Nishimachi International School vs The American School in Japan

	N Nishimachi International School Tokyo, Japan	T The American School in Japan Tokyo, Japan
Snapshot	Snapshot
Fees / year	Fees / year ¥3,380,000	Fees / year ¥2,987,000 - 3,783,000
Age range	Age range 5 - 15 years	Age range 3 - 18 years
Type	Type Co-educational	Type Co-educational
Curriculum	Curriculum American Curriculum, Japanese Curriculum	Curriculum Advanced Placement (AP), American Curriculum
Pupils	Pupils 468	Pupils 1,731
Typical class size	Typical class size 19	Typical class size 20
Instruction language	Instruction language English	Instruction language English
Opened	Opened 1949	Opened 1902
Bus service	Bus service No	Bus service Yes
Essentials	Essentials
Location	Location Located in the Moto Azabu area of Minato-ku, Tokyo, Nishimachi International School sits in central Tokyo. The campus address is 2-14-7 Moto Azabu, Minato-ku, Tokyo 106-0046. The area is popular with international residents and hosts parks, multinational company headquarters, and embassies. It is a central Tokyo location with straightforward access to public transport.	Location ASIJ operates on two Tokyo campuses: the Chofu Campus at 1-1-1 Nomizu, Chofu-shi, Tokyo 182-0031, and the Early Learning Center at 6-16-5 Roppongi, Minato-ku, Tokyo 106-0032. The Chofu Campus hosts the main school divisions, while the Early Learning Center serves nursery through kindergarten in central Tokyo. The bus system serves neighborhoods across downtown Tokyo and ASIJ provides transport as part of campus life.
Stages	Stages Nishimachi offers Kindergarten through Grade 9. The campus layout includes a dedicated kindergarten building, a primary building for Grades 1–2, and an upper elementary/middle school building for Grades 3–9.	Stages ASIJ is organized into four divisions: the Early Learning Center (Nursery–Kinder), Elementary School (Kinder–5th), Middle School (6th–8th), and High School (9th–12th).
School type	School type Nishimachi is a co-educational, private day school. It does not operate a boarding facility.	School type ASIJ is a non-profit, co-educational international day school.
Pupil nationality mix	Pupil nationality mix There are about 35 nationalities represented among Nishimachi students, with around 470 students in total. The school notes a strong international mix, including a significant proportion of students holding dual or multiple passports (about 50%).	Pupil nationality mix The school represents students from over 50 nationalities. American families make up about half of the student body, and roughly half of the families are bi-cultural with parents from the United States and Japan.
Additional learning support	Additional learning support Nishimachi provides Learning Services (LS) for students with mild learning needs, including in-class support or specialized instruction and guidance for parents. English Language Services (ELS) support bilingual and multilingual learners, and staff use language assessments (e.g., MAP) to monitor progress.	Additional learning support ASIJ offers a K–12 learning support program for students with mild learning needs. Each applicant is reviewed individually to determine whether the school can support their learning needs within the curriculum.
Country affiliation	Country affiliation Nishimachi International School operates in Japan as an international school and has no formal country affiliation.	Country affiliation No formal country affiliation.
Religious affiliation	Religious affiliation Nishimachi is non-sectarian and has no religious affiliation.	Religious affiliation No religious affiliation.
School day structure	School day structure The school year runs from late August to mid-June. The school day commonly starts around 8:15 am and ends at approximately 3:15 pm for Kindergarten and 3:30 pm for Grades 1–9; after-school care is available for enrolled students.	School day structure At the Chofu campus, classes begin at 8:00 a.m. and end at 3:00 p.m. The Early Learning Center schedule runs from 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
Bus service details	Bus service details Nishimachi does not offer a school bus service; families arrange transportation themselves or use public transit as needed.	Bus service details ASIJ operates a transportation system with 33 buses serving about 276 bus stops across downtown Tokyo. About 1,300 riders use the buses daily. The fleet includes GPS tracking, two-way radios, iPhones, seat belts, and 170 bus monitors. Parents may ride the bus to school for events at no charge.
