- By Ian Ryder
- Posted 30 July, 2023
Tokyo International Schools
Tokyo has almost 50 international schools, the most popular are IB schools, then British schools followed byAmerican schoolswith an almost equal mix between them. Fees range from as little as $7,000 per year right up to $28,000 for the more exclusive schools.
Education in Japan
The education system in Japan ranks as one of the best in the world, focussing on more than just passing exams; children learn about morals and ethics as standard. However, pupils often are under enormous pressure to compete which leads to one of the highest teenage suicide rates in the world. This may be enough of a reason to want to put your children into a different type of school system that you may be more familiar with.
For most expats in Tokyo,language will be a barrier to entering the Japanese school system unless you are planning to remain for the long term. International schools offer the opportunity to be taught in English and easily be able to move other parts the world and continue the same system of education. Tokyo offers a wide range of options and prices to choose from.
About Tokyo
Tokyo is without doubt one of the most important cities in the world. There are over 13 million people living in the greater Tokyo area so be prepared to cope with space being at a premium. Because of this Tokyo property isexpensive, especially if you want to live close to the centre but public transport is great (if a little crowded at peak times)so living further out can still be practical if you need more space.
Tokyo is also one of the safest cities in the world with crime rates incredibly low for such a hight population. For a more indepth overview of Tokyo, the BBC have a great article covering many of the most important points for expats.
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Where Tokyo international schools are distributed (view our List of International Schools in Tokyo to see a live map):
Best International Schools in Tokyo - Rankings
Note: our rankings are based on parent, pupil and teacher reviews. If you think your Tokyo school should be in the top 20, get reviewing - we want to hear from real people with real experiences at schools so parents, teachers and pupils get the real story when they research their next school. You can find your school in the full List of International Schools in Tokyo, or search by name here.
Daizawa International School
5.0 from 5 reviews
Curriculum
Japanese
Primary Language
English
Ages
1 to 6
Description
Daizawa International School (DIS) believes all children are capable and exceptional. By respect and encouraging each one's personality, strengths, and interests they are allowed to shine in their own way each child's own way to understand their potential and develop their confidence future success.The aim of the school is the children of the world who have become aware of the world's children who have become involved in the world. A true world citizen is someone who can make friends and be trusted anywhere in the world.
It sounds easy for children to become bilingual or even trilingual, but there is much more to communication than just speaking a language. An exceptional early childhood setting does make possible for children to gain these skills. Who is caring, courageous, respectful, and culturally literate.Our mission at DIS is to help children to be happy and confident in themselves so that they may be successful no matter where we have a wide range of experiences in each home's atmosphere where each child's personality can shine.
Daizawa International School Details
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The American School in Japan
5.0 from 5 reviews
Curriculum
American
Primary Language
English
Ages
3 to 18
Description
The American School in Japan (ASIJ) offers an American-style college preparatory education for the children of international families. The American School in Japan (ASIJ) is an independent, co-educational day school serving students of all nationalities. Founded in 1902, ASIJ offers an American-style college preparatory education for the children of international families, including those on temporary assignment, as well as families who make Tokyo their permanent home. The school offers a standards-based curriculum culminating in an American high school diploma. ASIJ’s program develops the necessary skills for a student to be successful in their future academic endeavors, including in Advanced Placement courses and other advanced topic courses.
Complementing its academic program, ASIJ encourages students to engage in a wide variety of co-curricular experiences, including fine arts, athletics, and service-related clubs, which we believe contribute to the development of the whole child. ASIJ further draws on its unique presence in Japan by incorporating language and cultural studies that celebrate its host country. ASIJ is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) and is a member of the National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS).
The American School in Japan Details
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KAIS International School
5.0 from 5 reviews
Curriculum
American
Primary Language
English
Ages
14 to 18
Description
KAIS International School is one of Japan’s most innovative and academically distinguished international schools. Conveniently located in central Tokyo, we have been serving the international community since 2006. At KAIS, our students learn in small classes in a family-like atmosphere, where they develop their connectedness to others while exploring who they are as individuals. We believe self-awareness, curiosity, and empathy are vital in the development of the adults who will shape the future, and everything we do aims to support this.
Small class sizes allow more opportunities for our students to engage in hands-on projects, receive individual attention from instructors, present their work to their peers, and participate in discussions. Our dedicated team of teachers is focused on engaging our students in the optimal high school experience both in and out of the classroom.
