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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Asuka Hirabayashi

As a Japanese teacher at JaLS, I believe language learning thrives when it's fun. Having studied foreign languages myself, I'm here to support you in making your experience meaningful and memorable alongside our diverse community.

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Miyuru Yoshida

My working holiday in Australia studying English and experiencing global cultural exchange inspired me to become a Japanese teacher. I believe language learning opens doors to culture and connection. I'm here to support your Japanese study journey, making it meaningful and unforgettable as we explore Japan together!

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Harumi Anada

I've taught Japanese at Sapporo JaLS since 2014, connecting with 900+ students globally. My personal experience learning French in France at 40 taught me the challenges of language acquisition. I'm here to support your exciting Japanese learning adventure in Japan every step of the way!

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Moe Suzuki

Sapporo blends nature and city life. At Hokkaido JaLS, diverse students gather, building community and practicing Japanese with locals. My lessons prioritize conversation, making your learning fun and meaningful. Let's enjoy Japanese together!

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Mizuki Akanuma

Nice to meet you! I'm a Sapporo native, and meeting diverse students at JaLS makes every day exciting. Seeing students return fills me with joy, highlighting the special connections we build. I'm inspired by your passion and look forward to welcoming you to Sapporo for unforgettable memories and Japanese study at JaLS!

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Keiko Murakami

I'm a Japanese teacher at Hokkaido JaLS, born and raised in Sapporo. My motto is to make learning Japanese fun and accessible, tailoring lessons to your level and interests while exploring language and culture. I'll fully support you in making your time in Sapporo one of your best life experiences. Let's enjoy Japanese and explore Sapporo together!

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Yoshie Hayashi

Inspired by teaching Japanese in Vietnam, I returned to Japan to teach, passionate about creative education. I find JaLS uniquely energetic, a place where you can learn Japanese, experience culture, and build friendships. Let's enjoy language study, cultural exchange, and personal growth!

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Chie Nakai

I'd love to help you make unforgettable memories learning Japanese in welcoming Sapporo—a perfect place to start. Whether you're here to study or explore, I hope your time is fulfilling. Through language, you'll gain skills and experience meaningful encounters. I look forward to meeting you at JaLS!

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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 Nakano

    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.

  • Asuka Hirabayashi

    Hello! I teach Japanese at JaLS and also learn a lot from our students’ diverse cultures, values, and kindness. I’ve studied foreign languages too, and I believe language improves most when it’s fun. Studying can be tough sometimes, but don’t worry—you’ll be supported by teachers, staff, and classmates. The experience here will surely become a valuable treasure in your life. Let’s make this time together meaningful and memorable.

    Hobbies
    I love traveling and taking walks. Sapporo is full of nature close to the city, and one of my favorite places is Maruyama Park. It’s a relaxing spot where I can enjoy greenery and quiet paths while recharging my energy.
    Countries Visited
    I’ve visited Thailand, Cambodia, South Korea, China, Taiwan, Indonesia, France, Italy, the U.S., Canada, Benin, Gabon, Ghana, Australia, and India. Each country taught me something new and deepened my appreciation for different cultures and ways of life.
    Countries of Interest
    I’d love to visit Germany, Malaysia, Singapore, Vietnam, and Tanzania. These countries have unique cultures, beautiful nature, and delicious food I want to experience. Traveling inspires me and helps me grow both personally and as a teacher.
    Things to do in Japan
    Japan is small but has diverse climates, scenery, and cultures. As a food lover, I recommend trying local dishes from different regions. Traveling around Japan is a great way to experience its rich food culture—each area offers something delicious and unique!
    Things to do at JaLS
    JaLS brings together students from many countries, ages, and backgrounds. It’s more than a place to study Japanese—it’s a place to find friends who share your goals and passions. Be yourself and enjoy your time here. Your experience will be unforgettable!

  • Miyuru Yoshida

    Nice to meet you! I once went to Australia on a working holiday and studied English at a language school. There, I learned not just English but also gained valuable insights through cultural exchange with students from around the world. That experience inspired me to become a Japanese teacher. Language learning opens the door to culture and connection, and I hope you’ll fully enjoy Japan while studying Japanese. I’ll do my best to support your learning journey so it becomes a meaningful and unforgettable experience. Let’s have fun studying together and discover the beauty of Japan!

