IB Schools in Japan are a great choice for both local and expat families as they offer globally recognized curricula, outstanding academics plus a nurturing environment for children. Discover our selection of the best IB Schools in Japan, including reviews, fees, and why families choose them.
Why families choose an IB school in Japan?
The allure of International Baccalaureate (IB) schools in Japan is not merely a reflection of academic rigor but a testament to the holistic educational approach these institutions offer. Families from diverse backgrounds are increasingly opting for IB schools in Japan, driven by a blend of unique educational philosophies, global recognition, and cultural immersion that these schools provide.
Global Curriculum Standards
One of the primary reasons families gravitate towards IB schools in Japan is the internationally recognized curriculum that promises consistency and quality, irrespective of geographic location. The IB curriculum is renowned for its rigorous standards and emphasis on students developing strong academic, social, and emotional characteristics. It is designed to challenge students to excel in their studies and encourage both personal and academic achievement, making it an attractive proposition for families who prioritize comprehensive education.
Cultural Integration and Language Acquisition
Japan offers a unique cultural setting that enriches the educational experience. Families choose IB schools in Japan not only for the high standards of education but also for the opportunity to immerse their children in a new culture and language environment. Learning in such a context enhances students’ understanding of global issues and fosters a greater appreciation for cultural diversity. This is particularly appealing to expatriate families who consider cultural adaptability to be as crucial as academic success.
Development of Critical Thinking and Analytical Skills
IB programs are well-regarded for their focus on developing critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Through its inquiry-based learning model, students are encouraged to think critically and challenge assumptions, an approach that is highly valued by parents. This educational framework not only prepares students for higher education but also equips them with the skills necessary for success in a globalized world.
Preparation for Higher Education
Students who complete the IB diploma program are often better prepared for the rigors of university education. Many higher education institutions around the world recognize the IB diploma as a standard of excellence and often prefer or give credit to IB graduates. Parents are keenly aware of this and thus see an IB education as a stepping stone to prestigious universities and successful future careers for their children.
Additionally, the supportive school communities and the emphasis on student well-being make IB schools in Japan more than just educational institutions. They are environments where students can thrive emotionally and socially, further enhancing the appeal for families seeking a supportive community for their children during their formative years.
How much does it cost to attend IB Schools in Japan?
The yearly tuition fees for IB Schools in Japan generally range from $15,000 to $30,000 per year. This cost can vary based on factors like the curriculum, the quality of campus facilities, the standard of boarding, and the services – with some top-tier schools exceeding $35,000 annually.
Category | Low Range | High Range |
|---|---|---|
Annual Tuition | $15,000 | $30,000 |
Monthly Tuition Equivalent | $1,250 | $2,500 |
Registration Fee (one-time) | $1,000 | $2,000 |
Uniforms & Materials | $200 | $500 |
Extras & Trips | $500 | $2,000 |
Total Est. Annual Cost | $17,700 | $35,500 |
Top IB Schools Japan 2026
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Tamagawa Academy IB Programmes
Tokyo, Japan •Co-Education •- from 12
- to 18 years old
School type: International School - Private SchoolCurriculum: IB CurriculumLanguage of instruction: English - JapaneseYearly fee: from 1,886,000 to 1,902,000 JPY
Foundation: 1929Nationalities: 8 different nationalitiesNr of students: 8 studentsTamagawa Academy, throughout its history prioritizing international education through its Zenjin (well-rounded) principles, offers students the unique opportunity of earning a Japanese secondary school completion certificate as a MEXT Article 1 school along with the International Baccalaureate Diploma.International Baccalaureate, OthersAnnual tuition fees at Tamagawa Academy IB Programmes range from JPY 1,886,000 to JPY 1,902,000, depending on the student’s grade level and program.
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One World International School Osaka
Osaka, Japan •Co-Education •- from 4
- to 18 years old
School type: International School - Private SchoolCurriculum: IB Curriculum - IB Diploma Programme - OtherLanguage of instruction: EnglishYearly fee: from 1,417,500 to 1,713,000 JPY
Foundation: 2023Nationalities: 10 different nationalitiesNr of students: 10 studentsExaminations: IB DiplomaOne World International School provides K-12 education across eight global campuses, including multiple locations in Japan.
