TEACHERS

Enjoy a quality language education with our licensed teachers.

TEACHERS

Meet our highly qualified teachers

Rieko Nakano

JaLS has been running for a number of years, and we have many stories from students who have enjoyed every moment of their time here - this makes us more passionate about developing our school and community even further!

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Tamaki Arai

I hope that everyone will have fun learning Japanese while also enjoying their time learning about Japanese culture and people in my classes. There is no better place to to have a rich and meaningful study abroad experience in Japan than at JaLS!

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Emi Yamazaki

There are a lot of enthusiastic, big-hearted, easy-going teachers in JaLS. You can ask questions not only about your studies, but also anything about Hokkaido and Kyoto and daily stuff, so, please, don’t hesitate and just do it!

Details

Kanako Fukase

All of the teachers here put our best efforts into making sure that you have the best education and experience possible during your stay in Japan. We also want you to get to know more about Japanese culture and the good things about Japan as a country through your language studies here.

Details

Emi Suzuki

JaLS is a school that always provides an at-home atmosphere where you can quickly make new friends. Why not have fun living and making friends with people from Japan and around the world in Sapporo and Kyoto?

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Yuji Kosenda

JaLS is a great place to study Japanese and have wonderful interactions with people from around the world. Why not join us at JaLS and have fun learning Japanese, meet people from Hokkaido, Kyoto and around the world?

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Fumie Nakagawa

If ever you have any problems or concerns durying your stay in Japan, the staff and teachershere are very friendly and supportive. With their help I think you will be able to enjoy your life in Kyoto to the fullest.

Details

Satomi Ito

JaLS is great because students and teachers can be very close. The teachers are all very friendly, easy to talk to, and ask questions to.During break time, it is very fun to ask teachers about places they recommend in Kyoto and where all teh best food is.

Details

Toshiko Muranishi

The best thing about JaLS is the at-home atmosphere. The staff is very friendly and always ready to support students. Class sizes are small, making it possible to really focus on your studies.

Details

Daijiro Fujita

With our activities and culture lessons, we hope to creat opportunities for our students to not only learn Japanese language but also learn about the local culture, customs, and way of thinking. Be sure to take advantage of as many of these opportunities as possible!

Details

TEACHER INTRODUCTIONS

Fun and
Exciting Study!

Have an enjoyable language learning experience with our licensed and experienced staff.

At JaLS GROUP, we love to hear it when students who have visited Japan say, ""I had lots of fun here!""

We understand that it's very rare for people to visit the country and therefore want to help make the most of your time here.

The staff and teachers at JaLS group maintain a very close relationship students to ensure that your time at our schools are relaxing and enjoyable.

In order to help you improve your Japanese language abilities, you will be given many chances to communicate with local Japanese people through programs we have specially created.

It is my hope that everyone who comes to study at our schools has a great time and makes friends - not only with Japanese people, but also with people from around the world.

I hope to see you at JaLS soon!

Fun and
Exciting Study!

  • Rieko Nishio

    I’m Rieko Nishio, the Principal of JaLS GROUP, and we started the school in 2012.
    I have always had a passion for teaching Japanese language and culture and I trained to be a Japanese teacher at a professional school where I became a licensed teacher. Afterwards, I taught Japanese in Tokyo, before moving to Vietnam for 2 years. I returned to Japan and gained further experience in marketing and sales before moving to Malaysia to teach Japanese.

    Throughout my time teaching Japanese, I met many students and heard their stories. I found that students studying Japanese abroad often had a passion to learn the language because of their love for the culture, the people, and an appreciation for the Japanese way of life.

    However, when I taught in Japan, I also met students who lost their love the language after moving to the country. Many of them had found it difficult to make friends or told me they felt like there was a wall between them and the Japanese community. Japan was oftenly not what they expected it to be.

    After hearing about these experiences, I decided to move back to Japan and create a different kind of Japanese language school. Our hope is that our students will be able to become part of the Japanese community, rediscover their love for Japanese life, and enjoy their language learning journey.

    JaLS has been running for a number of years, and we have many stories from students who have enjoyed every moment of their time here - this makes us more passionate about developing our school and community even further!

    Why not come and join us in Japan this year?

    Hobbies
    I love reading books.
    I have a lot of Manga and keep them at Hokkaido JaLS. Feel free to read them at our school.
    Countries Visited
    Malaysia, Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, America, Canada, France, Taiwan, Thailand.
    I used to live in Malaysia and Vietnam.
    Things to do in Japan
    I was very impressed by the trip I took to Obihiro and Tokachi, so I recommend that everyobody go there. Livestock farms and a huge sky that stretched as far as the eye can see. The whole sky was studded with stars at night – everything was very beautiful.
    Things to do at JaLS
    JaLS is located in the center of the city, which is very convenient. There are a lot of offices around here, and a lot of places where you can eat lunch at reasonable prices.

