Searching for bilingual schools in Tokyo? For internationally minded families, Japan's capital offers something increasingly rare: the chance for children to grow up equally at home in English and Japanese. From full English-medium international schools with strong Japanese programmes to genuinely dual-language early years centres, Tokyo's bilingual landscape in 2026 is broader than most newcomers expect. This guide explains the main models, introduces schools worth visiting and sets realistic expectations on fees and admissions.
What bilingual education looks like in Tokyo
Bilingual schooling in Tokyo comes in three broad flavours. First, international schools teaching mainly in English that treat Japanese as a serious academic subject rather than an afterthought, often with daily lessons and native-level tracks. Second, dual-language schools and kindergartens where the timetable is split between English and Japanese instruction. Third, Japanese private schools with immersion streams, which suit families committed to the Japanese system but wanting robust English. The right choice depends on how long you plan to stay, your child's current languages and where you hope they will attend university.
Curricula available
English-medium schools in Tokyo offer the International Baccalaureate, the English National Curriculum, American-style programmes and hybrid models. Japanese is taught at levels ranging from beginner to native. For younger children, several early years centres run play-based bilingual programmes that build both languages before formal schooling begins.
Bilingual and international schools to consider in Tokyo
K. International School Tokyo
An IB continuum school in Koto ward teaching the PYP, MYP and Diploma Programme in English, with structured Japanese language instruction at every level. KIST is known for strong academic outcomes and a diverse student body drawn from dozens of nationalities.
United School of Tokyo
A boutique international school offering an inquiry-based programme in English with daily Japanese lessons, popular with families who want small classes and close teacher contact.
New World International School
A nurturing international school where children learn in English while building everyday Japanese, with an emphasis on early literacy and numeracy.
Kspace International School
A well-established early years and primary provider offering bilingual programmes that combine English-medium learning with immersive Japanese sessions, ideal for building both languages young.
Fees at bilingual schools in Tokyo in 2026
Budget realistically. Full international schools in Tokyo typically charge between ¥1,800,000 and ¥2,800,000 per year for primary and secondary students, with the IB Diploma years at the top of that range. Bilingual kindergartens and early years programmes usually run from ¥1,000,000 to ¥1,800,000 per year depending on hours. On top of tuition, expect application fees of ¥20,000 to ¥50,000, one-time enrolment or building fees that can reach ¥300,000 to ¥500,000 at some schools, plus buses, lunches and uniforms. Some employers cover school fees in expatriate packages, so check your contract before shortlisting.
Practical tips for Tokyo admissions
Apply early: popular schools fill year groups quickly, especially ages 3 to 6. Most schools admit year-round when places exist, but the main intake is April or August depending on the calendar the school follows. Consider the commute carefully; Tokyo is vast, and a school across the city adds real strain, even with excellent trains. Ask each school how it supports children who arrive with no Japanese, and, for long stays, how far the Japanese programme can take a motivated learner. Language assessments at entry are normal from around age 7.
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Frequently asked questions
Can my child attend a bilingual school in Tokyo without speaking Japanese?
Yes. Most bilingual and international schools accept complete beginners in Japanese, particularly before age 7, and build the language through daily lessons and immersion activities.
How much do bilingual schools in Tokyo cost in 2026?
Early years bilingual programmes typically cost ¥1,000,000 to ¥1,800,000 per year, while full international schools charge roughly ¥1,800,000 to ¥2,800,000, plus one-time enrolment fees at many schools.
Which curriculum should we choose for a bilingual education in Tokyo?
If you may relocate again, the IB or British curriculum travels best. If you plan to stay in Japan long term, prioritise schools with strong native-track Japanese so your child keeps access to Japanese universities.