Best International Schools and Bilingual Schools in Kanazawa

Kanazawa, a city known for its well-preserved Edo-era districts, art museums and regional handicrafts, is not as large as Tokyo or Osaka but has its unique charm and a growing expat community. While it may not boast a large number of international or bilingual schools like the bigger cities, there are still some options available for expat families. Among the most popular are the Kanazawa International School and the Ishikawa International School, which cater to the needs of international students with diverse backgrounds.

Kanazawa International School (KIS)

Grades: Preschool through Grade 9
Location(s): Kanazawa City
Website: www.kis.ac.jp

Kanazawa International School is the first and only international school in the Hokuriku region. It offers the International Baccalaureate (IB) Primary Years Programme and Middle Years Programme. With a focus on international-mindedness and intercultural understanding, KIS provides a diverse learning environment. The school boasts small class sizes, a wide range of extracurricular activities, and a commitment to fostering a community among students, parents, and teachers.

Ishikawa International School (IIS)

Grades: Kindergarten through Grade 9
Location(s): Nearby Ishikawa Prefecture
Website: www.iis-edu.jp

Although not located directly in Kanazawa, Ishikawa International School is within a reasonable commuting distance and serves the international community in the Ishikawa Prefecture. IIS offers a bilingual education in Japanese and English, with an emphasis on developing students who are internationally minded and capable of contributing to the world. The school provides a nurturing environment with a variety of extracurricular activities and a curriculum designed to prepare students for the challenges of a global society.

Please note that due to the smaller size of Kanazawa, there may be limited options for international or bilingual schools, and families may need to consider nearby towns or cities for additional choices. It's also recommended to contact the schools directly for the most up-to-date information regarding admissions and programs.