While most of our students go on to study at top universities in the United States, we present our curriculum to our diverse student body from a global perspective. We invite you to come see our unique and vibrant school for yourself!
KAIS International School Details
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Phoenix House International School
5.0 from 5 reviews
Curriculum
English
Primary Language
English
Ages
5 to 11
Description
It is with huge pride that Phoenix House International School opened in August 2021 in Tokyo. Phoenix House International School offers a creative and innovative British independent school-style education within the rich international culture of Japan. Our curriculum and house system prepares pupils with the fundamental skills and self confidence needed to successfully navigate life and contribute to society. In the East and in the West, the Phoenix is a legendary bird, both beautiful and unique in its kind. According to legend, it has lived in the desert for 500 or 600 years rising again and again to better itself and become stronger.
We seek such qualities in each and every pupil under our care. Our core mission is to foster young people who can work collaboratively, ask and answer deep questions, think critically, research and present, using a thematic approach which naturally incorporates and develops inquiry skills. We seek to deliver both academic excellence and personal growth, helping our students grow as individuals with both integrity and a strong moral compass.
Phoenix House International School Details
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Gregg International School
5.0 from 4 reviews
Curriculum
International
Primary Language
English
Ages
2 to 12
Description
Gregg International School (GiS), a part of Gregg school, was started in1986. It is exciting to now see Gregg alumni returning to GiS as parents of some of our students. It is our pride and joy that several of our teachers have been Gregg faculty for decades.We do not compare students at GiS. Each student is respected and treasured because he or she is unique. Students are expected to do their best. They blossom at GiS because they feel they are loved and accepted here.
The originalGregg schoolwas founded in Tokyo in1964as an English language school, one of only a few of its kind at that time. The English school was so popular among the business community that it soon outgrew the small facility in Yoyogi. To accommodate the growing student body, the school then moved to a larger space in Jiyugaoka. The present property in Jiyugaoka was acquired in 1972 and has been home to Gregg ever since.
Gregg International School Details
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5.0 from 4 reviews
Curriculum
International
Primary Language
English
Ages
3 to 14
Description
Since opening KAIS Elementary & Middle School in 2014, we have welcomed students and families from over 20 countries. We are dedicated to providing a unique learning experience that fosters your child’s natural inclination towards curiosity, self-discovery, personal excellence, and joy. At KAIS Elementary & Middle School, each student is an individual who gets the special care that every child deserves and thrives on.
Our approach is simple; we try to blend established goals with progressive methods through a variety of pedagogical approaches in the classroom in the hopes of striking that perfect balance between the traditional and the novel, the old and the new. We are honored to have you browse our website, and encourage prospective parents and students to inquire further without hesitation.
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Camelot International School
5.0 from 4 reviews
Curriculum
English
Primary Language
English
Ages
6 to 15
Description
The transformative learning experiences at Camelot International School are designed to help our students grow both in and out of the classroom. Founded in 2014, Camelot International School is located in Itabashi-ku. With more than 75 students and a 17 dedicated and passionate teachers & staff, we are here to help our students make an impact on the world.
At Camelot International School we respect our students and understand that each of them have individual wants and needs. We believe that learning can only be fostered from a feeling of mutual respect, guidance, and direction, and do our very best to maintain those values in everything we do. Our unique approach supplies our students with the proper support system that will help lead them down the path to success.
Camelot International School Details
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Seisen International School
4.9 from 6 reviews
Curriculum
IB
Primary Language
English
Ages
3 to 18
Description
At Seisen International School we are passionate about international education to which we bring our commitment to Love in Action.Our belief is that international education helps to form caring young people and critical thinkers who can contribute to creating a better and more peaceful world. Our faculty members love their fields of expertise and they love young people. It is our conviction that every student has a unique potential that they can achieve with our care and guidance.
Seisen offers an educational program that prepares‘today’s students for tomorrow’s world’. Our program spans preschool, elementary and high school years, K-12, and focuses on very high academic standards as well as social, physical, aesthetic, cultural and spiritual development.
Seisen International School Details
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St. Mary's International School
4.9 from 5 reviews
Curriculum
IB
Primary Language
English
Ages
5 to 18
Description
St. Mary’s International School was founded in 1954. It moved to its current location in Setagaya ward in 1971. At St. Mary’s, we nurture the intellectual, physical, emotional and social development of each student. Our challenging array of core curricular and extra-curricular programs is designed to enable each student to achieve excellence and success. We provide a positive and safe learning environment, where a spirit of cooperation, friendship and mutual respect helps to maximize individual achievement.
