Welcome
to Admissions
Welcome to Kyoto International School – Where Global Learning Begins
Kyoto International School (KIS) has been inspiring curious minds and nurturing global citizens in the heart of Kyoto. As the city’s only IB Continuum School, we proudly offer the full International Baccalaureate programme—from Early Years through to the Diploma Programme (Grade 12 by 2026).
At KIS, we cultivate passionate, collaborative, and internationally minded learners through an engaging, supportive, and inclusive environment. Our diverse community embodies the IB Learner Profile, empowering students to thrive both academically and personally in an ever-changing global society.
With a strong focus on personalized learning, academic excellence, and student well-being, KIS is more than just a school—it’s a place where every child is known, valued, and inspired to reach their full potential.
Admissions
Process
Admissions
Documents
Tuition
& Fees
Kyoto International School
WELCOME TO
ADMISSIONS
Welcome to Kyoto International School – Where Global Learning Begins Kyoto International School (KIS) has been inspiring curious minds and nurturing global citizens in the heart of Kyoto. As the city’s only IB Continuum School, we proudly offer the full International Baccalaureate programme—from Early Years through to the Diploma Programme (Grade 12 by 2026).
At KIS, we cultivate passionate, collaborative, and internationally minded learners through an engaging, supportive, and inclusive environment. Our diverse community embodies the IB Learner Profile, empowering students to thrive both academically and personally in an ever-changing global society. With a strong focus on personalized learning, academic excellence, and student well-being, KIS is more than just a school—it’s a place where every child is known, valued, and inspired to reach their full potential.
Admissions
Process
Tuition
& Fees
Virtual
Tour
Virtual Tour
Discover
KIS
Discover the KIS Difference!
Embark on a journey of global learning and personal growth at Kyoto International School. Our unique approach to education prepares students for a world of opportunities.
Explore how KIS can shape your child's future
Our
Story
The KIS Story comes with a great legacy dating back to 1957.
Our story continues as we grow and develop our offerings to our students, parents, staff, and the wider Kyoto community.
Admissions PROCESS
Admissions DOCUMENTS
What Our
Parent Say
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&FEES
What Our PARENTS Say
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WHY
CHOOSE
KIS
Kyoto International School (KIS), serving Kyoto since 1957, offers an international education in the Kansai region. Accredited by WASC and IBO, KIS is known for its inclusive community and personalized learning. As a non-profit, KIS focuses on effective learning and developing global citizens who positively influence the world, aligning with its vision of "Inspiring active learners, developing global citizens".
In 1957, the closure of the American School on the Botanical Gardens Army Base prompted missionary families in Kyoto to seek new educational solutions for their children. This pivotal moment led to the birth of what would become Kyoto International School (KIS).
Doug Muir, the son of missionaries, became one of the school's first students when his mother initiated a home-schooling Programme for him and two other children. Classes were initially held in a spare bedroom of the Muir family home, marking the humble beginnings of the institution.
The following year, the Muir's spacious two-story house on Ichijo-dori was transformed into the Kyoto Christian Day School, with a full-time teacher hired to meet growing educational needs. By the 1958-59 academic year, enrollment had surged to 28 students across grades 1-8. The student body comprised children from missionary families and those of visiting scholars in Kyoto.
In 1966, recognizing its expanding role and diverse community, the school adopted its current name: Kyoto International School. This change reflected the institution's evolving mission to provide quality education to a broader international community in Kyoto.