| Name | Kanako S. |
|---|---|
| City | Toronto, ON |
| Teaching | Japanese |
| Native Language | Japanese |
| Originally From | Japan |
| Working With | Youth, Adults |
| Levels I Teach | Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced |
| Lessons Take Place | Online |
| Hourly Rate | C$45 |
Hello! My name is Kanako, and I am a Japanese tutor with over 12 years of teaching experience and a background in linguistics. I specialize in helping beginner and intermediate students build practical communication skills through structured and engaging lessons tailored to their goals. Whether you are studying for the JLPT, preparing for a trip to Japan, or learning Japanese as a hobby, I aim to create a supportive environment where you can learn confidently and consistently. My teaching style focuses on active learning, conversation practice, and building strong foundations using materials such as the GENKI textbook. Lessons are conducted online via Google Meet or Microsoft Teams.
I majored in English and linguistics at a university in Japan, where I developed a strong understanding of language structure, communication, and second-language learning. After moving to Canada, I continued my studies in Japanese-English translation and interpretation, further strengthening my bilingual communication skills and cross-cultural understanding. My academic background helps me explain Japanese grammar and nuances clearly to English-speaking learners.
I began teaching Japanese in Canada in 2013 through private lessons and language schools, and since then, I have worked with students from a wide range of backgrounds and learning goals. Over the years, I have helped many students successfully pass the JLPT from N5 to N2, while others have improved their conversation skills for travel, work, or daily life. Some of my long-term students are now living in Japan after studying with me. Since the pandemic, I have transitioned to fully online lessons, and I now teach students not only in Canada but also in Europe, the United States, and Australia through Google Meet and Microsoft Teams.
My teaching approach is based on active learning, which encourages students to prepare and review materials before each lesson so they can actively participate and learn more effectively during class. I focus on building practical communication skills through consistent practice, repetition, and student involvement rather than passive memorization. For beginners, I mainly use the GENKI textbook to create a strong foundation in grammar, vocabulary, and conversation. I also create supporting learning materials, including a Japanese learning podcast, to help students improve their listening, speaking, and shadowing practice outside of lessons.
My availability varies depending on the day of the week, but I will do my best to accommodate your preferred lesson times whenever possible.
Online lessons are available using Google Meet or Teams. I do not offer lessons in person.
