Since around 2023, most entry restrictions and activity restrictions related to COVID-19 have been lifted, and people are once again able to travel overseas freely as before. During the pandemic, many people likely had no choice but to give up on studying in Japan, even if they wanted to, but now it has become easier to prepare for studying abroad in Osaka.
Tokyo has many Japanese language schools, but quite a few people are also interested in Osaka, where rent tends to be easier to keep down compared with Tokyo, and where the food culture and the warmth of the people are also appealing.
In this article, we will introduce five selected Japanese language schools in Osaka. While organizing the features, courses, reviews, and school information for each school, we will also introduce share houses in Osaka that international students attending Japanese language schools should consider when choosing a place to live.
About the ranking in this article
The ranking in this article is not an official ranking, nor is it a ranking based on admission results. The schools have been selected for people considering studying abroad in Osaka, based on factors such as school location, course content, support for international students, ease of commuting, and ease of daily living.
Enrollment periods, tuition fees, courses, application requirements, visa support, student capacity, and support services may change. Before applying, be sure to check the latest information on each school’s official website and in its application guidelines.
If you attend a Japanese language school in Osaka, think about housing at the same time
In study abroad life, “where to live” is just as important as choosing a school. For those who want to keep rent low, find housing that accepts foreigners, or increase opportunities to use Japanese, share houses in Osaka can also be an option.
Many share houses come with furniture and home appliances, making it easier to start a new life while keeping initial costs low. Try considering not only the school itself, but also commuting time, living expenses, and how easy it is to make friends.
1. What to check before choosing a Japanese language school in Osaka
2. Top 5 popular Japanese language schools in Osaka
No. 1 Osaka YMCA Gakuin Japanese Language Department
No. 2 Kansai International Gakuin
No. 3 Osaka Japanese Language Academy
No. 4 ISI Language School Osaka
No. 5 Osaka International Education Academy
3. Benefits of choosing a share house while studying abroad in Osaka
4. Recommended share houses for international students in Osaka
When choosing a Japanese language school in Osaka, it is important not to decide based only on the school name or ranking, but to confirm whether the school matches your own goals.
Points to check when choosing a school
Especially for international students, it is necessary to think not only about school, but also housing, part-time jobs, living expenses, and transportation costs. In Osaka, the atmosphere and rent levels vary depending on the area, so whether you live near the school or commute from an area where rent is easier to keep down is also an important factor in your decision.
No. 1 Osaka YMCA Gakuin Japanese Language Department
Osaka YMCA Gakuin Japanese Language Department is a Japanese language school located in the Tennoji area. It is a school where students can easily choose a learning style according to their goals, including a Japanese language department for those aiming to advance to higher education, courses for learning Japanese used in daily life and work, and short-term intensive courses.
Academic Japanese Language Department
Practical Japanese Language Department for Career Development
Short-Term Intensive Course
Japanese Online STEP Course
“At Osaka YMCA Gakuin, the teachers felt close to the students, and it was easy to ask for advice about advancing to higher education. I wanted to go on to a university in Japan, so it was very helpful that they checked my interview practice and statement of purpose many times. I could ask not only about classes, but also about my future path, so I felt less anxious.”
“There were students from many different countries in my class, and I had many opportunities to speak in Japanese. At first, I could not speak very well, but through classes and school events, I gradually gained confidence. It was good not only to study Japanese, but also to experience Japanese culture and ways of thinking.”
“Because I was thinking about finding a job, what left an impression on me was that they helped me with how to write a resume and practice interviews. I learned that to work in Japan, not only Japanese language ability but also manners and the way you speak are important. I think this school suits people who want to choose a school while thinking about what comes after graduation.”
