ASIJ’s Commitment to “Know, Value, Care” emerged from surveys and interviews with hundreds of students, alumni, and parents who explained that their most indelible memories of ASIJ concerned a patient, caring teacher or coach who took time to know them as individuals; value what was unique or different about them; and care about their wellbeing and success.
A mitsudomoe appears at the center of ASIJ’s crest with the words Know, Value, Care. Our Commitment is a clarion call for empathy, respect, and a reminder of our duty to others. It flows naturally into our Mission, which involves helping all students thrive and become accountable leaders and positive difference-makers in an increasingly complex, diverse, and rapidly changing world. When a student or teacher feels known, valued, and cared for in a safe community that orients learning in this way, we believe they will be inspired to be “their best selves, empowered to make a difference.”
ASIJ is located in one of Asia’s most modern and cosmopolitan capital cities. Served by two international airports, Tokyo is a global hub, a financial center, and the gateway to Japan. From sub-tropical islands in the south, to the snowy northern island of Hokkaido, Japan offers residents everything from world-class diving to Olympic standard winter sports facilities. With a rich, unique cultural tradition and a technologically driven society, Japan offers a vibrant contrast between the old and new.
Tokyo is one of the world’s safest major cities and offers a high standard of living and excellent quality of life for expatriates, due to its world-class infrastructure, low health risks, low air pollution, and low crime rates. A thriving and diverse cultural landscape encompases major museums and galleries, a vibrant local music scene, traditional festivals and activities, performances by internationally renowned musicians, and major theme parks all of which make life in Tokyo a rich and entertaining experience. Japan also offers sports fans the opportunity to attend many major athletic events and the country has played host to the FIFA World Cup, Rugby World Cup, and both the summer and winter Olympics.
Candidates should note, however, that most foreign-hire teachers live near the main campus in Chofu, a suburban environment one hour west of central Tokyo by train. Teachers at our Early Learning Center in Roppongi typically live in neighborhoods in central Tokyo closer to their campus.
Next to the Chofu campus is gorgeous Nogawa Park offering 200 acres of walking and bike paths, tennis courts, playgrounds, and wide open spaces. Close by is the Tama River recreation area, with a bike path extending 40 km from Haneda Airport to the foothills surrounding the city. Some families opt to live close to the school campus, while others may choose to live a little further away in the nearby neighborhood of Kichijoji, which offers a wide range of entertainment activities, shopping, and restaurants.
The weather in Tokyo is seasonal. Hot and humid summers are bookended by rainy and typhoon seasons, while mild autumn and winter months boast beautiful blue skies. Spring in Tokyo offers beauty that is second to none: picturesque cherry blossoms as far as the eye can see.
Our publications below offer additional insights on the impacts of your gifts.