Yokohama

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Extracurricular Activities

Clubs, sports, and other programs available at schools designed to enrich student life outside the standard curriculum.

Sections

1. Sports Activities

Sports are a popular extracurricular choice in Yokohama, with options ranging from traditional Japanese martial arts to modern team sports.

Popular Sports Options

  • Martial Arts (Karate, Judo, Kendo, Aikido):

    • Many dojos (training halls) in Yokohama offer classes for all age groups.
    • Notable Locations: Yokohama Budokan (a large martial arts facility in Naka Ward).
    • Costs: Monthly fees range from ¥5,000 to ¥10,000, with an initial registration fee of around ¥5,000. Uniforms and equipment may cost extra.
    • Cultural Note: Respect and discipline are key values in martial arts. Bowing to instructors and peers is customary.

  • Baseball and Soccer:

    • Baseball is a national pastime in Japan, and Yokohama has many youth leagues and clubs.
    • Notable Organizations: Yokohama BayStars Junior Team (affiliated with the professional Yokohama DeNA BayStars baseball team).
    • Costs: Club fees range from ¥3,000 to ¥8,000 per month, plus equipment costs.
    • Cultural Note: Team spirit and dedication are highly valued. Parents are often expected to participate in team activities, such as helping with events.

  • Swimming:

    • Many public and private swimming schools operate in Yokohama.
    • Notable Locations: Konami Sports Club and Yokohama International Swimming Pool.
    • Costs: ¥8,000 to ¥12,000 per month for weekly lessons.
    • Enrollment: Most swimming schools have rolling admissions. You’ll need to fill out an application form and provide proof of residency.

  • Tennis and Badminton:

    • Available at sports centers and private clubs.
    • Notable Locations: Yokohama Country & Athletic Club (YC&AC) offers tennis programs for children and adults.

2. Arts and Cultural Activities

Yokohama has a vibrant arts scene, with opportunities to explore traditional Japanese arts as well as modern creative pursuits.

Traditional Japanese Arts

  • Calligraphy (Shodō):

    • Classes are available at cultural centers and private studios.
    • Costs: ¥3,000 to ¥5,000 per month, plus materials.
    • Cultural Note: Calligraphy emphasizes mindfulness and patience.

  • Tea Ceremony (Sadō):

    • Learn the art of Japanese tea preparation and etiquette.
    • Notable Locations: Sankeien Garden occasionally offers tea ceremony workshops.
    • Costs: ¥2,000 to ¥5,000 per session.

  • Ikebana (Flower Arrangement):

    • Classes are held at community centers and private studios.
    • Costs: ¥3,000 to ¥6,000 per session, including materials.

Modern Arts

  • Painting and Drawing:

    • Art schools and community centers offer classes for all skill levels.
    • Notable Locations: Yokohama Museum of Art runs workshops for children and adults.
    • Costs: ¥2,000 to ¥5,000 per session.

  • Music Lessons:

    • Piano, violin, and guitar lessons are widely available.
    • Notable Organizations: Yamaha Music School has branches across Yokohama.
    • Costs: ¥8,000 to ¥15,000 per month for weekly lessons.

  • Dance:

    • Ballet, hip-hop, and traditional Japanese dance are popular.
    • Notable Locations: Yokohama Ballet School and local community centers.
    • Costs: ¥5,000 to ¥10,000 per month.

3. Academic and STEM Programs

For students looking to enhance their academic skills, Yokohama offers a variety of programs in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), as well as language and cultural studies.

STEM Programs

  • Robotics and Coding:

    • Coding schools like Tech Kids School and CoderDojo Yokohama offer classes for children.
    • Costs: ¥10,000 to ¥20,000 per month.
    • Enrollment: Online registration is common. Some schools offer trial lessons.

  • Science Workshops:

    • The Yokohama Science Frontier High School occasionally hosts public science events.
    • Notable Locations: Hamagin Space Science Center offers hands-on science exhibits and workshops.

Language and Cultural Studies

  • Japanese Language Classes:

    • Designed for non-native speakers, these classes are available at community centers.
    • Costs: ¥1,000 to ¥3,000 per session.
    • Notable Organizations: Yokohama International Association (YOKE) offers affordable language programs.

  • English and Other Languages:

    • Private language schools like Berlitz and ECC cater to both children and adults.
    • Costs: ¥10,000 to ¥20,000 per month.

4. Community and Volunteer Activities

Yokohama has a strong sense of community, and volunteering is a great way to engage with local culture.

  • Environmental Activities:

    • Groups like Yokohama Greenery Foundation organize tree planting and park clean-up events.
    • Costs: Free or minimal fees for materials.

  • Cultural Exchange Programs:

    • YOKE and other organizations host events where locals and foreigners can interact.
    • Costs: Free or low-cost.

  • Youth Clubs:

    • The YMCA and local community centers run youth programs focusing on leadership and community service.
    • Costs: ¥3,000 to ¥5,000 per month.

5. Enrollment Procedures

  • Step 1: Research Options
    • Visit websites or contact organizations directly. Many have English-speaking staff or translated materials.
  • Step 2: Attend a Trial Class
    • Most programs offer trial sessions for a small fee or for free.
  • Step 3: Submit an Application
    • Fill out a form, either online or in person. Some programs may require proof of residency or ID.
  • Step 4: Pay Fees
    • Fees are typically paid monthly via bank transfer or cash.

6. Cultural Points to Consider

  • Punctuality: Arrive on time for classes and events. Being late is considered disrespectful.
  • Parental Involvement: For children’s activities, parents may be expected to participate or assist.
  • Language Barrier: While many programs cater to non-Japanese speakers, having basic Japanese skills can be helpful.
  • Respect for Rules: Follow the rules and guidelines of the organization or facility.

7. Notable Local Sites and Organizations

  • Yokohama International School (YIS): Offers extracurricular programs for its students, including sports, arts, and academic clubs.
  • Yokohama Children’s International Exchange Center: Hosts cultural and educational activities for children.
  • Minato Mirai Area: Home to various cultural and recreational facilities, including the Yokohama Museum of Art and sports complexes.

Yokohama’s diverse extracurricular offerings ensure that there’s something for everyone, whether you’re interested in sports, arts, academics, or community engagement. By participating in these activities, you’ll not only develop new skills but also gain a deeper appreciation for Japanese culture and the vibrant community in Yokohama.