Ikoma Language School is truly a gem for anyone looking to learn Japanese in Singapore. The teachers are native speakers, highly professional, and incredibly patient, ensuring every student is well-supported throughout their learning journey. The course structure is well-organized, with a strong balance of grammar, vocabulary, speaking, and cultural knowledge, making it perfect for beginners and advanced learners alike.
The location is conveniently situated in Orchard, making it accessible for both students and working professionals. The school also offers flexible schedules, which is great for busy individuals. I particularly appreciate how the teachers make lessons engaging and interactive, fostering an environment where students feel encouraged to actively participate and practice Japanese.
What stands out the most is the genuine passion the teachers have for teaching and their dedication to helping students succeed. Whether you’re preparing for the JLPT or learning Japanese for travel or work, Ikoma is the place to go. Highly recommended for anyone serious about mastering Japanese!
Adrian
5
I've "school-hopped" across a few Japanese schools in Singapore and I still think Ikoma is the best. The school has their own notes for learning Japanese grammar which have great explanations and is also very easy to understand. I can honestly self-study their own notes and feel confident enough to pass the JLPT exams.
Being students, all of us have different levels of motivation when it comes to studying a foreign language. So naturally some people might complain about the pace of teaching, like it's too slow for them, etc. But I would like to offer a different perspective.
Learning languages should be fun and engaging. The interaction with fellow students, practising conversations, and listening to the teacher talk is an important consideration for me. If you believe in this too, then I think you will have no problems here at Ikoma.
Ms Nakazawa is the best teacher so far. She is very lively and injects many onomatopoeic phrases while teaching in the class. Look out for this teacher if you are intending to register at this school, and make sure to choose her class if available.
Celynth (Xinyi)
5
Studied basic and ikoma and then I stopped for a few years. Went back joining their pre advance class and it was pretty fun. What I would like to highlight here is the JLPT N3 Prep course which I participated in. It had truly tackled the contents well and you’re bound to pass with good grades if you take the prep course seriously.
If I’m ever taking N2, I’ll definitely take the N2 prep course.
Cheers to all the teachers for making my Japanese language learning journey such a fun and memorable one. 😊
Special shoutout:
Nagai Sensei, Sugitate Sensei and Uehara Sensei 😊
valkyriefrost
5
I've tried a couple of different language schools and Ikoma is my favorite school. The classes have a positive environment and I look forward to classes every week. 👍 …
Neko Miao
3
Positive Instructor, Challenging Peer Dynamics
I’ve been attending full-time classes here, and the sensei is genuinely encouraging, fostering a supportive and motivating learning environment. However, during a recent session, I was openly called “煩い” (annoying/noisy) by a classmate—an adult in their 30s—simply for participating actively in discussions. While the quality of instruction is excellent, the lack of mutual respect from peers (especially from someone old enough to model maturity) was disappointing. If you thrive on engagement and can tolerate occasional negativity from fellow students, this place might still work for you. That said, I hope the school takes steps to address peer interactions, such as promoting respectful communication guidelines, to ensure a truly inclusive space for all learners.
Hui
5
Ikoma is a wonderful school with native teachers. I have been learning Japanese here for a year and it’s a good experience.
Sunitha Nanaprakas
5
A huge shoutout to Ikoma Language School! I studied here many years ago and recently returned to join the advanced class. The teachers and front desk staff are incredibly welcoming, making the learning experience so enjoyable. I especially appreciate my advanced class teacher, Tsurumi, who is kind and explains concepts clearly. Highly recommend this school to anyone looking to learn Japanese!
Pink Penguin
5
Honestly a great place to start learning Japanese. I’ve never met a single bad teacher in Ikoma, all of them are so fun, friendly and encouraging in their own ways. They also allow you to switch to another class for a week if your schedule doesn’t align with your usual class, else they also provide 30 mins of makeup lesson before the next class, which is a really nice touch to help with your learning.
Nie 16
2
They really need to renovate the school. The carpet on Level 12 and especially lvl 13, smells so so terrible 😖 The tables and chairs are super old too. At least put some air fresheners… it’s unbearable for more than 2 hours! …
James Hermanto
5
I took N1 class. And its the best decision i ever made. You will get homework and you need grit.
During the classes, I feel like I attend Japanese class at Japan. And for this reason, its katsute nai no keiken deshita.
subarashii to omoimasu. Kore oseji janai yo.