Fees	Fees
Fee details	Fee details Application fees - Application fee (non-refundable): JPY 30,000 per applicant. Instructions for paying the application fee are sent after the completed application is received. Entrance / one-time fees (first year only) - Registration fee (non-refundable): JPY 300,000. - Building maintenance fee (one-time): JPY 825,000. Annual tuition and other annual fees (all grades K–9) - Tuition fee (annual): JPY 2,980,000. - Education Enhancement Fee (annual): JPY 200,000. - School Growth Fund Fee (annual): JPY 200,000. Billing schedule and payment terms - The annual tuition is divided into four equal Quarters. A student's attendance for any portion of a Quarter requires payment of the entire Quarter. - Quarter breakdown for School Year 2025–2026 (per-quarter tuition amount shown): - 1st Quarter (August 20, 2025 – October 24, 2025): JPY 745,000. - 2nd Quarter (October 27, 2025 – January 23, 2026): JPY 745,000. - 3rd Quarter (January 26, 2026 – April 3, 2026): JPY 745,000. - 4th Quarter (April 6, 2026 – June 11, 2026): JPY 745,000. Boarding fees - Nishimachi does not operate a boarding facility; all students must live with at least one parent while enrolled. There are therefore no boarding fees. Other costs and optional program fees - The published school fee schedule is described as all-inclusive for regular school operations. Optional or extra programs are charged separately. Examples of separate-cost programs explicitly listed are After School Activities (ASA), After School Care (ASC), Summer Programs, and Kazuno camps. Specific program fees are published separately (for example, Summer Explorers and Summer School session fees are shown on the program pages and may be charged by program). - No separate mandatory uniform fee or separate line for textbooks is listed in the published tuition and fees schedule. Other incidental or optional charges (ASA, ASC, summer programs, camps, etc.) may appear on program pages or invoices as applicable. Refund information and withdrawal-related terms - The application fee and the registration fee are explicitly non-refundable. - Tuition is charged by Quarter; a student's attendance for any portion of a Quarter requires payment for the entire Quarter, which limits pro-rata refunding within a Quarter. No separate general refund schedule for tuition withdrawals is published in the school's fee materials; optional program refunds and program-specific cancellation terms are shown with those program pages where applicable. Fee payment options and billing administration - Application fee payment: the application materials indicate the application fee may be paid by bank transfer (evidence/receipt) or by check made payable to the school; applicants are sent payment instructions after the application is submitted. - Program payments (for example, summer program registrations) accept credit card payment as shown on the program payment page. - The school's admissions and parent portals are used for applications and parent billing processes; billing questions are routed through the school's billing contact channels as listed on admissions materials. Payments and invoices are presented in Japanese yen (JPY). Summary (key figures) - Application fee (one-time, non-refundable): JPY 30,000. - Entrance / one-time fees (first year): Registration JPY 300,000 (non-refundable) + Building Maintenance JPY 825,000. - Annual charges (all grades): Tuition JPY 2,980,000; Education Enhancement Fee JPY 200,000; School Growth Fund Fee JPY 200,000 (total annual charge for continuing students shown in the published schedule). Quarter amounts for tuition are JPY 745,000 each.	Fee details Application & one-time fees - Application fee: ¥50,000 (non-refundable). - Registration fee (seat deposit): ¥300,000 (non-refundable). - Building Maintenance Fee (one-time): ¥1,525,000 (non-refundable). - Re‑enrollment fee: described as a non‑refundable tuition deposit that secures a seat and is applied to the first tuition installment (amount not listed on the tuition summary page). Annual fees and capital assessment - Capital Assessment (annual): ¥250,000 (non-refundable). Annual tuition — amounts by year group (2025–26) - Nursery–Pre‑K: ¥2,987,000 per year. - Kinder–Grade 5: ¥3,269,000 per year. - Grade 6–8: ¥3,425,000 per year. - Grade 9–12: ¥3,533,000 per year. (These tuition amounts are refundable as noted by the school's published schedule.) Per‑term / billing schedule and payment terms - Tuition and fees (except the application fee) are due in full upon receipt of the school's invoice. Individuals paying from personal funds may request an installment plan through the Accounting Office; corporations/organizations are not eligible for the installment option. A carrying charge applies to installment arrangements. - Tuition and other fees are payable by bank transfer only. Application fees may be paid by credit card or bank transfer. All payments are accepted in Japanese yen. The billing office email provided for payment enquiries and invoice requests is billing@asij.ac.jp. - For students enrolled after the school year starts, tuition and bus fees are calculated based on academic quarters; attendance for any portion of a quarter requires payment for the entire quarter. Delinquent accounts can result in prohibition from class attendance and/or withholding of grades, transcripts, or other records. Per‑term amounts / instalments (note on availability of detailed schedule) - The publicly posted tuition page lists the annual totals above and explains billing, instalment eligibility and quarter‑based proration for late enrollment. A detailed Schedule of Tuition & Fees is provided by the school and itemises invoice and instalment amounts; the tuition page links to that schedule for the full, itemised per‑term breakdown. The tuition page itself does not display every per‑term numeric split directly in the summary text. Transportation (bus) fees - Annual regular bus service fee: ¥390,000 per student. The bus fee may be prorated on a quarter basis if necessary. ASIJ is not obligated to provide bus service if a family's housing location is outside existing routes. Boarding - Boarding is not applicable. ASIJ operates two campuses (Early Learning Center and the Chofu campus) as a day school for nursery through high school students. Other costs and typical additional charges - Travel programs and curricular/co‑curricular trips: most trip costs are the responsibility of families; costs vary by trip and will be published with payment deadlines. Certain exceptions (e.g., Grade 5 trip, Middle School Extended Campus Program and some High School Exploration Program trips) are noted as school exceptions. - Food services: on‑campus hot meal program and other food services at the Chofu Campus are charged separately; an optional lunch delivery service is available at the Early Learning Center. Menu pricing is published with the food program information. - Technology requirements: students in Grades 3–5 are required to have an iPad; students in Grades 6–12 are required to have a MacBook (specifications and purchase details are provided by the school). - Uniforms are not listed as a mandatory school charge on the tuition/fees summary; no compulsory uniform fee is published on the tuition page. Refund information - To be eligible for a refund of tuition and bus fees for any full academic quarter during which the student will not attend, parents must notify the school in writing of the student's last expected day of attendance. That written notification must be received by the first day of classes in August (if withdrawing during the first semester) or by the first day of the second semester (if withdrawing during the second semester). Tuition and bus fee refunds are calculated on the quarter basis described above. Fee payment options - Currency accepted: Japanese yen. - Application fee: acceptable by credit card or bank transfer. - Tuition and other recurring fees: bank transfer only. - Invoice and detailed payment instructions are issued by the school's billing office; families may request information about the installment program from the Accounting/Billing Office (a carrying charge applies).
