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.
- Japanese: All About Particles part 2Course start date: Mon 20 Jul 2026
Location on this date: Keeley Street
Tutors: Chikako NakagawaWant to boost your Japanese and finally get comfortable with particles? This fun, interactive revision course uses games and real‑life scenarios to help you chat, write, and express yourself more naturally. A light, lively way to sharpen your skills and end the year on a high note!
Full fee £39.00 Senior fee £39.00 Concession £39.00 - Japanese Film Night: Hula Girls by Lee Sang‑ilCourse start date: Fri 24 Jul 2026 (and 1 other date)
Location on this date: Keeley Street
Tutors: Chikako NakagawaDiscover Japan through bold, alternative cinema.
This course explores Hula Girls, the inspiring true story of a Fukushima mining town that reinvents itself through Hawaiian dance in the 1960s-an uplifting portrait of resilience, creativity and social change. You’ll also explore acclaimed films by director Lee Sang‑il, gaining fresh insight into Japanese culture, community and art.Introduction by Chikako Nakagawa, Japanese tutor at City Lit.
Full fee £19.00 Senior fee £19.00 Concession £19.00 - Chinese: fan writingCourse start date: Sat 25 Jul 2026
Location on this date: Keeley Street
Tutors: Zhonghan LinExplore the enchanting world of Chinese fan writing in our workshop! Delve into the rich tapestry of Chinese culture as we unravel the history and significance of this ancient art form. Discover the profound cultural significance behind each stroke, and unleash your creativity on the canvas of tradition.Full fee £29.00 Senior fee £29.00 Concession £29.00 - Japanese beginners: short introductionCourse start date: Tue 28 Jul 2026 (and 1 other date)
Location on this date: Keeley Street
Tutors: Noriko InagakiLearn Japanese with an emphasis on practical use and the development of your listening and speaking skills. You can also learn to read and write Japanese characters. Based on the tutor's own materials.Full fee £119.00 Senior fee £119.00 Concession £77.00 - Japanese: jump into year 2
Course start date: Tue 1 Sep 2026Location on this date: Online
Tutors: Kiyomi UntenThis short course is a chance to review the topics covered in year one (beginners course module 1/2/3) and give you a head start as you enter your second year of studying Japanese.Full fee £129.00 Senior fee £129.00 Concession £84.00 - Hindi beginners tasterCourse start date: Tue 8 Sep 2026
Location on this date: Keeley Street
Tutors: Roopam AggarwalCome and discover Hindi in this lively taster.Full fee £19.00 Senior fee £19.00 Concession £19.00 - Korean beginners tasterCourse start date: Wed 9 Sep 2026
Location on this date: Online
Tutors: Jaeran WonCome and discover Korean in this lively taster either in an in-person course in Covent Garden or live online session.
Full fee £19.00 Senior fee £19.00 Concession £19.00 - Japanese beginners tasterCourse start date: Wed 9 Sep 2026 (and 1 other date)
Location on this date: Online
Tutors: Kiyomi UntenCome and discover Japanese in this lively taster.Full fee £19.00 Senior fee £19.00 Concession £19.00 - Japanese Beginners with Art HistoryCourse start date: Fri 11 Sep 2026
Location on this date: Keeley Street
Tutors: Noriko InagakiDiscover Japanese in a fresh and engaging way. This beginner-friendly course teaches essential language skills through fascinating artworks, culminating in a visit to the British Museum to practice what you have learned in a real-world setting. (on Sat 3/10/26)
.Full fee £179.00 Senior fee £179.00 Concession £116.00 - Chinese beginners tasterCourse start date: Thu 17 Sep 2026
Location on this date: Keeley Street
Tutors: Ting PoonCome and discover Chinese Mandarin in this lively taster.Full fee £19.00 Senior fee £19.00 Concession £19.00 - Hindi 5: module 1Course start date: Mon 21 Sep 2026
Location on this date: Online
Tutors: Geeta SharmaDevelop and improve your knowledge in your fifth year of learning Hindi.
Suitable if you have completed Hindi 4 or equivalent .Full fee £259.00 Senior fee £259.00 Concession £168.00 - Chinese 3 lower: module 1Course start date: Mon 21 Sep 2026 (and 1 other date)
Location on this date: Keeley Street
Tutors: Ting PoonLearn Chinese either in an in-person course in Covent Garden or live online sessions.
Develop your fluency in this course taught in Chinese (Mandarin), with the emphasis on speaking and listening. Suitable if you have studied Mandarin for about 3-4 years and have a good command of the language.
Full fee £259.00 Senior fee £259.00 Concession £168.00 - Japanese 2 lower: module 1Course start date: Mon 21 Sep 2026 (and 5 other dates)
Location on this date: Keeley Street
Tutors: Chikako NakagawaJoin this lively course to build on your basic Japanese skills. Suitable if you've studied Japanese for 1 year recently.Choose either an in-person class in central London or live online sessions.
Full fee £259.00 Senior fee £207.00 Concession £168.00 - Japanese 3 upper: module 1Course start date: Mon 21 Sep 2026 (and 1 other date)
Location on this date: Online
Tutors: Kiyomi UntenImprove your level of Japanese on this communicative course where you will have the opportunity to develop your oral and listening skills as well as consolidate your reading and writing skills. Suitable if you have completed Japanese 2 upper or have studied for at least 3 years recently.
Choose either an in-person class in central London or live online sessions.Full fee £259.00 Senior fee £259.00 Concession £168.00 - Japanese beginners: module 1Course start date: Mon 21 Sep 2026 (and 11 other dates)
Location on this date: Online
Tutors: Hisaka BuntingLearn to speak Japanese, with the emphasis on developing your listening and speaking skills. Suitable for complete beginners. Choose either an in-person course in Covent Garden or live online sessions.
We offer Japanese tasters in September if you would like to try out learning Japanese. Please make sure that you click on Show more dates at the end of the list to see all the courses.
Full fee £259.00 Senior fee £259.00 Concession £168.00
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