Our curriculum is grounded in inquiry-based learning, certified by the International Baccalaureate, and delivered in English within a diverse international setting. At OWIS, we combine rigorous academics with a student-centred approach, incorporating Montessori principles and engaging teaching methods that enhance learning outcomes by focusing on students’ strengths. Our curriculum, structured around the IB Units of Inquiry, emphasises collaboration, social interaction, and teamwork, making learning both enjoyable and memorable. This holistic approach prepares our students to be the leaders of tomorrow, ensuring they are well-equipped for the challenges of an interconnected world.Annual tuition fees at One World International School Osaka range from JPY 1,417,500 to JPY 1,713,000, depending on the student’s grade level and program.
Day school tuition: You can find a full up to date breakdown of our school fees on our website at:https://owis.org/jp/osaka/school-fees/Boarding tuition: -
One World International School Tsukuba
Tsukuba, Japan •Co-Education •- from 3
- to 18 years old
School type: International School - Private SchoolCurriculum: IB Curriculum - IB Diploma ProgrammeLanguage of instruction: EnglishYearly fee: from 1,230,000 to 1,470,000 JPY
Foundation: 2025Nationalities: 10 different nationalitiesNr of students: 10 studentsExaminations: IB DiplomaOne World International School provides K-12 education across nine global campuses, including multiple locations in Japan.
Our curriculum is grounded in inquiry-based learning, certified by the International Baccalaureate, and delivered in English within a diverse international setting. At OWIS, we combine rigorous academics with a student-centred approach, incorporating Montessori principles and engaging teaching methods that enhance learning outcomes by focusing on students’ strengths. Our curriculum, structured around the IB Units of Inquiry, emphasises collaboration, social interaction, and teamwork, making learning both enjoyable and memorable. This holistic approach prepares our students to be the leaders of tomorrow, ensuring they are well-equipped for the challenges of an interconnected world.Annual tuition fees at One World International School Tsukuba range from JPY 1,230,000 to JPY 1,470,000, depending on the student’s grade level and program.
Day school tuition: Please check our website which contains all our up-to-date school fees at https://owis.org/jp/tsukuba/school-fees/Boarding tuition: -
Yokohama International School
Yokohama, Japan •Co-Education •- from 3.0
- to 18.0 years old
School type: International School - Private SchoolCurriculum: IB Curriculum - IB Diploma Programme - IB Middle Years Programme - IB Primary Years ProgrammeLanguage of instruction: EnglishYearly fee: from 17,939 to 22,694 USD
Foundation: 1924.0Nationalities: 50.0 different nationalitiesNr of students: 50.0 studentsHands-on learning through challenging expeditions defines Yokohama International School, an IB PYP-DP institution for ages 3-18 in Japan.Yokohama International School (YIS) presents a comprehensive academic program centered on a holistic, student-centered approach that nurtures curiosity and resilience. Founded in 1924, the school emphasizes its mission to help every learner "Live, Learn, and Lead" with purpose, promoting a lifelong passion for learning. Their curriculum is designed to engage students actively with the world around them through "authentic learning" opportunities, including challenging expeditions, enriching service projects, and leadership retreats, all aimed at building resilience and confidence. The academic journey at YIS begins in the Early Learning Center (ELC), where children ages 3-5 are encouraged to explore their curiosity and creativity through play. Guided by the Reggio Emilia Approach and the I...Annual tuition fees at Yokohama International School range from USD 17,939 to USD 22,694, depending on the student’s grade level and program.
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Yamata Yochien / Kurihara Gakuen
Yokohama, Japan •Co-Education •School type: International School - Private SchoolCurriculum: IB Curriculum - IB Primary Years ProgrammeLanguage of instruction: JapaneseYearly fee:
Foundation: N/ANationalities: N/ANr of students: N/AIB PYP school in Yokohama offering a nurturing environment for all ages, fostering a love for learning and personal growth.Annual tuition fees at Yamata Yochien / Kurihara Gakuen range from to , depending on the student’s grade level and program.
