British schools in Japan: Tokyo, Yokohama, Kobe and Osaka
British and international schools in Japan: options in Tokyo and the Kansai region, how international schools fit Japanese law, and what families should check.
Japan’s international schools are concentrated in Tokyo and Yokohama, with others in the Kansai region (Kobe and Osaka) and in cities such as Nagoya. British-curriculum schools are a smaller group than American and IB schools, but well established.
The British school scene
British schools in Japan follow the English National Curriculum, typically to IGCSE and then A-Levels or the IB Diploma. Tokyo has the largest choice. Some schools are members of FOBISIA.
International schools and Japanese law
Most international schools in Japan are classified as “miscellaneous schools” rather than standard schools under the School Education Act. This has implications:
- For Japanese nationals, attendance may not count towards compulsory education, which can complicate a later move into Japanese schools.
- For university entry, graduates of accredited international schools or with recognised qualifications (IB, A-Levels and others) are generally eligible to apply to Japanese universities.
Where the schools are
- Tokyo: schools in central areas (such as Minato and Shibuya) and in the western suburbs (such as Setagaya and Chōfu).
- Yokohama: a long-established international community.
- Kobe and Osaka: international schools serving the Kansai business community.
Japan’s public transport is excellent, and many older children commute by train, but young children usually need school buses or nearby housing.
Practical points
- Most British and international schools run an August/September to June year. Japanese schools start in April.
- Fees are high, and there are often entrance and facility fees.
- Japanese public schools are an option for younger children staying long term, with support for newcomers varying by area.
See also: British vs IB vs American and how to choose a school.
Directory: British schools in Japan
Our school-by-school directory for Japan is being researched. We only list a school once its details have been checked against its own published information.
Frequently asked questions
Do international schools in Japan count for Japanese compulsory education?
Usually not. Most international schools are not recognised as standard schools under Japan's School Education Act, so attendance may not fulfil compulsory education for Japanese nationals. Families with Japanese children should consider this carefully.
Can graduates of international schools go to Japanese universities?
Yes, in many cases. Graduates of accredited international schools, or holders of qualifications such as the IB Diploma or A-Levels, are generally eligible to apply to Japanese universities, subject to each university's requirements.