About Us
Supporting your journey to Japan—every step of the way.
Started as a 4-person language school in 2000. Today we’ve helped 5,000+ international students build lives in Japan. We’re not just agents—we’re educators who understand your journey because we’ve lived it.
About Coto School Finder
When we started Coto Japanese Academy in 2000, we noticed a problem: talented international students were choosing the wrong language schools and struggling as a result. So we created Coto School Finder—a free matching service that uses our 20+ years of teaching experience to help you find the right Japanese language school for your specific goals, budget, and timeline.
From your first consultation through your visa application to your first day in Tokyo, we’re with you. We’ve guided 5,000+ international students through this exact journey—we know where students get stuck and how to prevent it.
Our Mission and Value
Too many people dream of studying Japanese in Japan but get lost in the complexity—choosing the wrong language school, facing visa rejections, dealing with culture shock when they arrive.
We exist to change that. As educators first (not just agents), we’ve spent 20+ years helping international students successfully study in Japan. We know what actually works: the right Japanese language school match, student visa support, community connection, and practical life preparation.
Our mission: turn your Japan study abroad dream into your Japan reality, with a clear path and people who have your back.
Why Choose Coto School Finder?
Real Expertise
With over 20 years of experience, we guide you from choosing a school to handling your visa. Our team’s experience ensures practical, reliable advice you can trust.
Personalized Recommendations
We take the time to understand your goals and match you with the right Japanese language school—so you can move forward with clarity and confidence, without the overwhelm.
Full Journey Support
From school applications to student visas, we support your entire journey. You’ll also gain access to free online learning and our events to help you connect and settle into life in Japan.
Meet The Team
Momoko
I lived abroad in Vancouver and Brazil before moving back to Japan. I know exactly how overwhelming it feels to navigate a new culture and language—and I know what support makes all the difference. I’m here to make sure you feel prepared and confident every step of the way.
Prapti
I came to Japan as an international student just like you, studied here for 4 years, and now work full-time in Tokyo. I understand the visa stress, the culture adjustment, and the job hunting process. My goal is to help you avoid the mistakes I made and fast-track your success.
Coto Academy Throughout the Years
2000
Four volunteer teachers from the WAIWAI group founded the Iidabashi Japanese Language School to offer private Japanese lessons for daily life, starting in an Iidabashi apartment.
2009
Published the Japanese textbook, Nihongo Fun & Easy, designed to equip learners with essential phrases and vocabulary for navigating daily life in Japan.
2012
Incorporated as Be Unique Co., Ltd., the school launched original conversation materials, flexible Japanese Plus group lessons, and the Coto School Finder.
2014
Rebranded as Coto Language Academy and expanded and relocated to the current Coto Japanese Academy Iidabashi School.
2016
Started a recruitment business – Coto Work
2018
Opened Coto Japanese Club in Azabu-Juban and rebranded as Coto Japanese Academy.
2019
Launched Coto Online Japanese Academy, making it easier for students worldwide to start learning Japanese online.
2020
Opened Coto Japanese Academy Yokohama School
2023
Opened Coto Japanese Academy Shibuya School
April 2025
Opened Coto Japanese Academy Shinjuku School,
October 2025
Coto Academy will open a sister school, Coto Japanese Institute, a pending MEXT-approved language school that can finally issue a student visa.
Ready to Study and Live in Japan?
FAQ
When are the application deadlines?
Application deadlines vary by intake (January, April, July, and October), and schools often recommend applying 6-8 months in advance.
How many years of experience does Coto School Finder has in Japanese Language School Business?
We have over 20+ of experience in the Japanese Language School Business. We are an affiliated business of Coto Academy, which is a top-rated school in Tokyo and Yokohama. We know better than other agencies because we know the ins and outs of the business.
Is Coto School Finder service free?
Yes, the Coto School Finder school matching service is 100% free. We provide personalized recommendations to those who are thinking of studying in a Japanese language school in Japan.