    Hobbies
    I love anime and games—please share your recommendations! Recently, hiking has become a new hobby as I try to be more active. Spending time in nature is refreshing, and I encourage you to experience the beautiful outdoors of Hokkaido. It’s a great way to clear your mind.
    Countries Visited
    I’ve been to Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States (Indiana). Each trip gave me a chance to experience different cultures and ways of life. Traveling has always been a source of inspiration and motivation for me as both a person and a language teacher.
    Countries of Interest
    There are so many countries I’d love to visit, but especially Germany, Italy, Taiwan, Thailand, and South Korea. I want to explore the local cultures and, most of all, try lots of different foods! I’m especially interested in tasting dishes that are unique to each country.
    Things to do in Japan
    Hokkaido is full of delicious food—especially dairy products and fresh seafood. Outside of Sapporo, you can also enjoy amazing natural landscapes like mountains, lakes, and the ocean. No matter the season, there are many activities and events to enjoy. You’re guaranteed to have an incredible experience here!
    Things to do at JaLS
    JaLS offers small classes where you’ll practice conversation and actively engage with classmates. It’s a great environment to improve your speaking skills. In the afternoons, you can also meet Japanese locals in the lounge. It’s a wonderful chance to connect and use Japanese in real, natural conversations.

  • Harumi Anada

    Hello, everyone! I’ve been teaching Japanese at Sapporo JaLS since 2014 and have studied with about 900 students—now I have friends all over the world! Although I studied English from junior high through university, I couldn’t speak it well. That changed when I moved to France at age 40 due to my husband’s job. I studied hard and managed daily life in French. From this experience, I truly understand the challenges of language learning, and I want to support all of you as you take on the exciting journey of learning Japanese in Japan.

    Hobbies
    I enjoy listening to classical music. I used to play the clarinet when I was younger, but now I mostly attend concerts. I also love reading, and I’m a big fan of mystery novelist Keigo Higashino. Books and music bring me a lot of inspiration and joy.
    Countries Visited
    I’ve visited France (where I lived in Lyon for 10 months), Italy, Switzerland, Finland, Poland, Estonia, and Thailand. Traveling gives me new perspectives and helps me connect better with students from different cultures. Each country has taught me something special and broadened my view of the world.
    Countries of Interest
    I’d love to visit Austria, especially Vienna, the “City of Music,” to attend a classical concert. It’s a dream of mine to experience the rich musical culture there. As a lover of classical music, being in such a historically significant place would be incredibly moving and inspiring for me.
    Things to do in Japan
    Japan is wonderful year-round—cherry blossoms in spring, fireworks in yukata during summer, colorful autumn leaves, and skiing or snowboarding in winter. Hokkaido also offers amazing food like seafood, ice cream, and ramen. You may find one study trip isn’t enough to experience everything Japan has to offer!
    Things to do at JaLS
    Don’t worry about making mistakes—just use Japanese as much as you can! The more you speak, the more confident you’ll become. Of course, studying is important, but I also recommend making friends and joining activities to experience Japanese culture and make your time here even more memorable.

  • Moe Suzuki

    Nice to meet you! I’m Moe. Sapporo is a city where nature and urban life coexist. Hokkaido JaLS is a place where people of all backgrounds come together to study Japanese and build a vibrant, diverse community. You’ll also have many opportunities to talk with local Japanese people. This school encourages the desire to speak Japanese naturally. I’ll support your learning so it’s not only fun but truly meaningful. My lessons focus on communication, not just grammar drills. Let’s talk a lot, learn from one another, and enjoy Japanese together at Hokkaido JaLS. I look forward to meeting you soon!

