Japanese International School, Hong Kong
Key Stats
Annual Fees: US$18K
Curriculum: IB
Age Range: 4–11
Students: ~150
Location: Tai Po, Hong Kong
Updated February 2026
In Brief
Japanese International School Hong Kong is a specialized institution serving the Japanese expatriate community since 1984, following Japan's national curriculum from kindergarten through grade 12. With 95% Japanese students and strong pathways to top Japanese universities, it provides cultural continuity for families maintaining connections to Japan.
Located in Tai Tam on Hong Kong Island with a satellite kindergarten in Repulse Bay, JIS operates as one of Hong Kong's most culturally focused international schools. The curriculum follows Japan's Ministry of Education standards (MEXT), delivered primarily in Japanese with English as a second language and Mandarin instruction. Students progress through traditional Japanese educational stages including elementary, junior high, and senior high divisions, preparing for Japanese university entrance examinations rather than international qualifications like IB or A-levels.
The school serves 1,020 students across its campus facilities, which include an Olympic-size swimming pool, martial arts dojo, and recently upgraded STEM makerspace. Annual fees range from HKD 120,000 for kindergarten to HKD 200,000 for secondary levels, positioning JIS in Hong Kong's mid-tier international school market. Graduate outcomes remain strong with 98% university placement rates, predominantly to prestigious Japanese institutions including University of Tokyo, Waseda, and Keio, though some students pursue overseas options in North America and Hong Kong universities.
What parents value
- –Strong academic preparation for Japanese university entrance examinations
- –Cultural continuity and Japanese language maintenance for expatriate families
- –Specialized programmes including judo, kendo, and tea ceremony reflecting Japanese traditions
- –Low student turnover creating stable peer relationships
- –Recent facility upgrades including STEM makerspace and performing arts theater
- –High university placement rates with pathways to top Japanese institutions
Points of consideration
- –Limited cultural diversity with 95% Japanese student body
- –Japanese curriculum may not align with international university requirements outside Japan
- –No IB or other international qualifications offered
- –Debenture requirements add significant upfront costs beyond annual fees
- –Specialized focus may limit options for families considering non-Japanese educational pathways
Annual Fees
| Year Group | Age | USDTotal Annual Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Reception | 5 | 17,940 |
| Primary 1 | 6 | 17,940 |
| Primary 2 | 6 | 17,940 |
| Primary 3 | 6 | 17,940 |
| Primary 4 | 6 | 17,940 |
| Primary 5 | 6 | 17,940 |
| Primary 6 | 6 | 17,940 |
Fees converted from HKD. For the most up to date and accurate figures please double check with the school.
Additional Fees
| Fee | Amount |
|---|---|
| Application and Interview Fee | 77 |
Photos
Academic Results
Academic results have not been made publicly available by this school.
Extra Curriculars
Contact the school for details on co-curricular activities and facilities. Ask what a normal week looks like outside lessons for your child's interests.
Inspections & Accreditations
Inspection
No published inspection details are currently available.
Accreditations
Accreditation details are not publicly listed.
Memberships
Membership details are not publicly listed.
Student Body
Hong Kong's international schools serve a highly diverse student body drawn from across Asia and beyond. Contact the school for current enrolment details.
Leadership
Ms. Daniella Maddalena - Principal
Daniella Maddalena hails from Melbourne, Australia, bringing over 30 years of experience in education across primary and secondary schools, along with extensive leadership expertise.
