In Japan, education is compulsory at elementary and junior high level, and most Japanese students usually complete more than 16 years of education including pre-school, high school and college. The Japanese educational system is extremely competitive, with many students taking extra tuition classes in order to maximize their chances of doing well in examinations.

The children of foreign nationals are allowed to attend Japanese schools, and some parents choose this option if they plan to stay in Japan, so that their children will be fluent in Japanese and well prepared to attend a Japanese University.

However, most expatriates send their children to international schools in Japan.

There are a large number of international schools in all the main cities, which mostly follow the British or American educational systems. The fees for these schools are high, but some expatriates have them included in their employment contract.

There are relatively few English-language preschools, although there are some pre-school facilities attached to international schools. There are good Japanese day-care facilities throughout the country.

Japan has a well-developed higher education sector, which attracts many foreign students.

Added March 2007 by Amanda:
In Shibuya, Tokyo there is a very good British school (The British School in Tokyo) which follows the British curriculum. My boys were there for 5 years. Wonderful school with good chances for parent involvement, both for school and social.