Especially for those of you who are having a hard time finding a school to learn Japanese language in Hawaii. You may also be searching for the best place to learn Japanese in Hawaii. Perhaps, you are also confused about the best tutor to learn Japanese in Hawaii?
Where can I learn Japanese in Hawaii? What are the language schools teaching and how can I choose the best option for me to learn Japanese in Hawaii? And to answer your questions about learning Japanese in Hawaii, where is the ideal place to do so?
This article is the solution you need. We have listed the Top 10 Best Places that offer the Japanese language Courses in Hawaii, along with tips for finding a private tutor. Let’s begin!
Read also:
5 Most Popular Japanese Language Schools in San Diego
6 Most Popular Places to Learn Japanese in Boston, USA
5 Most Popular Places to Learn Japanese in Philadelphia
Contents
About Hawaii
One of the most charming states of the USA is “Hawaii” with its capital city is Honolulu. Hawaii has become a top tourism center, a series of famous figures such as President Bill Clinton and Elvis Presley spent their weekends in Hawaii for vacation. Hawaii is a popular tropical island with many sights to see, notably a collection of volcanic islands situated in the middle of the Pacific Ocean.
With various facilities, now it’s not difficult to find a mini market or fast-food shop there. Likewise, toll roads and high-rise buildings have been presented in this northern Pacific Ocean archipelago. Agriculture, tourism, and seafood are also at the heart of the pulse that drives the Hawaiian economy today.
In addition, the history of the Hawaiian Islands cannot be separated from Japan, both in terms of history and culture, the distance between Hawaii and Japan is quite close, so many Japanese people are comfortable living in Hawaii today. With such circumstances, the Japanese language becomes quite important to be a bridge both in terms of the tourism industry and the economy of the two countries.
Why Hawaii has so many Japanese?
Many may wonder why so many Japanese people adore Hawaii, why Hawaii is so popular among Japanese, and why Japanese relocate to Hawaii. The deep bond between Japan and Hawaii resulted from the great influx of Japanese immigrants since 1885 to Hawaii. Have you ever thought about what lies behind the strong and special relationship shared by these two countries?
The deep bond between Japan and Hawaii resulted from the great influx of Japanese immigrants since 1885 to Hawaii. In 1868, the first group of Japanese farmers arrived in Hawaii with the aim of gaining opportunities for a better life in Hawaii.
In addition, in 2008, Japanese (Japanese Americans) are the second biggest Asian ethnic group in Hawaii, accounting for approximately 12.6% of the population, with Filipinos comprising the largest portion at 13.6%.[1] Figures released on March 10th, 2023 by the Statista Research Department show that there were over 23,500 Japanese residents of record in Honolulu as of October 2022, the third-highest total in the past decade.[2]
Discover the rich cultural exchange between Hawaii and Japan by experiencing their popular traditions. In Japan, Hawaiian cuisine is readily available in restaurants, while the authentic Japanese snack Mochi is a popular treat in Hawaii. Meanwhile, plate lunches in Hawaii offer typical dishes from Hawaii, Japan, and other Asian countries.
If you go to Hawaii, you’ll see road signs and announcements in Japanese. In Japan, there are cities that resemble Hawaiian ones. For instance, Honolulu is similar to Hiroshima, Maui resembles Fukuyama, and the Kauai area is comparable to Iwaki in Fukushima Prefecture, Japan.
Where do most Japanese live in Hawaii?
In 2023, the latest data shows that Mililani Mauka, situated in the Honolulu metropolitan region, has the most Japanese inhabitants in Hawaii, accounting for 44.78% of the population.[3] Up next in second place is Pearl City, followed by Kaneohe, both in the northeastern part of Honolulu. All three cities are located within the Honolulu metropolitan area.[3]
10 Most Famous Japanese Language Schools in Hawaii
Here we present 10 Best and Most Famous Japanese language schools in the Hawaiian Islands
1. Manoa Japanese Language School
If you want to see the significance and contribution of a language institute, we can look at how long it has been in service. Notably, Manoa Japanese Language School (MJLS) has been around for more than 100 years. Manoa Japanese Language School features a blend of learning Japanese with a blend of the beauty and usefulness of the Japanese language itself for everyday life.
MJLS is in the heart of the beautiful Manoa Valley on East Manoa Street. It is the oldest language school in the Hawaiian Islands and has educated thousands of students since 1910.
Students here are predominantly of, Asian or Pacific Islanders 81%, Native American Hawaiians or Other Pacific Islanders 5% and the school also accepts and recommends children through to adults.
Address: 2804 East Manoa Road, Honolulu, HI 96822
Recruitment term: None / Rolling
Number of instructors: not specific listed
Capacity: currently in total 95 students is enrolling
2. Aha’Aina Japanese Language Class LLC
Aha’Aina Japanese Language Class was founded by a native Japanese with very high teaching hours, Yui Sensei, in the Hawaiian language itself “Aha’Aina” means “feast”. This school wants its students to enjoy and be happy in learning. This school has a kind of magic potion that makes Japanese language which some people find difficult but, in this school, becomes a fun and exciting learning experience.
