Keiko

I am a Japanese linguist with a PhD in Anthropology from Washington State University and DPSI Level 6 interpreter qualification. My professional background includes over twenty years of experience as a translator and interpreter, but since obtaining my Teaching Japanese as a Foreign Language certificate in 2017, I have been focusing on Japanese language education.

I enjoy working with students who are passionate about Japanese culture—whether it’s anime, business, tourism, technology, or fashion. My greatest joy as a tutor is seeing my students make connections between their language learning and their personal interests, such as discovering a new depth in their favorite anime or gaining insights into Japanese business culture.

Tutoring Experience

I specialize in teaching beginner-level Japanese to English speakers and emphasize long-term language acquisition. While I also prepare students for JLPT and GCSE, my primary goal is to support learners who truly want to develop conversational skills and use Japanese confidently over time.

Many of my students stay with me for the long term—more than five years—because I focus on structured, engaging lessons that help them steadily build their language ability. I also emphasize vocabulary acquisition, ensuring students have the words they need to express themselves naturally in conversation.

Since my students tend to stay with me for a long time, I have had limited openings in the past and have often had to turn away new requests. While I may not have as many reviews as tutors with frequent student turnover, my long-term students and the continuity of my lessons reflect the quality and effectiveness of my teaching.

Tutoring Approach

As a one-to-one tutor, I tailor each lesson to the student's needs, abilities, and interests. With years of experience, I have developed the ability to sense my students’ moods and adjust lessons accordingly to ensure a productive and enjoyable learning experience.

I believe that the key to mastering a language is passion and consistency. Your goal could be anything—traveling to Japan, making Japanese friends, understanding anime without subtitles, or even pursuing a career in Japan. Whatever your motivation, I will design lessons that keep you engaged and progressing.

Learning a language should be enjoyable, and I strive to create a supportive and engaging environment where students feel motivated to achieve their goals.