Complete Guide to Christian Academy in Japan (CAJ)

Christian Academy in Japan (CAJ) is one of the most established international schools in Tokyo, known for its strong academic programs, Christian values, and diverse student community. Founded in 1950, CAJ has served generations of students, particularly children of expatriate families, missionaries, and local residents seeking an English-language education. Located in Higashi Kurume, a suburb in western Tokyo, CAJ provides a holistic education rooted in faith, learning, and global citizenship.

This guide offers an in-depth overview of CAJ’s history, curriculum, facilities, community, and admissions process to help families determine if it is the right choice for their child.

History and Background

Christian Academy in Japan was established in the post-World War II era to serve missionary families living in Japan. Over the decades, it has expanded to welcome students from a wide range of backgrounds, while maintaining its core mission of providing a Christ-centered education.

The school’s vision is to equip students to serve God and others, and its motto emphasizes truth, love, and service. While CAJ is distinctly Christian, it is open to families from diverse faith traditions who value its educational philosophy.

Location and Campus

CAJ is located in Higashi Kurume, Tokyo, about 25 minutes by train from Ikebukuro. The suburban setting provides a balance of accessibility and a safe, green environment for students.

The campus spans several acres and includes:

• Classroom buildings for elementary, middle, and high school.

• Media and technology centers with modern resources.

• Science laboratories equipped for hands-on learning.

• Music, art, and drama rooms supporting creative education.

• Athletic facilities, including a gymnasium, soccer field, baseball diamond, and tennis courts.

• Chapel and multipurpose spaces for worship, assemblies, and events.

Academics and Curriculum

Elementary School (Grades K–5)

The elementary program focuses on foundational literacy, numeracy, and critical thinking. Bible studies, music, art, and physical education complement core subjects. Teachers emphasize inquiry-based learning and character development.

Middle School (Grades 6–8)

Students transition to a departmentalized structure with subject specialists. English, mathematics, science, and social studies form the academic core, alongside Bible classes and electives in arts and technology.

High School (Grades 9–12)

CAJ’s high school program prepares students for university studies worldwide. The curriculum includes:

• Advanced math and science courses.

• Humanities courses including history, literature, and social sciences.

• Bible and theology courses.

• A range of electives such as computer science, performing arts, and design.

• Advanced Placement (AP) courses in subjects like calculus, biology, chemistry, economics, and English.

The school also encourages project-based learning, community service, and leadership opportunities.

Accreditation and University Placement

Christian Academy in Japan is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) and the Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI). These accreditations ensure rigorous academic standards and smooth transitions for students moving between international schools or applying to universities.

Graduates of CAJ attend universities in Japan, North America, Europe, and beyond. The school’s college counseling program helps students navigate applications, standardized testing, and future planning.

Spiritual Life

As a Christian school, CAJ integrates faith into daily life. Bible classes are part of the curriculum at all grade levels, and students regularly attend chapel services. Teachers, many of whom are Christians themselves, model values of compassion, integrity, and service.

At the same time, students from non-Christian backgrounds are welcomed and respected. The school emphasizes inclusivity while maintaining its faith-based ethos.

Extracurricular Activities

CAJ offers a broad range of extracurricular programs to foster students’ talents and interests.

Sports

CAJ is a member of the Kanto Plains Association of Secondary Schools (KPASS) and competes with other international schools in Tokyo and Yokohama. Sports include:

• Soccer

• Basketball

• Volleyball

• Baseball/Softball

• Track and Field

• Tennis

Arts and Music

Students can participate in choir, orchestra, band, and theater productions. The school hosts annual concerts, art shows, and drama performances.

Clubs and Leadership

CAJ encourages leadership development through student council, Model United Nations (MUN), service clubs, and other student-led initiatives.

Community and Diversity

CAJ serves a student body of around 500 students from kindergarten through grade 12. Families come from more than 25 nationalities, with a significant portion connected to missionary and expatriate communities.

The school community is tight-knit, with active parent involvement, regular community events, and a collaborative atmosphere between students, teachers, and families.

Admissions

Eligibility

CAJ admits students who can benefit from an English-language, college-preparatory, Christian-based education. Proficiency in English is important, especially for middle and high school applicants.

Process

1. Online application submission.

2. Academic records and recommendation letters.

3. English proficiency assessment (when necessary).

4. Family interview.

5. Admissions decision.

Tuition and Fees

Tuition varies by grade level and is competitive with other international schools in Tokyo. Financial aid may be available for missionary families and those with demonstrated need.

Strengths of CAJ

• Longstanding reputation as a Christian international school.

• Strong academic programs with AP courses.

• Emphasis on spiritual growth and service.

• Vibrant extracurricular offerings.

• Supportive community and small-school feel.

• Accredited and globally recognized curriculum.

Challenges to Consider

• Location in Higashi Kurume may be less convenient for families living in central Tokyo.

• As a Christian school, religious instruction is integrated, which may not align with all families’ preferences.

• The student body size is smaller than some larger international schools, which may affect program variety in certain areas.

