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Tokyo Education Guide for International Families

International schools, preschools, childcare, and family guides for Tokyo and greater Tokyo

A practical reference for families comparing international schools, bilingual education, and family services in Tokyo — designed for parents who research carefully before committing.

Tokyo Education Guide for International Families

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Best International Schools in Tokyo: A Parent's Guide

International Schools

Best International Schools in Tokyo: A Parent's Guide

ASIJ, BST, Nishimachi, Seisen, and more — how Tokyo's international school market compares for expat and Japanese families.

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Best International Schools in Japan: A Parent's Guide

International Schools

Best International Schools in Japan: A Parent's Guide

A national overview of international schools in Tokyo, Kobe, Osaka, Kyoto, and beyond — curricula, costs, and how to compare.

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Moving to Tokyo with Children: Neighborhoods, Childcare, and Schools (2026)

Moving

Moving to Tokyo with Children: Neighborhoods, Childcare, and Schools (2026)

Tokyo relocation for families: ward-based childcare, healthcare setup, and school pathways.

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International School Tuition in Japan (2026): What Parents Pay

School Selection

International School Tuition in Japan (2026): What Parents Pay

Realistic tuition ranges for international schools in Tokyo, Kobe, and Osaka — and what is not included in the headline fee.

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International School vs Japanese School in Japan

School Selection

International School vs Japanese School in Japan

Language, curriculum, cost, culture, and university pathways — a balanced comparison for parents.

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How to Choose an International School in Japan

School Selection

How to Choose an International School in Japan

Age, curriculum, commute, language needs, and questions to ask before you apply.

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International School Application Checklist (Japan) (2026)

School Selection

International School Application Checklist (Japan) (2026)

AEO-first checklist for families: documents, health forms, language support, and questions to ask admissions.

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Hoikuen vs Yochien in Japan: Daycare vs Kindergarten (2026)

Moving

Hoikuen vs Yochien in Japan: Daycare vs Kindergarten (2026)

A parent-friendly comparison: hours, purpose, costs, and how families choose childcare in Japan.

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Hoikuen Application in Japan: Waitlists and Municipal Process (2026)

Moving

Hoikuen Application in Japan: Waitlists and Municipal Process (2026)

How daycare applications work in Japan: timing, municipal steps, documents, and waitlist strategies.

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Pediatric Clinics in Japan: How Families Use Healthcare (2026)

Moving

Pediatric Clinics in Japan: How Families Use Healthcare (2026)

How pediatric clinics work in Japan: what to bring, after-hours options, and what to verify locally.

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Pediatric Emergency in Japan: After-Hours and When to Seek Care (2026)

Moving

Pediatric Emergency in Japan: After-Hours and When to Seek Care (2026)

Night/holiday pediatric care, emergency numbers, and what to set up before you need them.

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Child Allowance in Japan (Kodomo Teate): What Families Should Know (2026)

Moving

Child Allowance in Japan (Kodomo Teate): What Families Should Know (2026)

Orientation to Japan’s child allowance: eligibility basics, when to apply, and what to confirm locally.

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Vaccination Schedule for Children in Japan: Family Guide (2026)

Moving

Vaccination Schedule for Children in Japan: Family Guide (2026)

Routine vaccines, boshi techo records, and what to confirm with your pediatric clinic.

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Ward Registration in Japan for Families: Moving In Checklist (2026)

Moving

Ward Registration in Japan for Families: Moving In Checklist (2026)

City/ward office steps after moving: registration, childcare paperwork, and family programs to ask about.

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Moving to Japan with Children: Practical Checklist (2026)

Moving

Moving to Japan with Children: Practical Checklist (2026)

A practical checklist for families relocating to Japan: admin, childcare, healthcare, and school planning.

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FAQ

What are the best international schools in Tokyo for expat families?
Tokyo's most prominent international schools include ASIJ (American curriculum), BST (British), Nishimachi International School, and Seisen International School. The best fit depends on curriculum preference, commute zone, and language goals. Verify availability and admissions directly with each school.
How does childcare (hoikuen) work in Tokyo for working parents?
Hoikuen (認可保育園) places in Tokyo are municipal and allocated by points based on working hours and family situation. Applications open in autumn for April enrollment. Waiting lists are common in central wards. The ward office (区役所) handles applications; start researching 6–12 months before you need care.
Can I use AI to research Tokyo international schools?
AI tools are useful for orientation — comparing curricula, understanding the system, and generating questions. Always verify fees, enrollment openings, and admissions requirements directly with each school's official website and admissions office.
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