Diving deeper	Diving deeper
Boarding arrangements	Boarding arrangements Boarding arrangements: Nishimachi International School does not provide boarding. It operates as a day school; students must live with at least one parent during enrollment. The school specifically states there is no boarding facility.	Boarding arrangements The school is a day school and does not offer boarding or homestay options; students live with their parent/guardian in Tokyo during enrollment; instruction is in English.
Uniform requirement	Uniform requirement Uniform requirement: The school uses a dress code rather than a formal uniform. The dress code aims to keep students neat, clean, and socially appropriate while allowing personal expression.	Uniform requirement —
Food options	Food options Food options: Lunch is provided by families (each parent provides a daily lunch to be eaten in classrooms). There is an optional paid lunch service offered by Kiwi Kitchen. Morning recess includes a snack.	Food options The cafeteria offers hot meals with a vegetarian option and a salad bar every day; the kiosk provides ready-made salads, sandwiches, soup of the day, fruit, freshly baked items, snacks and beverages including coffee.
House system	House system —	House system —
Governance and ownership	Governance and ownership Governance and ownership: Nishimachi is a private, independent day school governed as a legal school foundation (Gakko Hojin). The governance framework includes a Board of Trustees and a Board of Directors, the latter including the Head of School.	Governance and ownership The school is formed as a gakko hojin (incorporated educational institution) under Japan's Private School Law and is a non-profit, tax-exempt entity. The governance structure includes a Board of Directors, a Board of Trustees, and two independent Statutory Auditors; Directors oversee the school's mission and finances, Trustees approve fundamental matters and budgets, and the Auditors oversee governance and finances.
Academics	Academics
Curriculum details	Curriculum details Nishimachi International School serves Kindergarten through Grade 9, with English as the language of instruction and daily Japanese study for all students. The curricular framework is Understanding by Design, and the curriculum is standards-based, designed to apply learning in real-world contexts. Elementary School (K–5) features small class sizes with specialist-led programs in arts, sports, and language. Middle School (Grades 6–9) has class sizes typically 12–18, is project-based, provides one-to-one access to Apple iPads, uses 60‑minute teaching periods on a five‑day cycle, and includes a daily 15‑minute advisory. The curriculum aligns with CCSS for English Language Arts and Mathematics, NGSS for Science, and AERO for Humanities and Social Studies, with Japanese language standards modified from MEXT and CEFR; other standards cover Digital Citizenship, Digital Literacy, Drama, Health, Music, Physical Education, Visual Arts, and Student Protection. Nishimachi is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) and the Council of International Schools (CIS), with CIS reaccreditation completed on 2 February 2022.	Curriculum details The American School in Japan (ASIJ) offers an English-language, American-style curriculum from the Early Learning Center through Grade 12, operating on two Tokyo campuses. The Elementary School (ages five to 11) emphasizes foundational literacy and numeracy with social-emotional development and inquiry-based learning aligned to the school's Portrait of a Learner competencies. The Middle School (grades 6–8) provides a broad, hands-on program with daily Advisory and an Approaches to Learning framework, plus exposure to language, humanities, science, math, arts, and electives and regular extended-campus experiences. The High School (grades 9–12) leads to an ASIJ diploma requiring four years and 22 credits, and offers a wide range of Advanced Placement courses (including the AP Capstone Diploma), with opportunities for concurrent enrollment via Syracuse University Project Advance (SUPA) and a personalized pathway through the IMPACT program. For the Class of 2026 and beyond, graduation requirements increase to 24 credits, with Wellness: Physical Education & Health and new elements such as Design and Innovation and digital-literacy components replacing or augmenting prior offerings.
Student teacher ratio	Student teacher ratio —	Student teacher ratio —
Exam results	Exam results —	Exam results —
Higher education progression	Higher education progression —	Higher education progression —
Gifted and talented	Gifted and talented —	Gifted and talented —
Academic calendar	Academic calendar —	Academic calendar —
Wellbeing & support	Wellbeing & support
Social & emotional learning	Social & emotional learning Nishimachi's Student Services aims to maximize learning for all students and to help children thrive academically and socio-emotionally. In Grades 6–9, every student has 15 minutes of advisory daily to support social-emotional development.	Social & emotional learning ASIJ identifies social emotional learning (SEL) as a strategic priority and has engaged external expertise to support its implementation, notably with the Institute for Social and Emotional Learning (IFSEL). The school notes SEL as a priority within its Strategic Design Framework and has integrated SEL into professional learning and family engagement, including parent workshops. Vision of Learning presents SEL as a core component, with a dedicated SEL crest and a focus on interpersonal, intercultural, and collaboration skills. These elements show that SEL is embedded in ASIJ's approach to learning and wellbeing.
Special educational needs (SEN)	Special educational needs (SEN) Learning Services provides support for mild learning difficulties and is not designed to be a formal special education program. The Learning Specialist may conduct assessments, provide in-class support, or refer to external specialists; progress and goals are monitored for the following year.	Special educational needs (SEN) ASIJ states a learning support program for mild learning needs from kindergarten through 12th grade (K–12). Each applicant is reviewed individually to assess whether ASIJ can support their learning needs within the school curriculum. Public materials do not specify a broader range of Special Educational Needs or indicate that ASIJ operates as a dedicated SEN specialist institution.
