Central Tokyo International Schools (Minato, Shibuya, Setagaya)

For international families relocating to Tokyo, one of the most important decisions is choosing the right school. Central Tokyo—particularly Minato, Shibuya, and Setagaya wards—hosts some of the city’s most prestigious international schools. These neighborhoods are highly popular with expat families thanks to their balance of accessibility, international community, and high-quality education options.

This guide provides an in-depth overview of the international schools in these three wards, their features, and what parents should know before enrolling their children.

Why Choose Central Tokyo for International Education?

Minato, Shibuya, and Setagaya stand out as prime locations for international families.

• Proximity to Expat Communities: Minato and Shibuya in particular host many embassies, multinational headquarters, and diplomatic residences. This creates a supportive environment for expats.

• Easy Commuting: Central Tokyo offers convenient access to both residential areas and business districts. Families often prefer to live close to school to minimize travel time for their children.

• Variety of Curricula: From American and British to International Baccalaureate (IB) and Montessori, schools in these wards cover diverse educational approaches.

• Holistic Education: Many schools focus not just on academics but also on extracurricular activities, languages, and cultural exposure.

International Schools in Minato Ward

Minato is Tokyo’s most international ward, home to embassies, global businesses, and luxury housing. Schools here are highly competitive and attract families from all over the world.

1. The American School in Japan (Early Learning Center – Roppongi)

• Curriculum: American-style, with focus on inquiry-based learning

• Grades: Nursery to Kindergarten (ages 3–6)

• Notes: ASIJ’s main campus is in Chofu, but the Early Learning Center in Roppongi provides a convenient option for young learners in central Tokyo.

2. Nishimachi International School

• Curriculum: American-based with strong emphasis on bilingual (English and Japanese) education

• Grades: K–9

• Strengths: Located in Moto-Azabu, Nishimachi is known for fostering multicultural awareness and language proficiency. It is a smaller, community-focused school.

3. Tokyo International School (TIS)

• Curriculum: International Baccalaureate (PYP, MYP)

• Grades: K–9

• Strengths: A leading IB school located in Minami-Azabu. TIS is popular for its strong academic programs, supportive environment, and central location.

4. St. Mary’s International School (Nearby in Setagaya but serving Minato families)

While technically located in Setagaya, many Minato-based families choose St. Mary’s due to its reputation. It offers a U.S. curriculum and IB diploma for boys, with extensive facilities.

International Schools in Shibuya Ward

Shibuya is vibrant and modern, attracting younger international families and entrepreneurs. It also offers access to excellent schooling options.

1. Aoba-Japan International School (Aoba – Shibuya Campus)

• Curriculum: IB (PYP, MYP, DP)

• Grades: Elementary to High School

• Strengths: Known for innovation, technology integration, and global learning. The Shibuya campus is smaller, providing a more intimate learning environment.

2. British School in Tokyo (BST) – Shibuya Campus

• Curriculum: UK National Curriculum, IGCSE, A-Levels

• Grades: Early Years to Sixth Form

• Strengths: Established in 1989, BST offers one of the best British-style educations in Asia. The Shibuya campus hosts younger students, while older students attend the Showa Women’s University campus in Setagaya.

3. United Nations International School of Tokyo (UNIS Tokyo)

• Curriculum: IB (PYP, MYP, DP)

• Grades: K–12

• Strengths: As its name suggests, UNIS promotes cultural diversity and emphasizes global citizenship. Located in Shibuya, it has a strong reputation for inclusivity.

International Schools in Setagaya Ward

Setagaya is more residential compared to Minato and Shibuya. It is Tokyo’s largest ward, offering greener neighborhoods, larger homes, and several prestigious schools.

1. St. Mary’s International School

• Curriculum: U.S.-based with IB Diploma

• Grades: K–12 (boys only)

• Strengths: Located in Futako-Tamagawa, St. Mary’s is one of Tokyo’s oldest and most respected schools. It offers extensive sports programs, arts, and strong academics.

2. Seisen International School

• Curriculum: IB (PYP, MYP, DP)

• Grades: K–12 (girls only)

• Strengths: A Catholic girls’ school with a global reputation. It emphasizes both academic excellence and character development.

3. British School in Tokyo (Showa Campus)

• Curriculum: UK National Curriculum

• Grades: Upper Primary to Secondary

• Strengths: Modern facilities in collaboration with Showa Women’s University, making it convenient for Setagaya families who want a British education.

4. Aoba-Japan International School (Hikarigaoka Campus – nearby)

Although its main campus is not in Setagaya, many Setagaya families consider Aoba for its full IB program and innovative approach.

Admission Process and Competition

• Applications: Most schools require applications well in advance, sometimes a year before enrollment.

• Entrance Assessments: Younger students may undergo interviews or play sessions, while older students sit for academic tests.

• Waiting Lists: Popular schools in Minato and Shibuya often have long waiting lists, so early planning is crucial.

