Testimonials

Read our nicest testimonials from current and previous students. Some testimonials are from students who learned both remotely and in-person.

I've started learning Japanese with Emi Sensei in 2020 and she has always been very patient, kind and supportive. The classes are well structured and interactive, and Sensei is flexible in adjusting the program each year based on what we want to focus on. I like that my hobbies were incorporated into lessons, making learning more personal and fun. As a big J-pop fan, Sensei included this in our private lessons, along with cultural and thematic classes beyond grammar. My goal was to become independent when traveling to Japan. I can now handle casual conversations with friends who don't speak English and am planning to pass JLPT N4. I'm very grateful to have been studying with her guidance and would recommend her to any student.

I have been studying with Sensei for about seven years, both in person in a group, online privately and online in a small group. As an advanced student I have found her approach to fit my needs precisely. We all enjoy reviewing grammar, reading, speaking and learning new expressions and kanji each week. There is much variety in the lessons and an opportunity for all of us to contribute. We use a range of materials and texts which keeps it fresh. If we want to focus on something in particular we can ask specifically. When I first started, somebody described the lesson style as 'organic.' There is a plan but it moves where we want it to, taking in interesting cultural observations and our own personal input along the way. This amply matches our linguistic ability and covers a range of material without being 'fixed' to a text book or going through chapters. The approach might need to be different for less advanced pupils but the method demonstrates how Sensei can match the lesson plan to the particular needs of the group. I can't imagine studying Japanese with any other teacher

Sensei is an exceptional Japanese tutor—personable, kind, and endlessly patient. From the very first lesson, she creates a welcoming environment that makes learning feel approachable and enjoyable, explaining concepts clearly while meeting you where you are in your journey. Learning from a native tutor who thoughtfully incorporates cultural context, etiquette, and real-life language into every lesson is a true privilege. Sensei brings Japanese to life in a way that feels authentic and meaningful. What truly sets her apart is how genuinely invested she is in her students. She remembers personal details, asks about my family, and shows sincere care beyond the lesson itself. She is also incredibly flexible with scheduling and adapts each session to my pace and goals, building confidence without pressure. I can honestly say I wouldn't want to learn with anyone else—studying with Sensei is a truly rewarding experience.

I have been learning Japanese for three years with Sensei. She doesn’t just help me understand the language, she also helps me learn about Japanese traditions and everyday life. From beginner to higher levels, she always adapts to my pace and goals. The biggest change for me is confidence: after three years, I don’t just study Japanese, I can use it. Traveling to Japan and being able to communicate in everyday situations felt amazing, and I know I wouldn’t be there without her guidance.

I have been studying with Emi sensei for 2 years and every lesson is not only fantastic fun, but deeply enlightening. Sensei always goes above and beyond the recommended material and brings you to the heart of understanding Japanese history and culture. Sensei also adapts seamlessly to the needs of individual students, changing teaching methods and style where useful. We've enjoyed a variety of activities in our class, eg, kanji construction, quizzes, games, role play, reading and speaking practice with partners or the group. I struggled at first with reading but with Sensei's encouragement, we are moving onto more complex grammar

I have been learning with her for around half a year, she is always very helpful and encouraging. She makes the lessons fun and makes sure to teach us cultural lessons about Japan while we learn the language. She is always well prepared with print-outs and additional learning material beyond the textbook that we regularly use. Our class is a wide variety of people and ages; I can say that she makes sure everyone is comfortable to get involved. I look forward to continuing my Japanese journey with her!

I've been learning Japanese with Emi for a couple of years and would not want to do it with anyone else! She makes every lesson so fun, introducing new grammar and vocabulary within wider contexts of Japanese life and culture, and is always happy to explain things as many times as you require, making the lessons super accessible to all students regardless of how fast they pick things up. She has a great energy and clearly loves what she does!

I've been studying with Emi Sensei for nearly 6 years now - and I couldn't imagine learning from anyone else! Emi is extremely kind, encouraging, patient, and teaches in a way that is very clear and easy to understand.

I've studied with sensei for several years, having both group and individual classes. Sensei creates a fun atmosphere in her lessons which puts everyone at ease. She presents material clearly, with many examples, and gives ample time for practice, making it easier to remember and use the vocabulary and grammar we study. Additionally she links our study to cultural points and customs so that we learn not only how to use expressions but also why we should use them. I'm always pleased to see the progress I've made after each lesson.

I started studying Japanese with Eli nearly 2 years ago. I have gone from complete beginner level to upper elementary and even recently tried the JLPT N5 for the first time! Eli's lessons are engaging and fun with an even mix of the four skills plus kana practice. I never thought I'd be able to read and chat in Japanese but Eli has helped me find confidence in both. She provides opportunities to practice and review as well as useful tips and guidance on self-study. She is a natural teacher, full of kindness and humour and gentle feedback.

Emi's Japanese lessons are a great mix of relaxed and effective. She creates a comfortable learning environment, which makes speaking and asking questions easy. I appreciate how she reviews older material regularly, helping me retain what I've learned. Her lessons are very flexible and convenient, fitting easily into my schedule. she uses a variety of resources including videos, and conversation practice, so it never feels repetitive. Whether you're a beginner or brushing up on skills, she adjusts to your level and goals. I've made steady progress and always look forward to each session. Highly recommend her lessons for anyone learning Japanese!