    Hobbies
    I enjoy yoga and watching anime. Recently, I’ve started playing the kalimba, a piano-like instrument played with your thumbs, and studying the Ainu language. Many place names in Hokkaido come from Ainu, and I’d love to learn their meanings—and maybe even sing an Ainu song one day.
    Countries Visited
    I’ve visited Canada as a child, Italy in high school, and later Vietnam and Taiwan as a working adult. Each trip was short, from three days to one week, but I still remember the feeling and atmosphere of each place clearly. Even brief travels can leave lasting impressions.
    Countries of Interest
    I’d love to go to Finland, Iceland, South Korea, and Thailand. I want to spend about a month in each to experience everyday life and culture. Rather than just sightseeing, I’m more interested in getting a real feel for each place through local people and simple, daily experiences.
    Things to do in Japan
    Hokkaido is amazing in every season—with beautiful nature, delicious food, and warm-hearted people. Famous spots are great, but visiting nearby parks, shops, or local izakayas can lead to unexpected discoveries and encounters. If you find a favorite place, I’d love to hear about it! And don’t forget a jacket in spring!
    Things to do at JaLS
    Take the first step and talk to the person next to you—they might be new too, or just a little ahead of you. They can give advice or share cool spots. The teachers and staff are always here to help. One day soon, you’ll be the one helping someone else!

  • Mizuki Akanuma

    Nice to meet you! I’m from Sapporo, born and raised in Hokkaido. At JaLS, I get to meet people from all over the world, which makes every day exciting and meaningful. One of my greatest joys as a teacher is seeing students return and say, “I’m back!” The connections we build here are truly special. I’m always inspired by our students’ passion and growth. I look forward to welcoming you to Sapporo, where we can learn from each other and create unforgettable memories together. Let’s enjoy studying Japanese and embracing new experiences at JaLS!

    Hobbies
    I enjoy traveling alone, listening to Western pop, rock, and R&B music, dancing salsa, and studying Portuguese. Exploring new cultures and languages is something I truly love. Music and dance bring me joy, and learning languages helps me better connect with people from around the world—including my students.
    Countries Visited
    I’ve lived in Canada, Brazil, and Vietnam, and traveled around Spain by bus. Each country offered unique experiences that shaped who I am. One place I’d love to return to is Bermuda—it left a lasting impression on me with its beauty, culture, and the warmth of the people I met.
    Countries of Interest
    I really want to visit Portugal. I’d love to take in the stunning scenery, enjoy fresh seafood, and sip wine while exploring its rich history and culture. It would also be a wonderful chance to practice Portuguese and deepen my appreciation for the language I’ve been learning with joy.
    Things to do in Japan
    If you come to Hokkaido, I recommend trying conveyor-belt sushi, relaxing in a hot spring, and tasting the famous soft-serve ice cream. These are some of the local favorites and a fun way to enjoy both the cuisine and culture. It’s a unique and delicious part of Japanese life!
    Things to do at JaLS
    Take on new challenges and experiences you’ve never tried before! JaLS offers the perfect environment to grow and discover new sides of yourself. Whether it’s language, culture, or friendships, you’ll be surprised at how much you can gain when you step out of your comfort zone. Let’s explore together!

  • Keiko Murakami

    Hello, everyone! I’m Keiko Murakami, a Japanese teacher at Hokkaido JaLS. I was born and raised in Sapporo, and I’m so excited to meet you here in my beloved hometown. If you think studying Japanese is difficult—don’t worry! My motto is to make Japanese learning fun and accessible for everyone. I tailor my lessons to match your level and interests, introducing both language and Japanese culture. I’ll fully support you so that your time living and learning in Sapporo becomes one of your best life experiences. Let’s explore the beauty of Sapporo and enjoy Japanese together!

    Hobbies
    I love watching Korean dramas. I’m currently studying Korean because I want to understand them without subtitles someday. I also enjoy eating delicious food, and Hokkaido has so many great dishes to try. Exploring tasty local spots is one of my favorite ways to enjoy daily life here.
    Countries Visited
    I’ve traveled to South Korea, Taiwan, Singapore, and the United States. Each country gave me wonderful memories and broadened my global perspective. Meeting people from different backgrounds always inspires me, and I love learning from their stories and cultures. These experiences also help me connect better with my students.
    Countries of Interest
    I want to visit all the countries where I’ve met JaLS students! After hearing their stories and learning about their cultures, I’ve become more curious about their home countries. Visiting these places would be a great way to understand my students better and see the world through their eyes.
    Things to do in Japan
    When you come to Japan, make sure to relax in beautiful natural settings and try various hot springs. Hokkaido especially offers breathtaking landscapes and countless onsen. Plus, the local cuisine is amazing! From fresh seafood to seasonal dishes, there’s something delicious waiting for you in every corner of this region.
    Things to do at JaLS
    At JaLS, I hope you won’t just study Japanese but also join many cultural activities. You’ll be able to experience Japan in deeper ways—from traditions and festivals to everyday life. It’s a fun and enriching opportunity to learn through doing. Let’s discover new things and enjoy learning together!