This school is suitable for people who want to study around Tennoji, those considering advancement to a Japanese university, graduate school, or vocational school, and those who want to improve not only academic Japanese but also Japanese language skills used for work and daily life.
| School name | Osaka YMCA Gakuin Japanese Language Department |
|---|---|
| Nearest station | Around JR and Osaka Metro “Tennoji” Station |
| Address | 9-52 Minamikawahoricho, Tennoji-ku, Osaka-shi, Osaka |
| Official website | Osaka YMCA Gakuin Japanese Language Department |
No. 2 Kansai International Gakuin
Kansai International Gakuin is a Japanese language school located in Osaka City’s Tennoji Ward. It is easy to commute to from Tennoji Station, and its features include small class sizes and an emphasis on learning that incorporates real-life situations.
1-Year Academic Advancement Course
1.5-Year Academic Advancement Course
2-Year Academic Advancement Course
3-Month Course
“At Kansai International Gakuin, the classes were small, so I could ask the teacher right away when I did not understand something. At a large school, it might be difficult to ask questions, but here I felt that the teachers were paying close attention to each student. There was also a lot of conversation practice, and I gradually got used to speaking Japanese.”
“The school events were fun. If there are only classes, it can feel like you are just studying Japanese, but because there were off-campus learning activities and Japanese cultural experiences, it was easy to make friends. When I had just arrived in Japan, I felt anxious, but I felt relieved because I could act together with other international students.”
“For preparing to advance to higher education, they supported me with choosing schools and practicing interviews. I did not understand the Japanese school system very well on my own, so it was good that I could consult with the teachers. The school is close to Tennoji and easy to commute to, so it was also easy to shop after school.”
This school is suitable for people who want to look for a Japanese language school in the Tennoji area, those who value a small-group environment where teachers feel close, and those who want to enjoy study abroad life including Japanese cultural experiences and school events.
| School name | Kansai International Gakuin |
|---|---|
| Nearest station | Around JR Osaka Loop Line and Osaka Metro “Tennoji” Station |
| Address | 1-11-9 Daido, Tennoji-ku, Osaka-shi |
| Official website | Kansai International Gakuin |
If you will commute to the Tennoji or Namba area, also check housing in Osaka that is easy to commute from
If you look for housing after deciding on a Japanese language school, you may end up worrying about commuting time and rent. If your candidate schools are in the Tennoji, Namba, or Shinsaibashi areas, it is reassuring to check share houses in Osaka City that accept foreigners in advance.
With a share house that comes with furniture and home appliances, it is easier to reduce the amount of luggage you bring when coming to Japan from overseas, and it also becomes easier to create opportunities to use Japanese after moving in.
No. 3 Osaka Japanese Language Academy
Osaka Japanese Language Academy is a Japanese language school located in Kita Ward, Sakai City, Osaka Prefecture. It is accessible from JR Hanwa Line “Asaka” Station and Osaka Metro Midosuji Line “Kitahanada” Station, and students can improve their Japanese language ability mainly through academic advancement courses.
Academic Advancement Course
“Osaka Japanese Language Academy is in Sakai City, so I could study in a calmer environment than in the center of Osaka City. People who like lively places may feel that it is a little quiet, but it suited me because I wanted to concentrate on studying Japanese. It was also good that it was easier to keep living expenses down.”
“Because I was studying Japanese for higher education, I liked that I could prepare for the JLPT and the Examination for Japanese University Admission for International Students. Since you study reading, writing, listening, and speaking in a balanced way, it was difficult at first, but I think it is necessary study for people considering higher education.”
“There were off-campus learning activities and opportunities for exchange, so I was able to learn not only Japanese, but also about Japanese life and culture. I think it is important to have opportunities to use the words you studied in class outside of school. I think this school suits people who want to study seriously in a calm environment.”
This school is suitable for people who want to study calmly around Sakai City, those who want to learn Japanese for the purpose of higher education, and those who want to live not only in Osaka City, but also in Sakai or the southern Osaka area.
| School name | Osaka Japanese Language Academy |
|---|---|
| Nearest station | JR Hanwa Line “Asaka” Station, Osaka Metro Midosuji Line “Kitahanada” Station |
| Address | 2-74-26 Higashiasakayama-cho, Kita-ku, Sakai-shi, Osaka |
| Official website | Osaka Japanese Language Academy |
No. 4 ISI Language School Osaka
ISI Language School Osaka is a Japanese language school located in Osaka City’s Chuo Ward, in the Shinsaibashi area. It is a relatively new campus that opened in April 2024, and multiple enrollment periods are available for both long-term and short-term students.
