"Hello! I’m Kaya. Are you a beginner excited to learn Japanese for an upcoming trip? Are you a student struggling with verb conjugation, particles, or kanji? Or are you looking to communicate better with Japanese colleagues or friends? No matter what your specific goals are, I am here to help you overcome any challenges and guide you every step of the way. I will help you achieve your goals quickly and effectively.

I was born and raised in Japan and have lived in the United States for 37 years. With a Ph.D. in Anthropology and an M.A. in Psychology, I bring both academic expertise and a passion for education to my teaching. I have over 16 years of experience teaching Japanese in U.S. colleges and universities, including seven summers teaching in a Japanese language immersion program.

As a Japanese-English bilingual, I provide clear explanations in English whenever needed, ensuring that even the most complex topics are easy to understand. My teaching style is centered around tailoring lessons to each student’s individual needs and goals, making sure that the content resonates with them personally. I also focus on addressing common challenges such as verb and adjective conjugation, particles, and kanji, helping students overcome these obstacles with confidence.

I teach learners of all levels, from complete beginners to advanced speakers. My students include high school and college learners, business professionals, and anyone passionate about mastering Japanese. My goal is to create a learning environment that is supportive, engaging, and customized to your unique strengths and interests.

If you are ready to begin your language-learning journey, I would love to help you achieve your goals. Send me a message to schedule your first lesson—I look forward to meeting you and working together online." less...