The St. Mary’s experience goes from kindergarten to grade 12. We offer the International Baccalaureate course of studies, a globally recognized and rigorous pre-university program designed to give students the competitive edge they need for both university studies and their later careers. St. Mary’s is fully accredited by two agencies that provide standards and procedures for school improvement: the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) and the Council of International Schools (CIS).
WASC is one of six regional associations that accredit public and private schools, colleges and universities in the United States and East Asia. CIS is a membership organization of international schools around the world.
St. Mary's International School Details
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The Montessori School of Tokyo
4.8 from 6 reviews
Curriculum
Montessori
Primary Language
English
Ages
2 to 15
Description
Situated in the heart of Tokyo, The Montessori School of Tokyo (MST) is a well-established and internationally-minded Montessori school offering a vibrant vision of education for your child. MST was the first accredited Montessori school in Asia and is home to a diverse and highly qualified faculty and staff, drawn from all around the globe. Our facility comprises spacious classrooms, a beautiful garden and various other modern facilities that our community of learners call home.
At MST, learning is recognised as a natural ongoing process, unique to each person. Learning occurs in different ways and at a different pace for each individual and doesn’t fit anyone else’s predetermined schedule or timeline. At MST, learning is seen as a process of individual development and self-construction that leads to the fullest development of human potential. A successful MST student will discover their passions and their place in the world, while developing a love of peace and a deep respect for mankind and our planet.
As Maria Montessori herself said 'It is the child who makes the man, and no man exists who was not made by the child he once was'.
The Montessori School of Tokyo Details
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Columbia International School
4.8 from 4 reviews
Curriculum
Canadian
Primary Language
English
Description
Columbia International School (CIS) offers motivated students a safe and healthy learning environment where in small classes each individual student is actively engaged in their learning process. In technology and resource rich classrooms, dynamic and highly qualified teachers support and challenge students to understand the changing world around them. Our teachers incorporate the healthy whole-child concept, recognizing that social and emotional development along with academic progress is essential for each child.
Columbia international School also provides students with opportunities to become involved in many aspects of school life, including social and cultural events, community events and extracurricular activities. These experiences will enable students to develop skills as responsible global citizens and as leaders within our school and our extended school community. I urge you to take full advantage of the many wonderful opportunities, experiences and advice that will be available to you at Columbia International School. Let Columbia International School’s 21st century learning open up the world for you. Columbia International School uses the curriculum of the Province of Ontario, Canada, one of the most advanced and respected educational systems in the world to explore the world around them. Our school effectiveness and improvement frameworks and our regular Canadian and WASC certification processes along with tremendous support from our parent’s organization ensure our ongoing development as a learning community.
All teachers are involved in continuous learning through Columbia International School’s professional learning circles. Our wireless one-to-one laptop environment allows both teachers and students to access the latest information and learning strategies. Our goal is to create a fun, challenging and supportive lifelong learning environment that allows our students to develop an appreciation of different cultures and perspectives as well as possess superior communication skills and an excellent command of the English language and to have the knowledge and skills to be successful global citizens in the 21st century.
Columbia International School Details
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Christian Academy in Japan
4.7 from 6 reviews
Curriculum
American
Primary Language
English
Ages
3 to 18
Description
Christian Academy in Japan (CAJ) is a K-12 school established in 1950 to provide Christ-centered education to the children of evangelical missionaries. While continuing in this purpose, CAJ also serves other families who desire this type of education for their children. We serve approximately 450 students in our day school program and more than 300 students in our School Support Services program.
Our program uses English as the language of instruction and a North American curriculum. The school serves a student body that is composed of the dependents of missionaries (40%) and dependents of business and professional people (60%). Our students come from over 25 countries with many holding dual citizenship.
Christian Academy in Japan Details
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Aoba-Japan International School
4.7 from 6 reviews
Curriculum
IB
Primary Language
English
Ages
2 to 18
Description
A spirit of community shapes the Aoba-Japan International School experience. We are dedicated to developing global-minded, compassionate, collaborative students inspired to learn, take risks, and lead change in the world. We will continue to be a leading international school by providing students with a rigorous international education in a safe and supportive environment. We will ensure learners’ needs are supported, their perspectives sought and respected, and their unique qualities valued and nurtured.