  • Tamaki Arai

    Hello Everyone!I'm Tamaki Arai from JaLS GROUP.

    In the past, I taught Japanese in Korea for 2 years. Now I teach at Hokkaido JaLS. I have studied English, Korean, and a little bit of French so I know the fun of languages and how interesting it can be to use them to communicate and connect with people using another language. I hope that everyone will have fun learning Japanese while also enjoying their time learning about Japanese culture and people in my classes. I'm looking forward to meetingyou all in Hokkaido!

    Hobbies
    I like travelling, dancing, and yoga. When I go on trips, I don't simply travel, I also volunteer, stay in one town for long periods, and try to live life like the locals do. There is nothing more fun than making new discoveries this way. I also like to learn dance and yoga at the locations I visit.
    Countries Visited
    The UK, The USA, Korea, Vietnam, France, Italy, Switzerland, Germany, The Netherlands, Greece, Australia, Canada, Mexico, Thailand, Hong Kong, Singapore, Malaysia, Vatican City, Monaco.
    I spent 2 years in the UK, 2 years and 3 months in Korea, 1 year in America.
    Countries of Interest
    I would love to visit Egypt, Morocco, Dubai, and travel around countries in Scandinavia and South America.
    Things to do in Japan
    Spring, Summer, Autumn, and Winter. You can truly enjoy all four seasons here. Hokkaido JaLS is located in the heart of Sapporo City. Sapporo is Hokkaido's main city, is just the right size, and is very easy to live in. The school is located in the center of the town and within a walkable distance to Sapporo Station. On the weekend, it is easy to travel to Otaru and Niseko and enjoy Hokkaido's great nature. Also, the area rich with the best produce, rice, and other cooking engredients. Whereve you go, you can eat fresh food.
    Things to do at JaLS
    1. Through conversation-based lessons, you will develop natural Japanese speaking ability.
    2. Outside of regular language courses, there are plenty of opportunities to experience, enjoy, and learn about Hokkaido through activities and culture lessons.
    3. Meet many people including Japanese locals in our lounge.
    There is no better place to to have a rich and meaningful study abroad experience in Japan than at JaLS!

  • Emi Yamazaki

    Hello everyone! I’m a Japanese Language teacher in Hokkaido JaLS

    I used to study English language in New Zealand. During my stay there, I was easily embarrassed whenever I made a mistake and tried my best to avoid speaking English as much as I could. However, I soon realized that nothing would work out at the rate I was going and accepted the fact that making mistakes is nothing to be ashamed of. As time passed, my English language ability improved significantly. From this experience, I learned that if I continued to be afraid of making mistakes, my language ability would never improve. Therefore, as a teacher, I always keep in mind to allow students to speak up freely in class and ensure that they do not feel embarrassed when making mistakes. Also, instead of correcting their mistakes directly, I give them some hints as to why they got it wrong and let them discover the correct answers themselves.

    Hobbies
    My hobby is skiing. When I was 3 years old, my dad used to put me on his skis and I always had so much fun. Now, every year my dad and I go skiing. Next year I’m thinking of challenging myself by trying to get a certificate.
    Countries Visited
    China, Taiwan, Macao, Thailand, Korea, Germany, America, Canada, New Zealand
    I lived in China for 2 years 3 months, and in New Zealand for 1 year 3 months.
    Countries of Interest
    Right now, I want to go to Chile, where I want to meet my friend whom I know from New Zealand, and also see the statues (Moai) on Easter Island.
    Things to do in Japan
    Hokkaido people are often called ‘big-hearted’ and ‘open-minded’, so it’s very easy to become friends with those whom you’ve only met once. You should come to Hokkaido and make lots of friends here!
    Every year, I have one place where I always go. It’s Shakotan. The sea there is called Shakotan Blue, once you go there – you will fall in love with it! It doesn’t matter if you feel sad, depressed or very happy – it’s always a place to heal yourself! There is a beautiful cape in Shakotan, and also you can eat delicious and cheap sea-food. You should really go there.
    Things to do at JaLS
    Hokkaido JaLS is located close not only to Sapporo station, but also to Odori Park and Sapporo Clock tower, so it’s perfect to take a walk around the city after the classes.
    There are a lot of enthusiastic, big-hearted, easy-going teachers in Hokkaido JaLS. You can ask questions not only about your studies, but also anything about Hokkaido and daily stuff, so, please, don’t hesitate and just do it!

