I had weekly lessons with Ayako leading up to a trip to Japan. Ayako was lovely to study with. She is kind and energetic, and very thoughtful when planning tailored lessons. She took input about what I wanted to learn, then taught me things I didn't even know I needed. I plan to study the lesson recap PDFs she provided before my trip, and make a cheat sheet from it. I hope to continue studying with Ayako after I return from Japan.

I always look forward to my time with Ayako! She puts so much time and effort into preparing lessons to fit my learning needs. The notes she sends afterward are also extremely detailed and useful. It’s clear she cares greatly about my Japanese learning journey!

After several lessons with Ayako-sensei, I continue to appreciate how well prepared and thoughtful she is. Her lessons follow a structured but responsive curriculum that's closely aligned with my goals and what I need to practice. Today's lesson included on-screen text and visuals, listening practice with audio, conversation practice, correction, and shadowing. Ayako-sensei encourages me to speak in Japanese throughout our lessons and is very patient and supportive of my efforts.

Ayako-sensei makes the process of learning to converse in Japanese interesting and fun. I’ve completed more than a dozen lessons with her so far, and I’m really happy with the progress I’ve made. She adapts each lesson to my goals, interests, and learning style while creating a relaxed, encouraging environment where I feel comfortable making mistakes and learning from them. I also really value our one-on-one conversations, where Ayako-sensei's skills as a teacher really shine. She helps me improve in ways that textbooks, prerecorded courses, and group classes simply can’t. Ayako-sensei is an excellent teacher who is highly perceptive, creative, and genuinely invested in my progress. I’m very grateful to be learning with her and look forward to continuing my lessons as I prepare for my trip to Japan.

This is my last lesson with Ayako sensei, but only because my next chapter is to be living and working in Japan after many many lessons together. Every lesson was a honor and a pleasure to share. I am sad to see this time come to an end for me, but I am excited for any future students who are lucky enough to take her lessons moving forward. Ayako sensei, thank you for all your care, guidance, and unyielding support. To my fellow learners, I wish you success in your goals as well :) take care.

I had a very positive lesson with Ayako-sensei that was both productive and enjoyable. She quickly adapted the lesson to my goals and current level, and created a supportive environment for me to practice listening to and speaking in Japanese. After the lesson, Ayako-sensei provided a very helpful, customized recap for me to study. I’m looking forward to continuing lessons with her.