

Horizon Japan International School
HJISSecular, Founded 2003
Updated July 2026
Curriculum
Languages
Horizon Japan International School is a co-educational IB World School serving students from preschool through Grade 12 in Yokohama, Japan. Established in 2003, it provides a values-driven international education focused on inquiry-based learning and global citizenship.
Curriculum
Term structure
Teaching approach
HJIS is a values-driven community that promotes a vision of education focused on discovering the world and contributing to its transformation. The school emphasizes high-quality, inquiry-based learning, global citizenship, and digital citizenship. It fosters an inclusive environment where students are encouraged to take responsible action and develop as independent, critical thinkers.
Programmes
The school is an IB Continuum World School authorized to offer the Primary Years Programme (PYP), Middle Years Programme (MYP), and Diploma Programme (DP). The curriculum is taught primarily in English, with Japanese supported at all levels and Spanish offered in secondary school. The academic framework incorporates the US Common Core alongside the IB curriculum.
Outcomes
The school culminates in the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme, preparing students for success in higher education and beyond. Alumni are actively involved in the school community, providing mentorship and networking opportunities to current students. The school emphasizes the development of lifelong learners who are globally minded and capable of contributing to a sustainable world.
Student support
Learning support
The school provides a comprehensive Student Support & Guidance program that integrates academic assistance, language learning, and career preparation. Tailored English as an Additional Language (EAL) support is available from Early Years through the Diploma Programme, focusing on reading, writing, speaking, and listening. A dedicated college counselor assists students with university planning, applications, and interview preparation.
Frequently asked questions(6)
- What curriculum does Horizon Japan International School offer?
- Horizon Japan International School offers IB PYP, IB MYP, IB Diploma and US Common Core.
- How much is tuition at Horizon Japan International School?
- Annual tuition at Horizon Japan International School is ¥1.7M–¥3M. Fees vary by year group — confirm the current schedule with the school.
- Is Horizon Japan International School a day or boarding school?
- Horizon Japan International School is a day school.
- What accreditations does Horizon Japan International School hold?
- Horizon Japan International School holds accreditations including IB, WASC and CIS.
- Is Horizon Japan International School co-educational?
- Horizon Japan International School is a co-ed school.
- Where is Horizon Japan International School located?
- Horizon Japan International School is an international school in Yokohama, Japan.
Tuition & fees
Annual tuition by grade
2026-2027| Grade | Ages | Annual |
|---|---|---|
| EYP — Preschool, Pre-Kinder, Kindergarten | 3–5 | ¥2.4M |
| Half-Day EYP | 3–4 | ¥1.7M |
| PYP Programme Grades 1–5 | 6–10 | ¥2.8M |
| MYP Programme Grades 6–10 | 11–15 | ¥2.9M |
| DP Programme Grades 11–12 | 16–18 | ¥3M |
Other fees(10)
| Application fee· One-time, mandatory and non-refundable fee paid at the time of application | ¥45K |
|---|---|
| Registration fee· One-time, mandatory and non-refundable fee due once a place has been offered and accepted | ¥500K |
| Enrolment fee· Building Fund (One-time, mandatory and non-refundable fee due once a place has been offered and accepted) | ¥750K |
| Materials· Annual Maintenance Fee (mandatory contribution toward the infrastructure of the school) | ¥250K |
| EAL· EAL Support Fee, if required (per year) | ¥500K |
| EAL· EAL Support Fee, if required (per year) | ¥300K |
| Bus / transport· One Way Trip School Bus Fee, if utilized (per year) | ¥215K |
| Bus / transport· Round Trip School Bus Fee, if utilized (per year) | ¥300K |
| Materials· Technology Fee, Grade 1 only | ¥25K |
| Registration fee· Annual PTA Fee, per family | ¥5K |
Discounts
- Sibling discount: 20% - 30%
Admissions
The admissions process is designed to be personal and supportive, beginning with an inquiry via the school's online form. Prospective families are encouraged to book a campus tour, attend an Open House, or utilize the virtual tour to understand the school environment. Required documentation typically includes a completed application, passport or residence card, recent school reports, teacher recommendations for older students, and health records. The school operates on a rolling admissions basis, with the process generally taking two to six weeks.
Calendar
The school operates on an academic calendar with three term payment deadlines: June 5, October 5, and February 20. The school office is open Monday to Friday from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm, and 9:00 am to 4:00 pm on non-school days. The campus is closed on Saturdays and Sundays.
Facilities
About the campus
Opened in 2019, the state-of-the-art Yokohama campus is designed for 21st-century learning with flexible classrooms, science labs, and creative studios. Athletic facilities include expansive indoor spaces and a rooftop sports area known as "The Nest." The campus is located near major transportation hubs, including Yokohama Station, and provides school bus services for students.
Co-curriculars
HJIS offers over 50 after-school enrichment activities covering sports, arts, and academic interests to support student development. Athletic offerings include futsal, basketball, volleyball, and track, with teams known as the Hawks. The school also hosts events such as the Parent-Staff Book Club and volleyball tournaments to foster community engagement.

Mehmet DenizHead of SchoolMehmet is the Head of School at HJIS, having previously served as Head of School at Shinagawa International School in Tokyo. He is a multilingual educator with extensive experience across Asia, Europe, and Africa, and he serves as a full voting member of the Board of Directors under the school's Gakko Hojin status.
Philip RichardsonDeputy Head of SchoolPhilip Richardson hails from Northern Ireland and has nearly 20 years of teaching experience across Indonesia, Sudan, Hong Kong, and Japan. He holds a Master’s degree in Development Management and has served in various management roles, including Head Teacher and Principal at multiple schools.
Ugur YaldizDean of AcademicsUgur Yaldiz holds a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics and a Master of Education in Advanced Teaching Methods. He has held numerous positions at the school, including various coordinator roles and Dean of Students, before becoming the Dean of Academics.
- Chris HepburnSchool Development Manager
Chris Hepburn holds a Master of Education in Educational Leadership and Policy from the University of Toronto. He has extensive experience in educational roles, including Secondary Principal and Vice Principal, and currently serves as the School Development Manager at HJIS.
- Jennifer HodgeIB MYP Coordinator
Jennifer Hodge holds a Master's in Middle Grades Curriculum and a Bachelor's in Sociology from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. With 14 years of teaching experience, she has served as Head of the Department in Language and Literature at HJIS and currently serves as the MYP Coordinator.
- Shailja DattIB PYP Coordinator
Shailja Datt holds a Bachelor's degree in Math and Economics and a Bachelor's of Education, with over 24 years of experience in education. She is a member of the IB Educator Network (IBEN) and has served as a PYP Coordinator for 12 years.
- Sindy LeveelIB DP Coordinator
Sindy Leveel holds a Bachelor's and Master's degree in Mathematics from the University of Paris and a PGCE from the University of Sunderland. She has held multiple roles in educational administration, including Head of House and CAS Coordinator, and currently serves as the IB DP Coordinator.
IB PYP
US Common Core
WASC
CIS