Cram School Day (Juku no Hi)

What is Cram School Day?

October 9th is "Cram School Day" (Juku no Hi) in Japan, based on a wordplay where "ju" (10) and "ku" (9) combine to sound like "juku" (cram school). It was established by the National Association of Cram Schools. The day aims to reflect on the role of cram schools (juku) and deepen understanding of education.

Why is October 9th "Cram School Day"?

The date comes from the wordplay "ju (10) ku (9)." Cram schools have become a widely established presence that complements school education and supports children's learning. This date was chosen to communicate that significance to society.

• Wordplay: 10 (ju) + 9 (ku) = juku.
• Established by: National Association of Cram Schools.
• Purpose: To spread awareness of the role of cram schools and the importance of education.

The role of cram schools

Cram schools are important not only for reinforcing school lessons, but also as places that offer instruction tailored to each student's learning style.

• Individualized instruction: Lessons matched to each student's level of understanding.
• Exam preparation: Specialized guidance for middle school, high school, and university entrance exams.
• Building study habits: Support for establishing a rhythm of studying.
• Boosting motivation: Helping students stay motivated through goal-setting and career counseling.

Things to think about on Cram School Day

Cram schools aren't just places to study—they're also environments that support children's growth.

• Diversity of learning: Options such as online cram schools and one-on-one tutoring are increasing.
• Quality of education: Teaching methods and materials continue to evolve.
• Collaboration with families: Communication with parents is also important.

Interesting facts related to Cram School Day

• Japan's cram school culture: A privately run education system that has developed to a degree rarely seen elsewhere in the world.
• Roots in "terakoya": The temple schools (terakoya) of the Edo period are often cited as the origin of cram school culture.
• A wide variety of schools: Including exam-prep schools, supplementary schools, English conversation schools, and programming schools.
• The scale of the industry: Japan's cram school market is worth hundreds of billions of yen.

Ideas for enjoying and making use of Cram School Day

• Reflect on your own or your family's learning style.
• Read a book or article about education.
• Attend a free trial lesson or information session at a cram school.
• Use it as a starting point for relearning or reskilling.

Learning is a "power" that enriches life

October 9th, "Cram School Day," is a day to reconsider the value of education. For both children and adults, continuing to learn opens up new possibilities.