πΈ Haruno Japanese Academy
For those who feel something special about Japan.
Where language meets culture. Private 1-on-1 lessons designed for adults who want more than fluency.
Start with a Free Conversation* A $30 deposit is required to book. Fully refunded when you join a plan.
beyond 1 year
lessons
sessions
The Haruno Method
Why our students actually start speaking.
You speak 70% of the time.
Output. not input. is what builds real speaking ability.
You can use 1 new thing.
Small wins every lesson build momentum. and momentum builds fluency.
Homework is output, not study.
You reach for words. and they don't come. That struggle is the learning.
Japanese you actually use in your life.
Only you know the Japanese you want to speak. That's why we stay committed to 1-on-1, always.
When you can speak Japanese,
conversations open.
Relationships deepen.
Japan becomes something you live in.
Not just something you visit.
Student Stories
Real students. Real progress. Real love for Japan.
No matter your age or background, you can learn Japanese and enjoy every moment of it.
"A rewarding 2-week journey across Japan."
"Transforming a trip into a series of meaningful connections. Basic conversational Japanese to make travels more fulfilling."
"Sharpening literacy for test-day success."
"Improved reading comprehension and higher proficiency scores. Goal: strengthen reading skills and perform better on proficiency exams."
"From basic Hiragana to real business bonding."
"Building bridges with Japanese colleagues and culture. Goal: communicate with Tokyo-based colleagues and enjoy Japanese music/media."
"Conquered JLPT N2 in just 3 months!"
"Turning years of struggling into a breakthrough success. Goal: Pass the JLPT N2 exam."
"Connecting with my roots and my family."
"More than just a language, it's about deeper connections. As a half-Japanese student, wanted to reclaim his heritage."
"Piecing the puzzle together: Mastery through 22 months of growth."
"Transforming classroom learning into seamless daily life in Japan."
"Deepening my Kendo practice through language."
"Better communication and a deeper understanding of Japanese culture. Goal: improve speaking skills and connect more deeply with Kendo."
"Courage for my first-ever solo trip abroad."
"Turning a dream into reality through live, interactive practice. For her first-ever trip outside the US, she chose Japan."
"Beyond University: Mastery through real conversation."
"Maintaining momentum and discovering unexpected skills like Kanji. Goal: continue Japanese studies after university."
"It's never too late to learn a new language."
"Preparing for a dream trip to Japan. Gained the confidence to handle daily interactions with ease."
"Mastering Japanese hospitality before a major NY restaurant opening."
"Deepening cultural roots to deliver an authentic dining experience."
"Courage to connect with colleagues."
"Mastering the subtle nuances of the Japanese mind. Working in Japan, needed confidence to initiate conversations with Japanese colleagues."
The Japanese Heart
Language is the door. Culture is what's inside.
Once a month, we go beyond grammar. Our culture lessons help you experience the thinking behind Japanese words so the language becomes a part of who you are.
γγγγγΎγ§ Okagesama-de
Lesson 1Often translated as "fortunately" but the kanji ι° (shadow) tells a deeper story. A refusal to take sole credit, paired with gratitude for everyone who supported you from behind the scenes.
You'll reflect on your own success and feel the Japanese instinct to turn toward the invisible shadows behind it.
* Culture lessons are held once a month. New topics are added continuously.
Why Haruno
We go beyond grammar.
We help you understand the language, the culture, and the heart behind every word.
70% Speaking, 30% Input
You speak for about 70% of the lesson. The fastest progress comes from using Japanese, not just hearing it.
Monthly Culture Lesson
Once a month, we go beyond grammar β exploring the philosophy, aesthetics, and heart behind Japanese words.
Your Dedicated Instructor & Team
Your instructor and our team track your progress after every single lesson β so nothing falls through the cracks.
For Organizations
Intercultural consulting & corporate training.
We partner with global companies operating in Japan to build bridges between cultures through language, mindset, and human connection.
Bicultural Workplace Programs
Structured training programs designed to help international employees navigate Japanese professional environments including facilitated workshops, culture coaching, and simulations.
Monthly Lessons
Simple, flexible plans.
All courses include 45-minute private sessions, lesson materials, and ongoing support. Switch or cancel anytime.
- 8 lessons / month
- 1 cultural lesson / month
- 24/7 LINE support
Our Instructors
9 instructors. One shared mission.
Every instructor has completed the Haruno Method training β designed to teach not just language, but the culture and heart behind every word.
Momoka Sensei
Global Perspective Instructor
Currently studying in Sweden. Known for her dedicated teaching style and strong student commitment, with one of the highest lesson continuation rates among our instructors.
Specialty: Conversation practice, academic Japanese, and global topics.
Kaori Sensei
Senior Instructor for Professionals
10+ years supporting global professionals across industries. Known for turning hesitant speakers into confident communicators.
Specialty: Business Japanese and fluency building.
FAQ
Everything you need to know.
What time zones do you cover?
Our instructors are based in Japan and abroad, giving us coverage across multiple time zones. We offer morning, afternoon, and evening slots that work well for both U.S. and European learners.
I don't have a specific goal like passing an exam. Is that okay?
Absolutely. Most of our students learn Japanese simply because they love Japan β its culture, its people, its way of seeing the world. You don't need a test score or a deadline to start. Curiosity is more than enough.
About the Founder
Haruno Nakagawa
Founder, Haruno Japanese Academy
Growing up with a mother who was a Japanese language teacher, Haruno developed a deep connection to the art of teaching language. In May 2023, she began teaching Japanese herself and by November 2023, she launched Haruno Online Japanese School TOKYO.
As of 2026, Haruno leads a team of 9 instructors under the new name Haruno Japanese Academy bringing together language, culture, and the Japanese spirit to learners around the world.
Her vision: that Japanese becomes not something you study, but something you carry with you.
πΈ Begin your journey
For those who feel something special about Japan.
One conversation can change how you see Japanese and how you learn forever.
Start with a Free Conversation