Jan 23, 2025
When people think about studying Japanese, they often picture bustling streets, neon lights, and the fast-paced energy of cities like Tokyo or Osaka. While these urban centers have a lot to offer, studying in rural Japan provides an experience that is just as valuable—if not more so.
Imagine waking up to the sight of rice fields, walking down quiet streets where neighbors greet you warmly, and being surrounded by a community that genuinely wants to help you learn Japanese. In the countryside, you won’t just be studying the language; you’ll be living it in the most immersive way possible.
If you’re considering where to study, here’s why rural Japan could be the perfect place to begin your language journey.
1. A Truly Immersive Language Experience
One of the biggest challenges of learning Japanese in major cities is the abundance of English. In places like Tokyo, it’s easy to default to English when ordering food or asking for directions. But in rural Japan, where English isn’t commonly spoken, you’ll be forced to use Japanese in real-life situations every single day.
Research has shown that full immersion leads to faster language acquisition. In fact, a study by the Japan Exchange and Teaching (JET) Programme found that participants in rural areas improved their Japanese skills 40% faster than those in cities because they were constantly required to communicate in Japanese.
When you’re grocery shopping, making small talk with your neighbors, or even asking for directions, you’re reinforcing your learning in a way that textbooks simply can’t provide.
2. A Stronger Sense of Community
One of the best things about rural Japan is the deep sense of community. Unlike in big cities where life moves quickly, smaller towns tend to be more welcoming and close-knit. People are genuinely interested in getting to know you, which creates endless opportunities for language practice.
Many locals are happy to teach you new words, invite you into their homes, or even introduce you to cultural traditions like tea ceremonies, rice planting, or local festivals. In some rural areas like Yamagata or Nagano, foreign students often become part of the community, rather than just visitors passing through. From my own experience as a language learner from the United States, it was a once in a lifetime experience having the opportunity to take a study trip to Tenryumura, Nagano to learn about current issues such as the ageing population. Going to rural areas in Japan shows the strength of the local people and the attitude. For example, there are many community based businesses to introduce local products across Japan.
In other words, if you want to truly connect with Japanese people and culture, rural Japan provides the perfect setting!
3. Opportunity to Learn Japanese in the Countryside
For students who want to experience the best of rural Japan while still having access to top-quality education, ISI Language School Nagano is an excellent choice.
Located in Nagano Prefecture, ISI Nagano offers an immersive Japanese learning experience in a peaceful, nature-rich setting. The city itself is known for its fresh air, outdoor activities, and traditional culture, making it ideal for students looking to balance study with relaxation.
The school provides small class sizes, ensuring personalized instruction and more opportunities to practice speaking. Additionally, ISI Nagano helps students integrate into the local community, offering cultural exchange programs, host family options, and internships that make learning Japanese feel natural and rewarding.
If you're looking for a study abroad experience that’s immersive, affordable, and culturally enriching, ISI Nagano is a perfect option.
4. A Relaxed and Healthy Lifestyle
City life can be exciting, but it often comes with stress, noise, and distractions that make it harder to focus on studying. The crowded trains, long commutes, and fast-paced lifestyle of places like Tokyo and Osaka can be exhausting, leaving little time or mental energy for deep learning. In contrast, rural Japan offers a slower, more peaceful way of life, which can actually be far better for language acquisition and overall well-being.
How Nature Enhances Learning
Research has shown that spending time in nature has significant benefits for memory, concentration, and mental health. According to studies from the University of Michigan, exposure to green spaces can improve cognitive function by up to 20%, making it easier to retain new information—exactly what you need when learning a complex language like Japanese.
Living in the countryside means being surrounded by nature daily—whether it’s the sight of rice fields, the sound of birds in the morning, or the fresh mountain air. This natural environment reduces stress, helps with mental clarity, and creates a more focused, distraction-free setting to practice Japanese.
A Balanced Routine: Studying and Outdoor Activities
Another advantage of studying in rural Japan is the opportunity to combine language learning with outdoor activities. In contrast to city life, where entertainment often revolves around shopping, nightlife, or digital screens, rural Japan encourages an active and balanced lifestyle.
Take Karuizawa, for example, a picturesque town in the Nagano Japanese Alps. Students studying here often split their time between language classes and outdoor activities like hiking, cycling, and even skiing in the winter. At ISI Nagano, students can even take a course which incorporates outdoor activities such as skiing and language courses.
5. Authentic Cultural Experiences
There are countless cultural experiences to enjoy across Japan, but Nagano offers something truly special. Unlike major cities where traditions are often commercialized, Nagano's festivals, customs, and craftsmanship remain deeply connected to local life, providing a genuine cultural experience for students.
One of the most thrilling events is the Nozawa Onsen Dosojin Fire Festival, where massive wooden shrines are set ablaze in a centuries-old ritual to bring good fortune. Participating in this fiery celebration is a great way to connect with locals while practicing your Japanese in a lively, immersive setting. Another major cultural highlight is the Zenkoji Temple Gokaicho, a rare event held once every seven years, where pilgrims gather to witness a sacred hidden Buddha statue—a powerful spiritual experience deeply tied to Japan’s Buddhist traditions.
Beyond festivals, Nagano also offers hands-on cultural experiences like taiko drumming, soba-making, and traditional calligraphy, giving students the chance to actively engage with Japan’s heritage while improving their language skills.
Conclusion: How LALALA Nihon can make your Japanese Dream a Reality
At LALALA Nihon, we’re here to help you find the perfect study program that fits your goals—whether you’re looking for a short-term language course or a long-term immersion experience. Our team offers personalized counseling to guide you through school selection, visa applications, and living arrangements, making your transition to Japan smooth and stress-free.
Ready to take the next step? Book a free consultation with us today! Click the button below and let’s start planning your Japanese language journey together.