One class is only allowed with a small number of students, so each student gets personal attention. Obviously, the classes are very interactive, human-to-human, so you will be able to talk to your fellow classmates. In addition, Yui Sensei will explain some of the many Japanese cultures as entertainment while studying.
For your consideration, Yui was born and raised in Japan and has taught Japanese in Canada and the United States and has 420 hours of Japanese Language Teacher Training Course in Japan experience.
Address: 1717 Mott-Smith Drive #502, Honolulu, Hawaii, 96822
Recruitment term: currently open, however only online class conducted, due to covid-19
Number of instructors: 21-50
Capacity: 3-8 students each class allowed
3. Japanese Class held by Moiliili Community Center
The Moiliili Community Center (MCC) is a private, non-profit organization that provides support, services, and programs to residents of Moiliili and surrounding communities to improve the lives of individuals, families, and communities.
There are 4 programs from MCC such as Japanese language school program (common program), children and family program, Kappuna Support (Dungan for elderly people) as well as Moliili senior program.
Additionally, Japanese language school by MCC serves elementary-aged children in Kindergarten through the Fifth grade.
Children will learn grammar, speaking, reading, writing, and interestingly Computer lessons and shodo (calligraphy) classes have also been included in the curriculum for the upper grade levels.
There is no fee to join, but joining is competitive and for this community to continue to exist you can still donate to MCC for the continuation of the Japanese language school program.
Address: 2535 South King St Honolulu, Hawaii 96826
Recruitment term: May and October
Number of instructors: not specific listed, but many volunteer joined
Capacity: small class conducted
4. Kodomo Gakushu Kyoshitsu (Japanese Class for Kids)
Recently established in 2018, this school accepts students from the age of 5 to junior high school who study Mathematics and Japanese Language Arts in Japanese. For children who have never had basic Japanese lessons, this school guarantees to provide learning techniques that are very easy for children to digest.
In addition to Japanese language and math, this school also offers fun classes that contain lessons about Japanese culture that children will surely love to join.
Address: 1313 Pensacola St, Honolulu, HI 96814 First Baptist Church of Honolulu
Recruitment term: From April and September
Number of instructors: 6 instructors
Capacity: small class conducted and 70 students enrolled
5. The Hawaii Japanese School (Rainbow Gakuen) For Kids
In fact, this school has been established for more than 40 years, specializing in teaching children in Hawaii with the aim of making children in Hawaii open and think internationally and bridging the close relationship between the USA and Japan.
The school, known as Rainbow Gakuen, has the main purpose of being a companion course to the USA’s teaching system, with Japanese language lessons as an addition. Certainly, Japanese can be a good medium for children in Hawaii to shape their mentality and character from two very strong cultures and good for their future.
Because as a complement, Rainbow Gakuen classes are only held on Saturdays. you should not be surprised by the sophistication of this school, now there are more than 600 students enrolled in this school.
As for the curriculum, this school has a special treatment which will make the teaching transition process easier for children to adapt to the Japanese education system. Rainbow Gakuen also uses official books from the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology in Japan.
In addition, Language Arts, Mathematics, and Social Studies are also taught to strengthen the character building of children in the future.
Address: 2454 S Beretania St, Honolulu, HI 96826
Recruitment term: April to September (1st semester) and September to March (2nd semester)
Number of instructors: Board member 4 (Native Japanese) and supported by many volunteers as well as the parents.
Capacity: over 600 students enrolled
6. Sakura Japanese Class
The Sakura Japanese course is for children who want to learn the Japanese language without any prior knowledge.
The class is designed to immerse students in the language and culture of Japan. Lessons are presented in an interactive and engaging way, including singing, reading, making handicrafts, and exploring traditional customs. Join us to learn more about Japan and its people!
If you’re interested, you can choose between a morning or afternoon class for your child which lasts 2 hours. Additionally, a trial class is mandatory for all students before commencing intensive classes. The curriculum aims to provide an immersive experience in Japanese language and culture that is engaging for all students.
Address: 10506 Honolulu, HI 96816
Recruitment term: Email to sakurajapaneseclass@gmail.com for detail
Number of instructors: –
Capacity: –
7. Japanese Course by University of Hawai’i Community College
If you’re interested in taking Japanese language classes at a university, the University of Hawai’i offers a variety of courses that may suit your needs.
These courses cover interesting material related to Japanese language and culture, including healthy and tasty Japanese cuisine and Japanese cultural awareness.
For Japanese learners, the available material is highly useful. You can learn Japanese for business or leisure, up to an intermediate level.
Address: 1175 Manono St, Hilo, HI 96720
Recruitment term: see the official website below for registration
Number of instructors: –
Capacity: –
8. Japanese Course by University of Hawaii Leeward Community College
If you’d like Japanese language classes in your community, you might want to consider taking them at the University of Hawaii Leeward Community College.
