FAQ
Everything you need to know about learning Japanese with us. Can't find your answer? Get in touch and we'll help.
Frequently asked questions
What level of Japanese do I need?
None at all. We teach every level, from complete beginners who have never seen hiragana to fluent speakers who want to polish their Japanese or prepare for the JLPT.
Do I have to pay for lessons in advance?
Start with a 20-minute trial for £1, with no obligation to continue. If you'd like to carry on, lessons come in packs of 5 or 10, paid before your first lesson of the pack.
Will I have the same teacher each time?
Yes. We try to ensure you have the same teacher each time, so they get to know your goals, your strengths and how you're progressing.
Is there homework?
Only if you want it. If you have the time, your teacher can set a short task based on what you're learning, such as kana or kanji practice.
How do I book a lesson?
Send us your details on the Contact page. We'll get in touch, answer any questions and arrange your £1 trial lesson.
How long are the lessons?
Lessons are usually one hour, though you can book two back to back. The trial lesson lasts 20 minutes.
Why choose 1-to-1 lessons over a classroom?
You get a native Japanese speaker to yourself for the whole lesson, so you spend far more time speaking and every lesson is built around you.
Are your teachers native Japanese speakers?
Yes. We only work with native speakers from Japan.
Are the lessons entirely in Japanese?
Your teacher uses as much Japanese as suits your level, which is the quickest way to learn. Every teacher we work with speaks English too, so they can explain anything in English when you need it.
How are the lessons structured?
However you like. Lessons can be pure conversation, or cover reading, writing (hiragana, katakana and kanji) and grammar, or a mix of everything.
How do I pay?
All lessons are paid online by credit or debit card.
Will the price of lessons change?
Your price is guaranteed not to rise above what you paid for your first pack for six months.
Can I cancel a lesson?
Please give as much notice as you can. Lessons cancelled with less than 24 hours' notice are charged.
Can you teach groups?
Yes. Friends or family can learn together, and the more of you there are, the lower the cost per person.
Can you teach children?
We don't currently teach children under the age of 16.
Online lessons
When are online lessons available?
Between 7am and 11pm, seven days a week, depending on your teacher's availability.
How do I pay for online lessons?
Once you've agreed a lesson time, we send you an invoice with a link to pay online by card.
Are my card details safe?
Yes. Your card details go straight from your browser to our payment provider and never reach us.
Do I need to use video?
Video helps, but it isn't essential. You can still learn well without a camera.
Do I need headphones or a headset?
Usually not, as most modern computers have good built-in audio, but headphones can make the sound clearer.
Do I need a fast internet connection?
Most connections are fine for video calls. Mobile 3G can be less reliable and may cause problems.