Conclusion

Christian Academy in Japan offers a unique blend of rigorous academics, Christian values, and a supportive international community. For families seeking a Christ-centered education in Tokyo with strong academic preparation and a nurturing environment, CAJ is an excellent option.

Its history, community spirit, and commitment to holistic development make it one of Tokyo’s most respected international schools. Families considering international education in Japan will find CAJ to be a school where students not only learn but also grow in character, faith, and service.

FAQs

What is Christian Academy in Japan (CAJ) and who is it for?

Christian Academy in Japan (CAJ) is a long-established international, college-preparatory school in western Tokyo that delivers an English-medium education within a Christian worldview. It primarily serves children of expatriate professionals, missionaries, and globally minded local families who seek rigorous academics anchored in Christian values such as truth, compassion, and service. CAJ welcomes applicants who affirm the school’s mission and educational philosophy, including non-Christian families who appreciate a faith-informed learning environment and a close-knit, diverse community.

Where is the campus located and what is the surrounding area like?

CAJ is located in Higashi Kurume, a suburban city in western Tokyo. The area offers a calm, residential atmosphere with parks and neighborhood amenities while maintaining access to the city’s wider rail network. Families often value the green, spacious campus setting for athletics and outdoor play. Commute times vary by neighborhood; many families combine train lines with a short walk, bicycle ride, or bus connection to reach the campus comfortably.

Which grade levels does CAJ serve, and how is the school organized?

CAJ serves students from early elementary through high school (K–12). Instructional divisions typically include elementary (K–5), middle school (6–8), and high school (9–12). The school emphasizes strong foundations in literacy and numeracy in the elementary years, a smooth transition to subject-specialist teaching in middle school, and a university-preparatory program with broad electives and advanced courses in high school. Advisory, homeroom, and counseling structures help students feel known across sections.

What curriculum does CAJ follow and how does faith integrate with academics?

CAJ delivers an American-style, standards-aligned curriculum taught in English, including mathematics, sciences, English language arts, social studies, world languages, and the arts. Bible courses and regular chapel gatherings nurture spiritual formation, while teachers model a whole-child approach that connects character, inquiry, and scholarship. In practice, faith integration looks like reflective discussion, ethical reasoning in projects, and service-learning that links classroom knowledge with real-world responsibility.

Does CAJ offer Advanced Placement (AP) or other advanced coursework?

Yes. High school students can typically select from a range of AP courses in subjects such as calculus, the sciences, English, and social sciences, subject to annual offerings and student demand. The AP pathway allows motivated learners to experience college-level rigor and potentially earn credit or advanced standing at universities. Students work closely with counselors and teachers to sequence prerequisites, balance workloads, and pursue depth in areas of interest.

How does CAJ support English language learners (EAL) and diverse learning needs?

CAJ admits students who can benefit from an English-medium program and provides targeted support for learners who need additional language development. Support may include small-group instruction, language labs, or in-class scaffolds coordinated with mainstream teachers. For other learning needs, the school aims to provide reasonable accommodations and collaborative planning, recognizing that resources are finite. Families should share documentation early so the school can determine an appropriate support plan before enrollment.

What is the typical class size and student-to-teacher experience?

Class sizes at CAJ are designed to balance healthy peer interaction with attentive instruction. While exact numbers vary by grade and course, the school prioritizes a student-centered environment where teachers can provide feedback, differentiate tasks, and build relationships. The community’s scale fosters visibility—students are known by name, and faculty collaborate across departments to monitor progress, celebrate growth, and step in proactively when additional support is needed.

Which extracurricular opportunities are available?

CAJ offers a wide array of extracurriculars that encourage students to explore talent, leadership, and teamwork. Competitive athletics commonly include soccer, basketball, volleyball, tennis, baseball/softball, track and field, and more through interschool leagues in the Kanto region. The arts program features choir, band, orchestra, visual arts, and theater productions. Beyond these, clubs may span service, robotics, coding, debate, Model United Nations, student government, and special-interest groups launched by student initiative.

How does the school approach spiritual life and inclusivity?

Spiritual life at CAJ includes Bible classes, chapel, mentoring, and service opportunities. The school articulates a clear Christian identity while maintaining a respectful, welcoming posture toward students of all backgrounds. Classroom dialogue encourages questions and critical thinking; students are invited—not coerced—to engage with big ideas about meaning, ethics, and purpose. Families who share the school’s aspirations for character formation often find the ethos to be both grounding and liberating.

What does college counseling look like, and where do graduates matriculate?

College counseling typically begins well before the senior year through information sessions, course-planning guidance, and individual meetings. Counselors help students develop a balanced list, prepare application materials, and understand testing and financial considerations. Graduates pursue universities in Japan, the United States, Canada, Europe, and beyond, reflecting the school’s international profile. Alumni pathways range across STEM, business, social sciences, arts, and ministry, with emphasis on fit, calling, and readiness.

How do admissions work—what are the main steps and timelines?

