When we were founded in 1971, our initial desire was to promote “communication between parents and children” and “Japanese language learning as Japanese descendants,” with the hope that we would serve as a “bridge across the Pacific.”
Today, we aim for students to utilize “Japanese from an international perspective.” The name “Gladstone Japanese Language School” originates from when my family started a classroom in a traditional style on Gladstone Street in Vancouver.
My belief is to “teach with passion for education and love for students.” We aim to foster collaboration among students, parents, and teachers to deepen interest and understanding of Japanese culture through the Japanese language and support students in their personal growth.
Features of our School
Japanese Cultural Experience
At our school, students not only learn to read and write in Japanese but also enjoy engaging activities such as singing and crafting in class. Through school events like New Year’s games and Hinamatsuri (Doll Festival), students have the opportunity to experience and learn about unique aspects of Japanese culture in a fun and interactive way.
Extensive Educational Experience
Along with Yoko Murakami, the founder who has experience as a teacher in Japan and has been teaching Japanese in Canada for over 55 years, our teaching staff also includes holders of Japanese teaching licenses.
We have seven teachers who have been with the school for 10 to 20 years.
About Fundamental Class
Please see the details of the Fundamental class, which is designed for students who speak English at home.
New Enrollment Starting September 2026
Pre-registration is now open for students starting in September 2026.
New Enrollment Starting September 2027
We are currently accepting pre-registrations for new enrollment beginning in September 2027.
After submitting your pre-registration, you will be contacted in order based on class availability.
Submitting this form does not guarantee enrollment.
If space is available, the school will email you an enrollment application form.
Our Original British Columbia Karuta
You can purchase it at the Nikkei Cultural Centre & Museum and Gladstone Japanese Language School.
To mark its 50th anniversary, Gladstone Japanese Language School has created the ‘BC Karuta’.
Karuta (カルタ) is a traditional Japanese card game that involves matching cards based on poetic or literary clues.
Reading cards and picture cards were created by middle and high school students. The intention is to help students learn about British Columbia and foster a love for their local heritage.
Available for $25 per set as a fundraising item.
2026 Annual Schedule
| September 9, 2026 | Start of the First Term |
| December 20, 2026 – January 2, 2025 | Winter Break |
| January 6, 2027 | Start of the Second Term |
| January 30, 2027 | Kanji Proficiency Test |
| March 17 – 27, 2027 | Spring Break |
| March 31, 2027 | Start of the Third Term |
| May 29, 2027 | Graduation Ceremony and Learning Presentation |
| June (Date TBD), 2027 | Kanji Proficiency Test |
| June 13, 2027 | Sports Day |
| June 20 – September 7, 2027 | Summer Break |
| September 8, 2027 | Start of the New Year |