We lived in Japan from 2008-2012 when our children were in preschool. After living in New York City, we returned to Tokyo in 2017 with our three children, then ages 12, 10, and 9. Upon our return, we chose Nishimachi as we felt it is truly a "Japanese" international school, and, as such, provides considerable emphasis on Japanese culture and language. This is important as we are living in the host country of Japan, and the quality of the living experience will only be enhanced with better language and culture immersion.
The school also has a reputation for, and a record of, impressive academic achievement. We have been pleased and surprised at the level of digital learning and the inclusion of technology in the children's education. The inclusive nature of the community is very apparent, from the principals’ and the head of school’s welcome at the front gate each morning, to vibrant and diverse parents and alumni networks. We've been happy to dive into volunteer opportunities at the school through the food fair and gala, which are the main events sponsored by Tomo no Kai (the NIS parent association). You can feel the community spirit of a tight-knit group on these occasions.
Being in the heart of Tokyo—and living only a few minutes' walk to school—is also an added bonus! Our children look forward to going to school and return happy in the afternoon, enriched with new knowledge on a diverse array of subjects. We couldn't be happier with our decision.