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Yamanashi Gakuin School
Kofu, Japan •Girls Only •School type: International School - Private SchoolCurriculum: IB Curriculum - IB Diploma Programme - IB Primary Years ProgrammeLanguage of instruction: Bilingual - English - JapaneseYearly fee:
Foundation: N/ANationalities: N/ANr of students: N/AIB World School in Kofu, Japan, offering tailored P and A series tracks and IB PYP-DP curriculum for students of all ages.At Yamanashi Gakuin High School, the academic programs are designed to foster a robust educational experience through a variety of specialized courses and support structures. Their curriculum includes two main tracks: the "特進コース" (Special Progress Course) and the "進学コース" (General Progress Course), each tailored to meet the diverse educational goals of students. The Special Progress Course is further divided into two series: the "P系列" (Premium Series) and the "A系列" (Advanced Series), both aimed at preparing students for higher education, including prestigious universities both domestically and internationally. The "特進コース P系列" focuses on rigorous preparation for top national universities and includes a curriculum that adheres to international standards. This program, re...Annual tuition fees at Yamanashi Gakuin School range from to , depending on the student’s grade level and program.
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Willowbrook International School
Minato City, Japan •Co-Education •- from 1.0
- to 5.0 years old
School type: International School - Private SchoolCurriculum: IB Curriculum - IB Primary Years ProgrammeLanguage of instruction: EnglishYearly fee:
Foundation: N/ANationalities: N/ANr of students: N/AOfficial IB PYP school in Minato City offering a unique Japanese/English dual immersion program for ages 1-5, fostering bilingualism and cultural experiences.Willowbrook International School offers an engaging and inquiry-based international curriculum designed for early childhood education, catering to children from 1.5 to 5 years old. The school emphasizes a rigorous educational philosophy that prioritizes exploration, creativity, and meaningful learning experiences. They deliver their curriculum through two main programs: the Regular English Program and the Japanese/English Dual Immersion Program. The Regular Program consists of classes tailored for specific age groups: Kaze (15 months-2 years), Yuki (2-3 years), Tsuki (3-4 years), and Hana (4-5 years). In this program, the instruction is primarily in English with daily Japanese lessons integrated into the schedule. This approach not only serves native English speakers but also children who ...Annual tuition fees at Willowbrook International School range from to , depending on the student’s grade level and program.
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Wakakusa Kindergarten
Nagano, Japan •Co-Education •School type: International School - Private SchoolCurriculum: IB Curriculum - IB Primary Years ProgrammeLanguage of instruction: Bilingual - English - JapaneseYearly fee:
Foundation: N/ANationalities: N/ANr of students: N/AInternational Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme at Wakakusa Kindergarten in Nagano offers comprehensive education for infants to toddlers.Wakakusa Kindergarten is an esteemed International Baccalaureate (IB) World School that offers the Primary Years Programme (PYP). This curriculum is specifically designed to promote inquiry-based learning that is both rigorous and exploratory, ensuring a comprehensive educational experience for young learners. At Wakakusa, the educational philosophy is founded on the principle that children learn best through active engagement in their education. The school encourages students to explore, question, and develop their skills within a supportive environment that fosters curiosity and a love for learning. The academic program at Wakakusa Kindergarten caters to a diverse age group, ranging from 3-year-olds to 6-year-olds. An important feature of the school is the "naka-yoshi room," which is de...Annual tuition fees at Wakakusa Kindergarten range from to , depending on the student’s grade level and program.
