Learning Japanese before moving to Japan is one of the smartest decisions an international student can make. Even though some universities offer English-taught programs, having a basic understanding of Japanese greatly improves your academic and daily life experience.
Firstly, language skills help with communication. From grocery shopping to asking for directions, even simple conversations can become challenging without basic Japanese. Learning key phrases boosts confidence and helps students adapt more quickly. Academically, understanding Japanese provides an advantage. Many resources, assignments, and notices at universities are written in Japanese. Knowing the language helps students follow lectures, communicate with professors, and fully participate in academic life.
Another major benefit is part-time work. Employers in Japan prefer students who can speak at least conversational Japanese. With better language skills, students access more job opportunities, higher wages, and improved working conditions. Socially, language helps students build friendships and enjoy cultural activities. Being able to join conversations allows students to connect with locals, participate in festivals, and truly experience Japanese culture.
Lastly, learning Japanese is a strong career asset. Japan has a high demand for foreign professionals who understand the language. This opens doors to job opportunities in engineering, IT, business, hospitality, and more.
Overall, learning Japanese before arriving not only makes daily life easier but also strengthens future career opportunities in Japan.