The classes are available online for a maximum of 2 hours per week at an agreed time. You’ll need a reliable internet connection. If you have experience with Japanese, you are welcome to take a placement test before the first day of teaching.
Address: 96-045 Ala `Ike, Pearl City, HI 96782
Recruitment term: see the official website below for registration
Number of instructors: 2
Capacity: –
9. Adult Japanese Class by SoKnow Studio
If you’re searching for a Japanese lesson for grown-ups that concentrates on everyday Japanese conversation in small face-to-face groups, it is possible that this Japanese course crafted by SoKnow Studio will suit your needs.
In addition, you can participate in an intriguing experience and have the chance to comprehend Japanese culture by joining various cultural immersion activities that are very compelling. The course is scheduled for once a week for ten weeks. Don’t fret if you lack a basis or background in Japanese, because the lessons are customised to suit every student’s level.
Address: 1833 Kalakaua Ave. STE 107 (1st floor) Honolulu, HI 96815
Recruitment term: see the official website below for registration
Number of instructors: –
Capacity: max 8 students
10. Gakuen (Japanese Language School) by Honpa Hongwanji Hilo Betsuin
If you’re looking for Japanese language classes for school children aged 6 to 18 after school, then the classes offered by Gakuen at Honpa Hongwanji Hilo Betsuin are a great fit for you.
This school employs immersive techniques and engaging teaching methods to develop every student’s proficiency in Japanese language, including reading, writing, speaking and comprehension skills. Moreover, pupils are instructed on Japanese traditions and culture to enhance their character building abilities.
Address: 398 Kilauea Avenue, Hilo, Hawaii 96720
Recruitment term: see the official website below for registration
Number of instructors: –
Capacity: –
How to Find Best Online Japanese Tutor in Hawaii?
For those of you who prefer a more personalized, online and affordable class format, joining classes held by several online Japanese learning media platforms such as Preply, Universitytutor, Wyzant, Takelessons, and various other online platforms can be the best choice.
They provide Japanese online classes with various interesting and affordable programs. The tutors they recommend are also native Japanese speakers, people who have great experience in teaching Japanese or have worked in Japanese companies for a long time.
Aside from visiting these platforms, you can also read our recommendations on EDOPEN Japan for the best Japanese language schools in Hawaii.
Looking for more information on learning Japanese in Hawaii?
- How long does it take to learn Japanese fluently?
According to many experts, achieving beginner level in Japanese may take at least 3 to 6 months. For fluency, a minimum of 3 years of intensive Japanese studying or 88 weeks, which totals 2,200 hours of study, is necessary. - Is 2 Years enough to learn Japanese?
It varies on your daily time availability and desired Japanese proficiency. To attain intermediate to advanced or N2 Japanese, allocate at least 1 year for intense study, 6-8 hours per weekday. To become fluent or achieve N1 level, a longer period is needed. - How to learn Japanese online in Hawaii?
Explore the 10 best locations for learning Japanese in Hawaii mentioned earlier and sign up for online classes that suit your needs and abilities. - How to learn Japanese for free in Hawaii?
The Japanese language classes at the 10 centres listed above still require payment. Nevertheless, you can undertake a free Japanese language level placement test if you wish to take part in the available classes. - Where should I start if I want to learn Japanese in Hawaii?
You can select from the top 10 learning centres for Japanese in Hawaii, which were mentioned earlier. By attending Japanese language courses that are available, you may embark on your Japanese language voyage. - How much is the average Japanese language school fee in Hawaii?
For details on the charges of Japanese language lessons in Hawaii, kindly inquire with the school directly. - Is it worth going to Japanese language school in Hawaii?
Learning Japanese at school can help you study more effectively and consistently. If you’re looking to make rapid progress, it’s worth considering the courses offered by a Japanese language school. - Is it better to learn Japanese before going to Japan?
It’s a good idea to learn some basic Japanese before your trip to Japan. This will help you to carry out different activities that may require your knowledge of Japanese.
Conclusion
So there you have it, our guide to the best and most popular Japanese language schools in Hawaii. Hopefully, you will be able to find a school that suits you best to learn Japanese in Hawaii. Don’t forget to visit various online platforms to find a tutor that suits your situation as well.
If you have experience learning Japanese at any of the Japanese language schools we recommend above, please share your experience in the comments section below.
Feel free to contact us if you would like to discuss further how to find the right school and tutor to learn Japanese. See you in the next article! We wish you a successful journey in learning Japanese!
References
[1] Population of Hawaii (2008). Wikipedia. Retrieved 20 November 2023.
[2] Number of Japanese residents in Honolulu 2013-2022. Statista Research Department. Retrieved 20 November 2023.
[3] Cities with the Highest Percentage of Japanese Population in Hawaii. 2023 Zip Atlas. Retrieved 20 November 2023.
