Complete Guide to Nishimachi International School

Choosing the right international school in Tokyo is a major decision for expatriate families, diplomats, and globally minded Japanese households. Among the top choices is Nishimachi International School (NIS), a private, non-profit K–9 school located in the heart of Tokyo. Known for its bilingual approach, strong community spirit, and emphasis on internationalism, Nishimachi has earned a reputation as one of Tokyo’s most respected international schools since its founding in 1949.

This guide covers the school’s history, philosophy, curriculum, facilities, admissions, and what parents and students can expect from life at Nishimachi International School.

History and Founding Vision

Nishimachi International School was established shortly after World War II by Tane Matsukata, granddaughter of a Japanese prime minister and daughter of a diplomat. Her vision was to create a school that would foster peace, cultural understanding, and communication between Japanese and international children.

Tane Matsukata was a firm believer in bilingualism and global citizenship, and she infused these values into the foundation of the school. From its beginning, NIS promoted the idea that students should be comfortable navigating both Japanese and international cultures while developing the skills to contribute meaningfully to society.

Today, her legacy remains alive in the school’s mission to cultivate “courage, compassion, and responsibility” in a multicultural learning environment.

Location and Campus

Nishimachi International School is located in Azabu, a prestigious and culturally rich district in central Tokyo. The campus is situated near the Tokyo Tower and the embassy district, providing families with easy access to both city conveniences and cultural experiences.

The school features multiple interconnected buildings, including:

• The Matsukata House: A historic family residence repurposed for school use.

• The Upper Elementary and Middle School buildings: Equipped with science labs, art studios, and modern classrooms.

• The Kindergarten and Lower Elementary facilities: Designed for early childhood education and exploration.

• Gymnasium and outdoor playgrounds: Supporting physical education and extracurricular activities.

• The Media Center and Library: A hub for research, reading, and digital learning.

The school also maintains a campus lodge in the Japanese Alps (Gunma Prefecture), where students participate in outdoor education and cultural immersion programs.

Grade Levels and Student Body

Nishimachi serves students from Kindergarten through Grade 9 (ages 5–15). After Grade 9, students typically transition to other international high schools in Tokyo or abroad, such as ASIJ, St. Mary’s, Seisen, or boarding schools in the U.S. and Europe.

The student body is highly diverse, with over 30 nationalities represented. About half of the students are from international families, while the other half are Japanese families seeking a bilingual and globally focused education. This balanced composition creates a unique environment where cross-cultural friendships and multilingual communication flourish.

Curriculum and Academic Program

Philosophy

The Nishimachi curriculum is built around inquiry-based learning, bilingual fluency, and intercultural understanding. It combines elements of U.S. educational standards with Japanese language instruction and global perspectives.

Core Subjects

• English Language Arts: Reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills developed through literature and creative projects.

• Mathematics: Aligned with U.S. standards, focusing on problem-solving, critical thinking, and application.

• Science: Hands-on experiments, lab work, and projects covering biology, physics, chemistry, and environmental science.

• Social Studies: Emphasizing geography, history, and global citizenship, often integrating Japanese cultural studies.

• Japanese Language: All students study Japanese, regardless of background, with tailored programs for native and non-native speakers.

• The Arts: Music, visual arts, and drama are central to the curriculum, encouraging creativity and self-expression.

• Physical Education: Daily activity and health education, including swimming, athletics, and team sports.

Language Program

One of Nishimachi’s distinguishing features is its dual-language program. Students are expected to achieve fluency in English while also developing proficiency in Japanese. For many families, this bilingual approach is a key attraction, as it allows students to navigate both international and local contexts.

Faculty and Teaching Approach

NIS employs a diverse faculty, with teachers recruited from around the world, including the United States, Japan, the United Kingdom, and other countries. Class sizes are relatively small, averaging 15–20 students, which ensures personalized attention and strong student-teacher relationships.

