
Who I teach
- Adults seeking regular support for travel Japanese, conversation practice, or a confident return to fundamentals.
- Primary, secondary & university students preparing for JLPT, GCSE, A Level Japanese, EJU, or university study.
- Heritage learners who already know some Japanese and would like to strengthen and build on it.
- Motivated beginners who want a clear path and steady progress.
I genuinely enjoy helping complete beginners â and Iâm good at it.
Why learn with Hitomi
- Expert guidance: MA in Applied Linguistics (Japanese Language Education), 25+ yearsâ experience, author of 17 textbooks, former senior lecturer; JASSO testing specialist for the EJU.
- Proven approach: Friendly, structured lessons grounded in Second Language Acquisition
- Tailored & encouraging: Clear goals, useful feedback, and strategies that fit your schedule and needs.
Many learners move beyond the first few lessons
Around two-thirds of new regular 1-to-1 learners in 2025â26 took 5 or more lessons. All new regular learners booked a second session after their first, suggesting that the first lesson often gives learners enough clarity and confidence to continue.
Based on new regular 1-to-1 learners who started paid lessons in 2025â26.
How it works
- Discovery â brief video call/message about goals & schedule. My schedule fills quickly â book a free 15-minute discovery call
- Plan â agree on a focus (for example, travel Japanese, conversation, JLPT, A Level Japanese, EJU, heritage language development, etc.).
- Lesson â In-person (EH10): Lessons in Edinburgh South; daytime and evening slots; Online: Secure Google Meet lessons with shared whiteboard and materials.
- Between lessons â doable homework and a tiny checklist to keep you moving.
- Review â every few weeks, we adjust goals and materials.
Lesson options & fees
- From ÂŁ40 per 60 minutes (materials included; recommended textbooks to be obtained by students)
- Session lengths: 45 / 60 / 90 minutes (45 minutes often suits younger learners)
- Booking: single sessions or blocks; invoices via secure online payment
- Materials: Worksheets (paper/digital) can be provided; a small fee may apply depending on scope
- Where: Inâperson in Edinburgh South (EH10) or online via Google Meet (shared whiteboard & materials).
Prefer to start with a shorter session first?
If youâd like to try speaking before committing to regular 1-to-1 lessons, the Japanese Speaking Review & Plan may be a helpful place to start.
Youâll have time to speak, receive personalised feedback, and leave with a clear next step.
See the 30-minute Speaking Review & Plan â
JLPT Study Plan Power-Up (also available as a 30-minute online session)
A focused 30âminute online session to build a realistic 4âweek plan for JLPT N5âN1 with targeted resources and microâgoals.
Learn more: JLPT Study Plan PowerâUp â
How to start
For Private Lessons, please first note that my regular 1-to-1 timetable is currently full and there is a waiting list for new regular learners. If you are happy to wait, send a message via the contact form with your goals, level and preferred days/times, or book a free 15-minute Discovery Call to discuss possible future support.
If youâd prefer to start with a shorter session first, youâre very welcome to begin with the Japanese Speaking Review & Plan instead.
Services for students & professionals
Support for study, work and applications â available as add-ons to 1-to-1 lessons.
- CV review & essay/interview preparation for Japanese universities and companies
- JET Programme application support
- International Speech Contest coaching & application support
- Educational consulting for schools and teachers
Request for professional support (contact form)
FAQs
Do you teach beginners?
- Yes â adults and children. Weâll start at a comfortable level.
Do you provide materials?
- Yes. Iâll recommend textbooks/workbooks that suit your goals. Worksheets (paper or digital) can be provided; a small fee may apply depending on the amount required.
What if I need to reschedule?
- Please give 24 hoursâ notice (see T&Cs). Switching from inâperson to online is available when needed.
Where in Edinburgh do you teach in person?
- EH10. Online is available UKâwide and worldwide (EU-friendly).
Do you prepare for JLPT/GCSE/Aâlevel/EJU/uni modules?
- Absolutely â tailored to your syllabus or exam goals.
Do you teach heritage learners?
- Yes â lessons can help heritage learners strengthen grammar, literacy, accuracy, and confidence, while building on what they already know.
Safeguarding (for underâ18s):
- PVGâchecked; clear safeguarding & collection procedures.