1. History, Educational Philosophy, Teaching Staff and Campus
Osafune Japanese Language School was established on 1 April 1990 in Okayama City, Okayama Prefecture. It is one of the longest-established Japanese language schools in the Chugoku region and is recognised as the first Japanese language school in Okayama Prefecture dedicated to international students.
Before its official establishment, the organisation had already been involved in Japanese language education since the late 1980s and had dispatched Japanese language instructors to several Asian countries. Over more than 35 years of development, Osafune has welcomed thousands of students from different countries and regions while building a strong international network with educational institutions throughout Asia.
The school’s educational philosophy extends beyond language instruction. Osafune aims to help students gain a deeper understanding of Japanese culture, customs, social values and daily life. The school strives to develop students who possess strong Japanese language skills, independence, responsibility and the ability to adapt successfully to academic and professional environments in Japan.
The teaching staff consists of qualified Japanese language instructors with extensive experience teaching international students. In addition to classroom instruction, teachers provide academic counselling, career guidance and ongoing support throughout students’ lives in Japan.
The school currently operates at its main campus:
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Address: 3-10 Banzan-cho, Kita-ku, Okayama-shi, Okayama 700-0818, Japan
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Telephone: +81-86-236-0881
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Website: http://www.osafune.info/OSAFUNEEN/
Located in central Okayama City, the school enjoys convenient access to railway stations, shopping centres, banks, hospitals, supermarkets and other essential services that support students' daily lives.
2. Courses and Tuition Fees
Osafune offers programmes designed for students who plan to continue their studies at Japanese universities, graduate schools or vocational colleges. The curriculum combines academic Japanese language training with practical communication skills and preparation for further education.
Available Programmes
| Course | Duration | Total Class Hours | Intake |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced Course | 2 Years | 1,520 Hours | April |
| Standard Course | 1 Year 9 Months | 1,300 Hours | July |
| Basic Course | 1 Year 6 Months | 1,180 Hours | October |
Classes are held five days per week, from Monday to Friday, with four hours of instruction per day. Students are placed according to their language proficiency, allowing teachers to provide more focused support. Most classes have fewer than 20 students, creating an effective learning environment with close interaction between teachers and learners.
In addition to developing listening, speaking, reading and writing skills, the school provides JLPT and EJU preparation, essay-writing guidance, university application support and interview training for students planning to pursue higher education in Japan.
First-Year Tuition Fees
| Item | Amount (JPY) |
|---|---|
| Application Fee | 20,000 |
| Admission Fee | 70,000 |
| Facilities Fee | 50,000 |
| Tuition Fee | 480,000 |
| Textbooks | 40,000 |
| National Health Insurance | 32,500 |
| Total | 692,500 |
Tuition fees for subsequent years vary according to the selected programme and enrolment period.
3. Facilities, Equipment and Student Accommodation
Although Osafune is not a large-scale institution, it provides all the essential facilities required for international students to study and live comfortably in Japan.
Classrooms and Learning Facilities
The school offers air-conditioned classrooms, modern teaching equipment, internet access, common areas and a quiet learning environment. The campus atmosphere is friendly and well organised, making it suitable for students who wish to focus on improving their Japanese language ability.
Student Dormitories
Osafune provides dormitory accommodation for international students to help them settle into life in Japan immediately after arrival.
The dormitories are conveniently located and allow easy access to the school, with many students commuting by bicycle. Rooms typically accommodate one or two students and are equipped with basic furniture and household necessities.
Facilities generally include:
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Bed
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Study desk
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Wardrobe
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Basic household equipment
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Shared kitchen facilities
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Internet access
Dormitory fees range from approximately JPY 20,000 to JPY 25,000 per month. Students are also required to pay a dormitory entrance fee of approximately JPY 30,000, a refundable security deposit of JPY 40,000 and annual fire insurance of approximately JPY 10,000.
4. Student Support Services
One of the strengths frequently highlighted by international students is the school’s attentive support system.
The school assists students with admission procedures, residence registration, National Health Insurance enrolment, bank account opening, part-time job guidance, progression to universities and vocational colleges, daily life consultation and support for issues that may arise during their studies.
In addition to regular student services, Osafune organises cultural exchange activities, educational excursions, traditional Japanese cultural experiences and extracurricular events. These activities help students gain a deeper understanding of Japanese society while improving their practical communication skills.
5. Why Students Choose Osafune Japanese Language School
More Than 35 Years of Experience
Founded in 1990, Osafune has built a strong reputation through decades of experience in Japanese language education for international students.
Peaceful Learning Environment
Okayama is known for its mild climate, safe living conditions and reasonable cost of living. It provides an ideal environment for students who wish to concentrate on their studies and prepare for higher education.
Small Class Sizes
Most classes contain fewer than 20 students, allowing teachers to provide personalised attention and academic support.
Strong Focus on Japanese Culture
Students are encouraged to learn not only the language but also the customs, traditions and social values of Japan through various cultural activities.
Dormitory and Daily Life Support
The school offers student accommodation and a comprehensive support system to help international students adapt smoothly to life in Japan.
Clear Academic Progression Pathways
The curriculum is designed for students who intend to continue their studies at universities, graduate schools or vocational colleges after completing their Japanese language programme.
6. Student Testimonials
Many former students describe Osafune as a welcoming and supportive learning environment where they could focus on improving their Japanese language skills. The small class sizes made it easy to communicate with teachers and receive individual guidance whenever needed.
Students also appreciate Okayama’s affordable living costs compared with larger Japanese cities. The combination of dedicated teachers, cultural activities and practical support services has helped many students achieve their academic goals and adapt successfully to life in Japan.
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