English as an additional language	English as an additional language Two English Language Specialist teachers provide English Language Services (ELS) in collaboration with classroom teachers, offering individualized or small-group instruction as needed. In spring, WIDA-MODEL (Measures of Academic Progress) is administered to all students receiving active ELS.	English as an additional language ASIJ offers a language support program in grades 1–8 to support multiple language learners, alongside English as the medium of instruction. English language instruction remains the primary medium for communication at the school.
Mental wellbeing	Mental wellbeing A school nurse is on the premises every school day from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., attending to injuries, illnesses, and overall wellbeing. Health guidelines describe procedures for illness and health management, while the Health Office and Student Services support students' health and socio-emotional development.	Mental wellbeing ASIJ places emphasis on student wellbeing, supported by safeguarding structures and a dedicated safeguarding coordinator who acts as a school counselor. Safeguarding procedures include annual training for staff and background checks for all employees, along with a safeguarding policy and handbook. The Vision of Learning also ties wellbeing to Global Citizenship, underscoring the school's commitment to well-being as part of its learning framework.
Safeguarding	Safeguarding Nishimachi maintains a Student Protection Policy aligned with Japanese law (Act No. 82) and the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child; all employees are mandatory reporters of suspected abuse. Staff receive Student Protection training and sign the Employee Code of Conduct annually, with clear procedures for safeguarding concerns.	Safeguarding ASIJ's safeguarding framework centers on a full-time Safeguarding Coordinator, Level 2 Keeping Children Safe certification, a safeguarding policy and handbook, and annual safeguarding training. There are background checks for all employees and a Code of Conduct for faculty and staff. The safeguarding coordinator is Emily Hopwood, and the school articulates formal safeguarding procedures aligned with accrediting bodies such as WASC, CIS and Keeping Children Safe.
Safeguarding policy	Safeguarding policy —	Safeguarding policy —
Facilities	Facilities
Facilities overview	Facilities overview The campus is located in the Moto Azabu area of Minato-ku, Tokyo. The campus comprises seven buildings: the Matsukata House, the Ushiba Memorial gymnasium/auditorium, the kindergarten building in the Moto Azabu Hills complex, the primary building housing grades 1-2, the upper elementary and middle school building housing grades 3-9, the Yashiro Library/Media Center, and a dedicated middle school building opened in August 2019. The Yashiro Library/Media Center is a three-floor facility built in 2008 and contains about 17,000 items in English and Japanese. Matsukata House is the founder's residence and now serves as the school's main administrative building and a Tokyo landmark. Nishimachi operates Camp Rioichiro Arai “Kazuno,” an outdoor education center in Gunma Prefecture used for overnight field trips for grades 4–8, comprising three buildings: main building, refurbished Japanese country house, and an old kura warehouse.	Facilities overview ASIJ operates on two campuses: the Chofu campus for elementary through high school, and the Early Learning Center in Roppongi Hills for nursery through kindergarten. Learning spaces are flexible and technology-enabled, with specialist spaces for art, music, design, robotics, and science. Each division has an age-appropriate library with print and digital resources, and the elementary library includes a maker space. Athletic facilities include a main field, a middle school field, gyms, and a 25-meter indoor pool. Creative and performing spaces include dedicated music rooms, a video studio, art rooms, the Japan Center for authentic cultural experiences, and expansive outdoor learning spaces around a central courtyard.
Sports facilities	Sports facilities The Ushiba Memorial gymnasium/auditorium is the primary indoor sports facility on campus. Nishimachi participates in interscholastic sports for grades 6–9, with teams in soccer, basketball, volleyball, track and field, cross country, and badminton. The school maintains a no-cut policy to promote inclusive participation.	Sports facilities ASIJ's athletic spaces include a main field with artificial turf and a middle school field for day use and after-school activities. The campuses house gyms for PE and activities, six rooftop tennis courts with lighting, and a 25-meter indoor pool used year-round. A fitness center and a wrestling/gymnastics room support strength training and a wide range of physical education programs.
Academic facilities	Academic facilities The Yashiro Media Center Library offers resources on three floors with over 17,000 items in English and Japanese, and the middle school collection is on the top floor while elementary materials occupy the lower floors. The library is open to students during school hours and to parents and students after school from 3:30–4:30 p.m., and provides access to digital resources including eBooks and online databases. Students in the middle school also benefit from one-to-one access to Apple iPads.	Academic facilities ASIJ maintains libraries in each division with print and digital resources to support literacy and inquiry, including a maker space in the elementary library. The school provides design, robotics, and science laboratories equipped for hands-on learning. Middle and high school students have access to a digital composition space, a video studio, and dedicated music rooms for performance and production.
Extra curricular facilities	Extra curricular facilities Nishimachi offers After School Programs with a range of activities, including early-morning, after-school, or weekend programs, some run by external organizations. Interscholastic sports for grades 6–9 include boys' and girls' basketball, girls' volleyball, soccer, cross country, track and field, and badminton, with a Vikings identity and a no-cut policy. The school conducts outdoor education experiences such as Camp Kazuno in Gunma Prefecture for overnight trips (main building, refurbished country house, and kura warehouse).	Extra curricular facilities ASIJ offers more than 170 co-curricular activities across divisions. The Japan Center provides authentic Japanese cultural experiences and partnerships with local institutions. Outdoor spaces, courtyards, and the campus facilities support outdoor learning and community events.
