First Week at a Japanese Language School: Test, Orientation, Rules

Imagine this—you've just landed at Narita Airport. Suitcase in hand, visa in your pocket, and a thousand questions in your head. Within the first few days, you need to report to your school. But what exactly happens when you walk in? I've seen many students go through this first week—it's a rollercoaster of excitement, nerves, and new discoveries.

Today, I'll walk you through the entire first week—what to expect, how to prepare, and where to be careful.

1. Reporting and the First Day

When you arrive at school, you'll first need to report to the office. Bring your passport, residence card (在留カード), and any documents the school gave you. The staff will hand you an orientation packet with your class schedule, a school map, and emergency contacts.

Many schools also give a mini tour on the first day—showing you the neighborhood, convenient stores, banks, and hospitals. One of my students enrolled in a school in Shinjuku Ward, Tokyo. On the first day, they took him to a ramen shop nearby as a welcome gesture. Small thing, but memorable.

2. Placement Test: Determining Your Level

The most important part of the first week is the placement test. This test helps the school determine your current level of Japanese—whether you start from zero (shirusho) or from a more advanced point. The test typically includes:

• Written exam (grammar, vocabulary, kanji)
• Listening comprehension
• Oral interview (a short conversation)

Based on the results, you'll be placed in a class. Here's a key point—don't be discouraged by the results. If you feel your level is low, that's normal. The goal is to start at the right level so you can focus in class.

It helps to have some basic Japanese before you arrive, but it's not mandatory—most schools start from zero. I had a student who only knew hiragana and katakana when he arrived. Four months later, he was preparing for N4.

3. Orientation and School Rules

During orientation, the school explains its rules in detail. Japanese schools are very strict about rules. Here are the common ones:

• Attendance: Regular attendance is mandatory. Attendance below 80% can cause visa renewal problems.
• Punctuality: Being late to class is a big deal. Punctuality is part of Japanese culture.
• Part-time work: You can't work more than 28 hours per week. Working without school permission is also a problem.
• Behavior: Respect for teachers, keeping your phone off during class—these are clearly specified.

The rules might seem strict, but they're for your own good. Following the visa conditions and maintaining a good record at school is crucial for your future.

4. Starting Classes: The First-Day Experience

After orientation, classes begin. On the first day, teachers introduce themselves, and each student is asked to introduce themselves too. Not knowing the language can be awkward at first, but everyone is in the same boat.

In the first week, you'll usually learn basic phrases, hiragana, and katakana. Classes are interactive—group work, games, and role-playing. You'll be surprised that within a week, you can already say a few Japanese sentences.

5. What to Do in the First Week

Here are some things you can do on your own to make the experience smoother:

• Explore the neighborhood: Familiarize yourself with your commute route, the nearest station, and supermarkets.
• Make friends with classmates: Talk to students from different countries. It helps with language learning and builds a network.
• Learn local rules: Understand common Japanese customs, like garbage separation rules and being quiet on public transport.
• Open a bank account: With the school's help, set up a local bank account.

And yes, it's normal to feel overwhelmed in the first week. Don't try to do everything at once. You can't learn Japanese in a day—be patient.

My Advice

If you're still preparing to go to Japan, keep this first-week experience in mind and prepare well. Taking JLPT preparation before you go will help. And for those with visa and document questions, check out this guide.

The first week is just the beginning. Your studies, work, and new life in Japan start from here. So be confident, and if you have any questions, feel free to contact us. We're here for you.