Build Confidence in Spoken Japanese:
Professional Coaching in Fukuoka
Personalised coaching for expats and professionals who want to stop translating and start contributing.
Build the confidence to lead meetings, network in the city, make friends, and navigate Japanese culture.
The "Speaking-First" Method
We don't teach Japanese for the classroom. We teach Japanese for the real world.
Most language schools use the Input Method: you study grammar rules, memorise vocabulary lists after vocabulary lists, and take written quizzes. This is great for passing written tests, but it creates a "mental block" when you need to speak. You find yourself translating sentences in your head before saying them out loud.
My 1-on-1 coaching uses the Output-First Method. We flip the traditional classroom model on its head to build actual, real-world confidence.
How the Method Works in 3 Steps:
1. Context Isolation (The Pre-Lesson)
We don't open a generic textbook to page 45. Instead, we look at your upcoming week. Do you have a presentation? A networking event in Tenjin? A performance review? We isolate the exact vocabulary and cultural context you need for that specific event.
2. Low-Stakes Simulation (The Lesson)
Our 1-on-1 sessions are a safe sandbox. We roleplay your upcoming meeting or office interactions.You make mistakes.We correct your pronunciation and intonation (how polite or casual you sound).We repeat the scenario until the words flow naturally without you having to translate them from English first.
3. Active Feedback (The Post-Lesson)
After the lesson, you receive a personalized, hyper-targeted audio clip or summary of the natural phrasing we practiced. You can listen to this during your commute on the Subway line to Hakata or Tenjin, reinforcing the muscle memory before your actual workday begins.
Because Vocabulary Isn't the Same as Confidence
"You’ve studied the grammar. You’ve passed the tests. But when the pressure is on at work, the words don’t come. I specialise in helping Fukuoka’s international professionals bridge the gap between 'knowing' Japanese and 'speaking' it fluently in high-stakes environments."
Why focus on speaking?
Traditional schools focus on the JLPT (tests) or writing. While those are important, they don't help you:
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Interrupt politely during a fast-paced brainstorm.
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Build rapport with colleagues using natural, "soft" Japanese.
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Navigate "Kuuki wo yomu" (reading the air) in high-stakes business social settings.
Personalised coaching for expats and professionals who want to stop translating and start contributing.
Build the confidence to lead meetings, network in the city, make friends, and navigate Japanese culture.
Lessons
Your Language Journey, Structured for Success
Whether you are an adult learning for business or travel, or a parent looking for engaging lessons for your child, Mary provides expert instruction at every level. By balancing proven, structured methods with a flexible approach, she ensures every student builds steady improvement and real-world confidence.
Simgle
Sessions
Perfect for targeted problem-solving, exam prep, or experiencing Mary’s teaching style.
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¥5,500 per 60 minutes
Best for immediate needs:
• Targeted JLPT exam prep
• Job interview & presentation rehearsal
• Custom review (bring your own materials)
• Casual conversation brush-up
The Kickstart Bundle
Ideal for travelers preparing for a trip or students looking for a structured introduction.
¥2,7500 / 5 Lessons
Best for focused goals & young learners:
• Interactive lessons tailored to a child’s age/level
• Gentle introduction to Hiragana, Katakana & basic Kanji
• Core foundation layout: Speaking & listening focus
• Short-term travel or holiday prep
The Fluency Track
Best for dedicated learners seeking steady, continuous progress and a discounted rate.
¥50,000 / 10 Lessons
Best for complete fluency & mastery:
• Comprehensive practice: Speaking, listening, reading & writing
• Specialized support for bilingual or international children
• Advanced business fluency & workplace coaching
• Long-term, multi-level JLPT progression
Book a free 15 min consultation now!
MARY will guarantee to improve your Japanese skills by taking you on a learning experience that is only available here.
About me
35 Years of Helping Fukuoka’s International Community Find Their Voice
"Hi, I’m Mary Lee. Over the past three decades, I’ve watched Fukuoka transform into a vibrant, international hub. I’ve taught Japanese to children, university students, and test-takers. But my true passion lies in helping working professionals bridge the gap between 'knowing' Japanese grammar and 'owning' their corporate presence.
I don't just teach the language; I teach the culture behind the language. Having navigated the Japanese professional landscape for 35 years, I understand the subtle nuances of office hierarchy, the silent expectations of a business meeting, and the social bonds formed at a Nomikai.
My goal isn’t just to help you pass a written test. My goal is to give you the psychological confidence to speak up, pitch your ideas, and feel at home in any Japanese workspace."
Testimonials
“I couldn’t recommend MARY more highly as a Japanese teacher. She tailors all her lessons to my requirements and shows an incredible amount of patience! She always finds ways to make the lessons accessible, whilst keeping them challenging for my own improvement. As a busy professional with an ever-changing schedule I thought it would be hard to find the time and space to fit in my Japanese lessons. I never would have progressed to where I am without MARY’s help!”
Nick
Lessons are tailored to your needs, so every student has a unique experience.
FAQ
Tenjin Class:
Kotabe Class:
Fukuoka Prefecture
Fukuoka-shi, Chuo-ku,
Takasago 1 Chome 1-15
Fukuoka Prefecture
Fukuoka-shi, Sawara-ku
Kotabe 1 Chome−21−31