Key Considerations for Purchasing a Building for a Japanese Language School

To establish a Japanese language school, the founder must generally own the land and building (in the company’s name).

1. If You Already Own a Building:

   • If you already have a building, just ensure it meets the necessary requirements for a school.

2. If You Need to Purchase Land and a Building:

   • Determine if the building is suitable for school use before buying.

   • While changing land ownership is straightforward, the building size should accommodate the number of international students you plan to accept in the future.
     

Ownership Requirements:

• Maximum Capacity: In the first year, you can accept up to 100 students.

• Class Size: Each classroom should have a maximum of 20 students, requiring at least 30 m² per classroom.

• Space Needed: To accommodate 100 students, you need at least three classrooms (totaling 60 m²). If you offer morning and afternoon classes, you can increase to six classrooms, allowing for up to 120 students.
  

Essential Facilities:

• Necessary Rooms: Include a staff room, administrative office, library, health room, and ideally a self-study room.

• Restrooms: Must be separated by gender, with a sufficient number of toilets to handle student usage during breaks.

• Bicycle Parking: Consider a designated area for bicycles, especially in rural settings, to avoid disturbing neighbors.

  

  
  

Using Part of a Building:

• If using part of a building owned by your school, it will involve divided ownership.

• While it's not prohibited to establish a language school in such a space, be aware of potential conflicts with other owners.

• Approval from a management association may be required for maintenance and school use.

General Requirements:

• Minimum Space per Student: At least 2.3 m².

  • For 100 students, you need a minimum of 230 m².

• Classroom Space: At least 30 m² per classroom for 20 students.

  • For 100 students, you should secure 3 to 4 classrooms.

• Other Facilities: Must include separate restrooms and may also include self-study rooms, audiovisual rooms, and recreation areas.

Final Note:

• Ensure your building complies with all requirements to create a conducive learning environment for international students.