  • Yoshie Hayashi

    Hello! After working as a high school English teacher, I was dispatched to Vietnam through JF activities. Teaching Japanese to high school and university students there, I was deeply moved by their dedication and decided to pursue Japanese language teaching after returning to Japan. I’ve always been passionate about creative approaches to language education. I’ve taught at various schools and companies, but JaLS truly stands out for its energy and charm. At JaLS, you can learn Japanese while experiencing culture and forming meaningful friendships. Let’s enjoy not only language study but also cultural exchange and personal growth together!

    Hobbies
    I love slow jogging, which I started two years ago in Fukuoka—it’s great for exploring neighborhoods and refreshing my mind. I’m also a big fan of train travel, especially riding local lines when I travel. Recently, I’ve started practicing朗読 (reading aloud), which is both relaxing and challenging.
    Countries Visited
    I’ve visited Vietnam (where I lived for a year), Taiwan, South Korea, the U.S., the U.K., the Netherlands, France, Canada, Australia, and Finland. Each place taught me something new and expanded my cultural awareness. These experiences help me connect better with my students and bring global understanding into my teaching.
    Countries of Interest
    I’ve always dreamed of seeing the Northern Lights in Fairbanks, Alaska—ever since reading works by photographer Michio Hoshino, who deeply inspired me. I also hope to someday live in Taiwan. I love its cities, people, and climate. It’s more than a travel goal—it’s a dream I hope to realize.
    Things to do in Japan
    Explore Japan through its rich and regional food culture! Each area has local specialties you can only taste there. From ramen to rare traditional dishes, Japanese food is safe, healthy, and full of creativity. Tasting local food will make your journey far more exciting—“food” makes travel 100 times better!
    Things to do at JaLS
    I encourage you to immerse yourself in Japanese, meet people, and discover how much you’ve grown. Maybe you’ll understand more Japanese than yesterday or talk with someone new. These little changes are signs of progress. Come find a “new you” through learning, connection, and exciting experiences at JaLS!

  • Chie Nakai

    Nice to meet you! I’m Chie. I would be delighted to support you in creating unforgettable memories through learning Japanese. Sapporo is a welcoming city with kind people and a comfortable atmosphere. I believe it’s the perfect place to begin your Japanese journey. Whether you’re here to study, explore, or meet new people, I hope your time will be fulfilling and enjoyable. Through language learning, you’ll not only gain skills but also experience meaningful encounters that will stay with you forever. I look forward to meeting you in Sapporo and sharing this special experience together at JaLS!

    Hobbies
    I enjoy bonsai, visiting hot springs, traveling, and camping—anything that brings me closer to nature and the outdoors. Being in natural environments helps me relax and recharge. I especially love spending quiet time under the trees or by the water, taking in the peaceful beauty of each season.
    Countries Visited
    I’ve visited Indonesia, Thailand, Taiwan, and Hawaii in the United States. Each trip gave me new perspectives and memorable experiences. Even short visits introduced me to wonderful people, new cultures, and delicious food. I’m always inspired by travel and the way it broadens our view of the world.
    Countries of Interest
    There are so many places I still want to visit! One of my dreams is to travel around the world and see breathtaking landscapes I’ve never imagined. I’d love to hear your recommendations too. Exploring different cultures and nature across the globe is something I hope to do someday.
    Things to do in Japan
    Sapporo has four distinct seasons, each offering its own beautiful scenery. The city is close to nature while still having urban convenience. You can enjoy delicious seafood, ramen, and other local specialties. Hokkaido has a unique charm—come and experience its balance of nature, city life, and incredible food culture.
    Things to do at JaLS
    At JaLS, you’ll do more than just study Japanese—you’ll also meet people from around the world and enjoy cultural experiences. We’re here to support you so you can feel safe and make the most of your time. Let’s learn, connect, and create a memorable and fulfilling journey together.

JaLS

Japanese Language School