About
スクールについて
The name “Kotonoha” comes from the Japanese word for “words,” but it carries a deeper cultural meaning. In Japanese literature and poetry, it evokes not just words themselves but their beauty, subtlety, and power to convey feelings.
At our school, we embrace this spirit by helping each student develop their own “words” in Japanese, learning in a way that is enjoyable and meaningful. Lessons are available for all levels, from beginner to advanced, and can be tailored to individual goals. Whether you want to learn Japanese for travel, the JLPT, or business purposes, lessons are customized to suit your needs. We offer online lessons (via Zoom, etc.), in-person lessons in the Zurich area, and private/small group lessons (up to 2 students; more than 2 upon request).
Japanese Lessons
日本語レッスン
Japanese lessons are offered in a calm and supportive learning environment in Zurich. Lessons are available as one-on-one sessions or in small groups and are carefully adapted to each learner’s pace, interests, and individual goals. Whether the purpose of study is personal interest, travel, or professional use, the lessons emphasize clear communication and enjoyable, practical learning.
Lesson Offerings
Lessons are available both online and in person in the Zurich area and are adapted to individual needs and objectives.
- Online lessons
- In-person lessons in the Zurich area
- One-on-one lessons
- Small group lessons (up to 2 people)
Larger groups are available upon request and subject to consultation.
Language of instruction: Lessons are conducted primarily in English
Levels & Learning Focus
- Beginner to advanced levels
- Specialized focus areas including travel Japanese, JLPT preparation, and business Japanese
Trial Lesson
A trial lesson is available to experience the teaching style and lesson format.
Online trial lesson (45 minutes): CHF 20 per person
Lesson Fees
Prices for regular lessons are discussed individually.
They depend on the lesson format, location, and individual learning goals.
No long-term commitment is required.
Instructor
講師紹介
Mei Kumagai is a native Japanese speaker who moved to Los Angeles at 19 and graduated from California State University, Northridge with a major in Linguistics. She has been teaching Japanese for over 10 years in language schools in the United States and Switzerland, instructing students from children to adults. Drawing from her own experience learning foreign languages, she focuses on providing lessons tailored to each student’s needs, helping them improve their Japanese while enjoying the process. She relocated to Switzerland in 2022.
Language proficiency
- Japanese: Native
- English: Fluent
- German: Basic (Grundkenntnisse)
Lesson Location
レッスン場所
Lessons take place at various locations in and around Zurich or online, depending on what is most comfortable and practical for the learner. This flexible approach allows lessons to fit naturally into everyday life.
Possible lesson locations include:
- Cafes
- At the learner’s home
- Other suitable meeting places
- Online
Lesson locations are discussed and agreed upon individually before lessons begin.
Contact
お問い合わせ
If you are interested in learning Japanese or have any questions, feel free to get in touch.
I am happy to discuss your goals and lesson preferences.
How it works
- Contact me using the form
- We discuss your goals and preferred lesson format
- Lessons begin at a comfortable pace
Get in touch to ask questions or arrange a first lesson.
You can also reach me by email: info@kotonoha.ch
