Got questions about learning Japanese in Japan? We’ve got answers! From finding the right language school to balancing classes with your Working Holiday job, here’s everything Canadians need to know before heading to Japan.
Yes, Canadians on a Working Holiday Visa can learn Japanese in Japan! Stepabroad’s Japan Kickstart Program lets you take 2- or 4-week accredited courses at top-rated Japanese language schools in Japan, while living, travelling, and working across exciting cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, Fukuoka, or Okinawa.
Classes run about 20 hours per week and are open to all levels, from complete beginner to advanced. You’ll not only study Japanese but also have the flexibility to work part-time, meet other international students, and truly live like a local. With flexible payment options through Klarna, you can learn, work, and explore Japan, all in one unforgettable experience.
Our long-term partnership with one of the best Japanese language schools means we know you’ll be in great hands. You’ll be welcomed by friendly locals and supported by passionate teachers who love helping international students thrive in their Japanese studies and everyday life.
You can work part-time or full-time while in Japan, or simply focus on studying. The Working Holiday Visa for Canadians is flexible, and it’s designed to help you experience Japanese culture, not just work. Whether you spend more time improving your Japanese or exploring the country, the goal is cultural exchange and adventure.
Your Japanese language school classes include 20 hours per week, which is ideal for balancing study, work, and travel. Homework and review depend on your teacher’s assignments, but the more you practice, the faster you’ll progress!
That depends on the kind of part-time job you find in Japan! Our partner language school in Japan offers 20 hours of Japanese lessons per week between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., so your schedule can be arranged to match your job availability. This makes it easy to keep learning while earning some extra income during your stay.
Our Japan Kickstart Program includes small group classes (4–8 students) perfect for interaction and speaking practice. If you prefer private tutoring, you can easily arrange it directly with the language school once you’re in Japan.
Very easy! Our Japanese language schools can accommodate all levels. If your teachers see that you’re ready to move up, you can switch to a higher level anytime.
Yes, and most participants do! Beginner classes are extremely popular and often book out months in advance, so we recommend registering early to secure your spot.
Whether you’re starting from zero or aiming to perfect your skills, learning Japanese in Japan through our Stepabroad’s Kickstart Program is one of the most exciting and authentic ways to experience the country.
Our partner is one of the most respected and accredited Japanese language schools in Japan, known for its focus on real-life communication, immersive teaching methods, and an incredibly welcoming international community.
Here’s what sets it apart:
Many Stepabroad participants say that joining this school was the highlight of their Working Holiday experience. Several even extend their studies after falling in love with the atmosphere and quality of teaching! If you’ve ever dreamed of learning Japanese in Japan, this is the perfect way to start.
Absolutely! You’ll meet students from around the world, many of whom are also on Working Holiday Visas. Joining one of our Japanese language schools is one of the fastest ways to make friends, build your confidence, and feel at home in Japan.
Yes! Accommodation options include shared houses, homestays, or private apartments. You can even stay up to one week after your course ends while you settle into your new life in Japan. Just note that housing is reserved for active students currently enrolled in classes.
That depends on your motivation and practice! Most students gain confidence surprisingly quickly thanks to the school’s focus on practical Japanese; the kind you’ll actually use every day while living and working in Japan.
You can easily balance part-time work with language classes and gradually improve your Japanese as you go.
Join hundreds of Canadians who’ve made Japan their next big adventure! Start your Working Holiday the smart way, by learning Japanese in Japan, meeting new friends, and living like a local.
Apply for Stepabroad’s Japan Kickstart Program today and make this year your year in Japan.
Not at all! You can focus on English-speaking jobs while studying, or improve your language skills to qualify for more local opportunities later on. Joining one of our Japanese language schools in Japan gives you a huge head start toward understanding local culture and communication.
None! Our language school partner offers classes for all levels, from complete beginners to advanced speakers. Whether you’re learning hiragana for the first time or polishing your conversation skills, you’ll find a class that matches your needs.
Yes, you can. During your studies, you’ll be able to work part-time while attending around 20 hours of weekly lessons. It’s the perfect balance between learning, earning, and exploring Japan.
Each city offers its own version of Japanese life, and you can explore them all on your Working Holiday Visa!
Approximate monthly costs (as of 2025):
Food, transport, and entertainment vary, but most students budget ¥150,000–¥200,000 per month overall.
Yes, you cannot work in the nightlife or adult-entertainment industries (bars, cabarets, etc.), as these are prohibited under the visa.
You can definitely start learning Japanese online before you travel. Any preparation helps! But it’s not required. Our partner Japanese language schools in Japan offer beginner-friendly programs, so you can start from scratch once you arrive.
The school focuses on your language learning and cultural activities. Stepabroad handles the rest! We’ll support you with banking, phone plans, immigration documents, and housing so your transition is smooth and stress-free.
Yes! You can take classes before or after your ski-season job. While our partner schools aren’t in ski areas, we’ll help you plan both experiences so you can learn Japanese in Japan and enjoy your dream winter season.
Yes, you can book an airport pickup through the school for an additional fee, or arrive independently if you prefer.
Absolutely! You’ll take a placement test before starting so the language school can place you in the right class for your skill level.
Availability depends on your Japanese level and location. Beginner classes in Tokyo often fill up months in advance, so register early! Intermediate and advanced students usually have more flexibility. You can choose between Tokyo, Kyoto, Fukuoka, or Okinawa, each with its own charm and pace of life. Please schedule a call with our Japan travel coordinator today to talk about availability!
As long as there’s availability, you can extend your studies directly through the Japanese language school once your initial 2- or 4-week program ends.
The classes emphasize real-world communication, using modern materials and interactive activities. While they’re not based on the JLPT exam, they’re ideal if you want to learn Japanese in Japan for everyday use in cafés, train stations, or conversations with locals.
It depends on your personality and lifestyle!
Our Stepabroad team will help with that. We’ll connect you with job boards, recruitment agencies, and employer contacts to help you find work. Teachers at the language school can even help translate your resume into Japanese if you’d like to apply for local positions.
Dream Big, even When the Budget’s Tight. Dreaming of working and living abroad, but your wallet’s saying not yet? With flexible travel payment plans, you can start your journey today without waiting years to save up.
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