1-Day Domestic Study Abroad
Reset your English brain in 10 hours without leaving Japan. A focused immersion experience for adults.
See Immersion Details
Fun keeps you going. Going keeps you speaking.
Small, personalized classes where you can build confidence at your own pace.
Book a Free Trial Lesson!About Starfish English
Starfish English is a friendly eikaiwa (English conversation school) located in the heart of Fujieda, Shizuoka. My goal is to provide engaging and effective English education that empowers students from age 9 through seniors to communicate confidently.
The classroom is a safe space where mistakes are welcome and growth happens naturally. I'm dedicated to helping you find your voice in English with patience, understanding, and a personalized approach.
I prioritize a communicative approach, focusing on practical conversation skills.
Why The Name "Starfish English"?
There's a parable that captures my teaching philosophy.
The essence of what I practice daily in my small Fujieda classroom is found in this story.
Meet Richard
Your Private English Mentor
Hello, I'm Richard. I've called Japan my home for over 35 years. With more than 15 years of experience in Tokyo's business world and a lifetime of teaching, I'm here to guide you on your English journey.
Courses - From Age 9 to Seniors
At Starfish English, excellent English education should be available to learners of all ages. Whether you're 9 or 90, I offer courses designed specifically for your learning stage and goals.
Kids & Teens English (Ages 9-18)
Engaging English programs for students from upper elementary through high school. I offer specialized courses for three age groups: Upper Elementary (9-12), Junior High, and High School students.
Adult Conversation (All Adult Ages)
Improve your speaking and listening skills in a relaxed setting. Perfect for daily conversation, travel, and general fluency. Welcome to learners of all adult ages.
Senior Travel English (Ages 60+)
Specialized research-based approach designed specifically for mature learners. As your patient, experienced instructor, I create an anxiety-free environment where you can learn comfortably at your own speed. Build confidence for international travel through engaging, age-appropriate activities designed to be enjoyable and accessible.
Business English (Working Adults)
Develop the language skills needed for professional success, including presentations, meetings, and email communication.
Certificate & Exam Preparation (Students & Working Adults)
Targeted lessons for TOEIC, TOEFL, Eiken, and other English proficiency tests.
Homestay Prep Intensive Course (Junior High & High School Students)
Intensive 8-lesson program preparing students for successful homestay experiences. Covers host family communication, cultural awareness, and confidence-building.
Why Choose Starfish English Fujieda?
With 35+ years of cultural immersion and over 15 years in Tokyo’s business world, I bring a unique perspective that helps my students succeed.
- Small, personalized classes
- Native-speaking bilingual teacher
- A relaxed, homey atmosphere convenient to Fujieda, Yaizu, and Shimada
- Focus on real-life communication
- Patient, encouraging instruction that addresses learning anxieties and builds genuine confidence
- Flexible learning tailored to your goals
Experience The Learning Environment
Take a virtual tour of the classroom and location. See where you'll be learning with these interactive 360-degree views.
The Classroom
Step inside our cozy, traditional Japanese-style classroom where all the learning happens.
Navigate: Click and drag to look around • Scroll or use +/- to zoom • Click ⌂ to reset
Note: This recent photo shows our student-centered approach to classroom safety. Learn about our flexible mask policies →
The Location
Explore the peaceful neighborhood around Starfish English in Fujieda.
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What Students & Parents Say
Read authentic feedback from current students. These are real voices sharing their enjoyment, learning, and growth.
From reviews posted by students and parents on Google Maps
"I started at an older age, but I'm learning in such a warm atmosphere and having fun. Even though I'm slow to memorize things, they teach me kindly and in an easy-to-understand way, so I look forward to my once-a-week classes."
- Kuboyama-san"Parent of a 2nd year Junior High student. He started learning here before the classroom officially opened. When I asked him if he wanted to continue, he said 'I want Richard to teach me,' so he's been going ever since... Starfish has given him the confidence to say he loves English."
- Parent of 2nd-year junior high student"A school where learning is fun, mixing study and play. The teacher finds the best way for me to learn, so studying English feels easy and enjoyable."
- Junior high school student"Through activities like 'Would you rather...?' and Role Playing, I face English positively and creatively every time. The teacher listens carefully to our conversations and explains difficult vocabulary immediately... It's a warm class where I feel watched over."
- Kubota-san"A classroom where you can relax in a homey atmosphere and learn English along with imagination and creativity!"
- Sone-sanReady to Start Your English Journey?
Experience my unique teaching approach with a completely free trial lesson! No pressure, no commitment - just a chance to see if Starfish English is right for you.
Book Your Free Trial Lesson Today
• 30-45 minute personalized session
• Meet your instructor and experience my teaching style
• Get a level assessment and course recommendations
• No obligation - take your time to decide
Contact Information
5-1-53 Oosu, Fujieda
Shizuoka 426-0051 Japan
054-660-7740
starfishfujieda@gmail.com
Tuesday - Friday: 10:00 - 21:00
Saturday: 10:00 - 18:00
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