132 Japanese language classes in London

If you have never studied Japanese, start with an absolute beginner Japanese class, beginner Japanese level 1 course or introductory Japanese course. These classes are designed for adults with no previous experience and usually cover greetings, basic sentence patterns, pronunciation, numbers and an introduction to the hiragana writing system.

Choose an absolute beginner course if you have no previous knowledge of Japanese. Choose a beginner continuation or elementary class if you understand basic greetings, simple sentence structures and some hiragana. An improver, intermediate or JLPT-focused course may suit you if you can already read simple texts, use common grammar and hold basic conversations.

You do not normally need to know Japanese writing before joining an absolute beginner course. Most beginner classes introduce hiragana first, followed by katakana and basic kanji. Check the course description because some continuation classes expect learners to recognise one or both phonetic writing systems before joining.

Japanese differs considerably from English in sentence structure, writing and levels of formality, so reaching an advanced level takes time. However, beginner pronunciation is relatively consistent, nouns do not have grammatical gender and basic sentence patterns can be learned gradually. A structured course can make the writing systems and grammar feel much more manageable.

Yes. Learn.London lists Japanese conversation classes alongside structured language courses. Conversation classes are generally best for learners who already understand basic Japanese and want to improve speaking, listening and confidence. Complete beginners will normally benefit from learning essential vocabulary and sentence structures in a structured introductory course first.

Japanese pronunciation is relatively regular, but learners may need help with vowel length, doubled consonants, rhythm and pitch patterns. Look for courses mentioning pronunciation, speaking, listening, oral communication or conversation if your priority is to sound clearer and understand naturally spoken Japanese.

Some London providers offer courses preparing learners for the Japanese-Language Proficiency Test, commonly known as the JLPT. The test has five levels, from N5 for foundational Japanese to N1 for highly advanced understanding. Choose a course that explicitly covers your intended JLPT level, including the relevant vocabulary, grammar, reading and listening skills.

Japanese can be useful if you work with Japanese clients, colleagues or organisations. Professional communication also involves formality, cultural conventions and appropriate levels of politeness. Most learners should establish a foundation in general Japanese before moving into business Japanese or specialist professional communication.

Beginner Japanese classes can help you manage everyday situations when travelling in Japan. Look for practical or conversation-focused courses covering greetings, restaurants, hotels, transport, shopping, directions and asking for help. Learning hiragana and some common kanji can also make signs, menus and station information easier to recognise.

Apps can support vocabulary, character recognition and regular practice, but in-person Japanese classes provide live speaking, listening practice, correction and explanations of grammar and cultural context. A teacher can also help you learn hiragana, katakana and kanji systematically rather than treating them as isolated exercises.

Learn.London currently lists 20 Japanese classes in London. These include Japanese from 4 London providers.

Learn.London currently lists Japanese classes from 4 London providers, including International House London, Dear Asia, City Lit and RHACC. Use the classes table to compare courses by provider, level, price, location, start date, day, time and duration. Prices currently range from £10 to £379. Check any assumed knowledge carefully because Japanese level names can vary between providers.