Vancouver Japanese Language School

Vancouver Japanese Language School is an Art Deco building on Alexander Street in the city's Japanese neighborhood that has served as a language learning center for generations. Today the facility offers Japanese language instruction to students of all ages through regular classes and specialized programs.

The school was established in 1906 with support from a Japanese diplomat to serve the local Japanese community. After World War II and a period of forced displacement, the building was returned to its original Japanese-Canadian owners, which was an unusual outcome during that era.

This school sits at the heart of the Japanese community as a living space where people speak Japanese and connect with cultural practices together. Visitors notice how the place brings people together to share language and traditions through regular classes and shared learning.

The building sits in the Japantown neighborhood and is accessible when exploring this area of the city on foot. The best time to visit is during operating hours when you can see the school in use and learn about the programs offered there.

The building retains its original Art Deco architectural features from when it was first constructed, making it a visible example of early 1900s design in Canada. Visitors can observe how the structure reflects the style and craftsmanship of that building period.

Location: Vancouver

Inception: 1906

Architectural style: Art Deco

Address: 487 Alexander Street

Website: https://vjls-jh.com

GPS coordinates: 49.28410,-123.09380

Latest update: December 14, 2025 09:43