Shimizu Preschool
Acceptable age range
| Start date | Date of birth |
|---|---|
| Apr 2026 – Mar 2027 | 2020/4/2〜2025/4/1 |
| Apr 2027 – Mar 2028 | 2021/4/2〜2026/4/1 |
- Adventurous living in Shikoku’s remote southern tip
- Playing on a preschool-made mountainside with handmade equipment
Reviews
See all 1 reviewsA beatiful seaside city with the most amazing people
The Bensuz family (2 years 9 months, 1 year 5 months)
2nd time in the program
September 15, 2026
This preschool exchange program is truly unique and offers children an incredibl... Read more
This preschool exchange program is truly unique and offers children an incredible opportunity to experience life in a different country at a very young age.
Rather than simply visiting Japan as tourists, our children were able to experience everyday life — attending a local preschool, riding the school bus, wearing a uniform, playing with other children, and experiencing a different culture and language firsthand. It gave them a chance to learn how to adapt to an environment that was completely different from what they were familiar with.
Of course, it can be challenging for young children to adjust to a new language, culture, food, and daily routine. But we believe those challenges are also what makes the experience so meaningful. At such a young age, they may not fully understand everything they are experiencing, but they are already beginning to learn that the world is much bigger and more diverse than what they see in their everyday lives.
We are very grateful that our children had the opportunity to participate in this program. It opened a small door for them to see and experience the world differently, and we believe the memories they made in Japan will stay with them for many years to come.
Message to Preschool Teachers
Dear Teacher,
Thank you so much for taking such wonderful care of Chloe and Augustine during their preschool exchange in Japan.
Coming to Japan was a big change for our children. They were experiencing a new country, a new culture, a different language, and a completely different lifestyle. We knew it would be a big adjustment, especially for Chloe at three years old and Augustine at just one year old. But from the very beginning, all of the teachers were so patient, kind, and caring toward them.
We could sincerely feel the love and warmth you gave to our children. You made them feel safe, welcomed, and cared for, even when everything around them was new and unfamiliar. As parents, that means more to us than we can put into words.
Although we unfortunately had to leave earlier than we originally planned, we are so grateful for the time our family was able to spend in Tosashimizu. We all had such a wonderful experience, and we will always remember this special chapter of our lives.
For Chloe and Augustine, we know that the memories they made at your school will stay with them for a very long time. The school bus, their little uniforms, watching the whale feeding, swim day at school, and all the little moments they experienced at school will become some of their core childhood memories.
Thank you for being part of such a special time in their lives. You have given them not only a wonderful preschool experience, but also a beautiful memory of Japan that they can carry with them as they grow up.
We are truly grateful for your kindness, patience, and love toward Chloe and Augustine. We hope that one day we can return to Tosashimizu and visit you again.
Activities at the preschool
- Number of People
- 4 People (2 Adults, 2 Children)
- Children Age
- 2 years 9 months, 1 year 5 months
- Period
- 2 Weeks (From Aug 30, 2026)
- Educational Facility
- Shimizu Preschool
- Accommodation
Access
From Kochi Ryoma Airport, take the Airport Limousine Bus to Kochi Station (approximately 30 minutes). At Kochi Station, take the JR Limited Express train to Nakamura Station (approximately 2 hours). Transfer to a rental car and drive for 45 minutes to reach your destination.
From Haneda Airport, take a domestic flight to Kochi Ryoma Airport (approximately 1 hour 25 minutes). From Kochi Ryoma Airport, take the Airport Limousine Bus to Kochi Station, then take the JR Limited Express train to Nakamura Station (approximately total 3 hours). At Nakamura Station, transfer to a rental car and drive for 45 minutes.
From Narita Airport, take a domestic flight to Kochi Ryoma Airport (approximately 1.5 hours). From Kochi Ryoma Airport, take the Airport Limousine Bus to Kochi Station, then take the JR Limited Express train to Nakamura Station (approximately total 3 hours). At Nakamura Station, transfer to a rental car and drive for 45 minutes.
Features of the Preschool
Located at the southernmost tip of Shikoku, the 'hidden paradise' of Tosashimizu is home to breathtaking natural beauty. Surrounded by mountains and oceans of an incredible scale, everyday life here is as thrilling as an adventure. It is an irreplaceable lifestyle experience where you can fully immerse yourself in nature.
