Finding Preschool and Daycare in Tokyo: A Guide to Hoikuen and Yochien

Introduction

One of the most important decisions for parents living in Tokyo is selecting the right early childhood education and care for their child. Whether you’re a working parent seeking reliable full-time care, or looking for a preschool that prepares your child for elementary school, Tokyo offers a wide variety of daycare centers (hoikuen) and kindergartens (yochien) to meet diverse needs.

This guide will walk you through the differences between hoikuen and yochien, how to apply, what documents are required, what the daily routine looks like, and what options are best for international or bilingual families.

1. Overview: Hoikuen vs. Yochien

In Japan, early childhood education is broadly divided into two categories:

Hoikuen

• Focuses on childcare rather than structured education.

• Available for working or studying parents.

• Open 8–11 hours per day, including early and late options.

• Meals are provided.

Yochien

• Prepares children for elementary school with a learning-oriented environment.

• For all families, regardless of employment status.

• Typically operates 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM.

• Often requires bento (lunchbox) from home.

2. Choosing Between Hoikuen and Yochien

Choose Hoikuen if:

• Both parents are working, studying, or on maternity leave.

• You need extended care, especially during school vacations.

• Your priority is safe and nurturing full-day care.

Choose Yochien if:

• One parent is a full-time homemaker.

• You want structured early childhood education.

• You can manage a shorter day and prepare lunch.

Some schools are hybrids, known as “Nintei Kodomoen” (認定こども園) — offering both education and daycare under one roof.

3. Types of Preschools and Daycares in Tokyo

1. Public Hoikuen

• Managed by local governments.

• Prioritized for working families based on a point system.

• Affordable and reliable, but highly competitive.

2. Private Hoikuen (認可保育園 / 認証保育所)

• Government-approved but privately operated.

• Similar fees to public, but more flexible in admissions and hours.

3. Unlicensed Daycares (無認可保育所)

• Privately run and not regulated by the government.

• Easier to enter but more expensive and varied in quality.

4. Yochien (Private Kindergarten)

• Tuition-based.

• Offers classes in art, music, physical education.

• Some are faith-based or follow Montessori/Reggio Emilia models.

5. International/Bilingual Preschools

• Use English or a bilingual approach.

• Cater to expat, returnee, and multicultural families.

• Tuition is higher but often include long hours and enrichment activities.

4. Admission Process for Hoikuen

When to Apply:

• Applications typically open in October or November for entry the following April.

• Some wards allow rolling admission if spots are available.

Eligibility:

• You must live in the same ward where you apply.

• Both parents must demonstrate “need for childcare”, such as:

  • Full-time or part-time employment

  • Job hunting

  • Pregnancy or postpartum recovery

  • Illness or caregiving responsibilities

Required Documents:

• Application form (available at the city ward office)

• Proof of employment (tax slips, employer letter, etc.)

• Resident registration (juminhyo)

• Mother and child health handbook (boshi techo)

• Health and vaccination forms

Point System:

• Points are assigned based on parents’ work hours, household structure, and special circumstances.

• Single-parent households, dual-income families, or those with medical needs may get priority.

5. Admission Process for Yochien

When to Apply:

• Applications begin around October for the following school year (starting in April).

• Unlike hoikuen, many yochien require an interview and sometimes an observation or assessment.

What to Prepare:

• Application form and registration fee

• Parent-child interview

• Basic health and immunization records

• Sometimes, uniforms and supply kits are sold at orientation

Waiting Lists:

• Popular kindergartens often have limited spots.

• First-come, first-served policies apply in some schools.

6. Daily Routine in Hoikuen and Yochien

Hoikuen Schedule Example:

Yochien Schedule Example:

7. Language Considerations for Foreign Families

If you or your child don’t speak Japanese fluently:

• Some hoikuen accept children with no Japanese, especially if parents commit to learning the language.

• Yochien generally expect some Japanese, though some are more flexible.

• International preschools are the best option for English-speaking families but can be costly.

Tip: Ask if staff speak English or if communication apps (like LINE with translation) are used.

8. Notable International and Bilingual Preschools in Tokyo

Here are a few reputable names:

9. Costs and Subsidies

Hoikuen (Public/Certified Private):

• Based on household income

• Monthly fees range from ¥0 to ¥70,000/month per child

• Reduced fees for lower-income or multi-child households

Yochien:

• Tuition from ¥20,000–¥60,000/month

• Uniform, supply, and activity fees extra

International Preschools:

• ¥80,000–¥200,000/month

• Application and enrollment fees apply

Government Support:

• “Free preschool education” policy covers up to ¥37,000/month for 3–5-year-olds at approved schools

• Additional local subsidies may apply (check with your ward)

10. How to Search for Schools

Online Directories:

• Hoiku-shien.jp (Japanese)

• Tokyo Metropolitan Government Childcare Search

• Expat.com Forums and Tokyo Urban Baby

Visit and Tour:

• Many preschools host open houses in September–October

• Always check environment, safety, meals, teacher-child ratios

Questions to Ask:

• What is the teacher-to-child ratio?

• How do you handle illness or emergencies?

• Is there an English-speaking staff member?

• Are meals provided or must I bring lunch?

• What is the disciplinary philosophy?

11. Alternatives and Short-Term Solutions

• Ninsho Hoikuen (認証保育所): More flexible, especially for babies under 1 year

• Baby hotels / Drop-in centers: Hourly daycare, ideal for short-term needs

• Shared offices with childcare (Work + Play spaces): Growing in Tokyo’s startup and expat communities

• Au pairs or babysitters: Limited availability; requires private arrangement

12. Tips for a Smooth Transition

• Talk positively about school ahead of time

• Visit the school beforehand

• Label all belongings clearly in Japanese

• Prepare for tears in the first week—it’s normal!

• Communicate regularly with teachers, even with limited language

Conclusion

Finding the right preschool or daycare in Tokyo is a process that takes time, research, and sometimes persistence. Whether you choose a public hoikuen, a structured yochien, or an international preschool, there are options to match every family’s schedule, budget, and educational goals.

Plan early, visit potential schools, and don’t hesitate to ask questions. Your child’s early years are not just about learning ABCs—but also about building confidence, communication skills, and community.