Why join for free?
Already have an account? Log In
Japan, Tokyo
Let the school know you're thinking of applying — they can share their prerequisites and help you through the process.
It's best to ask — circumstances can change at any time.
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.
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.
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.
Founded in 1949, Nishimachi International School is a coeducational K–9 day school in central Tokyo. The school enrolls about 480 students, with approximately 20 students per class in Kindergarten through Grade 6 and middle school classes typically ranging from 10–20. Instruction is in English and all students study Japanese. The school describes its curriculum as based on American Common Core standards alongside its Japanese language and culture program taught daily through Grade 9. Beyond academics, students can join activities such as drama, band, ikebana, and sports including soccer, basketball, volleyball, track and field, cross country and badminton. The school also runs overnight trips to Kazuno (Grades 4–8) and winter ski trips (Grades 4–9).