  • Kanako Fukase

    Hello Everyone! I'm Kanako Fukase from JaLS GROUP. It has been 5 years since I started working at JaLS. During that time, i have been able to meet people from all over the world. I've also been able to see people from different countries and ages come together and form new friendships. I think, that at Hokkaido JaLS, you can experience a different Japan than that of Tokyo or Kyoto. All of the teachers here put our best efforts into making sure that you have the best education and experience possible during your stay in Japan. We also want you to get to know more about Japanese culture and the good things about Japan as a country through your language studies here. Please be sure to enjoy many new life experiences during your time at Hokkaido JaLS. We're looking forward to meeting you!

    Hobbies
    I enjoy walking through the streets. In Sapporo or at any of my travel destinations, I don't decide where to visit ahead of time and just walk. Even after living in Sapporo for a long time, I still discover places that I never new about. When travelling, I often find wonderful shops and amazing views. This is something I find fun and interesting.
    Countries Visited
    I've travelled to Egypt, The UK, France, Germany, Switzerland, Italy, Spain, The USA (Los Angeles and Hawaii), and Hong Kong.
    I really recommend Egypt.
    Countries of Interest
    I would like to visit Sweden, Korea and Vietnam.
    Things to do in Japan
    The best thing about Hokkaido is that you can experience all 4 seasons. Flowers bloom in the spring, the summer is sunny, the leaves turn to beautiful colors in the autumn, and the land is pure white in the winter. You can truly enjoy the the changes in the seasons here.
    Things to do at JaLS
    We are a school with a strong desire for everybody who comes to have fun. We prepare many activities and experiences that even locals don't get to have very often so that you can not only experience Japanese language, but also Japan as a whole and have fun doing it! Also, our kind staff are always ready and willing to help you with anything you may need so you may enjoy your stay in Japan without any worries.

  • Emi Suzuki

    Hello Everyone! My name is Emi Suzuki from JaLS GROUP! I teach Japanese while also assisting with everyday operations of the school as a staff member. Hokkaido JaLS is a school that always provides an at-home atmosphere where you can quickly make new friends. Why not have fun living and making friends with people from Japan and around the world in Sapporo? I'm looking forward to meeting you!

    Hobbies
    I like traveling. Hokkaido is a place with many beautiful views so I often visit them with friends on my days off. I highly recommend that everybody travel around Hokkaido and enjoy it's great nature and local foods!
    Countries Visited
    Malaysia, The Phillipines, Indonesia, Vietnam, Thailand, Cambodia, Taiwan. I also lived in Indonesia for half a year.
    Countries of Interest
    I want to visit Brazil. A former JaLS student once told me, "Emi-san, your personality is very much like that of a Brazilian!" so I would like to see what kind of a country it is!
    Things to do in Japan
    The city, nature, and food are the three things that I recommend everybody enjoy while they are in Hokkaido. A 30-minute train ride from the city will take you out into Hokaido's great outdoors. Here you can have a taste of the great seafood and dairy products born from this nature. Also, people in Hokkaido are very generous and open-minded so it is very easy to make new friends!
    Things to do at JaLS
    All the staff and teachers at JaLS are very friendly so there is very little distance between them and the students making for a very family-like environment! There are many chances to interact with Japanese people so unlike traveling, you will be able to experience what real like is life in Japan and use Japanese in real-life situations. This is another reason I recommend JaLS.

  • Yuji Kosenda

    Hello Everyone! I'm Yuji Kosenda from JaLS GROUP. I enjoy bringing all kinds of people together regardless of nationality or age. This is because when people can connect with each other, they are able to share things from all over the world. In this way, they can discover many new and exciting things. Hokkaido JaLS is a great place to study Japanese and have wonderful interactions with people from around the world. Why not join us at Hokkaido JaLS and have fun learning Japanese, meet people from Hokkaido and around the world? I'm looking forward to your visit!

    Hobbies
    My hobby is watching films. I have watched many films since I was a child. I expecially like action films. Please let me know of any film recommendations you may have.
    Countries Visited
    Actually, I have never left Japan… I hope to visit many places around the world in the future.
    Countries of Interest
    France! I want to visit Mont Blanc!
    Things to do in Japan
    Hokkaido is the largest prefecture in all of Japan. Every town in Hokkaido is famous for something. One of the best things about the prefecture is that there is something to enjoy wherever you go. Please be sure to visit towns outside of Sapporo as well!
    Things to do at JaLS
    Hokkaido JaLS is in Sapporo so you can use it as a base for exploring many different areas. All the teachers and staff hope that all of our students will do their best to learn Japanese and enjoy Hokkaido to it's fullest during their time here. Because of this common goal, you will be able tomake the most of your studies and life here and have the best experience possible.

  • Fumie Nakagawa

    I have been fascinated by traditional Japanese music and culture since I was a student and have been deeply involved with them for a long time. Since I started teaching Japanese, I have become even more fascinated. I will do everything as I can as a Japanese language teacher to help everybody enjoy Japanese language and culture.