Long-Term Students
Short-Term Students
“ISI Language School Osaka is in Shinsaibashi, so it is very convenient. After school, it is fun to go shopping or eat in Namba or Shinsaibashi. I think it is good for people who want to study Japanese while living in the center of Osaka.”
“Because it is a new campus, it was good to study in a clean environment. Since it is part of a large school group, I get the impression that it is easy to seek advice according to your goals, such as higher education or employment. You can meet students from many different countries, so I think it also suits people who want to make friends.”
“It was convenient that I could choose an enrollment period, whether short-term or long-term. I wanted to study Japanese while living in Osaka, so the Shinsaibashi location was very good. It is easy to do part-time work and shopping, and I think it is a school where it is easy to balance study and daily life.”
This school is suitable for people who want to study around Shinsaibashi or Namba, those who want to study at a new campus, and those who want to meet many international students at a large-scale school.
| School name | ISI Language School Osaka |
|---|---|
| Nearest station | Osaka Metro Midosuji Line and Nagahori Tsurumi-ryokuchi Line “Shinsaibashi” Station |
| Address | 5F Oak Shinsaibashi Building, 3-5-8 Minamisenba, Chuo-ku, Osaka-shi, Osaka |
| Official website | ISI Language School Osaka |
No. 5 Osaka International Education Academy
Osaka International Education Academy is a Japanese language school located in Osaka City’s Konohana Ward, in the Nishikujo area. In addition to Japanese language education with higher education and employment in mind, it also provides support for those aiming to become nurses or certified care workers.
Japanese language study for higher education
Japanese language study for employment
Support for nurses and certified care workers
“Osaka International Education Academy was close to Nishikujo Station and easy to commute to. Since it is also easy to go to Umeda and Namba, it was easy to make plans not only for school, but also for part-time work and days off. It is also close to USJ, so I think it is a good location for people who want to enjoy life in Osaka.”
“I think one of the good things about studying abroad in Osaka is that it is easy to visit Kyoto, Nara, Kobe, and other places on days off. By studying Japanese at school and going to many different places in Kansai on holidays, I was able to learn more about Japanese culture. I think it suits people who want a study abroad life that is not only about studying.”
“Because I wanted to work in Japan in the future, it was good to be able to learn about employment and business manners. There is also support for people aiming to become nurses or certified care workers, so I think it suits people who want to choose a school while thinking not only about higher education, but also about work.”
This school is suitable for people who are considering higher education or employment in Osaka City, those interested in the medical or care work fields, and those who want access from the Nishikujo area toward Umeda and Namba.
| School name | Osaka International Education Academy |
|---|---|
| Nearest station | JR Osaka Loop Line and Hanshin Namba Line “Nishikujo” Station |
| Address | 1-29-2 Nishikujo, Konohana-ku, Osaka-shi, Osaka |
| Official website | Osaka International Education Academy |
For international students attending Japanese language schools, share houses are an option that can easily become a candidate for housing.
Benefits for international students choosing a share house in Osaka
Of course, share houses also have rules for shared spaces, living noise, and cleaning duties. Before moving in, be sure to check the size of the private room, shared facilities, resident demographics, support for foreigners, contract period, and whether a guarantor is required.
From here, we will introduce share houses that are easy for international students attending Japanese language schools in Osaka to consider. Compare them while checking the commuting area, rent, atmosphere of shared spaces, and whether foreigners are accepted.
Urban Terrace Ryokuchi Koen
This large share house features an impressive lounge with an industrial design using exposed concrete, as well as an attractive and well-equipped working space.
