Kinmon Gakuen | 金門学園 – Japanese Language School in San Francisco

Japanese Language
and Culture

Kinmon Gakuen offers Japanese language and culture classes for children ages 5 to 18.

About Kinmon Gakuen

What We Do

We offer classes for youth aged 5-18 in Japanese language, culture, and traditions, taught by instructors who are fluent in Japanese and have a deep understanding of Japanese culture. Our classes take place in San Francisco’s historic Japantown.

Learn More About Us

Testimonials

What's New?

Open Enrollment

Fall 2026 - Spring 2027
Ages 5-18 Saturday Classes

Now accepting registrations.

Fall Apply Here

Saturday Afternoon Program

Fall 2026

Now accepting registrations.

Afternoon Apply Here

Support Us!

Founded in 1911, Kinmon Gakuen has been a vital part of San Francisco's Japantown, offering Japanese language education. While we’ve secured grants to renovate our auditorium into a community center, these funds can't cover daily operations. With enrollment declining post-pandemic , our school is facing a severe financial crisis . We want to keep our doors open for children eager to learn Japanese and families preserving their heritage 🗾.

Please consider donating to help us continue our mission and strengthen ties between Japan and the U.S. 🌟Together, we can ensure Kinmon Gakuen’s future!

In The News

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Dr. Osamu Yaosaka and Dr. Masahiko Minami at Kinmon Gakuen

Dr. Osamu Yaosaka, Professor Emeritus of Kyushu University, Visits Kinmon Gakuen

On Saturday, September 19, Kinmon Gakuen was pleased to welcome Dr. Osamu Yaosaka, Professor Emeritus of Kyushu University and Visiting Professor at Tamagawa University. Dr. Yaosaka is a scholar specializing in educational administration and school management. Throughout his academic career, he has conducted extensive research and teaching in such areas as school management, teacher education and credentialing, and educational leadership. He served as a professor at Kyushu Un

Japan-America Student Conference (JASC) Students Visit Kinmon Gakuen

Today, we welcomed 10 students participating in the Japan-America Student Conference (JASC) to Kinmon Gakuen! The group, consisting of students from the U.S. and Japanese delegations participating in JASC’s Identity, Community & Polarization Roundtable, visited San Francisco’s Japantown as part of the Roundtable’s field trip to learn about Japanese American history, culture, and community. Professor Masahiko Minami, Director of Education at Kinmon Gakuen, gave a presentation

Historic photos and current images of Kinmon Gakuen in San Francisco, celebrating its listing on the National Register of Historic Places. The collage includes the school building circa 1927, the current 1926 building, a World War II processing center photo, and students studying Japanese language and culture today.

Kinmon Gakuen Listed on the National Register of Historic Places

We are pleased to share that Kinmon Gakuen has been officially listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Founded in 1911, Kinmon Gakuen has served as a place of learning and community for generations in San Francisco. The current building was built in 1926 and this recognition honors not only the historic value of the building, but also the stories and experiences of the students, families, and community members who have been part of its history. During World War II

Kinmon Gakuen Held Its 2025–2026 Year-end Ceremony

On May 16, Kinmon Gakuen held its 2025–2026 Year-end Ceremony in San Francisco Japantown. We were honored to welcome Deputy Consul Takesi Ishihara from the Consulate-General of Japan in San Francisco, who shared congratulatory remarks with our students and families. During the ceremony, students received certificates and participated in class presentations, showcasing what they learned throughout the school year. Families, teachers, volunteers, and board members gathered toge

Japanese Language and Culture