ChotChat
Japanese Language & Culture Lessons
Inspired by chit‑chat (“casual conversation”), ChotChat takes its name from the Japanese word chotto (“a little bit”). A relaxed, approachable space to explore the Japanese language and culture — with professional instructors and a high‑quality curriculum.
Course Catalogue/
コースのご案内
Online Language Courses
オンライン日本語コース
Various classes to fit your goals
North America Univ. program using Genki Textbook
Business Japanese for those who aim to work in Japan
Kansai Dialect for those who aim to live in Kobe/Osaka/Kyoto etc.
Manga/Anime Conversation class for advanced learners
In-Person Courses
( Canada/Japan only)
対面授業（カナダ/日本のみ）
North America Univ. program using Genki
Courses in Vancouver, Canada will open in Jan. 2027
Courses in Japan are opening soon!
Cultures-For Japan Lovers
(Future Travelers/
Japan Life Beginners)
日本文化（旅行者・生活者用）
Some classes or events are provided in English to learn about Japanese life & cultures
“Good to Know” event to help with your future trip or life in Japan
Japanese resume service is available. For more info, see here.
Tailored Lessons
(for individual/corporations)
個人・企業向けレッスン
Private lessons/Group Lessons on demand
We can create a curriculum and provide lessons for specific needs
You can book a private lesson window for questions about your Japan trip and culture (non‑legal matters))
企業用研修はこちらをご覧ください。
Our Expertise/
私たちの強み
Professional Instructors
All our instructors hold Japanese teaching degrees, official certificates, or have taught at universities in North America. You’ll receive high‑quality, bilingual lessons modeled on North American university standards. Many classes use a flipped‑classroom approach—review vocabulary and grammar beforehand, then focus on speaking practice during class for smoother, more effective learning.
Worldwide Access to courses
Japanese learners are everywhere—Europe, North America, Asia, Oceania and beyond. That’s why we offer classes across multiple time zones, so you can study Japanese comfortably from anywhere in the world. Use Tags to quickly find courses offered in your time zone.
Culture-related
events / courses
Many people visit Japan for short trips, while others are preparing to work or live there. Where to live and work? What are the key manners and etiquette? Are there strong regional dialects? Our courses and events are conducted in English and designed for anyone who loves Japan.
Tailored Japanese Courses
Because our instructors have extensive experience in curriculum planning and syllabus development, we are able to design fully customized Japanese courses for both individuals and corporate clients. This is particularly beneficial for companies looking for tailored training solutions.
企業ご担当者様：
全てのインストラクターは、様々なカリキュラム作成と指導に携わった経験があります。日本赴任前から到着後までご要望により、御社に合わせた研修プログラムを作成,、ご提供いたします。こちらをご覧ください。
Testmonials/
受講者の声
“A wonderful instructor—kind, patient, and always encouraging. She made a difficult course feel manageable and created a strong connection with every student. Her positivity and responsiveness were truly appreciated.”
— Former student, USA, Beginner“The lesson is fun and engaging. I learned not only the language but also Japanese culture, which I believe will be very helpful when I live and work in Japan in the future!”
— Current student, Canada, Beginner“I really appreciated how professionally and clearly the instructor explained grammar. The lessons were extremely helpful, and they gave me confidence to use Japanese during my upcoming trip to Japan.”
— Former student, Korea, IntermediateFrequently Asked Questions/よくある質問
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Please follow the steps shown on this page (link).
Most courses have prerequisites, except for absolute beginners.
If you do not have any official proof of your current Japanese level, you may take the TTBJ placement exam and submit your result.
If you are an absolute beginner, please make sure to take the Hiragana and Katakana writing courses separately before moving on to the next class.
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Class size varies by format. Online classes are limited to a maximum of six students to ensure high‑quality instruction. In‑person classes can accommodate up to twelve students, which is comparable to—or smaller than—the class size commonly seen in North American universities.
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Yes. We require a minimum of 3 students for online courses and 5 students for in‑person classes.
If the class you wish to join does not reach the required number of students, you may select another class or sign up for the next term.
Course opening is determined 7 days before the start date for online classes and 30 days before the start date for in‑person classes. You will be notified at that time. If the course does not open and you do not switch to another class, you will receive a full refund.
For details, please see our Terms & Conditions (link).
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The “Show your interest!” button lets us know which courses you would like us to offer. We prioritize opening courses that receive the most interest, so if you are considering a class, please register your interest.
Once the course is ready to open, we will notify you at the email address you provided.