Through a continued emphasis on educational excellence and innovation, each individual student will be provided with relevant resources and opportunities that will enable them to secure the best of what the future holds for them. We believe that students should reach their full potential as international citizens who are dedicated to learning and who are inspired to succeed in an ever-changing world.
Aoba-Japan International School Details
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Global Indian International School Japan
4.6 from 55 reviews
Curriculum
IB, English
Primary Language
English
Ages
3 to 17
Max Class Size
22
Description
At Global Indian International School (GIIS) Tokyo, we further our vision of becoming a global role model for teaching and learning by being committed to nurture lifelong learners and provide our students a balanced, holistic approach to education.
We are delighted that you are considering GIIS as a prospective school for your child. We’re committed to making the Admissions process as simple and comprehensible as possible. While admissions are open throughout the year, they are subject to availability.
New students can matriculate at any time during the academic year with sole exceptions for those seeking admission into CBSE & IB Diploma Programme 11 and 12. Because the academic year starts in April, this is typically our busiest period. As the Admissions Team begins reviewing applications for new admissions in January each year, we recommend that you plan and complete your admission materials before this time to avoid the rush.
We take pride in our diversity at Global Indian International School Tokyo, and welcome applications from students of all nationalities. All of life’s adventures begin with a single first step, and we encourage you to take yours by scheduling an appointment with one of our admissions counselors, during which you’ll tour the campus while learning more about our school, curricula and extracurricular activities.
Global Indian International School Japan Details
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Tokyo Bay International School
4.6 from 10 reviews
Curriculum
English, Montessori
Primary Language
English
Ages
3 to 11
Description
Tokyo Bay International School (TBIS) would primarily emphasize on building creative minds and lead the students to succeed in an uber challenging world. The amalgamation of diverse cultures and backgrounds will make the school and its students truly global by shaping the young minds to be more accommodating, knowledgeable and understanding towards each other’s race and cultures’ etiquette and manners.
Our objective is also to instil qualities like leadership, self-confidence; compassion and warmth for fellow beings which will help the students become good lifelong learners and healthy global citizens of the future.
Tokyo Bay International School Details
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Tokyo YMCA International School
4.6 from 6 reviews
Curriculum
American
Primary Language
English
Ages
6 to 14
Description
Tokyo YMCA International School (TYIS) prides itself on being a school of opportunity and diversity. We are known for high quality education, attention to individual student needs and our welcoming family atmosphere, which is open to all. The TYIS school culture is guided by the YMCA core values of caring, honesty, respect and responsibility. We guide our students to develop an awareness and appreciation of cultural acceptance and self-confidence.
At TYIS we understand that there is more to student experiences than test scores and report cards. Students value the small details of daily life that they encounter everyday. Details that are carried in experiences such as friendships, camps, library visits, service learning projects, science fair, after-school clubs and all other precious moments that make TYIS a comfortable and safe place to be. TYIS is very proud to serve our community and create opportunities for students to enrich their lives.
We look forward to welcoming your family and providing everything your child needs to succeed.
Tokyo YMCA International School Details
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Canadian International School Tokyo
4.5 from 4 reviews
Curriculum
IB, Canadian
Primary Language
English
Ages
3 to 18
Description
Canadian International School Tokyo (CIS) was founded in 1999 by two of its present directors. Contact was established with the Department of Education of the Canadian province of Prince Edward Island to adopt that province’s curriculum at Canadian International School Tokyo (CIS). CIS is accredited annually with an onsite inspection by officials from the Department of Education in Prince Edward Island. CIS is an accredited pre-kindergarten to grade twelve Canadian school. CIS received final authorization for the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Program (IB PYP) in 2009.
In Japan CIS is recognized by the Japanese Ministry of Culture, Sports and Education, so that CIS high school graduation is recognized for those students who apply to enroll in Japanese universities. CIS is a member of the Japan Council of International Schools and the Tokyo Association of International Preschools.
Canadian International School Tokyo Details
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UIA International School of Tokyo
4.2 from 4 reviews
Curriculum
English
Primary Language
English
Ages
2 to 18
Description
UIA International School of Tokyo offers from K to grade 12, with IPC, Cambridge IGCSE, and Cambridge A-level qualifications. Cambridge curriculum and assessments are designed to encourage students to develop and become confident, responsible, reflective, innovative, and engaged learners. Our students and teachers bring in their diverse backgrounds and cultures. We have been growing and expanding to further provide opportunities for students.