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Urawagakuin High School
Saitama, Japan •Co-Education •School type: International School - Private SchoolCurriculum: IB Curriculum - IB Diploma ProgrammeLanguage of instruction: Bilingual - English - JapaneseYearly fee:
Foundation: N/ANationalities: N/ANr of students: N/AUrawagakuin High School in Saitama hosts the International Young Leaders Summit and offers the IB DP for all ages with extensive English immersion programs.Based on the information I read on Urawagakuin High School's website, their academic program is designed to foster both academic excellence and personal growth through a rigorous curriculum. The school emphasizes a diverse learning environment that caters to students from various backgrounds, which contributes to a vibrant school atmosphere. With over 2,000 students, the school facilitates numerous activities that enhance community spirit, such as the energetic 体育祭 (sports festival) and 白翔祭 (cultural festival), both of which showcase the students' talents and collaborative spirit. Urawagakuin High School offers a robust international education framework, incorporating an emphasis on English proficiency and global perspectives. In their first year, students engage in a unique languag...Annual tuition fees at Urawagakuin High School range from to , depending on the student’s grade level and program.
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UPBEAT International School
Nagoya, Japan •Co-Education •- from 1.0
- to 12.0 years old
School type: International School - Private SchoolCurriculum: IB Curriculum - IB Primary Years ProgrammeLanguage of instruction: Bilingual - English - JapaneseYearly fee: USD
Foundation: N/ANationalities: N/ANr of students: N/AAuthorized IB World School in Nagoya offering a holistic PYP curriculum for children ages 1-12, with a focus on inquiry and multi-language support.UPBEAT International School offers a comprehensive academic program designed to nurture Global Citizens through a holistic education approach. As an authorized International Baccalaureate (IB) World School, specifically recognized for the Primary Years Programme (PYP), the curriculum adheres to high intellectual standards. It emphasizes strong linguistic abilities, cultural understanding, and tolerance. Starting with children as young as 57 days old and continuing up to 12 years, the school provides a continuum of education aimed at developing inquisitive thinkers capable of examining topics from multiple perspectives. The educational philosophy at UPBEAT focuses on enhancing students' thought processes, expressiveness, ethics, and research skills through a transdisciplinary approach. For...Annual tuition fees at UPBEAT International School range from USD to USD , depending on the student’s grade level and program.
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Tsukinohikari Kokusai Hoikuen/ Moonlight International Preschool
Hatsukaichi, Japan •Co-Education •- from 3.0
- to 19.0 years old
School type: International School - Private SchoolCurriculum: IB Curriculum - IB Primary Years ProgrammeLanguage of instruction: Bilingual - English - JapaneseYearly fee:
Foundation: N/ANationalities: N/ANr of students: N/ABilingual immersion in English and Japanese with an IB PYP curriculum for ages 3-19 in Hatsukaichi, fostering holistic education and cross-cultural respect.Tsukinohikari Kokusai Hoikuen, also known as Moonlight International Preschool, offers a high-quality bilingual education that integrates the Japanese national curriculum with international programs, specifically the International Baccalaureate (IB) Primary Years Programme. This innovative curriculum is designed to promote holistic development and instill a "zest for living" in children, fostering international-mindedness and cross-cultural understanding. The preschool's educational philosophy emphasizes the importance of nurturing children to thrive in an increasingly interconnected global society. The language instruction at Moonlight International Preschool employs an immersive approach, where children learn in both English and Japanese. This "English Immersion Education" focuses not j...Annual tuition fees at Tsukinohikari Kokusai Hoikuen/ Moonlight International Preschool range from to , depending on the student’s grade level and program.
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Tottori Prefectural Kurayoshi Higashi Senior High School
Kurayoshi, Japan •Co-Education •School type: International School - Private SchoolCurriculum: IB Curriculum - IB Diploma ProgrammeLanguage of instruction: Bilingual - English - JapaneseYearly fee:
Foundation: N/ANationalities: N/ANr of students: N/AAuthorized IB World School in Kurayoshi offering the IB Diploma Programme with boarding for all ages and global exchange opportunities.Based on the information I found on Tottori Prefectural Kurayoshi Higashi Senior High School's website, their academic program is both rigorous and exploratory, aimed at fostering well-rounded individuals who are prepared for the complexities of modern society. A significant highlight of their curriculum is their status as an International Baccalaureate (IB) World School, having attained IB Diploma Programme (DP) certification. This recognition indicates that they are dedicated to delivering an international education that not only meets high academic standards but also develops global perspectives among students. In their educational philosophy, the school emphasizes the cultivation of students' abilities to contribute positively to society through career education. Their approach encomp...Annual tuition fees at Tottori Prefectural Kurayoshi Higashi Senior High School range from to , depending on the student’s grade level and program.