Cherry blossoms in full bloom in spring, collecting seashells under the summer sun, riding a cable car through autumn foliage, and watching the sunset over the winter sea. Nature transforms with each season, bringing new discoveries that color the entire year. No matter when you visit, there is always a unique charm to enjoy, ensuring you never grow tired of it.
What we want to pass on to children is compassion and a deep respect for life. By teaching them to recognize the 'life' present in connections with nature, animals, and people, we cultivate healthy hearts capable of cherishing both themselves and others.
Staying in this coastal town provides an unforgettable cultural immersion for the entire family. With fully-equipped traditional or modern homes and nearby co-working spaces, parents can balance work while experiencing a serene, authentic local lifestyle.
A Day of the Children
Exploring the hand-cultivated mountain playground
Riding the handmade cable car through the forest
Collecting colorful shells and corals on the beach
Eating lunch surrounded by majestic mountains and seas
Experiencing the warmth of human connection with teachers
Developing a healthy body through active outdoor play
Walking barefoot to feel the earth directly
Accommodation
ENGAWA
7
minAccommodation Type
Whole building rental
Capacity
6 people
Kitchen
Private Kitchen
Bedroom
Futon
Bathroom
Bathtub Available
Laundry
Washing Machine
Features
Within 15-Min Drive to Preschool, No Car Needed
Work Environment
Wi-Fi Available / Separate Workspace for Couples Available / Coworking Space Available
OUCHI HOTEL HIBI
5
minAccommodation Type
Whole building rental
Capacity
6 people
Kitchen
Private Kitchen
Bedroom
Bed, Futon
Bathroom
Bathtub Available
Laundry
Washer-Dryer
Features
Within 15-Min Drive to Preschool
Work Environment
Wi-Fi Available / Separate Workspace for Couples Available / Coworking Space Available
5
minAccommodation Type
Whole building rental
Capacity
6 people
Kitchen
Private Kitchen
Bedroom
Futon
Bathroom
Bathtub Available
Laundry
Washer-Dryer
Features
Within 15-Min Drive to Preschool
Work Environment
Wi-Fi Available / Separate Workspace for Couples Available / Coworking Space Available
Destination
16-4 GREEN HEIGHTS, TOSASHIMIZU CITY, KOCHI, KOCHI
Cape Ashizuri
Cape Ashizuri is located at the southern tip of the Ashizuri Peninsula, jutting out into the Pacific Ocean. From the lighthouse, you can enjoy a panoramic view of over 270 degrees, allowing you to truly feel the Earth's curvature. The surrounding area is rich in nature, making it a perfect place for a leisurely stroll.
Official SiteAshizuri Underwater Observation Tower
A unique underwater tower where you can look through windows 7 meters below the sea. It’s like a "natural aquarium" where you can see wild fish swimming by.
Official SiteTosashimizu Retro Streets
About a 10-minute drive from the preschool, a small shopping street is lined with grocery stores and restaurants. Traditional shops still thrive, preserving the nostalgic charm of the past, making it a delightful place for a stroll.
Kubotsu Fishing Port Tour
At Kubotsu Fishing Port, the largest in the Tosashimizu area, visitors can take part in a fixed-net fishing tour. Through a guided walk around the fishing town and port, you can observe the bustling market and experience the daily work of the local fishermen.
Official SiteAshizuri Village Stroll
A walking tour through the village surrounding Cape Ashizuri, where you can explore local legends, nostalgic streets, and interact with the community. The program also offers a boat tour to admire the Ashizuri Cape Lighthouse from the sea.
Official SiteRice Ball Making & Local Life Experience
A guided tour led by the owner of "Asa Gohan-ya", a local breakfast shop offering rice ball mornings in a corner of Tosashimizu’s shopping district. Participants can explore the town and experience making onigiri using locally sourced rice and salt.
Official SiteBonito Warayaki (Straw-Grilled) Experience
A program where you can experience making Katsuo no Warayaki, a specialty dish originating from Tosashimizu, right in the garden of your accommodation. Enjoy the unique, smoky flavor of straw-grilled bonito, a taste that can only be found here, distinct from traditional tataki.
Official SiteSample Itinerary
Famous for Soda-bushi (dried bonito) and Cape Ashizuri, the southernmost point of Shikoku, Tosa-shimizu offers stunning Black Current views and glass-boat coral tours. Winter to spring is best for its mild climate. Buy Dashi soy sauce kits or fresh "Shimizu Mackerel" products as souvenirs, then relax at Ashizuri Onsen with ocean views.