Parent experience	Parent experience
History	History Nishimachi International School was established in 1949 by Tané Matsukata on the Matsukata family property in the Azabu area of Tokyo. Miss Matsukata had returned to Japan after seventeen years in the United States and sought to rebuild postwar Japan through education that stressed the human side of learning and peaceful coexistence. The founders believed that learning a second language—English—would broaden children's understanding beyond their own culture, and English became the language of instruction with daily Japanese language study. The school opened with four students and was guided by Matsukata's progressive philosophy and the collaborative efforts of friends and family. Over the decades Nishimachi has grown into a bilingual K–9 community with a strong emphasis on English- and Japanese-language programs and cross-cultural learning.	History ASIJ's history begins in 1902 with the Tokyo School for Foreign Children, which started in rented rooms at the Kanda YMCA and later moved to other sites as the school expanded. It moved to the Tsukiji area, then to the Shibaura site by 1921, and in 1927 opened the Nakameguro campus with Antonin Raymond assisting in the redesign. The Chofu campus opened in 1963, introducing the iconic elementary building and subsequent expansions for the high school, gym, and theater. The Community Nursery School in Roppongi merged with ASIJ in 1968 and relocated to Nakameguro in 1973, enlarging ASIJ's early childhood offerings. ASIJ celebrated its Centennial in 2002 with a series of events in Tokyo and an alumni reception in San Francisco.
Community	Community Nishimachi's community is close-knit and culturally diverse, with the English-language program complemented by daily Japanese language and culture study. The school marks its culture with annual Japanese festivals such as Setsubun, Hinamatsuri, and Kodomo no Hi, and a Japanese Culture Day that invites families to engage with learning. Families participate as volunteers and partners in cross-cultural programs, helping to strengthen the sense of community. Student life includes community events, service initiatives, and cultural celebrations that reflect Nishimachi's commitment to global understanding.	Community ASIJ has a highly engaged community of families, faculty, and students, supported by hundreds of active PTA members. The PTA contributes thousands of volunteer hours each year to create a welcoming, connected environment and to coordinate community events. Parents volunteer as mystery readers, chaperones for trips, and library helpers, and participate in campus celebrations such as the elementary Halloween Parade and the Senior Walk. Spirit Day is a signature ASIJ event that showcases the breadth of the school's life, with over 170 co-curricular activities and extensive student and parent participation coordinated through the PTA.
Parent teacher association	Parent teacher association Tomo no Kai, abbreviated TNK, is Nishimachi's parent association. All parents of Nishimachi students are members, and TNK aims to improve communication across the school community and to foster unity. The TNK Executive Board is elected annually and meets monthly, overseeing planning and volunteer involvement across activities. TNK sponsors cross-cultural programs and social functions and raises funds for the school, including support for Outreach scholarships. Past and current events include the annual Food Fair, Omochitsuki (rice pounding) and Setsubun celebrations, organized with involvement from families and students. Funds raised via TNK activities support Nishimachi students through scholarships and school programs.	Parent teacher association ASIJ's Parent Teacher Association is a central, active organization with hundreds of members who contribute thousands of volunteer hours annually. PTA volunteers support day-to-day life by serving as mystery readers, trip chaperones, library helpers, and by organizing events such as the elementary Halloween Parade and the Senior Walk. Spirit Day is a flagship PTA-driven event, with a Booster Committee coordinating food booths, vendor logistics, and special visits such as performing guests; the event illustrates the scale of PTA-led community activities. The PTA also helps coordinate hundreds of co-curricular opportunities and connects families, faculty, and students across campuses. Parents participate in ASIJ governance, with opportunities to serve on the Board of Directors, Board of Trustees, and various committees, and they are encouraged to share their professions, expertise, and hobbies with classrooms.
Extra-curricular	Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual	Academic & intellectual Nishimachi offers a broad array of after-school activities and enrichment programs, including options before and after school and on weekends, with some activities run by outside organizations under school authorization to extend learning beyond the classroom. The school emphasizes experiential and inquiry-based learning, supplementing classroom lessons with field experiences. For example, summer programs include coding and robotics through Camp Kazuno, and the Kazuno outdoor education site provides overnight field trips for Grades 4–8, expanding learning beyond the regular schedule.	Academic & intellectual ASIJ offers extensive co-curriculars beyond class. STEM is active with VEX Robotics, iGEM, and NEA math and International Academic Competitions. A Space Conference with NASA and JAXA broadens exposure, and the Computer Science Club develops coding and problem solving skills.
Arts & creative	Arts & creative In the after-school and daily schedule, students engage in arts and creative expression, with afternoons described as expanding into arts, music, and physical education. Extracurricular offerings include cultural clubs and performances that support creative development. These opportunities are part of Nishimachi's holistic approach to nurturing creative thinking and communication skills.	Arts & creative Arts range from ELC hula to traditional Japanese theater in upper grades. Divisions stage annual musicals, and students can join Kanto Plain honor band, choir, orchestra, and AMIS programs.