The teaching approach emphasizes collaboration, inquiry, and experiential learning. Students are encouraged to ask questions, think critically, and apply knowledge to real-world contexts rather than focusing solely on rote memorization.

Extracurricular Activities

Life at Nishimachi goes beyond academics. The school offers a rich selection of extracurricular activities, including:

• Sports Teams: Basketball, soccer, volleyball, track and field, and swimming.

• Clubs and Enrichment: Drama club, orchestra, art club, student council, and robotics.

• Community Service: Students regularly engage in service-learning projects both in Tokyo and abroad.

• Outdoor Education: Programs at the Gunma lodge teach leadership, resilience, and teamwork in natural settings.

These opportunities help students build confidence, develop leadership skills, and explore passions outside the classroom.

School Community and Culture

One of Nishimachi’s strongest features is its close-knit community. With fewer than 500 students, the school fosters an intimate environment where teachers know students by name and parents are actively involved in school life.

Events such as the Food Fair, International Day, and seasonal performances bring families together and celebrate cultural diversity. The parent association plays a key role in building community spirit, organizing fundraisers, and supporting school initiatives.

Admissions

Admission to Nishimachi is competitive but inclusive. The school welcomes applications from families of all nationalities who share its values of internationalism and bilingual education.

Admissions Process

1. Application Form: Submitted online with supporting documents (transcripts, recommendations, passport copy).

2. Assessment: Depending on grade level, students may take English and math assessments.

3. Interview: Students and parents are interviewed to assess fit and readiness.

4. Decision: Admission is offered based on academic ability, English proficiency, and potential to thrive in the school’s multicultural environment.

Applications are accepted year-round, but early submission is recommended due to limited space.

Tuition and Fees

Nishimachi International School is a private, non-profit institution, and tuition reflects its high-quality education and facilities. While fees vary by grade level, families can expect annual costs in the range of:

• Kindergarten: Approx. ¥2,300,000 – ¥2,600,000

• Elementary (Grades 1–5): Approx. ¥2,600,000 – ¥2,900,000

• Middle School (Grades 6–9): Approx. ¥2,900,000 – ¥3,200,000

Additional fees include an application fee, capital fee, and optional expenses for bus service, lunches, and extracurricular programs. Financial aid is limited but available for families in need.

Strengths of Nishimachi International School

• Bilingualism: Strong Japanese program alongside English-medium education.

• Community Feel: Small school size fosters intimacy and close relationships.

• Diversity: Balanced mix of Japanese and international students.

• History and Values: Founded with a mission of peace and international understanding.

• Experiential Learning: Outdoor programs, community service, and cultural immersion.

Challenges and Considerations

• No High School Program: Families must plan for transition after Grade 9.

• Competitive Admission: Limited space means not all applicants are accepted.

• Tuition Costs: High compared to local schools, though typical for Tokyo international schools.

Alumni and Beyond

Nishimachi graduates are well-prepared for further education in both Japan and overseas. Many continue to leading international high schools in Tokyo or boarding schools in the United States and Europe. Alumni often note that their time at NIS instilled confidence, adaptability, and cross-cultural communication skills that serve them throughout life.

Conclusion

Nishimachi International School offers a unique blend of bilingual education, cultural diversity, and community spiritin the heart of Tokyo. With its focus on inquiry-based learning, internationalism, and character development, the school provides an excellent foundation for young learners up to Grade 9.

For families seeking a nurturing, globally minded, and bilingual school environment, Nishimachi stands out as one of the most distinguished international schools in Japan.

FAQs

What is Nishimachi International School, and who is it for?

Nishimachi International School (NIS) is a private, non-profit K–9 international school in central Tokyo. It serves globally minded families—expatriates, diplomats, binational households, and Japanese families—who want a rigorous, inquiry-driven education with strong English instruction and meaningful Japanese language learning. The community is diverse, with many nationalities and a healthy balance of international and local perspectives.

Which grade levels does Nishimachi offer?