• Tuition Fees: Annual tuition can range from ¥2,000,000 to ¥3,500,000, depending on the grade and school. Additional costs include enrollment fees, building fees, transportation, and extracurriculars.

How to Choose the Right School

When comparing options, parents should consider:

1. Curriculum Compatibility: If your family moves frequently, IB schools may offer smoother transitions. If you plan on university in the U.S. or U.K., consider American or British schools.

2. Location and Commute: Daily commuting in Tokyo can be challenging. Proximity matters, especially for younger children.

3. Community Fit: Some schools are more academically rigorous, while others emphasize creativity, bilingualism, or holistic development.

4. Extracurricular Opportunities: Sports, arts, and after-school programs vary widely.

5. Language Support: Many schools provide English as an Additional Language (EAL) support to help non-native speakers.

Life Around These Schools

• Minato: Upscale neighborhoods such as Azabu, Roppongi, and Hiroo are walking distance to many schools. They offer embassies, international supermarkets, and family-friendly parks.

• Shibuya: Trendy yet residential pockets like Daikanyama and Ebisu provide both urban excitement and quiet living.

• Setagaya: Areas like Futako-Tamagawa and Yoga provide more space, greenery, and larger homes, ideal for families with children.

Conclusion

For expat families in Tokyo, Minato, Shibuya, and Setagaya offer the best combination of quality education, international community, and convenient living. From IB and British curricula to American and bilingual approaches, parents have access to world-class schools.

The key is to research early, understand each school’s culture and curriculum, and match it with your family’s priorities. Whether you value a strong academic track, bilingual development, or a well-rounded community atmosphere, central Tokyo has an international school to meet your needs.

FAQs

What are the main international school options in Minato, Shibuya, and Setagaya?

Central Tokyo offers a concentrated mix of well-established international schools. In Minato, families often look at Tokyo International School (IB PYP/MYP), Nishimachi International School (U.S.-based, bilingual emphasis), and the ASIJ Early Learning Center in Roppongi (pre-K/K). In Shibuya, options include the British School in Tokyo’s Shibuya campus (UK curriculum for younger years), Aoba-Japan International School (IB continuum across multiple campuses), and UNIS Tokyo (IB). Setagaya is known for St. Mary’s International School (boys; U.S. curriculum with IB Diploma), Seisen International School (girls; IB), and the British School in Tokyo’s Showa campus for upper primary and secondary. Each school differs in curriculum, size, admissions timelines, and campus culture.

How do the curricula (IB, American, British) compare for university preparation?

The IB Diploma Programme is widely recognized by universities worldwide and emphasizes inquiry, research skills, and balanced subject breadth. U.S.-based programs often include Advanced Placement (AP) or strong college counseling toward North American universities. British pathways (IGCSEs followed by A-Levels) are highly regarded for depth in chosen subjects, which can be advantageous for targeted degrees in the UK, Europe, and beyond. For families with frequent relocations, the IB’s international consistency can be a strategic advantage. However, if your child already has a clear destination (e.g., UK medicine or U.S. engineering), the British or American pathway may align more directly with admissions expectations.

When should we start the application process?

Begin 9–12 months ahead of your preferred start date. Many central Tokyo schools operate rolling admissions but still run waitlists—especially in popular grades. For August starts, shortlisting in autumn, attending open days in winter, and submitting complete applications by late winter or early spring helps. If you are relocating mid-year, contact admissions as soon as a move is likely; some schools can accommodate off-cycle starts if space and assessment windows permit.

What does a typical admissions assessment involve?

Early years and lower primary usually include a play-based observation and a short language readiness or school readiness check. Upper primary and secondary may involve standardized reading/writing assessments, mathematics diagnostics, and an interview (in person or online). Recommendation letters and previous school records are standard. Schools use these inputs to ensure placement supports both the student and the existing cohort.

How competitive are places and which grades are the hardest to enter?

Competition fluctuates, but entry points with the tightest availability are often kindergarten, Grade 1, Grade 6, and Grade 9 (or Year 7/Year 10 in the UK system), due to cohort size changes and program transitions. Siblings may receive priority but are not guaranteed seats. Families with flexibility on start dates or with younger children often have more options. Maintain a short list of two or three viable schools to hedge against waitlists.

What are typical tuition fees and additional costs?

Annual tuition commonly ranges from the low to mid-¥2,000,000s to mid-¥3,000,000s, depending on grade and school. Expect additional charges: application and enrollment fees, building or capital levies, technology fees, transportation (school bus or public transit), uniforms (for British programs and some others), lunches, trips, and extracurriculars. Many employers include school fees in relocation packages; if so, clarify which line items are covered and how reimbursements work.

How should we decide among schools beyond curriculum labels?