Most applicants complete an online application and submit report cards, recommendations, a statement of purpose, and language assessments when required. Younger students may do readiness screenings; older students often sit for English proficiency checks and math placement. Rolling or seasonal timelines may apply; spaces can be limited at popular entry points. Families are encouraged to apply early, provide complete documentation, and respond promptly to interview and testing invitations.

What level of English proficiency do applicants need?

Because instruction is delivered in English, applicants—especially from middle school onward—should demonstrate sufficient proficiency to access grade-level content. Evidence can include prior schooling in English, standardized test scores, or school-based assessments. Where the school deems potential plus manageable support needs, conditional admissions may be considered. Families should be candid about language history so the school can plan supports that set students up for success.

What should families budget for tuition and fees?

Tuition and fees vary by grade and year and generally align with international-school norms in Tokyo. In addition to tuition, families should budget for application fees, an enrollment deposit, technology or course materials, uniforms (if applicable), co-curricular fees, and transportation. Limited financial assistance may be available—especially for mission-aligned families—based on demonstrated need. Always consult the school’s current fee schedule and aid policies when planning.

Is transportation provided, and what are common commute patterns?

Most families use public transportation, cycling, or private drop-off/pick-up. Some neighborhoods organize ride shares, and older students may commute independently by train. Because proximity and transfers affect total travel time, it’s wise to rehearse the route during typical school hours and in inclement weather. The admissions team can often suggest common commute options from major hubs to help new families plan a safe, predictable routine.

What is the daily schedule and annual calendar like?

CAJ follows a standard international-school calendar, generally beginning in late summer or early autumn and concluding in late spring or early summer, with breaks around Christmas/New Year and spring. The daily schedule includes core academic blocks, arts/PE, advisory or homeroom time, and chapel on designated days. High schoolers rotate through subject periods aligned to credit requirements. Specific bell schedules and term dates are published each year for planning.

How are technology and digital citizenship handled?

Students use age-appropriate devices and platforms to research, create, and collaborate. Teachers integrate technology intentionally—coding, multimedia projects, data analysis, and design thinking complement core literacy and numeracy. Alongside skills, students learn digital citizenship: evaluating sources, managing screen time, practicing academic integrity, and communicating responsibly online. Families partner with the school to maintain healthy habits at home and school.

Does CAJ require uniforms, and what is the approach to student conduct?

Dress expectations aim for neatness, safety, and suitability for learning. Whether or not a formal uniform is required may vary by division and year; families should consult current guidelines. The conduct framework emphasizes restorative practices, clear boundaries, and growth. Students are coached to reflect on choices, repair harm, and rebuild trust, aligning with the school’s emphasis on dignity, accountability, and grace.

How does CAJ ensure student safety and wellbeing?

Safety is a shared priority encompassing campus security, child protection policies, emergency drills, and health protocols. Faculty receive training in safeguarding and mandated reporting; counselors and nurses support physical and emotional wellbeing. The school partners with parents to monitor attendance, address concerns early, and respond compassionately to stressors such as transition, workload, or cross-cultural adjustment. Clear communication channels help families stay informed and involved.

What parent involvement and communication can families expect?

Parents can expect regular updates through newsletters, a learning management system, and teacher emails. Conferences, exhibitions, and performances showcase student learning. Volunteer opportunities—from event support to parent committees—help families connect and contribute. The school encourages feedback and dialogue, believing that strong home–school partnerships enhance student outcomes and strengthen the community’s distinctive character.

Does CAJ offer after-school care or enrichment for younger students?

Many families seek structured options beyond dismissal. Availability may include supervised study halls, clubs, music rehearsals, seasonal sports, and fee-based enrichment coordinated on campus. Offerings and schedules can change year to year based on demand and staffing. Families should review current program lists, age eligibility, and pick-up procedures when arranging care for elementary and middle school students.

How does CAJ handle learning transitions for students arriving mid-year?

As an international school accustomed to mobility, CAJ supports transitions with orientation activities, buddy systems, placement guidance, and counselor check-ins. Teachers review prior coursework and help students map gaps and overlaps. Where necessary, short-term scaffolds—such as targeted language support or differentiated assignments—smooth the adjustment. Families can help by sharing syllabi, contacting previous schools for records, and maintaining consistent routines at home.

What distinguishes CAJ from other international schools in Tokyo?

CAJ’s distinctive blend of rigorous academics, vibrant arts and athletics, and a lived Christian ethos sets it apart. The community’s scale fosters strong relationships; faith integration provides an ethical compass; and the college-prep program equips graduates for universities worldwide. Families who value character formation alongside scholarship often find CAJ’s mission, history, and culture a uniquely compelling match for their child’s growth.

How can families learn more or take next steps?

Prospective families typically begin with an inquiry or campus visit, followed by an application and required assessments. Reviewing recent handbooks, calendars, course lists, and tuition schedules will clarify fit and logistics. If possible, connect with current parents or attend an open day to hear firsthand perspectives. When you’re ready, submit materials early—popular grades can fill quickly—and partner with admissions to chart a smooth path into the CAJ community.

Tokyo International School Guide