There is also a fitness room inside the building, making it easy to refresh yourself after school or part-time work. The private rooms are also sufficiently spacious and offer ample storage, making this a well-balanced property where you can value your private space while also interacting in the shared areas.
| Property name | Urban Terrace Ryokuchi Koen |
|---|---|
| Move-in conditions | Men and women OK Foreigners OK |
| Rent | 31,000 – 49,000 yen |
| Common service fee | 20,200 yen |
| Number of rooms | 58 rooms |
| Access | 10-minute walk from “Kandaimae” Station on the Hankyu Senri Line |
ZEZE OSAKA by TESEN
This is a designer share house that combines sophisticated design with everyday livability. Everywhere you look, the interior and built-in features are visually appealing, creating a space that makes you feel excited just by living there.
The kitchen, water-related areas, storage, and other facilities are also designed with practical usability in mind, so the appeal is not only that it is stylish, but also that it is comfortable for long-term living. It is also suitable for international students who want to live calmly in a small household.
| Property name | ZEZE OSAKA by TESEN |
|---|---|
| Move-in conditions | Men and women OK Foreigners OK |
| Rent | 56,000 – 60,000 yen |
| Common service fee | 12,000 yen |
| Number of rooms | 8 rooms |
| Access | 3-minute walk from “Imafuku-Tsurumi” Station on the Nagahori Tsurumi-ryokuchi Line |
BeGood Namba Ebis
This is an international exchange-style share house in an outstandingly convenient location. Many residents are foreign nationals, and the environment makes it easy to interact naturally with residents from various countries while using English and Japanese.
In addition to the nearest station, “Ebisucho,” multiple lines such as the Sakaisuji Line, Osaka Loop Line, and Midosuji Line are easy to use, making travel to the Namba area and other parts of Osaka City smooth. The location is also convenient for commuting to school or a part-time job.
| Property name | BeGood Namba Ebis |
|---|---|
| Move-in conditions | Men and women OK Foreigners OK |
| Rent | 42,000 – 48,000 yen |
| Common service fee | 14,000 yen |
| Number of rooms | 8 rooms |
| Access | 3-minute walk from “Ebisucho” Station on the Sakaisuji Line |
For those who want to search Osaka share houses all at once
If the area where you will attend a Japanese language school has not yet been decided, start by comparing rent, area, whether foreigners are accepted, and the atmosphere of shared spaces from the list of share houses in Osaka.
For those who want to consider housing based on the school location
Depending on the school area, such as Tennoji, Shinsaibashi, Nishikujo, or Sakai, convenient places to live will differ. If you value commuting time, it is recommended to narrow down candidates through area search.
For those who want to live while enjoying international exchange in the Namba and Nipponbashi area
If you are looking for a share house that accepts foreigners and offers easy access to central Osaka City, BeGood Namba Ebis can also be a candidate. It is an area convenient not only for Japanese language school, but also for part-time work and going out on days off.
Osaka has a wide variety of Japanese language schools, including schools strong in academic advancement, schools where it is easy to learn Japanese used for daily life and work, large-scale multinational schools, and schools where it is easy to consider a path into medical or care work fields.
However, study abroad life is not determined by choosing a Japanese language school alone. The housing where you actually spend every day, commuting time, rent, living expenses, and how easy it is to make friends are also important.
If you will attend a Japanese language school in Osaka, try checking share houses in Osaka at the same time as choosing your school. If a property comes with furniture and home appliances, keeps initial costs low, and accepts foreigners, it becomes easier for international students to start daily life right after arriving in Japan.
Not only studying Japanese, but also using Japanese in daily life and living while meeting people from many different countries. For those who want that kind of study abroad experience in Osaka, share houses are a realistic housing option.
Q. If I attend a Japanese language school in Tennoji, which area is convenient for finding a room?
A. If you will commute to the Tennoji Station area, Tennoji and Abeno are the closest areas, but if you want to keep rent low, areas that are easy to commute from on the Midosuji Line, Tanimachi Line, or JR Osaka Loop Line can also be candidates. You can also consider commuting from the Namba, Nipponbashi, Ebisucho, or Nishikujo areas. When looking for a share house, using a commute of within 30 to 40 minutes and no more than one transfer as a guideline will make daily life easier.
