Is getting a driving license expensive in Japan?
Answer: It does not have to be. While regular commuting schools (Tsugaku) can cost up to ¥400,000, you can save up to ¥100,000 by enrolling in a Camping Lesson Plan (Gasshuku). A Gasshuku is an intensive driving camp where you live in the driving school’s dormitory for 14 to 16 days to complete your lessons and in-school tests, often at a lower cost than commuting.
6 Benefits of the Gasshuku Driving Camp Plan
Answer: Choosing a Gasshuku training camp over a traditional commuting school provides massive advantages in time, cost, and convenience. Here are the top six benefits:
1. Graduate in Only 2 Weeks (14~16 Days)
Because your training schedule is fixed from the moment you arrive, there is no waiting for open slots. All necessary driving and lecture hours are reserved for you, allowing you to reach school graduation in roughly 14 to 16 days. This is graduation from the driving school, not the license itself — you still take the final test at your local licensing center afterward.
2. Prices Starting from ¥170,000
Since you are staying in a dorm, you are not limited to expensive schools in your city. You can travel to the countryside where prices drop to as low as ¥170,000~¥180,000.
3. Anshin (Retake Support) Plan
Many camps offer an Anshin (retake support) plan: if you don’t pass on the first attempt, you are not charged extra class fees. What is included in extended hotel stay and retest arrangements varies by school, so confirm the exact terms before enrolling.
4. 3 Meals a Day Included
You do not need to worry about cooking or grocery shopping. Three meals a day are fully included in your course fee.
5. Extremely Economical Package
Some camps offer transport support toward your round-trip travel costs, but the amount and conditions vary by school and season — confirm the current terms before enrolling.
6. Higher Graduation Rate
Studying daily for two weeks keeps the information fresh in your mind. You will also stay with other students, giving you the chance to exchange study tips with people going through the same process.
When is the Best Season to Take a Driving Course?
Answer: Driving course fees fluctuate depending on Japanese school holidays. The cheapest time to enroll in a driving school is during the off-peak seasons: April to June and October to December.
| Season / Months | Estimated Price Range | Status |
|---|---|---|
| January – March | ¥280,000 ~ ¥400,000 | Peak Season (Highest Price) |
| April – June | ¥180,000 ~ ¥210,000 | Off-Peak (Cheapest) |
| July – September | ¥280,000 ~ ¥360,000 | Peak Season (Summer Holidays) |
| October – December | ¥190,000 ~ ¥220,000 | Off-Peak (Cheapest) |
Why You Must Choose Menkyo.me
Answer: Menkyo.me lets you compare prices across over 60 driving schools all over Japan. We help foreigners find the perfect school match, including English support options.
Exclusive Menkyo.me Discounts
- Unconditional Discount: Get ¥5,000 off instantly.
- Early Bird Discount: Get an extra ¥5,000 off (Target dates and deadlines vary depending on the school).
- Student Discount: Get an extra ¥3,000 off if you have a valid student ID.
- Transport Cashback: Up to ¥11,000 in transport support on eligible plans.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I take a Gasshuku driving camp near my house?
Answer: This is school policy, not a nationwide law — Gasshuku camps are generally designed for students traveling from outside their home prefecture or local area, though the exact rule depends on the school. If you want a school near your house, Tsugaku (commuting) is the standard option.
Q: I am an employee, can I apply for admission?
Answer: Yes, absolutely! As long as you can secure 14 to 16 days of continuous paid leave (PTO) from your company, you can enroll in a driving camp.
Q: Can I apply during Golden Week or Summer Holiday?
Answer: Yes, but these are peak seasons. Prices will be at their highest, and schools book out months in advance. We highly recommend booking early if you plan to go during these holidays.
Q: I’m not confident with my Japanese!
Answer: Do not worry! Many schools on our platform provide English textbooks, and some even offer English-speaking instructors or English testing options. Just ask our support team to find an English-friendly school for you.
Q: How about transportation costs if I choose a school far away?
Answer: Driving schools provide a transportation allowance (cashback) upon graduation. Usually, this covers the cost of a Shinkansen or highway bus ticket up to a certain limit (e.g., ¥11,000 to ¥20,000 depending on the school).
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