Nishimachi provides education from Kindergarten through Grade 9. After Grade 9, students transition to high schools in Tokyo or abroad (e.g., ASIJ, St. Mary’s, Seisen, BST, or boarding schools). The school’s counseling team and teachers help families plan this move well in advance, supporting course selection, recommendations, and application timelines.

What is the school’s educational philosophy?

Nishimachi emphasizes inquiry-based learning, intercultural understanding, and character development. Students are encouraged to ask thoughtful questions, collaborate on authentic tasks, and apply skills to real-world problems. The school’s founding vision—fostering communication and internationalism—remains central to its approach in every grade.

How does the bilingual program work?

English is the main language of instruction. All students also study Japanese, with pathways for both native and non-native speakers. Placement is based on proficiency, and progress is reassessed regularly. The goal is functional bilingualism: students develop academic English while gaining the Japanese language and cultural competencies needed to thrive in Tokyo and beyond.

What curriculum does Nishimachi follow?

The program aligns with high-quality international and U.S.-style standards. Core subjects include English Language Arts, Mathematics, Science, Social Studies, Japanese, the Arts (music, visual art, drama), Design/Technology, and Physical Education. Cross-curricular projects, research, presentations, and service learning reinforce critical thinking and communication skills from early years through middle school.

How big are classes, and what is the teacher profile?

Classes are intentionally small to support individualized attention and strong relationships. Faculty are recruited internationally and locally, bringing varied expertise and training. Teachers collaborate closely, use assessment for learning, and prioritize student wellbeing alongside academic growth.

What kind of support exists for English language learners?

Students who are developing English proficiency receive tailored English as an Additional Language (EAL) support. This may include in-class scaffolding, small-group instruction, and targeted goals monitored through progress checks and conferences. The objective is full participation in the mainstream curriculum while building academic language.

Does Nishimachi support students with learning differences?

Yes. The Student Support team coordinates accommodations for mild to moderate learning needs where appropriate. Support may include strategy instruction, assistive technology, organizational coaching, and collaboration with families and external specialists. Admission decisions consider whether the school can meet a student’s needs effectively within its program.

How are students assessed and reported on?

Assessment blends formative checks (observations, quizzes, drafts, reflections) and summative tasks (projects, performances, unit assessments). Rubrics clarify expectations and success criteria. Families receive regular progress reports, narrative comments, and attend student-led or parent–teacher conferences to review growth, goals, and next steps.

What extracurriculars and after-school activities are offered?

Nishimachi offers a wide range of sports, arts, languages, STEM, and leadership opportunities. Typical options include basketball, soccer, track, orchestra, choir, drama productions, robotics, debate, coding, student council, and community service. Seasonal offerings vary by semester and age group.

What is outdoor and experiential learning at Nishimachi?

Experiential learning is a signature feature. Students participate in field studies across Tokyo and multi-day outdoor programs, including trips to a school-owned lodge in the mountains. These experiences build resilience, teamwork, environmental literacy, and cultural appreciation—extending learning beyond the classroom.

Where is the campus, and what facilities are available?

The campus is in the Azabu area of central Tokyo, convenient to embassies and cultural sites. Facilities typically include age-appropriate classrooms, science labs, art and music rooms, a gymnasium, playgrounds, a library/media center, makerspaces, and collaborative learning areas. Technology is integrated throughout the curriculum with responsible-use guidance.

What are the school hours and calendar?

School days generally run from morning to mid-afternoon, with co-curriculars scheduled before or after school depending on age. The academic year follows a two-semester or trimester structure (August/September to June), including seasonal breaks and public holidays. Families receive a detailed calendar each year with key dates for assessments, trips, and community events.

How does lunch, transport, and safety work?

Students may bring lunch from home or use school-arranged options if available. Some families walk or commute via public transit; others use bicycles or cars. The school upholds robust safeguarding procedures, including secure entry, supervision protocols, emergency drills, and child protection policies that align with international standards.

