Best International Schools and Bilingual Schools in Nara

Nara, known for its rich history and cultural heritage, is not as large as metropolitan cities like Tokyo or Osaka, and thus has fewer international or bilingual school options. However, expats and digital nomads with families can still find quality education for their children. Among the most popular choices for international education within a reasonable distance from Nara are the Osaka International School and the Marist Brothers International School in Kobe, both of which offer comprehensive international curricula and are within a 40-minute drive from Nara.

Osaka International School (OIS)

Grades: Kindergarten through Grade 12
Location(s): Minoh, Osaka
Website: www.senri.ed.jp

Osaka International School is part of the Senri & Osaka International Schools of Kwansei Gakuin, offering the International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum. With a diverse student body, OIS provides a global learning environment. The school boasts modern facilities, including science labs, art studios, and sports areas. Extracurricular activities range from music and arts to various sports and clubs, catering to a wide array of interests.

Marist Brothers International School

Grades: Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12
Location(s): Suma-ku, Kobe
Website: www.marist.ac.jp

Marist Brothers International School offers a U.S.-based curriculum and is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC). The school emphasizes a family-like atmosphere and focuses on the development of the whole child. Facilities include a library, computer labs, and a gymnasium. The school also offers a variety of extracurricular activities, including sports, arts, and cultural clubs.

Canadian Academy

Grades: Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12
Location(s): Higashinada-ku, Kobe
Website: www.canacad.ac.jp

Canadian Academy is an international school that offers the IB curriculum and the Canadian Alberta Education curriculum. The school has a diverse student population and provides a wide range of facilities, including a performing arts center, design technology labs, and athletic fields. Canadian Academy is known for its strong academic program and a wide array of extracurricular activities, including Model United Nations, robotics, and various sports teams.

Deutsche Schule Kobe International

Grades: Kindergarten through Grade 12
Location(s): Nada-ku, Kobe
Website: www.dskobe.org

Deutsche Schule Kobe International provides a German-based education with a strong emphasis on multilingualism, offering instruction in German, English, and Japanese. The school is recognized for its small class sizes and personalized attention. Facilities include a library, playground, and computer labs. Extracurricular activities are also available, focusing on language development, sports, and cultural experiences.

Kobe International School

Grades: Kindergarten through Grade 12
Location(s): Chuo-ku, Kobe
Website: www.kis.ac.jp

Kobe International School is an English-language school that follows the English National Curriculum, leading to IGCSEs and A-Levels. The school is known for its supportive community and commitment to academic excellence. Students have access to modern classrooms, a library, and a computer lab. The school offers a range of extracurricular activities, including music, drama, and sports, to enhance the educational experience.

Please note that while these schools are within a 40-minute drive from Nara under typical traffic conditions, actual travel times may vary depending on the time of day and traffic patterns. It is recommended to check with each school for specific details regarding their programs, admissions, and to schedule visits.