Expat Education Guide: Schools in Tokyo

Education Overview

Tokyo scores 5.0/5 for education quality and 4.0/5 for family-friendliness. The city has 15 school neighborhoods with international, bilingual, and local options for expat families. Expect approximately 27 education-related costs.

Tokyo offers a highly competitive and academically rigorous education system that consistently ranks among the top performers in international assessments. The city features a diverse educational landscape with public schools (kōritsu gakkō), private schools (shiritsu gakkō), and a wide range of international schools catering to the expatriate community. Tokyo's education system emphasizes discipline, academic excellence, and holistic development with strong mathematics and science programs.

Quick Stats

Education Score

5.0 /5

Family Score

4.0 /5

School Areas

Cost Items

Estimated Costs

One-Time Costs

$13,250

Monthly Costs

$6,110/mo

Sample Costs

Full Breakdown →

One-Time

School Registration $300

Private School Application Fee $500

International School Application Fee $800

Monthly

Tuition Fees Private $1,200/mo

Tuition Fees International $2,500/mo

Transportation Monthly $180/mo

Showing 6 of 27 costs — sign up to see all

Top School Neighborhoods

See All 15 →

Minato

Density 5/6

Types: International, private, and public schools

Notable: Nishimachi International School, The British School in Tokyo

Shibuya

Density 4/6

Types: International, private, and public schools

Notable: British School in Tokyo, International School of the Sacred Heart, Shibuya Junio...

Shinjuku

Density 4/6

Types: Public, private, international, and juku

Notable: Waseda University, Keio University, Tokyo Korean School

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Practical Tips

they offer significant early-bird discounts and smaller class sizes during these intake periods

Use Shinjuku Multicultural Plaza for free Japanese conversation practice

native speakers volunteer here regularly, and it's less crowded than other language exchange venues

Enroll children in international schools' waiting lists by December for the following academic year

early application is crucial as many families relocate during summer, affecting August/September admissions

Choose ward-operated kindergartens in Setagaya or Meguro

they offer full Japanese immersion at significantly lower fees than private international preschools

Useful Links

Tokyo Metropolitan Board of Education

Official government resource for Tokyo's public education system, providing information on enrollment procedures and school options.

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MEXT (Ministry of Education)

Japan's official education ministry website with information on the Japanese education system, scholarships, and recognition of foreign qualifications.

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Japan Study Support

Comprehensive resource for international students with information on universities, Japanese language schools, and scholarship opportunities in Tokyo.

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Tokyo International Communication Committee

Official Tokyo government resource offering Japanese language classes, cultural exchange programs, and education support for foreign residents.

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JASSO (Japan Student Services Organization)

Official organization providing comprehensive information on studying in Japan, including scholarships, university applications, and student life.

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Education Guides in Japan

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Frequently Asked Questions

Tokyo has 15 neighborhoods with excellent school options. The best areas depend on whether you need international, public, or private schools. Check ReloPlanner for detailed school density scores per neighborhood.

International school tuition in Tokyo varies widely by school and grade level. Create a free ReloPlanner account to see detailed education cost breakdowns personalized to your family size.

There are approximately 27 education-related costs to consider when moving to Tokyo, including both one-time and recurring expenses. Create a free ReloPlanner account to see the full personalized cost breakdown.

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Data verified: March 2026

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