Schools

With a smaller expat population than some Japanese prefectures, Kumamoto doesn’t have the same depth of international schools that you might find in Tokyo or Osaka. However, you will find a diverse range of educational establishments providing teaching from preschool to college age. Here is a pick of top schools across Kumamoto prefecture. Kumamoto International School Established in 2018, Kumamoto International School (KIS) is the only full international school in Kumamoto prefecture. Located in the Higashi ward, it has quickly established a reputation for excellent teaching. The school provides education at preschool, elementary (primary) and high (secondary/middle) school levels, while taking pupils all the way to college and university level. It delivers the world-renowned International Baccalaureate (IB) program at primary and middle years. Around 30 staff deliver lessons in English, Japanese and Chinese to nearly 200 students, around 20% of whom come from outside Japan. The school follows an active learning philosophy to engage students to the fullest, and there are plenty of extracurricular activities, events and excursions on offer. Tuition fees are 83,000 yen per month (discounted to 49,000 yen per month for second and subsequent children) plus there are costs for enrollment, materials and school maintenance. Lunch and…