Cultural & language	Cultural & language Nishimachi emphasizes bilingual language development, with English as the language of instruction and daily Japanese study for all students. The school also fosters cross-cultural engagement through programs such as Tomo no Kai, its parent association, which supports cross-cultural programs and social functions. The school's mission and learner expectations stress developing global citizens who communicate across cultures.	Cultural & language Model UN and Amnesty International are offered as part of cultural and global awareness. Service activities include the elementary rice project and Habitat for Humanity trips.
Social & hobbies	Social & hobbies Nishimachi provides a wide variety of after-school activities, including early-morning, after-school, and weekend options, with programs sometimes conducted by external organizations under school authorization. Students participate in clubs and teams that promote social interaction and peer collaboration beyond regular classes. The school emphasizes informal interest-based groups and peer-to-peer activities as part of a well-rounded school life.	Social & hobbies ASIJ has over 170 co-curriculars. High school offers 15 sports; middle school offers 20. The arts include musicals, ASIJ TV, and VEX robotics.
Community & service	Community & service Community service and service learning are central to Nishimachi's approach. Student-led service projects provide opportunities to plan, implement, and reflect on contributions to the local community, strengthening collaboration and social responsibility. The school partners with local organizations to offer volunteer opportunities, and community events and initiatives are a regular part of school life.	Community & service Service includes Model UN, Amnesty, and 25 projects. There are over 600 service group members and activities such as rice projects and Habitat trips.
Leadership & professional	Leadership & professional Leadership is embedded in Nishimachi's learner expectations, with a focus on ownership, initiative, perseverance, ethical action, and collaboration. Students are encouraged to pursue challenges, lead in service projects, and develop communication and teamwork skills through project work and community involvement. The school supports leadership development through cross-cultural programs and a learning environment that promotes responsibility and action.	Leadership & professional Leadership develops through debate and public speaking opportunities in high school. The program encourages exploration beyond predefined tracks and involvement in clubs, service groups, and athletics.
Lifestyle & wellbeing	Lifestyle & wellbeing Nishimachi supports lifestyle and wellbeing through sports and outdoor activities, with facilities like gymnasiums and outdoor spaces. Overnight field programs at Camp Kazuno and other outdoor education experiences provide physical activity and environmental learning opportunities. Afternoon offerings include athletics alongside arts and culture, contributing to a balanced approach to student wellbeing.	Lifestyle & wellbeing Wellbeing is promoted through athletics and the Positive Coaching Alliance partnership. Karate and kendo are offered across divisions; musicals and ASIJ TV provide creative outlets.
Language provision	Language provision
Language provision	Language provision English is the language of instruction for the core program; Japanese is taught daily as part of a dedicated language program. From Kindergarten to Grade 5, Japanese is taught daily; from Grade 6 to Grade 9, Japanese is taught four times a week plus Japanese Social Studies twice a week. The Japanese Language Program uses the CEFR framework to place students into six proficiency groups in Grades 2–9, with Kindergarten and Grade 1 grouped as A, B, and C, and instruction differentiated using adapted Kokugo materials for higher levels. Non-native speakers receive language support through this framework and curriculum adjustments.	Language provision ASIJ's language provision centers on English as the language of instruction. Japanese is taught as a foreign language beginning in first grade (Chofu campus), with formal Japanese as a Foreign Language instruction documented for Grades 1–2 and Grades 3–5. In addition, Mandarin Chinese and Spanish are offered as foreign‑language options, with high school students able to pursue Japanese, Mandarin Chinese, and Spanish as part of their language track. The school provides an English Language Learners (ELL) support program for non‑native English speakers in grades 1–8. In the Early Learning Center, language and cultural experiences, including Japanese language exposure, are integrated into daily learning.
Bilingual teaching	Bilingual teaching Nishimachi is not a bilingual school. The language of instruction is English for Grades K–9, with Japanese taught daily as part of a robust Japanese Language and Culture Program. The program supports students from different language backgrounds but does not deliver a full bilingual curriculum. English core learning is balanced with Japanese language and culture rather than a two-language instruction model.	Bilingual teaching —
Immersion programs	Immersion programs Nishimachi offers a Japanese-English two-way immersion experience in its Summer Programs. Summer Explorers Little Vikings (incoming Kindergarten and current Nishimachi Kindergarten students) participate in a two-way immersion format. The program emphasizes social skill development, learning routines, and confidence, with activities in art, music, sports, and other interactive learning.	Immersion programs ASIJ does not publish a year‑round language‑immersion program. Immersion opportunities exist in summer through the ASIJ Summer Passport program, a three‑week session in which most classes are taught in English, while native Japanese classes are offered to heritage speakers in grades 2, 3, 4 and 5–9. The Summer Passport program includes language arts, mathematics, technology, the arts, and sports, with native Japanese language study included as part of the curriculum. It serves as ASIJ's primary immersion‑style offering for language development during the summer.
Reputation	Reputation
Awards	Awards —	Awards —
Accreditations	Accreditations —	Accreditations The American School in Japan (ASIJ) holds two primary accreditations publicized by the school: - Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) accreditation. WASC is a regional accrediting body that evaluates schools to ensure they meet established standards for quality and continuous improvement, supporting ASIJ's American-style college-preparatory program. - Council of International Schools (CIS) accreditation. CIS is a global organization that provides international school accreditation against international standards, reflecting ASIJ's compliance with high-quality international-school practices.