Our students go on to study at various prestigious universities all over the world including Japan and become leading global citizens. Tathva International School established in year 2010 changed its name toUIA International School of Tokyoas on 1st of April 2020.
UIA International School of Tokyo Details
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Shinagawa International School
4.1 from 11 reviews
Curriculum
English, IB
Primary Language
English
Ages
3 to 15
Max Class Size
20
Description
Members of our dynamic school community represent over 40 different nationalities which give us a great mixture of different experiences and cultures. The Seaside Campus has Preschool classes (Ages 3 and 4), a Kindergarten, and a Primary School (Grades 1-2) nearby Shinagawa Seaside Station. The Samezu Campus has Primary and Secondary Schools for Grades 3-10.
Shinagawa International School (SIS) in Tokyo now is an IB Middle Years Programme (MYP) candidate school implementing the MYP curriculum framework. MYP is a continuum of the IB Primary Years Programme and enables students to further develop the skills, knowledge, and attributes they start to acquire in primary school. SIS Secondary School Campus is located nearby Oimachi Station which offers classes of Grades 6 to 10 by the 2022-2023 Academic Year. Each year, SIS will add an additional grade level to allow all children to continue their education at our new campus.
Shinagawa International School Details
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Horizon Japan International School
4.1 from 11 reviews
Curriculum
IB, American
Primary Language
English
Ages
3 to 18
Description
Horizon Japan International School (HJIS) is committed to providing rigorous and challenging education within a safe and caring environment. We aim to nurture responsible lifelong learners who understand the importance of intercultural understanding to achieve global peace. At HJIS, we are lucky to have a community of learners who can ask and answer questions and know the value of lifelong learners. As an IB World School, we offer an inquiry-based approach in the Early Years, Preschool through Prekindergarten, the Primary Years Programme (PYP) in KG-Grade 5, the Middle Years Programme (MYP) in Grades 6-10, and the Diploma Programme (DP) in Grades 11-12.
We are accredited by the Council of International Schools (CIS), the Western Association of Schools and Colleges, USA (WASC), and the European Council of International Schools (ECIS), which prepares our culturally diverse student body for a lifelong commitment to learning.At our core, we are a community of educators and learners who are deeply dedicated to the well-being and success of every student – uniting us with a passion for lifelong learning. We embrace our core values of understanding, respect, and community and follow an American-style curriculum.
Our state-of-the-art campus, built-in2019, has modern indoor and outdoor athletic facilities to provide a balance between the academic rigor and the recreational needs of our students.
Horizon Japan International School Details
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Other International Schools in Tokyo
There are 27 other international schools in Tokyo that didn't make it into our Top 20, either because they didn't have enough reviews or its review rating was too low. If your school is one of those and you think it should make the Top 20, make sure you add your review and tell your story via the school links below.
School | Curriculum | Rating |
---|---|---|
Tokyo Creators Kids | Japanese | 5.0 / 5 |
New World International School | Japanese | 5.0 / 5 |
Princeton Academy International School | American | 5.0 / 5 |
Bunka Suginami Canadian International School | Canadian | 4.5 / 5 |
Learning Tree International School | English, Japanese | 4.5 / 5 |
Tokyo International School | IB | 4.0 / 5 |
United School of Tokyo | American | 4.0 / 5 |
Kspace International School | Japanese | 4.0 / 5 |
Kohana International School | English | 4.0 / 5 |
Tokyo International Progressive School | American, SEN | 4.0 / 5 |
New International School of Japan | International, Japanese | 4.0 / 5 |
MEES International School | International | 4.0 / 5 |
Yoyogi International School | International, IB | 4.0 / 5 |
Yokohama Christian School | American | 4.0 / 5 |
The British School in Tokyo | English | 3.8 / 5 |
Axis International School | American | 3.8 / 5 |
Tamagawa Academy (K12) | IB | 3.7 / 5 |
Makuhari International School | International, Japanese | 3.6 / 5 |
Saint Maur International School | IB, English | 3.4 / 5 |
Clarence International School | English | 3.4 / 5 |
Musashi International School Tokyo | English | 3.3 / 5 |
Yokohama International School | IB | 3.0 / 5 |
Nishimachi International School | International | 2.8 / 5 |
Laurus International School of Science | English | 2.5 / 5 |
K. International School Tokyo | IB | 2.5 / 5 |
India International School in Japan | IB, Indian | 1.8 / 5 |
Safari Kids International School | Japanese | n/a |
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