How Japanese Students Study English

Most Japanese students start learning English early, but many still struggle to speak it fluently. That’s not because they’re not trying. It’s because the system they learn in isn’t built for conversation.

Let’s break down how they study, where it works, and where it doesn’t.

The problem starts with the difference in the languages

English and Japanese couldn’t be more different. They don’t share an alphabet. Their grammar moves in opposite directions. Japanese sentences often leave out the subject. English requires a subject in every sentence. Pronunciation is another wall. English has more than twice the number of sounds Japanese does.

That means learners often can’t hear or say certain words correctly. “R” and “L” are often confused. So does “B” and “V.” Even the rhythm and tone of English sound off to a Japanese ear. These aren’t minor hurdles. They directly impact listening and speaking.

It’s not about intelligence. It’s about structure. And the way Japanese schools teach English doesn’t always help.

School teaches English, but not for real-life use

Japanese students spend at least 6 years learning English in school. Some start in elementary school. All continue through junior high and high school. But by the end of those 6 years, most can’t hold a real conversation.

Why? Exams are the primary focus. And exams test grammar and vocabulary, not conversation. Students learn how to pass multiple-choice questions. They practice writing long answers in a perfect structure. They memorize long lists of irregular verbs.

But they don’t talk. They don’t listen to native speech. They don’t use English. In fact, in a 2021 study by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT), over 70% of students said they lacked confidence in their English-speaking ability.

Here’s something even more telling. The same study showed that over 80% of English classes in high school still rely heavily on reading and writing. Speaking and listening are less than 20% of class time.

That leaves a giant gap between classroom English and practical English.

After school, cram schools take over

To fill that gap, many students turn to cram schools. Known in Japan as juku, these are after-school programs that focus on academics. English is a popular subject there.

But again, the main focus is exams. Juku teachers help students get better scores. They drill them on vocabulary and grammar rules. It works for test prep. But it rarely helps with fluency.

That’s where private lessons come in. Recently, more and more parents and students are turning to one-on-one tutoring.

Private lessons became the smarter option for real conversation

One-on-one English tutoring is rising fast in Japan. Parents see it as a better long-term investment. Students like it because it finally gives them a chance to speak. It’s not just about studying.

The demand for 英会話 個人レッスン (private English conversation lessons) has gone up, especially among elementary and junior high school students. These lessons give them the freedom to ask questions, make mistakes, and speak in English.

This is the first time many students get real feedback from a teacher who listens to them speak and corrects their pronunciation. It builds confidence. A lot of tutors also make lessons more personalized. Instead of following a strict textbook, they adapt to what the student needs.

Many students also prefer private lessons over traditional language schools. It’s more flexible. And often more affordable than big-name institutions.

The best part? It’s not just in-person anymore.

Personal tutoring is now a digital experience

In Japan, the private tutoring industry has grown in tandem with the adoption of technology. More students now learn English online. Zoom, Skype, and other platforms make it simple to connect with a native teacher.

According to a 2023 report, over 40% of Japanese students now use online tutoring at least once a week. Parents say it’s more convenient and allows them to pick better teachers. Especially for those outside major cities, online learning brings access that was missing before.

Many now choose to study through platforms that let them search, filter, and select tutors who match their learning style. One growing trend is to work with a qualified 英語 家庭教師 (English tutor). These tutors often offer both conversation practice and grammar help. Students get the best of both worlds—structured learning and speaking fluency.

And that’s where platforms like AmazingTalker come in. They’ve made it easier to find professional English tutors from all over the world. With real-time booking, chat features, and personalized lesson options, students don’t need to travel. They just open their laptop.

This shift isn’t small. The private tutoring market in Japan is now worth over USD 10 billion. And it keeps growing.

Parents are starting earlier—and that changes everything

The idea that English should start early is now common among Japanese parents. This is particularly true in Tokyo and other urban areas. Many believe that learning before age 10 makes a real difference. And the science backs it up. Language acquisition is easier when the brain is still developing patterns for sound and grammar.

According to a 2022 survey by Recruit, over 50% of parents in Tokyo believe their children should start English tutoring before the 4th grade. Some begin even earlier—with English daycare or preschool programs.

It’s not just about academic pressure. Many parents see English as a future tool. A skill that opens doors. This is particularly important for those who are studying abroad or simply navigating the modern workforce. Learning English is now essential for success in the long run.

Private tutors and conversation classes play a key role here. Kids as young as six now sit in front of native teachers weekly. These aren’t advanced grammar sessions. These are playful, interactive conversations. With songs. Flashcards. Even games.

The earlier the scenario happens, the more natural it becomes.

Technology is a silent teacher behind the scenes

While tutors help directly, tech fills in the rest. Apps like Duolingo and LingQ give students daily contact with English. YouTube channels like “Speak English with Mr. Duncan” or “BBC Learning English” have millions of Japanese viewers.

Gaming is another gateway. Many students now pick up vocabulary and expressions from games like Minecraft, Fortnite, and Roblox. This is particularly true when they engage in gameplay on international servers.

This “soft learning” often builds listening skills without pressure. It’s not part of a lesson. It’s just part of life. And that’s the ideal environment for language growth.

Some students even keep English-speaking AI companions or use voice assistants to practice. It’s not a traditional academic method. But it works.

There’s a quiet cultural shift happening too

Traditionally, Japanese culture places strong value on silence, politeness, and not making mistakes in public. This affects how students learn languages. Many are afraid to speak up in case they say something wrong.

But that mindset is changing. The change is occurring gradually but steadily.

Younger students now grow up in a world where making mistakes is okay. Schools are introducing more interactive lessons. Some high schools now host debate clubs in English. Universities offer classes fully taught in English. Companies give bonuses for passing TOEIC or TOEFL with high scores.

In short, English is no longer just a subject. It’s becoming a life skill.

And that changes how students approach learning. They don’t want to just memorize. They want to use the language. Speak it. Hear it. Think about it.

Platforms like AmazingTalker helped this new wave

None of this would be possible without access. That’s what tech platforms offer. Before, you had to live near a big city to find a native English tutor. Anyone can now use their phone to access one.

Sites like AmazingTalker allow students to browse hundreds of tutors, check reviews, try trial lessons, and book times that work around school schedules.

The best part? It’s no longer just for the rich. Online English tutoring is now affordable. Prices range from ¥1,500 to ¥3,000 per session. That’s cheaper than many cram schools. It is also far more practical.

Tutors tailor lessons to the student. Some focus on business English. Others help with homework. Some even prepare students for study abroad. Whatever the goal, students now have options.

And those options are reshaping the future of English in Japan.

Conclusion

Here’s the truth. They don’t rely on one method anymore. It’s a mix. And that mix is what’s working.

• Schools give the base.
• Cram schools boost test scores.
• Private tutors build fluency.
• Online platforms bring global access.
• Apps and content make it part of daily life.
• Parents push it early.
• And culture is finally allowing students to speak more freely.

The result? A generation that understands English sees it as more than just a tool for passing exams. It’s a skill to use, build, and enjoy.

We’re still in the middle of this change. But it’s clear: Japanese students today are studying English smarter than before.