Resources for Homeschooling in Tokyo

A Complete Guide for Parents Navigating Alternative Education in Japan

Introduction

Homeschooling is a growing educational path for families in Tokyo. While Japan has a deeply rooted public education system and strong societal norms around school attendance, an increasing number of parents—both Japanese and international—are turning to homeschooling or unschooling to meet their children’s unique academic, emotional, or cultural needs.

In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about homeschooling in Tokyo: its legality, the reasons families choose it, how to get started, support networks, curriculum options, and access to extracurricular resources.

1. Is Homeschooling Legal in Japan?

The Legal Landscape

Japan does not have a clear legal framework for homeschooling. Education is compulsory for children aged 6 to 15 (Grades 1 to 9), but the law focuses on the child’s “right” to education rather than physical school attendance. Because of this ambiguity:

• Homeschooling is not officially recognized, but also not prohibited.

• Parents who homeschool are sometimes listed as “Fushugaku” (不就学), or “non-attending.”

• Local Boards of Education may contact homeschooling families to offer support or monitor welfare.

While homeschooling is more common among expat families, Japanese families who homeschool may face more pressure from local officials or relatives.

2. Why Families Choose Homeschooling in Tokyo

Common Reasons Include:

• Bullying or school trauma (いじめ)

• Neurodiversity or special learning needs (e.g., ASD, ADHD, giftedness)

• Language/cultural mismatch for international children

• Desire for personalized or alternative curriculum

• Philosophical approaches like Montessori, Waldorf, or unschooling

• Temporary stays (short-term expats)

• Global mobility, where children attend multiple schools worldwide

In Tokyo, these motivations often converge in multicultural families or returnee households seeking flexibility and emotional safety.

3. Types of Homeschooling Approaches

Homeschooling in Tokyo isn’t one-size-fits-all. Families may choose:

Many families experiment and combine methods depending on the child’s age and interests.

4. How to Get Started with Homeschooling in Tokyo

Step 1: Notify Your Local School (Optional but Recommended)

While not legally required, many families submit a “non-attendance notice” (登校しない届出) to their zoned public school or Board of Education. This helps clarify your educational intentions and may reduce pressure from school staff.

Step 2: Choose Your Curriculum

Consider your child’s:

• Age and grade level

• Language proficiency

• Learning goals (e.g., returning to local school, overseas university)

• Preferred learning style

You can select a structured curriculum, use a mix of resources, or follow a project-based approach.

Step 3: Set Up Your Learning Environment

• Designate a quiet study area

• Stock up on supplies (books, printer, whiteboard, etc.)

• Create a flexible but consistent daily routine

Step 4: Join a Homeschooling Network

Connection is key. Peer support, co-ops, and playgroups enrich the learning journey.

5. Curriculum Options for Homeschoolers in Tokyo

International Curricula

• Calvert Education (U.S.-based K–8)

• Oak Meadow (Waldorf-inspired)

• Time4Learning (U.S. online curriculum)

• Wolsey Hall Oxford (UK-based, IGCSE and A-level)

• Bridgeway Academy (Customizable U.S. program)

Open Educational Resources (Free)

• Khan Academy: Math, science, humanities

• BBC Bitesize: UK national curriculum

• Duolingo: Language learning

• National Geographic Kids: Science and geography

Japanese Supplementals

• Z-Kai or Shinken Zemi (進研ゼミ): For children integrating back into Japanese school

• Gakken Workbooks: Widely available at bookstores

• Soramame.net: Japanese homeschooling support site

6. Homeschooling Support Groups in Tokyo

Building community is critical for homeschooling success. These groups offer:

• Social events

• Group learning sessions

• Curriculum sharing

• Parental support

Notable Communities:

• Tokyo Homeschool Network (THN) – Long-standing expat group

• Tokyo Unschooling Circle – Facebook-based support for alternative learning

• Secular Homeschoolers Japan – Inclusive, non-religious group

• Worldschoolers Japan – Families learning through global exploration

• Japanese Homeschooling Meetup (ホームスクーリングの会) – Limited English support, mostly Japanese families

Most groups coordinate through Facebook, LINE, or Meetup.com.

7. Using After-School and Community Resources

Homeschoolers can access a range of outside programs:

a. Municipal Services

• Community centers (公民館) offer free or low-cost classes

• Public libraries provide reading corners, book clubs, and events

• Local sports teams and music classes are often open to non-school attendees

b. After-School Enrichment

• Coding labs (Tokyo Coding Club)

• English conversation (Eikaiwa) schools

• Art, music, and sports studios

• Juku or cram schools: Available for part-time academic support

c. International Programs

• YMCA Tokyo: Offers English programs and youth activities

• Tokyo International Progressive School (TIPS): Flexible part-time attendance

• Berlitz Kids: Language training for homeschoolers

8. Homeschooling and Special Needs (発達障害の子の自宅学習)

For neurodiverse children, homeschooling often provides the flexibility and individualized attention lacking in conventional classrooms.

Support resources include:

• Tokyo Autism Support Group

• Developmental Pediatricians at St. Luke’s or Nisseki Hospital

• Online therapies and learning platforms

• Occupational therapists (OTs) and speech-language therapists (SLPs)

Parents can apply for Jidō Teate (child allowance) and possibly disability-related subsidies even when homeschooling.

9. High School and University Admissions

For Japanese Schools:

• Homeschooling students can sit for Entrance Exams (中学・高校受験) if they meet age and exam requirements.

• Some public correspondence high schools (通信制高校) allow flexible enrollment from Grade 9 onwards.

• National Center for University Entrance Exams (共通テスト) is open to eligible non-traditional students.

For Overseas Universities:

• Homeschool transcripts and portfolios are widely accepted.

• International curricula (IGCSE, A-levels, or AP) are recommended.

• SAT/ACT or IELTS/TOEFL may be required.

10. Homeschooling Challenges and Solutions

11. Tips for Successful Homeschooling in Tokyo

• Stay organized with a portfolio of learning (assignments, photos, journals)

• Incorporate Japanese culture (festivals, museum visits, calligraphy)

• Create a rhythm, not a strict schedule

• Allow breaks—learning is not 9 to 3

• Celebrate progress, even if it’s not measured by tests

12. Real Stories: Voices from the Tokyo Homeschooling Community

“We chose homeschooling because our bilingual child struggled in a monolingual classroom. Now she thrives, switching between English books and Japanese nature walks.”
— Mika & Sam, Meguro Ward

“We started during COVID but never looked back. The flexibility lets us travel and explore as a family.”
— The Nakamura Family, homeschooling in Setagaya

“Juku plus part-time homeschooling worked for our son with ASD. He studies math online and attends music therapy weekly.”
— Kaori, Suginami Ward

Conclusion

Homeschooling in Tokyo is an empowering, though sometimes unconventional, choice. Whether you’re opting out of the mainstream system temporarily or committing for the long haul, Tokyo offers rich resources, vibrant communities, and growing acceptance of alternative education.

With a thoughtful plan, legal awareness, and community support, homeschooling in Tokyo can be not only possible—but profoundly rewarding.