open up exciting new opportunities and experiences. Whether you're in London or learning from anywhere in the world, we offer flexible courses for beginners through to advanced learners—with in-person and online class options for daytime, evening, and weekend classes.Read less
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Learn Asian Languages — Online & in London
Asia is home to some of the world’s most fascinating, unique, and rich languages. Whether you're drawn to the elegance of Japanese, the global reach of Mandarin Chinese, the vibrancy of Hindi, or the energy of Korean, learning and Asian language can open up exciting new opportunities and experiences.
Browse by language
Explore the languages and cultures of Asia with flexible online and in-person courses.
Browse by level
Our courses are designed to take you from a complete beginner to a fluent spearker. You can choose the best level for you using this self assessment tool. So whether you're starting, you have some experience, or you're an advanced or native speaker, there's a course made for you here at City Lit.
Browse by location
Whether you're in London or learning from anywhere in the world, we offer flexible courses for beginners through to advanced learners—with options for daytime, evening, and weekend classes.
✅ City Lit is a trusted adult education college in London
✅ Rated 'Oustanding' in all categories by Ofsted
✅ Learn from experienced tutors including native speakers, polyglots, and academics
✅ Flexible course options: daytime and evening classes on weekdays and weekends
✅ Great for both personal growth and professional development
Learn more than just the language
On a City Lit language course, you not only learn the language, you also gain valuable insight into the culture, history, and traditions of that country. That's because our courses are taught by expert native speaking tutors with real world experience of living in the country where the language is spoken widely.
Learn Asian Languages Online with Flexibility
Not in London? Prefer to learn from home? Our live online courses are a great way to study Asian languages wherever you are.
Choose from popular languages like Mandarin Chinese, Japanese, Hindi, and Korean. All our online classes are taught live on Zoom by expert tutors, with plenty of real-time practice and support to help you build confidence and fluency.
Learn Asian Languages in London – Face-to-Face
If you prefer learning in person, join us at City Lit in central London. Our classroom courses give you the chance to practise speaking with native-speaking tutors and fellow learners.
You’ll also have the chance to take part in cultural activities and events linked to your chosen language. And with London’s diverse communities, you’ll be learning in one of the most multicultural cities in the world.
About City Lit
City Lit has been a leader in adult education for over 100 years, empowering learners from all walks of life to achieve their goals. Since our founding in 1919, we’ve expanded our offerings to include a wide range of subjects, including language courses that cater to learners of all levels. Our Ofsted Outstanding rating highlights our commitment to exceptional teaching, support, and a high standard of learning.
Whether you're learning for personal enrichment, career advancement, or travel, our flexible language options allow you to learn Mandarin Chinese, Japanese, Hindi, and Korean on your terms. City Lit provides a supportive, inclusive environment where you can realise your ambitions.
Join us today and become part of our legacy of inspiring learners for over a century.
Useful Links
- Language FAQs - Frequently asked questions about language courses at City Lit.
- What’s my level? - Self assess your level to help you find the course for you.
- Languages Blog - Discover useful tips and knowledge-packed guides from our expert tutors.
Asian Languages Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are the benefits of learning an Asian language?
Learning an Asian language can:
- Make travel more meaningful and enjoyable
- Boost your career and open up global job opportunities
- Help you connect with new people and cultures
- Give you a fresh perspective on the world
- Build your confidence and keep your brain active
Whether you're learning for work, travel, or personal growth, mastering a language like Mandarin, Japanese, Hindi, or Korean is a rewarding journey.
What types of language courses does City Lit offer?
City Lit offers language courses at all levels, from beginner to advanced. You can choose from part-time, evening, daytime, weekend, early morning, or intensive classes to suit your schedule.
How many languages can I study at City Lit?
You can choose from courses in 19 different languages, making it one of the widest selections in London.
What levels are available for language courses?
Most languages are taught at seven different levels, so whether you’re starting from scratch or looking to improve existing skills, there’s a course for you.
Who teaches the courses?
Our tutors are experienced, friendly, and skilled in teaching adults. They help create a welcoming and supportive learning environment.
Can I get a qualification from these courses?
Yes, in many languages you can take accredited courses. These lead to national and international qualifications that are particularly relevant to adult learners.
Do you offer language courses for professional development?
Yes. City Lit offers tailored language training in the workplace. This is ideal for individuals or businesses looking to improve language skills for professional use.
What is the benefit of workplace language training?
It’s a fast and convenient way to gain practical language skills relevant to your job or business needs.
When do the courses take place?
We offer flexible scheduling with classes available in the mornings, during the day, in the evenings, and at weekends.
67 courses available
- Hindi beginners: module 1
Learn Hindi either in an in-person course in Covent Garden or live online sessions.
Experience learning Hindi by enrolling on a taster.
Acquire the basics of this captivating language with an emphasis on practical use and the development of your listening and speaking skills. This course is designed for complete beginners who have little or no prior knowledge of Hindi.
Full fee £259.00 Senior fee £259.00 Concession £168.00 - Chinese 5: advanced practice
Learn Chinese either in an in-person course in Covent Garden or live online sessions.
