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
We are currently accepting reservation applications for new enrollment beginning in September 2026.
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.
2024 Annual Schedule
| September 3, 2025 | Start of the First Term |
| December 21, 2025 – January 3, 2026 | Winter Break |
| January 7, 2026 | Start of the Second Term |
| January 31, 2026 | Kanji Proficiency Test |
| March 18 – 28, 2026 | Spring Break |
| April 1 – 4, 2026 | Easter Break |
| April 8, 2026 | Start of the Third Term |
| May 31, 2026 | Graduation Ceremony and Learning Presentation |
| June (Date TBD), 2026 | Kanji Proficiency Test |
| June 14, 2026 | Sports Day |
| June 21 – August 31, 2026 | Summer Break |
| September 2, 2026 | Start of the New Year |