanese courses and non-stop bombardment of targeted advertising, I find it hard to know what’s reputable and what’s not.
I’m thankful for any and all recommendations or advice I can get
Have a nice day 👋
5 comments
I think the market for more advanced courses is either long (1yr), intense prep course for n1 or university entry, or private tutoring.
With two months, you might be better off just signing yourself up for a bunch of sightseeing experiences that are less likely to have English (I know that a lot of art workshop type tours / open days are Japanese only).
For example you could do a short course in a traditional craft, sign up for a walking tour that’s in Japanese, etc.
I’m at Kudan institute in Tokyo atm for only 2 weeks. So maybe try them. They cater to all levels and I signed up for 8 hours a day (2 courses) for the two weeks.
Yesterday was 3 tests (1 per course plus an oral interview) and orientation. Today is day 2 of teaching so 9 days of teaching in all for my two weeks. Other people are here for 1 month, 3 months, 1 year so 2 months should be fine.
Just go on a tourist visa, travel, learn more, and save money
If you want to spend every day in the classroom do it at home
(Disclaimer: it’s been ages since I attended so I can’t speak to any recent changes in quality)
This doesn’t meet the “explore the main island” requirement–you’d have to do it on your own time before or after–but the Hokkaido International Foundation offers a huge range of levels in a 2-month summer program. I was JLPT N1-ish when I went and their Class F still felt like a healthy challenge. And you do get some time to explore southern Hokkaido, if you’re into southern Hokkaido.
I will echo what everyone else is saying, take another route. 2 months isn’t enough for a structured curriculum anyway. A good tutor will do the job just as well. Combine tutoring sessions with plenty of socializing through hobbies, nightlife, etc.