Japanese Language
Supporting Japanese language learning and teaching across the UK
Welcome to Japanese Language
In order to promote and support Japanese language education in the UK, we are involved in organising various programmes for Japanese language learners and teachers, as well as for schools, universities, and related people/organisations. Through our activities, we want to be your hub for Japanese language learning and teaching.
Not sure where to start? Have a look at what we can offer you:
For Teachers
Professional development workshops, teaching resources, and a supportive community network for Japanese language educators across the UK.
Explore teacher resources
For Schools & Establishments
Funding opportunities, qualified teachers, and student engagement programmes for schools and institutions teaching Japanese language.
Discover school support
For Learners
Free online resources, community events, and exam preparation support for Japanese language learners at all levels.
Start learning today
Resources
Teaching materials, textbooks, worksheets, and online tools for Japanese language educators and learners.
Browse resources
Book Loan Services
Borrow books, DVDs, and learning materials from our extensive Japanese language library
Learn more
Erin's Challenge! I Can Speak Japanese
Video-based learning with real-life Japanese conversations
Watch Videos 
日本語能力試験 (JLPT)
Official Japanese Language Proficiency Test information and registration
日本語能力試験 (JLPT) Official Japanese Language Proficiency Test information and registration Visit JLPT Site Events and Programmes
Explore our diverse range of cultural and educational activities
News & Reports
Stay updated with our announcements
The 21st Japanese Speech Contest for University Students
On Saturday 7th March 2026, the Finals Day of the 21st Japanese Speech Contest for University Students was held at the Bush House Auditorium, King’s College London. This year, we received applications from seventy-six students from eighteen UK universities. On the Finals Day, twenty-four finalists from ten universities joined us…
JaLaChamp Japanese Language Championship for Young Learners UK 2025 Finals Day
The Finals Day of the Japanese Language Championship for Young Learners UK (JaLaChamp) 2025 was held in the hall of Japan House London, on Saturday 10th May 2025. JaLaChamp is a contest for primary and secondary school students studying Japanese, either in a formal school setting or privately. It consists…
The 20th Japanese Speech Contest for University Students – Finals Day!
The Finals Day of the annual Japanese Speech Contest for University Students was held on Saturday, 1st March 2025 at Great Hall, King’s College London. For this year, the 20th anniversary of the contest, we welcomed 24 student finalists from 10 universities across the UK, who delivered a packed programme…
-Rakugo and Kobanashi: Enjoy Storytelling and Explore Japanese –
“Rakugo and Kobanashi: Enjoy Storytelling and Explore Japanese” event series was held on 8th and 9th of November 2024 in Oxford, and 10th November 2024 in London. The traditional Japanese theatre art Rakugo dates back to the Edo period, where it was appreciated by all classes – and it is…
Funding Opportunities
Courses for Teachers of Japanese
We support school-based and private tutors in improving their teaching skills and knowledge of Japanese language work and teaching methodology.
Learn moreCourses for Specialists
We offer Japanese language courses in specific fields such as business, postgraduate students, literature, museum and art gallery curators, and other specialists.
Learn moreFunding for Japanese Language Education Projects held in the UK
Institutions can apply for up to £3000 for non-profit-making projects or activities which promote Japanese language education.
Learn moreJobs
Contact
For any enquiries relating to this department, please contact:
Japanese-Language Department
info.language@jpf.go.jp
Book Loan Service
LO_library@jpf.go.jp
General Enquiries
LO_info@jpf.go.jp
Phone: +44 (0)20-7492-6570
Frequently Asked Questions
What Japanese-language examinations can I take in the UK?
The Japanese Language Proficiency Test is a popular exam among adult learners of Japanese. The test is available at five levels and is held twice a year in London and Edinburgh. For information about other Japanese exams, click here.
What Japanese lessons are available for children under 18 years?
Click here to view lists of UK schools (and adult education institutions, some of which may have provisions for under-18 learners) that offer Japanese classes.
If you would like to see Japanese classes started at your own school, or your child’s school, please let the school know that the Japan Foundation can help – for example, we can provide funding and a one-off volunteer Japanese taster session via the Japanese Tasters for Schools (JTS) Programme.