Best International Schools and Bilingual Schools in Yokohama

Yokohama's second-largest city, offers a diverse range of educational options for expat families and digital nomads. While not as extensive as Tokyo's, the international and bilingual school scene in Yokohama is growing, providing quality education for children from various cultural backgrounds. Among the most popular schools catering to the international community are Yokohama International School and Saint Maur International School, both known for their comprehensive curriculums and supportive environments.

Yokohama International School (YIS)

Grades: Age 3 through Grade 12
Location(s): Yokohama
Website: www.yis.ac.jp

Yokohama International School is one of the oldest and most prestigious international schools in Japan. Offering the International Baccalaureate (IB) program from elementary through to the Diploma Program, YIS boasts a diverse student body and a strong sense of community. The school's facilities include modern classrooms, a library, and sports areas. Extracurricular activities range from arts to athletics, catering to a wide array of interests.

Saint Maur International School

Grades: Age 2.5 through Grade 12
Location(s): Yokohama
Website: www.stmaur.ac.jp

As the oldest international school in Asia, Saint Maur International School offers a continuum of education including Montessori, the International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE), and the IB Diploma Program. The school is known for its academic rigor and supportive environment. Facilities include science labs, music rooms, and a performing arts center. A wide range of extracurricular activities is available to students.

Horizon Japan International School (HJIS)

Grades: Kindergarten through Grade 12
Location(s): Yokohama
Website: www.horizon.ac.jp

Horizon Japan International School offers an American-style curriculum with an international perspective. The school is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) and offers Advanced Placement (AP) courses for high school students. HJIS prides itself on its multicultural environment and its commitment to fostering global citizenship. The school's facilities include a gymnasium, computer labs, and a cafeteria offering international cuisine.

Deutsche Schule Tokyo Yokohama

Grades: Kindergarten through Grade 12
Location(s): Yokohama
Website: www.dsty.ac.jp

Deutsche Schule Tokyo Yokohama caters to the German-speaking community in the Yokohama and Tokyo area. The school follows the German curriculum and offers the German International Abitur as well as language support for non-German speaking students. With a range of facilities including science labs, sports fields, and a library, the school provides a comprehensive education with a strong emphasis on cultural integration.

British International School in Yokohama (BISY)

Grades: Preschool through Primary
Location(s): Yokohama
Website: www.bisy.info

The British International School in Yokohama offers a British-style education for children from preschool to primary levels. The school follows the Early Years Foundation Stage and the National Curriculum for England, providing a familiar framework for British expats. BISY emphasizes personalized learning and offers a nurturing environment with small class sizes. Extracurricular activities include music, art, and physical education.

Yokohama Christian School (YCS)

Grades: Preschool through Grade 6
Location(s): Yokohama
Website: www.ycs.ac.jp

Yokohama Christian School offers a Christian-based education with instruction in English. The school serves the international community with a curriculum that integrates faith and learning. YCS provides a warm and caring environment with a focus on character development. Facilities include a playground and a library, and the school offers a variety of after-school programs.

Yokohama Overseas Chinese School (YOCS)

Grades: Kindergarten through Senior High School
Location(s): Yokohama
Website: www.yocs.jp

Yokohama Overseas Chinese School caters to the Chinese community in Yokohama, offering education from kindergarten through to senior high school. The curriculum is based on the Chinese education system, with Mandarin as the primary language of instruction. YOCS also provides Japanese language classes and promotes cultural exchange. The school's facilities include a gymnasium and computer labs.