This course is designed for advanced students to have conversations in Chinese based on current news stories in a small group environment.
Full fee £259.00 Senior fee £259.00 Concession £168.00 - Chinese 5: module 1
Learn Chinese either in an in-person course in Covent Garden or live online sessions.
For advanced learners of Mandarin Chinese to improve their speaking, listening and command of the Chinese language at a higher level (equivalent to HSK-4). Suitable if you have studied Chinese part-time for at least 5-6 years/ full-time for more than two years and have been self-learning and using Chinese occasionally in life/work or if you have passed HSK level-3 or equivalent (1500 vocabulary items or more).Students should be able to read Chinese characters.
Online
Wed 7 Oct 2026Fei WangFull fee £259.00 Senior fee £259.00 Concession £168.00 - Chinese 2: reading groupIf you want to have the chance to read Chinese characters, expand your vocabulary, improve your pronunciation, and strengthen your reading comprehension level, please join us on this lively online course to practise your reading. Suitable for people who have learned Chinese for at least 1 year and have learned to read Chinese characters.Full fee £129.00 Senior fee £103.00 Concession £84.00
- Japanese Reading Club
Discover the joy of reading in Japanese! Follow engaging stories from The Red Candle while building your vocabulary, grammar, and kanji knowledge. Through guided discussions and interactive activities, you'll gain confidence reading longer texts and deepen your understanding of authentic Japanese. Ideal for learners moving from JLPT N5 towards N4 who are ready to take their reading skills to the next level.
Online
Tue 13 Oct 2026Junko FuseFull fee £99.00 Senior fee £99.00 Concession £64.00 - Mongolian Calligraphy WorkshopTry your hand at Mongolian calligraphy and learn about this traditional script that is written vertically.
Keeley Street
Sat 17 Oct 2026Altannavch MurrayFull fee £49.00 Senior fee £49.00 Concession £49.00 
Japanese EtiquetteTravel with confidence and cultural insight!
Ever wondered how to bow correctly, what to say when entering a shrine, or the polite way to enjoy a meal in Japan? This immersive workshop introduces you to the essential customs and etiquette that shape Japanese society. Perfect for travelers, culture enthusiasts, and anyone curious about Japan’s traditions.Full fee £69.00 Senior fee £69.00 Concession £69.00- Japanese Proficiency: Practice using the News
ニュースで学ぶ日本語
Designed for learners at JLPT N2 level and above, this course uses authentic Japanese news stories to build vocabulary, strengthen reading comprehension, and develop discussion skills. Explore current events, gain cultural insights, and grow your confidence in understanding and communicating about real-world topics in Japanese.
Online
Sat 17 Oct 2026Junko FuseFull fee £99.00 Senior fee £99.00 Concession £99.00 - Japanese beginners: holiday Kit
Make the most of your trip to Japan!
Planning a visit? This short, intensive course is your ultimate survival kit for Japan. Learn the essential phrases and cultural tips to navigate common holiday situations with confidence-from ordering food to asking for directions-and even enjoy friendly chats with locals.Full fee £69.00 Senior fee £69.00 Concession £69.00 - Korean beginners: holiday kit
Make the most of your holidays in Korea with this face to face short, intensive course. Choose either in-person classes in central London or live online classes. This Holiday Kit will provide you with all the language you need to communicate in the most common holiday situations & have a friendly chat with the locals!
Online
Tue 3 Nov 2026Jaeran WonFull fee £129.00 Senior fee £129.00 Concession £84.00 - Korean beginners: short introduction
Get a short introduction to the Korean language and discover aspects of Korean language culture in these either an in-person course in Covent Garden or live online communicative classes. Suitable for complete beginners.
Keeley Street
Thu 5 Nov 2026Jiyeon KimFull fee £99.00 Senior fee £79.00 Concession £64.00 - Japanese beginners: short introductionGet a short introduction to the Japanese language and discover aspects of Japanese language culture in these online communicative classes. Suitable for complete beginners.
Keeley Street
Fri 6 Nov 2026Hisaka BuntingFull fee £99.00 Senior fee £99.00 Concession £99.00 - Chinese: writing for beginnersLearn the basics of Chinese characters on this lively classroom-based course in the heart of London. This interactive workshop provides plenty of opportunity to practise yourself, and is suitable for complete beginners.
Keeley Street
Sat 14 Nov 2026Ting PoonFull fee £59.00 Senior fee £59.00 Concession £59.00 - Chinese beginners: short introduction
Learn Chinese either in an in-person course in Covent Garden or live online sessions.
Get a short introduction to the Chinese language and discover aspects of Chinese language culture in these live online communicative classes. Suitable for complete beginners.
Keeley Street
Tue 17 Nov 2026Joyce LeeFull fee £99.00 Senior fee £99.00 Concession £99.00 - Japanese: writing for beginners part 1Come and improve your knowledge of the basic Japanese writing system, Hiragana and Katakana. Suitable if you are studying Japanese at beginners level.Full fee £69.00 Senior fee £69.00 Concession £69.00
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