Homestay Prep: Learn English Through Story
A homestay story matched to where you're going. Read the free sample chapter.
Read the Sample Chapter
Fun keeps you going. Going keeps you speaking.
Small, personalized classes where you can build confidence and actually speak — not just study.
Book a Free Trial Lesson!About Starfish English
I teach English conversation in the quiet Oosu neighborhood of Fujieda, Shizuoka. My goal is to provide engaging and effective English education that helps students from Grade 5 (ages 10+) through seniors to communicate confidently.
The classroom is a safe space where mistakes are welcome and growth happens naturally. I'm dedicated to helping you find your voice in English with patience, understanding, and a personalized approach.
I prioritize a communicative approach, focusing on practical conversation skills.
Why The Name "Starfish English"?
There's a parable that captures my teaching philosophy.
The essence of what I practice daily in my small Fujieda classroom is found in this story.
Who This Works Best For
✓ This Classroom Suits You If:
- You're age 10+ through senior years
- You prefer consistency (same teacher, long-term)
- You value personalized attention over large groups
- You're comfortable with focused, seated learning
Consider Other Options If:
- You're looking for large group energy (10+ students)
- You prefer multiple rotating teachers
- You need drop-in flexibility without commitment
- You're seeking a standardized curriculum
Meet Richard
Your Private English Mentor
Hello, I'm Richard. I came to Japan in 1990 to teach English in junior high schools, and it has been home for 36 years since. For nearly two decades in Tokyo I worked in education technology — coordinating international online education programs at Global Commons (1994–2000), then at Cisco Systems (2000–2003). In 2016 I settled here in Fujieda's Ōsu neighborhood, and I've taught each year since for the Fujieda International Friendship Society (FIFS). I began teaching my own students as Starfish English in 2020, and the school has grown from there. Today I work one-to-one with learners from age 10 to their 80s, drawing on 18 years of teaching to help you speak English with confidence.
Courses - From Grade 5 (Ages 10+) to Seniors
I believe excellent English education should be available to learners of all ages. Whether you're in 5th grade or your golden years, I offer courses designed specifically for your learning stage and goals.
Kids & Teens English (Grade 5 - High School)
Engaging English programs for students from upper elementary through high school. I offer specialized courses for three age groups: Upper Elementary (Grades 5-6), Junior High, and High School students.
Adult Conversation (All Adult Ages)
Improve your speaking and listening skills in a relaxed setting. Perfect for daily conversation, travel, and general fluency. Welcome to learners of all adult ages.
Senior Travel English (Ages 60+)
I use a specialized research-based approach for mature learners. As your patient, experienced instructor, I create an anxiety-free environment where you can learn comfortably at your own speed. Build confidence for international travel through engaging, age-appropriate activities.
Business English (Working Adults)
Develop the language skills needed for professional success, including presentations, meetings, and email communication.
Certificate & Exam Preparation (Students & Working Adults)
Targeted lessons for TOEIC, TOEFL, Eiken, and other English proficiency tests.
Homestay Prep Intensive Course (Junior High & High School Students)
Intensive 8-lesson program preparing students for successful homestay experiences. Covers host family communication, cultural awareness, and confidence-building.
Why Choose Starfish English Fujieda?
With 36 years in Japan (since 1990), including 18 years in education-related business and 18 years of teaching, I bring a unique perspective that helps students succeed.
- Same teacher for years - No introducing yourself to someone new each month. Build a genuine relationship with consistent, personalized instruction.
- Maximum 6 students per class - You won't get lost in a crowd. More speaking time, more individual attention.
- Free parking at the door - No extra costs or hunting for spots. Convenient access from Fujieda, Yaizu, and Shimada.
- Understanding Japanese learners - Unlike transient teachers, I understand exactly where you struggle and why, because I've been here since 1990.
- Native-speaking bilingual teacher - Fluent in both English and Japanese for clear explanations when needed.
- Relaxed, homey atmosphere - A safe space where mistakes are welcome and learning happens naturally.
- Focus on real-life communication - Practical conversation skills you can use immediately.
- Patient, anxiety-aware instruction - Addresses learning anxieties and builds genuine confidence at your own pace.
Experience The Learning Environment
Take a virtual tour of the classroom and location. See where you'll be learning with these interactive 360-degree views.
The Classroom
Step inside the cozy, traditional Japanese-style classroom where all the learning happens.
Navigate: Click and drag to look around • Scroll or use +/- to zoom • Click ⌂ to reset
Note: This recent photo shows the student-centered approach to classroom safety. Learn about flexible mask policies →
The Location
Explore the peaceful neighborhood around Starfish English in Fujieda.
Navigate: Click and drag to look around • Scroll or use +/- to zoom • Click ⌂ to reset
What Students & Parents Say
Read authentic feedback from current students and parents.
From reviews posted by students and parents on Google Maps
"I started at an older age, but I'm learning in such a warm atmosphere and having fun. Even though I'm slow to memorize things, they teach me kindly and in an easy-to-understand way, so I look forward to my once-a-week classes."
- Kuboyama-san"Parent of a 2nd year Junior High student. He started learning here before the classroom officially opened. When I asked him if he wanted to continue, he said 'I want Richard to teach me,' so he's been going ever since... Starfish has given him the confidence to say he loves English."
- Parent of 2nd-year junior high student"A school where learning is fun, mixing study and play. The teacher finds the best way for me to learn, so studying English feels easy and enjoyable."
- Junior high school student"Through activities like 'Would you rather...?' and Role Playing, I face English positively and creatively every time. The teacher listens carefully to my conversations and explains difficult vocabulary immediately... It's a warm class where I feel watched over."
- Kubota-san"A classroom where you can relax in a homey atmosphere and learn English along with imagination and creativity!"
- Sone-sanLatest from the Blog
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Motivation fades fast. BJ Fogg's Tiny Habits method makes daily English study automatic by starting so small that failure is nearly impossible.
Read more →The 'Vocab Box': A Paper System That Automates Your Flashcards
A simple cardboard box with dividers that tells you exactly when to review each card — analog spaced repetition that just works.
Read more →Ready to Start Learning English?
Experience my unique teaching approach with a completely free trial lesson! No pressure, no commitment - just a chance to see if my approach is right for you.
Book Your Free Trial Lesson Today
• 30-45 minute personalized session
• Meet your instructor and experience my teaching style
• Get a level assessment and course recommendations
• No obligation - take your time to decide
Contact Information
5-1-53 Oosu, Fujieda
Shizuoka 426-0051
Japan
054-660-7740
starfishfujieda@gmail.com
Tuesday - Friday: 10:00 - 21:00
Saturday: 10:00 - 18:00
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