Q. Where is convenient for international students attending a Japanese language school in Shinsaibashi to live?
A. If you will commute to Shinsaibashi, the Shinsaibashi, Namba, Nipponbashi, Nagahoribashi, and Ebisucho areas are convenient. If you want to keep rent low, you can also consider areas a few stations away on the Sakaisuji Line or Midosuji Line. Share houses that make it easy to go toward Namba and accept foreigners, such as BeGood Namba Ebis, can be candidates that make it easier to balance commuting to school and daily life.
Q. What should international students check when moving into a share house in Osaka?
A. First, check whether foreigners are accepted, whether you can sign a contract with a residence card, and whether a guarantor or emergency contact is required. Next, check the contract period, initial costs, move-out costs, common service fees, whether furniture and home appliances are included, and whether bedding is provided. If you will attend school, it is also reassuring to check the commuting time from the nearest station to the school and the time of the last train.
Q. Which is more suitable for international students, a Japanese language school dormitory or a share house?
A. If you value simple procedures, a school dormitory is suitable; if you want to choose the area, rent, and lifestyle, a share house is suitable. School dormitories tend to provide reassurance in terms of commuting and support, but it may be difficult to choose the location or room type. Share houses make it easier to choose conditions such as foreigners accepted, furniture and home appliances included, and a shared living room, and they offer the benefit of easier interaction with Japanese people and international students from other countries.
Q. How much is the rent for share houses in Osaka?
A. Among the share houses in Osaka introduced in this article, Urban Terrace Ryokuchi Koen is 31,000 to 49,000 yen, ZEZE OSAKA by TESEN is 56,000 to 60,000 yen, and BeGood Namba Ebis is 42,000 to 48,000 yen. Since a separate common service fee is charged, compare them based on the total monthly cost. Costs also vary depending on whether furniture and home appliances are included, the size of the private room, and the distance from the station.
Q. If I want to improve my Japanese quickly, will a share house help?
A. It may help. This is because opportunities to use the Japanese you learned in class increase in the kitchen, living room, cleaning duties, shopping, and conversations among residents. However, in properties where there is little interaction among residents, the effect is limited. If you want to increase opportunities to use Japanese, check not only whether foreigners are accepted, but also the atmosphere of the shared living room, whether events are held, the number of residents, and whether the property makes interaction easy.
Q. If I will work part-time while attending a Japanese language school in Osaka, how should I choose where to live?
A. It is recommended to choose while considering both the commuting time to school and train lines that make it easy to get to your part-time workplace. Areas around Tennoji, Namba, Shinsaibashi, and Nishikujo have many part-time job options and make it easier to balance school and work. However, if you have to travel too much after classes, you may get tired easily, so consider the total travel time among school, housing, and your part-time workplace.
SHARE PARADE（シェアパレード） の運営責任者です。「EDIT YOUR LIFE ― 今の暮らしをちょっと変えてみる」を合言葉に、**コミュニティのある暮らし（Community Living）**を中心としたシェアハウスを紹介しています。2011年の立ち上げ以来、東京全域で800件以上を現地取材。私自身も一人暮らし／シェアハウス／ルームシェア／ソーシャルマンションを一通り経験しており、一次情報と体験の両方を基準にサイトを運営しています。「住む場所が変われば、ライフスタイルも変わる」。コミュニティがある暮らしの楽しさと安心を、もっと当たり前の選択肢に――それがSHARE PARADEの役割であり、私のミッションです。 I am the administrator of the website 'SHARE PARADE.' Under the motto “EDIT YOUR LIFE—make a small change to your everyday,” we feature share houses centered on community living. Since our launch in 2011, I have visited and reviewed more than 800 properties across Tokyo. I’ve personally experienced living alone, in share houses, in room shares, and in social apartments, and I run the site based on both first-hand information and lived experience. I believe that when your home changes, your lifestyle changes too. My mission—and SHARE PARADE’s role—is to make the joy and peace of mind of community living a more everyday choice.
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