What is the admissions process?

Applications are accepted year-round, space permitting. Families submit an online form, prior school records, teacher recommendations, and relevant reports. Applicants may complete academic and language assessments and join an interview or visit. Offers consider school fit, program readiness, English proficiency (where relevant), and space availability. Early applications are encouraged for competitive grade levels.

What documents and timelines should families expect?

Typical documents include transcripts, behavior/attendance records, recommendation forms, passport/ID copies, language profiles, and learning support reports if applicable. Rolling decisions are common, but peak application windows precede the new school year. Mid-year entry may be possible depending on vacancies.

How much are tuition and fees?

Tuition is comparable to leading Tokyo international schools and varies by grade. Families should budget for application and enrollment fees, annual tuition, and incidental costs (e.g., activities, materials, trips, transport, lunch). Limited financial assistance may be available; inquire directly for current details and eligibility.

How do families engage with the school community?

Parent involvement is welcomed. A parent association helps organize events such as international fairs, cultural days, performances, and service initiatives. Workshops and information sessions keep families informed about curriculum, wellbeing, digital citizenship, and transition planning. Communication flows through newsletters, portals, and conferences.

What makes Nishimachi different from other Tokyo international schools?

Nishimachi is widely known for its bilingual ethos, intimate community feel, and commitment to experiential learning. The K–9 model lets pre-teens and young adolescents take on leadership without being overshadowed by older high-school cohorts, while the school’s history and values promote empathy, global citizenship, and cultural fluency.

How does the Grade 9 transition work?

Because Nishimachi ends at Grade 9, transition planning is thoughtful and early. Advisors and counseling staff guide families through high school research, entrance criteria, placement tests, and application timelines. Students assemble portfolios, seek teacher recommendations, and practice interview skills to ensure smooth placement in best-fit schools.

Is the school accredited or affiliated with recognized bodies?

Nishimachi maintains recognized accreditation and memberships typical of quality international schools in Japan. Accreditation assures continuous improvement in curriculum, governance, safety, and student learning. Families can request the most current accreditation information during admissions.

How is technology used in learning?

Technology supports creativity, research, design, data analysis, and communication. Students learn to evaluate sources, protect privacy, and use digital tools ethically. Projects might include coding, media production, robotics, and maker challenges—always linked to age-appropriate learning outcomes rather than devices for their own sake.

What does student wellbeing look like?

Wellbeing is woven into daily life through advisory programs, social–emotional learning, inclusive classroom practices, and proactive counseling. The school promotes balanced lifestyles—sleep, nutrition, physical activity—and teaches strategies for organization, stress management, and positive peer relationships.

Does the school offer Japanese culture and community connections?

Yes. The curriculum and co-curricular program leverage Tokyo’s cultural resources: museums, historical sites, businesses, NGOs, and universities. Students engage in service learning and cultural exchanges that deepen their understanding of Japan while situating it within global contexts.

How can prospective families learn more or visit?

Families typically start with an inquiry form and review admissions materials, grade-level overviews, and FAQs. School tours (virtual or on-campus), open houses, and information sessions provide deeper insight into teaching, student work, and community life. Prospective parents are encouraged to bring questions about language pathways, support services, and transitions.

What should families consider when comparing schools?

Key factors include language pathways (especially Japanese), class size, support services, co-curricular breadth, location/commute, transition options after Grade 9, and the school’s culture and values. Visiting classes, speaking with current parents, and reviewing sample units or rubrics can clarify how a school’s mission translates into everyday learning.

Bottom line: Is Nishimachi a good fit for our child?

Nishimachi is an excellent choice for families seeking a warm, rigorous, bilingual K–9 environment that nurtures curiosity, character, and cultural fluency. Students leave confident, collaborative, and ready for the academic and social demands of high school—whether in Tokyo or abroad—carrying forward the school’s core values into the next stage of their education.

Tokyo International School Guide