    Hobbies
    Walking around town in Kyoto, Kimonos, Music, Ballet.
    Countries Visited
    The USA (Los Angeles, San Francisco, Hawaii) and Australia.
    Countries of Interest
    France, Italy, Thailand
    Things to do in Japan
    This is the city where you will get the best exposure to Japanese history and tradition. There are many famous temples and shrines so you can feal cleansed in body and mind when you visit them. Surrounded by mountains, the city is rich in nature and a very beautiful place where you can enjoy all 4 seasons. The cherry blossom and autumn leaf seasons are especially incredible. It is a place where you can relax and enjoy the benefits of both the city and nature in one place.
    Things to do at JaLS
    It is definitely a great environment to learn Japanese in but also an amazing place to meet and interact with people from Japan and around the world. If ever you have any problems or concerns durying your stay in Japan, the staff and teachershere are very friendly and supportive. With their help I think you will be able to enjoy your life in Kyoto to the fullest.

  • Satomi Ito

    Hello Everyone! I'm Satomi Ito. I do my best to make sure classes are fun, enjoyable, and fruitful. I want all my students to think, "I had fun learning with a smile and my Japanese got better!" and teach with this goal in mind every day. Kyoto is a town full of history ad culture where you can really get in touch with Japan. It is not simply a place to learn Japanese but a place to learn many other things as well. Let's all learn Japanese together at Kyoto JaLS!

    Hobbies
    My hobbies are watching movies, listening to music, and cooking. I also enjoy going for walks in the cooler seasons and going for walks with my dog on myd ays off. I like relaxing and taking photos all year round as the seasons change.
    Countries Visited
    The UK, Singapore, Malaysia, Australia, Korea, Vietnam, The USA, Taiwan. I decided to become a Japanese language teacher after teaching Japanese to elementary school students in The USA.
    Countries of Interest
    Thailand, India, Indonesia. I am deeply interested in Southeast Asian food and culture.
    Things to do in Japan
    There are many historic shrines and temples in Kyoto. It might be fun for you to travel around each one and collect stamps and "omikuji" fortune lots. Among all the 47 prefectures in Japan, Kyoto has highest number of people who eat bread and there are many bakeries. Buying bread and having lunch while looking over the Kamogawa river is really nice!
    Things to do at JaLS
    JaLS is great because students and teachers can be very close. The teachers are all very friendly, easy to talk to, and ask questions to.During break time, it is very fun to ask teachers about places they recommend in Kyoto and where all teh best food is. The school also has many activities where you can enjoy your study abroad experience to its fullest.

  • Toshiko Muranishi

    Hello Everyone! I enjoy communicating with people who come from different cultures and speak different languages. I'm very interested in foreign languages and have always studied them. There are many things I don' understand and it can be frustrating sometime, but I still continue my language studies and have fun doing it. Using my language study experience, I would like to support everyone in their Japanese studies.

    Hobbies
    Yoga (I'm an instructor and therapist) and learning languages (I'm currently learning French).
    Countries Visited
    Hong Kong, Singapore, Australia
    Countries of Interest
    Europe (Especially France)
    Things to do in Japan
    Kyoto was the capitol of Japan for 1000 years so there are 17 different world heritage sites here. Also, since this is the birth place of the tea ceremony and ikebana (Japanese flower arranging), you can experience true Japanese culture here.
    Things to do at JaLS
    The best thing about JaLS is the at-home atmosphere. The staff is very friendly and always ready to support students. Class sizes are small, making it possible to really focus on your studies.

  • Daijiro Fujita

    My name is Daijiro Fujita from JaLS GROUP! I teach Japanese at Kyoto JaLS. I work very hard to offer many chances for our students experience many parts of Japanese culture and to grow to love Japan through studies at our school. Let's all have fun, laugh, and learn about Japan together!

    Hobbies
    Manga, Martial Arts (Karate and Kickboxing), Japanese Tea Research.
    Countries Visited
    The USA, China, Taiwan, Vietnam, Thailand, Australia.
    Countries of Interest
    Europe (The UK and France), The USA.
    Things to do in Japan
    Kyoto is has many seasonal events. The Gion Festival, Jidai Festival… there are so many festivals I can't even write them all down so please be sure to see as many as you can when you come to Kyoto! Also, there are so many historic places to visit so you will never be bored or at a loss for plcaes to see!
    Things to do at JaLS
    At JaLS we believe it is very important to have opportunities to interact with local Japanese people. With our activities and culture lessons, we hope to creat opportunities for our students to not only learn Japanese language but also learn about the local culture, customs, and way of thinking. Be sure to take advantage of as many of these opportunities as possible!

JaLS

Japanese Language School