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: writing for beginners part 1Course start date: Sat 16 May 2026 (and 1 other date)
Location on this date: Keeley Street
Tutors: Chikako NakagawaCome and improve your knowledge of the basic Japanese writing system, Hiragana and Katakana. Suitable if you are studying Japanese at beginners level.Full fee £59.00 Senior fee £59.00 Concession £59.00 - Korean beginners: holiday kitCourse start date: Sat 16 May 2026 (and 2 other dates)
Location on this date: Keeley Street
Tutors: Jiyeon Kim, Hakkyoung LeeMake the most of your holidays in Korea with this face to face short, intensive course in central London over one weekend. 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!
Full fee £119.00 Senior fee £119.00 Concession £77.00 - Chinese beginners: short introduction
Course start date: Tue 2 Jun 2026 (and 3 other dates)Location on this date: Keeley Street
Tutors: Xiaolan BiGet a short introduction to the Chinese language and discover aspects of Chinese language culture in these either in-person course in Covent Garden or live online communicative classes. Suitable for complete beginners.
Full fee £79.00 Senior fee £79.00 Concession £51.00 - Japanese beginners: short introductionCourse start date: Mon 13 Jul 2026 (and 3 other dates)
Location on this date: Keeley Street
Tutors: Hisaka BuntingGet a short introduction to the Japanese language and discover aspects of Japanese language culture in these online communicative classes. Suitable for complete beginners.Full fee £119.00 Senior fee £119.00 Concession £77.00 - Japanese beginners: holiday kit Course start date: Sat 6 Jun 2026 (and 1 other date)
Location on this date: Keeley Street
Tutors: Chikako NakagawaMake 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 £79.00 Senior fee £79.00 Concession £51.00 - Japanese Etiquette Course start date: Sat 27 Jun 2026 (and 1 other date)
Location on this date: Keeley Street
Tutors: Chikako NakagawaTravel 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 £59.00 Senior fee £59.00 Concession £59.00 - Japanese through Origami: Tanabata Star festival Course start date: Sun 5 Jul 2026
Location on this date: Keeley Street
Tutors: Rie Tsuruta-BarrattThis workshop will introduce you to the culture and basics of origami, a central part of Japanese arts and crafts.
You will learn some introductory Japanese phrases, Japanese festivals and learn how to fold folk Origami pieces as well as origami decorations for Tanabata Star Festival.Full fee £29.00 Senior fee £29.00 Concession £29.00 - Discover HindiCourse start date: Tue 7 Jul 2026
Location on this date: Keeley Street
Tutors: Roopam AggarwalGet a flavour of a new language and its basic sentence structure. Learn some useful phrases and some pronunciation guidelines. A fascinating introduction for complete beginners and those who might like to take it further.
Full fee £39.00 Senior fee £39.00 Concession £25.00 - Korean beginners: module 3Course start date: Tue 7 Jul 2026
Location on this date: Keeley Street
Tutors: Jiyeon KimContinue learning Korean oneither in an in-person course in Covent Garden or live online sessionfor near beginners, with the emphasis on developing your speaking and listening skills. You should have completed Korean beginners: module 2 or equivalent.
Full fee £159.00 Senior fee £159.00 Concession £103.00 - Chinese 5: revisionCourse start date: Wed 8 Jul 2026
Location on this date: Keeley Street
Tutors: Ting PoonTake your Mandarin proficiency to new heights with level 5 revision course tailored for students with at least 5-6 years of Chinese language experience. Fine-tune your skills in grammar, comprehension and vocabulary with this short course.
Full fee £79.00 Senior fee £79.00 Concession £51.00 - Chinese beginners: revisionCourse start date: Wed 8 Jul 2026 (and 1 other date)
Location on this date: Keeley Street
Tutors: Ting PoonReady to refresh your Chinese skills? If you’ve studied for about a year, this short interactive revision course will help you brush up and feel confident again.
Full fee £79.00 Senior fee £63.00 Concession £51.00 - Korean beginners: short introductionCourse start date: Wed 8 Jul 2026
Location on this date: Keeley Street
Tutors: Jiyeon KimGet a short introduction to the Korean language and discover aspects of Korean language culture in these live communicative classes. Suitable for complete beginners.
.Full fee £119.00 Senior fee £119.00 Concession £77.00 - Japanese beginners: module 3 Course start date: Thu 9 Jul 2026 (and 1 other date)
Location on this date: Keeley Street
Tutors: Junko FuseContinue learning to speak Japanese on this course for near beginners. The emphasis is on developing your listening and speaking skills. Suitable if you have completed beginners module 2 or 6 months recently
.Full fee £159.00 Senior fee £159.00 Concession £103.00 - Chinese beginners: module 3Course start date: Thu 9 Jul 2026
Location on this date: Keeley Street
Tutors: Ting PoonLearn Chinese either in an in-person course in Covent Garden or live online sessions.
Continue learning Mandarin Chinese on this beginners course.You should have completed Chinese beginners: module 2 or equivalent (about 30 hrs of learning).
Full fee £149.00 Senior fee £149.00 Concession £97.00 - Chinese 3 lower: revisionCourse start date: Thu 9 Jul 2026
Location on this date: Keeley Street
Tutors: Ting PoonRevise your Chinese either in an in-person course in Covent Garden or live online sessions.
This short Chinese 3 lower revision course offers a comprehensive review of key language skills. It’s designed to refresh your knowledge, build confidence, and help you consolidate grammar and vocabulary through practical, interactive activities.
Full fee £79.00 Senior fee £79.00 Concession £51.00
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