OUR TEACHERS

Meet our native Japanese instructors, all confirmed professionals in the field of Japanese language teaching. Embracing a communicative approach, they prioritize interactive learning experiences. With roots deeply embedded in Japanese culture, our experts provide an authentic and immersive environment.

Naomi TAKAHASHI

Naomi Takahashi

  • 【Place of Origin】
    Iwate Prefecture
  • 【Hobbies】
    Exploring seasonal flowers, observing animals
  • 【Teaching Since】
    Since 2018
  • 【Languages and Proficiency】
    Japanese only

【Motto for Japanese Education】

I love communication that conveys emotions. Rather than insisting on grammatical accuracy, I focus on delivering natural and living Japanese communication. In doing so, I prioritize conveying "courtesy" and "respect" along with vocabulary. Additionally, through our learning journey, I aim to offer students something 'meaningful to the heart,' not found in textbooks.

【Favorite Japanese Phrase or Proverb and Why】

鳥鳴花笑(とりなき、はなわらう)
"Birds sing, flowers smile."

This phrase is also written in the main hall of Zuisen-ji, one of my favorite temples in Kamakura. For someone who loves nature and animals like me, it evokes a delightful atmosphere that brings happiness just by imagining it.

【Message to Students】

Kamakura is the perfect blend of culture, nature, and convenience—a city that encompasses various aspects of Japan. I hope you not only learn the language but also feel the essence of both old and new Japan in Kamakura. In our classes, I aspire to convey things beyond textbooks. Approach your learning with the expectation of "enjoying and discovering" rather than just "studying." Looking forward to a class filled with enjoyment and insights.


Aya KAJI

Naomi Takahashi

  • 【Place of Origin】
    Kanagawa Prefecture
  • 【Hobbies】
    Tennis, Dance, Mountain Climbing, Music, Reading, Kimono, Tea Ceremony, Ikebana, Japanese Sake
  • 【Teaching Since】
    Since April 2019
  • 【Languages and Proficiency】
    English - Everyday conversation/Reading short stories,
    French - Basic conversation

【Motto for Japanese Education】

I aim for relaxed and enjoyable lessons. I adapt to students' goals, preferences, and lifestyles, making lessons easy to follow. I strive to be a good guide, fostering interest in Japanese culture, history, and the mindset of the Japanese people.

【Favorite Japanese Phrase or Proverb and Why】

僕の前に道はない、僕の後ろに道は出来る(ぼくのまえにみちはない、ぼくのうしろにみちができる)
"There is no road ahead of me, but a road will be made behind me."

This is a verse of a poem by sculptor Kotaro Takamura. When I read this, I ask myself: Do the flowers bloom on the path we have taken? Where leads the first step of the new road ahead? Do we hit the ground with force?

This is a verse of a poem by sculptor Kotaro Takamura. When I read this, I reflect on whether flowers bloom on the path I've taken and where the first step of the new path leads. Is it trodden with strength?

【Message to Students】

Welcome to the world of Japanese! Learning a new language expands your heart by introducing you to a new country. I'll teach you patiently until you can express yourself in Japanese. Looking forward to studying together in the warm atmosphere of Japanese in Kamakura.

Mayuko TOYODA

Mayuko Toyoda

  • 【Place of Origin】
    Kanagawa Prefecture, Yokohama
  • 【Hobbies】
    Reading
  • 【Teaching Since】
    Since 2015
  • 【Languages and Proficiency】
    Chinese: Advanced level
    English: Basic level

【Motto for Japanese Education】

"Enjoy Learning"
I strive to make the acquisition of necessary Japanese language skills enjoyable and stress-free for everyone who embarks on this learning journey with me. It's a bond we share, and I want it to be a positive and enriching experience.

【Favorite Japanese Phrase or Proverb and Why】

成るように成る (なるようになる)
"It will be as it will be!" 

I love this phrase because it conveys the idea of accepting and trusting that things will work out in the end.

【Message to Students】

Embarking on the journey of learning a new language naturally opens up new worlds. Let's dive into these new experiences together and make our lives more enriching!

Kanako HIGUCHI

Kanako Higuchi

  • 【Place of Origin】
    Kanagawa Prefecture, Kamakura
  • 【Hobbies】
    I love sports 💕, especially tennis, badminton, and watching soccer.
  • 【Teaching Since】
    Over 20 years ago.
  • 【Languages and Proficiency】
    Currently studying Cantonese, Mandarin Chinese, Indonesian, and English.

【Motto for Japanese Education】

When I learn a language, I start by trying to understand the culture of that country. I hope to convey not only the Japanese language but also Japanese culture to all of you.

【Favorite Japanese Phrase or Proverb and Why】

百聞は一見にしかず (ひゃくぶんはいっけんにしかず)
"Seeing is believing" 

Try everything. It’s only by doing, that we can truly understand.

【Message to Students】

Let's talk a lot, a whole lot. I'm a very talkative person. Since you've come all the way to Japan, make plenty of Japanese friends. I would be delighted if learning Japanese could broaden your world.

Miho TOMARI

Miho Tomari

  • 【Place of Origin】
    Kanagawa Prefecture, Yokohama
  • 【Hobbies】
    Aikido, swimming in the sea, exploring mountain paths, appreciating beautiful scenery and flowers, enjoying delicious food, hot springs, cycling
  • 【Teaching Since】
    Started in Hong Kong in 2018. Taught students from elementary to adult, from beginners to intermediate-advanced levels, to both Hong Kong locals and Westerners. I joined Japanese in Kamakura in May 2023.
  • 【Languages and Proficiency】
    English - Everyday conversation level
    Italian - Travel conversation level

【Motto for Japanese Education】

I am truly grateful to be able to engage in international exchange from Japan through Japanese language education. The student's enthusiasm for learning is remarkable, and I am always impressed. My motto for Japanese education is “the first step toward world peace”. I develop this idea below in the message to students.

【Favorite Japanese Phrase or Proverb and Why】


飛ぶ鳥跡を濁さず
"A flying bird leaves nothing behind."

I try to leave beautifully when departing, both in daily life and when leaving this world.

 

・柔は剛を制す
"Softness overcomes hardness."

While a martial arts concept, it means being light and flexible can envelop even the strongest. Despite the tendency to force and be under strain, I aim to be flexible and light.

【Message to Students】

They say "Teaching is learning," and teaching Japanese has made me realize things. The word "wa" (peace) also means "Japan". Japanese values sometimes prioritize lifting others. I wonder if more people speak Japanese, will the circle of peace spread worldwide? Teaching all of you allows me to learn as well. Let's learn Japanese together, joyfully and beautifully.

contact

contact@japaneseinkamakura.com

(English, French or Japanese)