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Tokyo Gakugei University International Secondary School
Nerima City, Japan •Co-Education •School type: International School - Private SchoolCurriculum: IB Curriculum - IB Diploma Programme - IB Middle Years ProgrammeLanguage of instruction: Bilingual - English - JapaneseYearly fee:
Foundation: N/ANationalities: N/ANr of students: N/AInterdisciplinary inquiry-based education with IB MYP-DP for all ages in Nerima City, Japan, featuring unique overseas work camps in Thailand and Okinawa.Tokyo Gakugei University International Secondary School (TGUISS) presents a dynamic academic curriculum designed to cultivate global citizens equipped with essential skills for the contemporary world. Their educational philosophy is captured in the acronym "TGUIS," which emphasizes a tolerant, global, unique, interdisciplinary, socially active, and student-oriented approach. The school embraces a diverse student body, fostering an environment where students from various backgrounds learn from each other. This aligns with their goal of helping students acquire global knowledge and enhance communication skills while maintaining a balanced development of knowledge, mind, and body. TGUISS implements the International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme (MYP) for junior high students, which i...Annual tuition fees at Tokyo Gakugei University International Secondary School range from to , depending on the student’s grade level and program.
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Tohoku International School
Sendai, Japan •Co-Education •- from 3.0
- to 18.0 years old
School type: International School - Private SchoolCurriculum: IB Curriculum - IB Diploma Programme - IB Primary Years ProgrammeLanguage of instruction: Bilingual - English - JapaneseYearly fee: from 6,498 to 10,695 USD
Foundation: N/ANationalities: N/ANr of students: N/ATohoku’s only international school in Sendai offers K-12 IB PYP-DP with individualized holistic education for ages 3-18 and strong EAL support.Tohoku International School (TIS) offers a comprehensive academic program from Kindergarten through Grade 12, distinguished as the only international school in the Tohoku region. The curriculum is designed to be rigorous, individualized, and holistic, focusing on the development of critical skills such as critical thinking, research, social interactions, self-management, and communication. TIS aims to cultivate students who excel academically while also developing essential 21st-century competencies, including conflict resolution, ethics, mindfulness, and an appreciation for diverse perspectives. This commitment to holistic education is reflected in both the curriculum and teaching methodologies employed at the school. Beginning with Kindergarten, the TIS program provides an experiential ...Annual tuition fees at Tohoku International School range from USD 6,498 to USD 10,695, depending on the student’s grade level and program.
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Tokyo Gakugei University Oizumi Elementary School
Nerima City, Japan •Co-Education •- from 6.0
- to 12.0 years old
School type: International School - Private SchoolCurriculum: IB Curriculum - IB Primary Years ProgrammeLanguage of instruction: Bilingual - English - JapaneseYearly fee:
Foundation: N/ANationalities: N/ANr of students: N/AJapan’s first national university-affiliated IB World School in Nerima City, offering the IB PYP for ages 6-12 with a focus on experiential learning.Tokyo Gakugei University Oizumi Elementary School is an authorized school for the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Program (IB PYP), having received this distinction in August 2022. This makes it the first elementary school attached to a national university in Japan to achieve this status and only the second public elementary school in the country to be recognized as an IB World School. The IB framework emphasizes a rigorous educational philosophy aimed at developing students into responsible global citizens who can navigate the complexities of the world. The school incorporates inquiry-based learning methodologies, with a strong focus on exploration and critical thinking, which aligns seamlessly with the PYP’s mission. At Oizumi Elementary, the curriculum is designed around the ...Annual tuition fees at Tokyo Gakugei University Oizumi Elementary School range from to , depending on the student’s grade level and program.
