Aoba-Japan Bilingual Preschool Shimomeguro

Location

• Shimomeguro Campus: 5-29-6 Shimomeguro, Meguro City, Tokyo (nearest station: 12-minute walk from Musashi-Koyama Station (Tokyu Meguro Line))

Ages

Ages 2–5. For FY2027 entry, classes from K1 (age 1, born April 2, 2025–April 1, 2026) to K5 (age 5, born April 2, 2021–April 1, 2022) are recruiting (this campus is for ages 2–5). Attending a school information session is required for admission, and selection is by document screening and interview.

Curriculum

A bilingual preschool run by Aoba International Educational Systems Co., Ltd.; all campuses use the International Baccalaureate. The IB PYP (Primary Years Programme) starts at age 3 (K3), and children explore 4 themes (Units of Inquiry) a year. Ages 1–2 are not in the PYP age range, but activities follow the same approach. Children use both English and Japanese in school life, and learning through play is valued. Children also learn Japanese culture and customs. After-school programs such as piano, ballet, dance, programming and gymnastics are available on campus. The ALA Saturday Program runs on Saturdays. The campus is a 5-minute walk from Rinshi-no-Mori Park, and combines IB learning with STEAM education. Opening hours are Monday–Friday 8:10–18:30; basic care hours are 8:10–16:00, and extended care is 16:00–18:30.

Accreditation

International Baccalaureate (PYP authorized school)

Tuition

Tuition amounts are not published on the official website (it says application guidelines and other materials are handed out at information sessions). The school has been issued Tokyo's certificate for unlicensed childcare facilities. The FAQ says each campus is recognized by its local municipality as a facility covered by free early childhood education and care, and that there is a sibling discount. The interview screening fee is ¥20,000 per child, and the enrollment fee is non-refundable once paid (the amount of the enrollment fee is not published on the official website).

School bus

The FAQ says each campus runs a school bus, and routes and stops differ by campus (ask the campus for details; when full, there is a waiting list). Fees are not published on the official website.

Japanese lessons

Children use both English and Japanese in school life, and the school also values learning correct Japanese. Children also learn Japanese culture and customs.

Lunch

The school provides lunch and snacks. Meals come from a partner caterer, are low in salt and sugar, and the menu takes into account the 7 major allergens except wheat.