Admissions	Admissions
Admissions	Admissions Admissions Process Kindergarten admissions process 1. Start the inquiry and online application. Begin by submitting the online application for the upcoming Kindergarten cycle. The online system allows you to save progress and return later, and after you complete the application you will receive a confirmation email with instructions on how to pay the non-refundable application fee of ¥30,000 per applicant. Overseas passport holders and residents may apply year‑round, and the September 1 to October 31 window applies to the 2026‑27 cycle. 2. Prepare and submit required documents. Upload or provide the requested documents through the online application: report cards from the past two full school years (if available), one Confidential Student Recommendation Form (English or Japanese) filled out by the most recent teacher, a copy of the applicant's birth certificate or passport, the applicant's photo, and a family photo. The process specifies a single application portal for document submission and follows up with payment instructions after the completed application is received. 3. Confirm eligibility and age requirements. Kindergarten applicants must be 5 years old by August 31 of the enrolling year. The program notes clear age eligibility and does not make exceptions for Kindergarten entrants based on age. 4. Participate in the admissions screening. A group screening for selected Kindergarten applicants is conducted during the second week of January, with in-person screening preferred whenever possible. Applicants are evaluated for English communication skills and social/behavioral maturity to ensure readiness for Nishimachi. 5. Receive the admissions decision. The admissions result is sent by email in early February. Depending on class composition and space, some applications may be placed in a waiting pool after documents have been reviewed to maintain balance in language and gender. 6. Note special considerations for overseas applicants. For overseas applicants (outside Tokyo), applications are still accepted after the October 31 deadline, and families should plan accordingly for the January screening cycle as applicable. Grades 1–9 admissions process 1. Start the inquiry and online application. For Grades 1–9, applications for the next school year open on November 1, and online submission is available through the admissions portal. Applications are reviewed after submission and space availability is assessed; Grade 9 is not currently offered. 2. Prepare and submit required documents. Required documents for Grades 1–9 include report cards from the past two full school years, two online Confidential Student Recommendation Forms (preferably from English and Mathematics teachers for Grades 7–8 applicants), standardized test results if available, a copy of the birth certificate or passport, the applicant's photo, and a family photo. The standard application fee is ¥30,000 (non-refundable). 3. Confirm eligibility and grade availability. Nishimachi serves Kindergarten through Grade 9, but Grade 9 admission is not currently offered; age-based placement guidance applies (Kindergarten 5 by Aug 31; Grade 1 6 by Aug 31). Non-Japanese students must have a residential dependent visa to attend. 4. Admissions screening/interview. Applicants for Grades 1–9 are evaluated for proficiency in English and grade‑level Mathematics to ensure suitability for Nishimachi's program. Applications are not prioritized by the date of submission, and some applicants may be invited to be screened before an admissions decision is made. Parent interviews may be arranged for some applicants. 5. How to apply and follow-up. The online application process allows you to save progress and return to finish later; supporting documents can be uploaded online. After submission, applicants progress to the screening/interview phase and wait for notification of decisions. 6. Waitlist considerations. For Grades 1–9, there is no explicit published waitlist policy; admissions decisions are based on the screening outcomes and other criteria rather than a first-come basis. Applicants are informed by the admissions process when decisions are made. Note on general admissions context - The school offers an English-language curriculum based on American common core standards, complemented by a Japanese language program. Tours and virtual information sessions are available for prospective families, including overseas families. - The school also provides a defined set of admissions criteria, including age cutoffs, language readiness, and visa/residency expectations for non-Japanese students. - Documentation and fee details, as well as the multi-step screening and decision timeline, are outlined in the admissions materials and online application portal. Waitlist / Pool - Kindergarten: Some applicants may be kept in a waiting pool after documents are reviewed to help balance language and gender in classrooms. This is part of the group screening process for Kindergarten. - Grades 1–9: There is no published waitlist policy for these grades; admissions decisions are not strictly ordered by application date and are based on screening outcomes and eligibility rather than a queue. Scholarships - Outreach Scholarship Program: Nishimachi offers the Outreach Scholarship Program to provide partial or full scholarships to select students from diverse socioeconomic, racial, cultural, and geographic backgrounds who are currently in Japan and whose families cannot afford international school tuition. Scholarships are designed to augment diversity on campus. - Program details: Candidates must meet the school's admissions requirements and provide proof of financial need. The scholarship is awarded for one academic year with renewal options, contingent on satisfactory progress. The Headmaster, with the Scholarship Committee, selects recipients according to criteria including financial need, country of origin and cultural background, grade level, academic achievement and talents, and other factors that enrich Nishimachi's educational environment. - How to inquire: For those interested, contact the Admissions Office by phone or email to learn more about eligibility and the application process. - Additional background: The Outreach Scholarship program has been active since 2003–2004 and continues to fund a limited number of scholarships to sustain program diversity. Notes on language and tone - Nishimachi offers an English-language program with a strong Japanese language component, aiming for a balanced, bilingual-friendly educational environment. This context informs the admissions and screening focus, including English proficiency assessments and readiness for an international school setting. - Beyond the core admissions steps, the school runs monthly Head of School Tours and virtual information sessions to help families learn about the campus, programs, and admissions process. - Family eligibility considerations include the expectation that students live with at least one parent in Japan, and non-Japanese students generally require a residential dependent visa; boarding is not offered.	