Yokohama International School (YIS)
Yokohama International School (YIS)
Yokohama International School (YIS) is one of Japan’s leading international schools, founded in 1924 and widely recognised for its student-centred, holistic approach to education. Guided by the ethos Live, Learn, and Lead, YIS focuses on nurturing curiosity, resilience, and purpose, empowering students to make a positive impact in an ever-changing world. YIS holds a distinguished place in Japanese education history as the first school in Japan to introduce the Reggio Emilia approach in early learning and an authorised IB World School, offering the IB Primary Years Programme since 2001. By 2003, the school expanded to include Early Learning, Elementary, Middle, and High School divisions. In January 2022, YIS relocated to a purpose-built campus in Honmoku, designed by Kengo Kuma & Associates. The 14,685-square-metre campus features flexible learning environments, sustainable design, and community-focused spaces where every area is intentionally designed for learning, collaboration, and exploration. The campus blends Japanese architectural aesthetics with global educational values. Celebrating its centenary in October 2024, YIS today serves a diverse international community, with students representing 50+ nationalities and staff from 26 countries. Through its strong commitment to inclusion, innovation, and academic excellence, Yokohama International School continues to prepare globally minded learners for future success.

Academic Excellence
At Yokohama International School (YIS), learning is designed as a coherent journey that nurtures the whole child—academically, socially, emotionally, and ethically—through the full IB continuum. Early Learning Centre (Ages 3–5) The Early Learning Centre is grounded in the IB Primary Years Programme (PYP) and inspired by Reggio Emilia principles. Children are viewed as capable, curious learners who construct understanding through play, exploration, and inquiry. Educators act as co-researchers, responding to children’s questions and interests while integrating PYP concepts and real-world connections. Music, movement, and outdoor learning are woven into daily experiences, building strong foundations for confident, open-minded learners. Primary School (Kindergarten–Grade 5) From Kindergarten through Grade 5, students engage in transdisciplinary inquiry within the IB PYP. Learning balances curiosity-driven exploration with the development of essential knowledge and skills. Teachers collaborate closely with students to design meaningful learning experiences that foster critical thinking, creativity, and compassion, while respecting each child’s pace, passions, and personal growth. Middle School (Grades 6–8) In the IB Middle Years Programme (MYP), students deepen their sense of identity, independence, and responsibility. Through interdisciplinary learning, reflection, and collaboration, they develop strong problem-solving skills and global awareness. A supportive and inclusive environment ensures that diverse perspectives and cultural identities are valued, strengthening students’ sense of belonging. High School (Grades 9–12) In Grades 9–12, students follow flexible pathways leading to the YIS Diploma, with options that include IB Diploma courses, external assessments, and teacher-designed coursework aligned to individual goals. Learners refine critical thinking, leadership, and resilience through rigorous academics, projects, and community engagement—graduating with confidence, empathy, and a clear sense of purpose. As a fully authorised IB continuum school (PYP, MYP, DP), YIS offers a seamless, internationally recognised education that supports both academic excellence and personal well-being at every stage.
Beyond Classroom
At Yokohama International School, learning extends well beyond academics, offering students rich opportunities to express themselves, build confidence, and connect meaningfully with their community and environment. Arts & Creative Expression Students are encouraged to explore the arts through both structured programmes and creative experimentation. Opportunities include choir, drama club, elementary string ensemble, and koto ensemble, alongside seasonal activities such as rock band, origami, Japanese calligraphy, mandala mindfulness colouring, cross stitch, knitting, and beading. These experiences help students discover passions, develop skills, and integrate creativity into everyday life. Outdoor Learning & Expeditions Through the Expeditions programme, students engage deeply with the natural world, strengthening their sense of place and connection to the environment. These experiences build leadership, self-management, and collaboration, while promoting wellbeing, environmental awareness, and an active, balanced lifestyle. Athletics & Activities YIS offers an inclusive athletics and activities programme designed to foster teamwork, leadership, and belonging. Students participate across seasonal sports programmes—ranging from volleyball, soccer, basketball, badminton, and tennis to cross country, baseball, field hockey, and swimming—providing opportunities for growth, participation, and healthy competition across middle and high school. Cultural Engagement Immersion in Japan’s rich cultural context is a defining feature of student life. From tea ceremonies and calligraphy to community and service partnerships, students gain authentic insight into Japanese traditions and contemporary society. These experiences nurture respect for diverse perspectives and help students build lasting connections to Japan and the wider world. Together, these co-curricular experiences ensure students develop not only skills and talents, but also character, empathy, and a strong sense of global citizenship.

Campus Life


Fees
Tuition Fees
Indicative annual or term-wise fees by grade
Preschool
2 payments
$1,247,500
per term
Preschool 2
2 payments
$1,247,500
per term
KG
2 payments
$1,530,000
per term
Grade 1
2 payments
$1,530,000
per term
Grade 2
2 payments
$1,530,000
per term
Location / How to Reach
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