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Tokyo Metropolitan Kokusai High School
Meguro City, Japan •Co-Education •School type: International School - Private SchoolCurriculum: IB Curriculum - IB Diploma ProgrammeLanguage of instruction: EnglishYearly fee:
Foundation: N/ANationalities: N/ANr of students: N/AInternational Baccalaureate Diploma Programme school in Meguro City, Japan, offering specialized courses for all ages, including expatriates.Tokyo Metropolitan Kokusai High School offers a unique educational experience through its "Course of International Studies" and the "International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP)." The academic program is designed to provide students with a "rigorous" curriculum that emphasizes not only academic excellence but also international understanding and language proficiency. The curriculum aims to cultivate students who are capable of navigating the complexities of a globalized world. At Kokusai High School, the "Course of International Studies" is tailored for students in their first year, focusing on foundational knowledge and skills across multiple disciplines. Students are exposed to "foreign language education," "international understanding subjects," and "research projects," encoura...Annual tuition fees at Tokyo Metropolitan Kokusai High School range from to , depending on the student’s grade level and program.
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Tamagawa Academy K-12 and University
Tokyo, Japan •Co-Education •- from 11.0
- to 18.0 years old
School type: International School - Private SchoolCurriculum: IB Curriculum - IB Diploma Programme - IB Middle Years ProgrammeLanguage of instruction: EnglishYearly fee: from 12,548 to 13,119 USD
Foundation: N/ANationalities: N/ANr of students: N/AK-12 integrated education with IB MYP-DP for ages 11-18 in Tokyo, enhanced by collaboration with Tamagawa University for global opportunities.Tamagawa Academy K-12 and University offers a comprehensive and integrated educational approach that emphasizes "全人教育" (whole-person education). This philosophy is foundational to the school's curriculum, aiming to cultivate rich personalities and character development from幼稚園 (kindergarten) through高等学校 (high school). The curriculum is meticulously designed to ensure that students acquire the necessary knowledge and skills appropriate for their developmental stages, fostering both academic excellence and personal growth. At the 中学部 (Middle School) level, the curriculum promotes inquiry-based learning and experiential education, encouraging students to identify and address challenges. This approach not only enhances critical thinking but also develops research skills essentia...Annual tuition fees at Tamagawa Academy K-12 and University range from USD 12,548 to USD 13,119, depending on the student’s grade level and program.
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Sunnyside International School
Nagoya, Japan •Co-Education •- from 3.0
- to 11.0 years old
School type: International School - Private SchoolCurriculum: IB Curriculum - IB Primary Years ProgrammeLanguage of instruction: JapaneseYearly fee: from 2,853 to 4,292 USD
Foundation: N/ANationalities: N/ANr of students: N/ASunnyside International School in Nagoya is Japan’s first IB PYP school, nurturing ages 3-11 with a focus on emotional development and Japanese culture.Sunnyside International School is a recognized International Baccalaureate (IB) World School, proudly serving as the first institution in Japan to offer the IB Primary Years Programme (PYP). This innovative curriculum is meticulously designed to cultivate students who are inquisitive and possess a strong sense of international mindedness. Sunnyside emphasizes a transformative educational philosophy that shifts from traditional "teacher-led" learning to a more engaging "student-centered" inquiry-based approach. This framework aims to equip students with essential skills for independent problem-solving and collaboration with individuals from diverse backgrounds, aligning with the school's mission of fostering a better, more peaceful world through understanding and respect for various culture...Annual tuition fees at Sunnyside International School range from USD 2,853 to USD 4,292, depending on the student’s grade level and program.
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Summary
Families are drawn to International Baccalaureate schools in Japan due to their globally recognized curriculum, unique cultural and linguistic immersion, and the focus on developing critical analytical skills. These schools not only prepare students for academic excellence but also for successful integration into a global community, making them highly attractive for families aiming for comprehensive and future-ready education.