私たちについてAbout TLS
A Japanese learning community, in Singapore
Tsubasa means “wings”. We exist to help adult learners take flight in Japanese: to communicate with confidence, understand the culture behind the language, and keep growing for years to come.
歩みOur story
Started by a teacher who never stopped learning
TLS was founded by Can-sensei, who holds bachelor's degrees in Psychology and Information Technology and is currently pursuing a Master's degree in Education. His psychology background shapes how lessons are planned — helping students understand concepts deeply, retain them and apply them confidently.
His IT background brings educational technology into the classroom, making lessons more interactive. Through ongoing professional development, research and years of classroom experience, the curriculum is continually refined.
Many TLS graduates have gone on to work in Japan, pursue further studies, and even build their lives there.
違いWhat makes TLS different
Serious about Japanese. Warm about people.
Our students describe lessons as structured, demanding and fun. They're designed for working adults who want real progress — not just another certificate.
- Lessons planned around principles from Japanese language education and educational psychology
- Small classes — typically no more than eight students
- 30 minutes of conversation in every 2-hour group lesson
- Pragmatics: why native speakers choose one expression over another
- Pitch accent and intonation taught deliberately
- Contemporary materials from Japan — news, videos, advertisements and TV
- Oral assessment by a native Japanese speaker at the end of each main course
- Minna no Nihongo 3rd edition — first in Singapore to use it
文化Learning through real life
Japanese culture, woven into every course
Language is shaped by culture. Here's some of what you'll explore alongside grammar and vocabulary.
ドラマ
Japanese dramas
Watching and translating dramas trains your ear for natural speech.
歌
Japanese songs
Understanding, translating — and singing — Japanese songs.
都道府県
Prefectures
What each region is famous for, from Hokkaido's seafood to Kyushu's ramen.
心理
Japanese psychology
Humility, harmony, indirectness and consideration for others in everyday talk.
ビジネス
Business manners
Professional ethics and how Japanese corporations are run.
旅行
Trips to Japan
Plan your own trip to Japan in the Intermediate course.
仲間Student community
Classmates who become friends
Pair work, presentations and class projects mean you get to know the people you learn with. Beginner students are also introduced to Japanese friends living in Japan and Singapore.
6–8
students per group class
ご案内Before you join
How TLS works
These conditions apply to every student. We'd rather you know them now.
01
Adult learners, 21 and above
TLS specialises in Japanese language education for adult learners aged 21 and above. Our programmes are designed around the schedules and learning needs of working adults.
02
Readiness interview for every class
Before you join, we contact you by email or phone for a brief chat to understand your background, goals and the time you can commit.
03
Not SkillsFuture claimable
Please note that our courses are not SkillsFuture claimable.
04
Share your learning history
If you have studied Japanese before, tell us how long you studied, your previous school and the textbook you used.
05
Free trial lesson
1 free trial lesson is available for group classes, except classes that are full. Foundation Studies does not offer a free trial lesson, as it would be unfair to those who have paid for the lessons.
06
Singaporean teachers, native advisers
Lessons are taught by Singaporean Japanese language teachers. Experienced native Japanese advisers are consulted on specialised questions about usage and culture — they do not teach classes.
一緒に始めましょう
Ready to take off?
Tell us about your goals and experience. We'll reply within 1–2 days and arrange a short readiness chat before you join.