Free trial

Fun Japanese lessons
for beginners and kids.

Former elementary school teacher · about 20 years of experience

Hi, I'm Haruka. I taught in elementary schools for about 20 years, and now I teach Japanese online, one-on-one, in a bright and friendly way. Dreaming of living in Japan someday? Let's start from the very first word.

Book a free 30-min trial No pressure. Just come say hello.

Who it's for

This might be you

Complete beginners

You want to start Japanese but don't know where to begin. We begin with the basics, at your pace.

Kids

Your child is curious about Japanese, or will be going to school in Japan one day. Lessons stay playful and encouraging.

Families thinking of Japan

You're considering a move in a few years and want to prepare, or you've just arrived and feel unsure about daily life.

What you get

Japanese lessons where it's safe to speak

Japanese for kids growing up abroad

Japanese, language arts and math. I have taught for years with the textbooks used in Japanese schools abroad. Whether your child wants to talk with family, keep up with Japanese schoolwork, or keep reading and writing, we shape lessons around your goals.

Lessons for parent and child

I tell parents what their child achieved in each lesson and what to practice next.

For true beginners

We check your level first, then learn listening, speaking, reading and writing in a comfortable order. With young children we start with hiragana, katakana, words, reading aloud and simple conversation. Mistakes are welcome.

Japanese for travel and life in Japan

From phrases for your trip to everyday life and culture. Thinking about moving to Japan? Ask me anything.

Haruka

About me

Hello, I'm Haruka

I was an elementary school teacher for about 20 years. I watch how each student is doing and change my explanations and activities as we go, and I bring that to my online lessons.

I'm from Kobe, a beautiful city between the sea and the mountains. I love going out with my family, good food, and discovering new cultures. What matters most to me is that you feel safe to speak. You don't have to be perfect from the start.

How it works

Start in three steps

  1. Book a free 30-minute trial

    Send me a short message. We'll pick a time that works in your time zone.

  2. Find your starting point in the trial

    I ask about your goals and past study, then we use Japanese together to find what you can already do and what to practice. For kids, we use their favorite things, pictures and games.

  3. Get feedback, then choose

    I share what you achieved, what to build next, and how lessons would go (for kids, a clear report for parents). Then you decide whether to continue.

FAQ

Questions

I'm a total beginner. Is that OK?

Yes, beginners are exactly who I love teaching. We start from the basics.

Do you teach children?

Yes. Lessons for kids are short on pressure and big on encouragement.

Do I need to speak Japanese to book?

No. You can message me in English.

Can you help me prepare for living in Japan?

Yes, feel free to ask. Tell me where you're thinking of living and what worries you most, and we can talk it through.

How much are lessons?

The 30-minute trial lesson is free. I will let you know the regular lesson fees by email.

Contact

Let's say hello

Send me a message to book your free 30-minute trial lesson.

Email Haruka

ponohappylifeformomkid@gmail.com