From Manila to Kyoto: How Studying Japanese language in the Philippines Led Me to Japan

Jayme Vista

Kyoto Minsai
Creative Professional

I started learning the Japanese language (Nihongo) during the pandemic, initially just to pass the time after work. But what began as a casual interest quickly turned into a passion. As I moved from one level to the next—from JLPT N5 to N3—I became more fascinated by the structure, nuance, and cultural richness of Nihongo.

Although I had always been interested in Japanese culture, I never pursued it seriously until I enrolled at JLRC in the Philippines. As a creative professional based in the Philippines, much of my inspiration comes from Japanese artists, writers, and especially documentary photographers. Learning the Japanese language opened up entirely new perspectives in both my work and personal life.

JLRC provided me with the guidance and confidence to deepen my Nihongo studies. I started with N5 under Janice-sensei, advanced to N4 with Kyle-sensei, and completed N3 with the help of Emmie-sensei, Goff-sensei, and Joseph-sensei. Each sensei helped make learning enjoyable and meaningful.

Now, it has been nearly half a year since I arrived in Kyoto and began studying at Kyoto Minsai Japanese Language School, alongside a group of passionate Filipino students from various institutions.

Having never set foot in Japan before, I was eager to finally see it with my own eyes. Since my arrival in January 2025, I’ve not only been learning the language every day, but also experiencing life here to the fullest. I still remember the day I arrived—Kyoto greeted me with a rare snowfall, marking the beginning of this journey.

Since then, I’ve explored Kyoto’s beautiful spots, sung my heart out at karaoke with friends from around the world, savored local delicacies, worked part-time at a traditional Japanese inn, and, of course, attended school. Each of these experiences has helped me immerse myself more deeply into the language and culture—thanks to the incredible support from the teachers and community at Kyoto Minsai.

For my very first JLPT, I decided to take on the challenge of N2. It was tougher than I imagined, but I can already feel the results of my hard work, regardless of the outcome.

Through all of this, my perspective has continued to broaden. As my language skills grow,so too does my appreciation of the decision I made—one step at a time, day by day. I’m truly grateful for JLRC and Kyoto Minsai. I can’t wait to see what tomorrow brings!