FAQs
Answers to your questions
about learning Japanese with Nihongo Know.
Starting (or continuing) your Japanese learning journey can bring up a lot of questions. Our FAQ section is here to give you clarity on what to expect, how Haruka can support your progress, and whether our classes are the right fit for you.
Learning-Focused FAQ
It’s normal to wonder! Learning Japanese isn’t always a straight path. At Nihongo Know, we help you:
- Set realistic, personal goals
- Track weekly progress
- Adjust strategies to fit your needs
With guidance, you’ll always know your efforts are on track.
Apps and AI are helpful—but they can’t replace real conversation and guidance. Language is like a muscle:
- Practice speaking from day one
- Receive personalized feedback
- Learn cultural context and nuance
Our classes combine conversation, coaching, and cultural insights for effective, lasting learning.
See our classes → Class
Feeling stuck is normal! To get moving again:
- Set small, achievable goals
- Engage in real conversations or immersive exercises
- Focus on progress, not perfection
I guide students step by step, making learning fun, motivating, and effective.
Pronunciation and nuance improve with practice, not memorization.
In class, you will:
- Speak from the very first lesson
- Receive real-time corrections
- Learn cultural context essential for sounding natural
Absolutely! Mistakes are your gateway to real progress.
- Each mistake is an opportunity to improve
- I guide corrections and celebrate milestones
- Students build confidence while learning practical communication skills
School-Focused FAQ
We offer beginner to advanced levels.
Each class is tailored to:
- Your goals and schedule
- Your learning style
- Your experience level
Haruka has 10+ years of teaching experience and a background in coaching and school psychology.
- Lessons are interactive and personalized
- Students practice speaking from day one
- Cultural context is woven into every lesson
Classes are offered online and in-person.
- Focus on speaking, listening, and cultural exercises
- Materials are customized for each student
Flexible scheduling adapts to your lifestyle.
- Speak from the very first lesson
- Receive real-time corrections
- Learn cultural context essential for sounding natural
Transparent pricing
Guidance to choose the right plan for you
Lessons are billed monthly in advance.
Students receive an invoice for all scheduled lessons for the upcoming month, and payment must be completed before the first lesson of that month.
All fees are in Canadian Dollars (CAD).
Students in Canada
- E-transfer to: haruka@nihongoknow.com
Students outside Canada
- PayPal (CAD)
- A service fee will be added to cover the PayPal processing fees incurred.
Your lesson time is reserved exclusively for you each week. Advance payment confirms and protects that reserved slot.
One-on-One Lessons
You must give 30 days written notice by email to:
- cancel lessons
- change schedule
- resign from a lesson slot
If notice is shorter than 30 days, lessons will still be charged.
Group Lessons (Open Spot)
- 45 days notice to resign
- 30 days notice for schedule changes
Group Lessons (Fixed Course)
These are fixed programs, so:
- cancellations
- refunds
- schedule changes
are not permitted.
One-on-One Lessons
30+ days notice: guaranteed reschedule within the same week
Less than 30 days: rescheduling may be attempted but not guaranteed
Group Lessons
Rescheduling is usually not possible, because other students are involved.
If you arrive late:
the lesson will continue with the remaining time only
the lesson cannot be extended
If you do not notify me in advance, I will wait up to half of the scheduled lesson time.
Missed lessons cannot be refunded or credited, because the lesson time has already been reserved.
If a student is absent for:
- more than 3 consecutive weeks, or
- more than 30 total days
the regular lesson time slot may be released and made available to other students.
When you return, I will do my best to find a new time, but the original slot cannot be guaranteed.
If I must cancel due to illness or professional commitments, I will:
- Reschedule the lesson, or
- Arrange a substitute teacher, or
- Refund the lesson if neither option is possible.
A $50 Registration and Annual Administration Fee is charged when enrolling.
This fee is non-refundable.
Lessons may be suspended until payment is received.
Outstanding balances may also require formal collection procedures if unresolved.
All agreements follow the laws of:
British Columbia, Canada
Have another question?
Didn’t find what you were looking for?
Reach out to me, I’m happy to help!