Consider four lenses: fit, commute, support, and opportunity. Fit includes school size, classroom culture, and values (e.g., single-sex vs. coeducational, faith-based vs. secular). Commute time matters: a 20-minute door-to-door journey can feel very different from 50 minutes on crowded lines. Support includes EAL/ELL, learning support, and counseling. Opportunity refers to arts, sports, service learning, and leadership platforms. Tour campuses where possible; observe transitions, common areas, and how staff interact with students.

What commute times are realistic in central Tokyo with children?

For younger learners, aim for 15–30 minutes each way when possible. Central wards offer dense transit networks, but transfers and peak-hour crowding add stress. Many schools run buses covering popular residential clusters (Hiroo, Azabu, Daikanyama, Ebisu, Futako-Tamagawa). If you will rely on public transit, practice the route during real commute hours before deciding on housing. Living near the same train line as the school (even if farther in distance) can be more efficient than multiple transfers.

Do schools offer English as an Additional Language (EAL) and learning support?

Most international schools in these wards provide tiered EAL support, especially at the primary level. Provision narrows in upper secondary because of academic pace and exam requirements (IB/A-Levels/AP). Learning support teams commonly offer accommodations, small-group interventions, and external referral pathways. Ask about: screening processes, pull-out vs. push-in models, how progress is measured, and any additional fees. Share previous reports early so teams can prepare an accurate support plan.

What should non-English-speaking parents expect for communication and community?

School communication is primarily in English, but many parent associations are multilingual, and Japanese-language notices may be available for operational matters. Community building is strong in these wards: welcome coffees, grade-level chats, cultural fairs, sports days, and volunteering are common. Joining parent networks helps with practical Tokyo life (healthcare, childcare, after-school classes, camps, and housing tips) and accelerates your family’s settling-in process.

How do extracurriculars and facilities vary among schools?

Facilities differ by campus footprint. Urban campuses may stack facilities vertically and partner with external venues for sports, while larger Setagaya sites can offer expansive fields, pools, theaters, and design labs. Program breadth typically grows in secondary school: Model UN, robotics, coding, orchestras, choirs, performing arts, debate, community service, and competitive athletics are common. Ask schools for recent activity lists, participation rates, and travel commitments for tournaments or festivals.

What about language learning—can my child learn Japanese meaningfully?

Yes. Most schools offer Japanese language tracks with placement by proficiency, from beginner to near-native. Progress depends on weekly contact hours, curriculum rigor, and opportunities to use Japanese beyond class. Seek programs that combine reading/writing (kanji progression) with communicative practice. If language is a priority, ask about content-based Japanese classes, cultural immersion, local partnerships, and how native/heritage speakers are extended beyond basic coursework.

How transferable are credits or qualifications if we move again?

IB PYP/MYP records, IGCSEs, A-Levels, AP scores, and U.S. transcripts are broadly portable. For mid-program moves, collect detailed syllabi, reading lists, and coursework exemplars to smooth placement. If there’s a chance of switching between systems (e.g., from U.S. middle school to IGCSEs), consult admissions early to plan prerequisite coverage (math pathways, science sequences, second languages). Keeping consistent documentation prevents gaps and accelerates scheduling at the next school.

What housing strategies pair well with school selection?

Shortlist neighborhoods aligned with your child’s school line first, then evaluate housing. In Minato, areas like Hiroo, Azabu, and Roppongi offer proximity to several schools and international amenities. Shibuya’s Daikanyama, Ebisu, and Hiroo (bordering) blend walkability with community feel. In Setagaya, Futako-Tamagawa, Yoga, and Sangen-Jaya provide more space with good access. If you expect early or late activities, living within a quick bus route or direct train ride reduces logistical friction significantly.

How do we evaluate student wellbeing and pastoral care?

Ask about counselor-to-student ratios, homeroom or tutor systems, anti-bullying protocols, and digital wellbeing education. Strong schools articulate clear escalation pathways, regular advisory curricula, and proactive communication with families. Review sample homeroom advisory topics (study skills, social dynamics, online safety) and how new students are inducted—buddy systems and orientation weeks can make a noticeable difference in the first term.

What is a realistic decision workflow for relocating families?

1. Define constraints: Target curriculum(s), budget, and commute ceiling.
2. Create a short list: 3–4 schools matching your child’s stage and interests.
3. Engage admissions: Share reports and ask about space, assessments, and support.
4. Visit or attend virtual tours: Observe culture, facilities, and logistics.
5. Apply strategically: Submit complete documents to two or more suitable options.
6. Align housing: Choose neighborhoods that minimize commute and maximize routine stability.

Any final tips to smooth the transition?

Build buffer time around the move for uniform purchases, bus registration, device setup, and medical forms. Encourage your child to join one or two activities early to form friendships. Keep close contact with homeroom teachers and counselors during the first six weeks. Finally, remember that fit beats prestige: the “best” school is the one where your child feels known, supported, and appropriately challenged within a commute and community that work for your family.

Tokyo International School Guide