Admissions Step 1: Inquiry and open houses. The process starts with submitting the ASIJ INQUIRY FORM to share your family's needs and educational goals. Completing the inquiry gives you access to register for Open House sessions at ASIJ's campuses. Open House dates for the 2025–26 school year include October 2 and 16, November 6 and 13, and December 4 in 2025, with additional sessions in January and February 2026; pre-registration is required and space is limited. Step 2: Create an admission portal account and begin the online application. After submitting the inquiry, you will receive guidance to open an application account (Veracross) to start the online application. Within the portal you will see a checklist and can begin the Online Application Form, then submit the required items on the Admission Portal. Applications for the 2026–27 school year open in November 2025, and the portal supports multiple applicants for a family, though you should sign up for only ONE child to avoid duplicates. Step 3: Submit required documents on the Admission Portal. The required items vary by grade but typically include school reports or transcripts when available, and confidential teacher recommendations. Recommendations in languages other than English are acceptable, though English is preferred, and translations may be requested at your expense. You may also need mid-year report cards for certain grades; the admissions portal guides you on exactly what to upload for Nursery–Kindergarten through Grade 1. Step 4: Initial review and possible screening. There is no general entrance examination. The Admissions team reviews school reports, test scores, and recommendations, and may request academic, English, or other screening prior to a decision. The process focuses on alignment with ASIJ's philosophy, diversity balance, resource availability, and the school's English-medium education requirement. Local and overseas applicants are both considered during this review. Step 5: Admissions decision timeline. Admissions decisions typically begin in late February or early March and continue through the summer. Decisions consider how well the family's educational goals align with ASIJ's approach, as well as current seat availability and the school's ability to support the applicant. Both local and overseas applicants are evaluated within this timeline. Step 6: Offer, acceptance, and enrollment. If admitted, families receive an admissions decision and must respond to secure a seat. To finalize enrollment, the non-refundable Registration Fee of ¥300,000 is due, and the seat is reserved for the first day of school; additional annual fees and tuition apply as outlined below. Annual fees include Capital Assessment of ¥250,000 (non-refundable) and Building Maintenance Fee of ¥1,525,000 (non-refundable). 2025–26 tuition is ¥2,987,000 for Nursery–Pre-K, ¥3,269,000 for Kindergarten–Grade 5, ¥3,425,000 for Grades 6–8, and ¥3,533,000 for Grades 9–12. Bus service is available for ¥390,000 per year, with pricing for trips, meals, and technology requirements published in advance. Tuition and fees are due upon receipt of the invoice in Japanese yen; personal installment plans may be available. Corporate Contribution Program offers a way for participating organizations to sponsor educational benefits, potentially reducing the net cost to families through corporate funding and scholarships funded by the program. Step 7: Language and campus logistics. One or both parents must be fluent in English to ensure effective communication and support for the child's education; English is the medium for all ASIJ communications. If language support is needed, ASIJ provides programs for language learners in Grades 1–8. Kindergarten is offered at two campuses—ELC in Roppongi and K–12 in Chofu—and applicants should indicate their campus preference during the application. ASIJ also notes mid-year transfer considerations, with the school year running August to June and certain transfer rules for families already in Tokyo.
Scholarships	Scholarships Scholarships - Outreach Scholarship Program: Nishimachi offers partial or full scholarships to select students from a variety of socioeconomic, racial, cultural, and geographic backgrounds who are currently in Japan and whose families cannot afford the international school tuition. The program is intended to augment campus diversity. - How it works: Candidates must meet admissions requirements and provide proof of financial need. The scholarship lasts for one academic year with potential renewal, subject to satisfactory progress. Selection is made by the Headmaster on the recommendation of the Scholarship Committee and considers family need, origin, culture, grade level, academic performance, talents, and other factors that enrich Nishimachi's educational environment. - How to inquire: Interested families should contact the Admissions Office by phone or email for details on eligibility and the application process.	Scholarships ASIJ does not offer scholarships or need-based financial aid for new applicants. The admissions page states clearly that new applicants are not eligible for scholarships or financial aid. The school does offer a Corporate Contribution Program, which allows participating corporations to donate to ASIJ to fund corporate scholarships for dependents of employees; this program can influence admissions decisions as part of consideration of overall enrollment. ASIJ also maintains a Financial Aid Endowment fund with various named funds that support financial aid in general, though specific award processes and eligibility are not detailed publicly. Families should consider corporate sponsorship options if applicable and note that donor-funded financial support exists as part of the school's long-term financial structure.
Waitlist	Waitlist Waitlist / Pool - Kindergarten: Some applicants may be placed in a waiting pool after document review in order to maintain language and gender balance in the class. This waiting pool is part of the Kindergarten screening process. - Grades 1–9: There is no published waitlist policy for Grades 1–9. Admissions decisions are based on screening outcomes and other criteria rather than a first-come, first-served waitlist.	Waitlist ASIJ does not publish a formal waitlist or pool system on its admissions materials. Admissions decisions are driven by seat availability and the school's stated criteria, including alignment with ASIJ's philosophy, diversity goals, and resource capacity. Mid-year transfers are subject to seat availability and campus policies, and local applicants may face timing constraints due to the August–June school year. In practice, families may need to plan around the annual admissions cycle (with decisions typically issued from late February through the summer) rather than a published waitlist.
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