Heading off to your child’s first day at a Japanese kindergarten or nursery? Welcome! This guide walks you through what an “entrance ceremony” (nyūenshiki / nyūgakushiki) is like in Japan — when it takes place, what happens during the event, what to wear and bring, and the questions many parents often wonder about. Whether you’re new to Japan or simply navigating this experience for the first time, this overview will help you feel prepared and confident on your child’s special day.
What is an entrance ceremony?
An entrance ceremony is a short formal event that marks the start of the school year for children entering a preschool (yōchien — kindergarten) or hoikuen (nursery / daycare). It’s a celebration for new children and their families — a mix of ceremony, welcome speeches, and a chance to meet teachers and other parents. Compared with a Western “open house,” it’s more formal and often includes traditional elements like national or school songs, staff introductions, and a march-in by the children.
When does it take place?
In Japan the school year starts in spring. Entrance ceremonies usually happen:
- Early April (most common) — for both kindergartens and daycare centers following the standard school year.
- Some private kindergartens or international preschools have different intake months (April, September, or staggered starts), so check with your child’s center.
How long does it last?
Expect 30–60 minutes for the main ceremony. Some schools add 15–30 minutes afterward for class-level introductions or photo time. Larger municipal schools may be brisk; small private ones may be more relaxed.
Who attends?
- The child, usually accompanied by one or two family members (parents and sometimes grandparents).
- Teachers and school staff.
- Occasionally local dignitaries or volunteers (less common in small facilities).
Where does it happen?
Usually in the school gym, hall, or an outdoor courtyard (weather permitting). Some smaller facilities hold it in the classroom.
Typical program (what actually happens)
- Entrance / march-in — Children line up (often with teachers) and walk to the hall. Teachers sometimes carry name tags or hold signs so families can find their group.
- Opening remarks — Principal or director welcomes families and children.
- Introduction of staff — Teachers and key staff briefly introduced.
- Congratulatory speech — A brief speech about school values, safety, and the year ahead. Sometimes a local official gives short remarks.
- National or school song — Many kindergartens sing the school song; public events rarely play the national anthem at a preschool level, but it can vary.
- Presentation of the children — Each new child may be called by name to step forward (or the teacher may introduce the group).
- Short performance or class greeting — Some schools have a small performance, puppet show, or teacher-led song to welcome children.
- Closing / photo time — Families take photos and often move to classrooms for further orientation.
What’s the Difference Between Kindergarten and Nursery Entrance Ceremonies?
Although both yōchien (kindergartens) and hoikuen (nurseries/daycares) hold entrance ceremonies in April, the style and atmosphere can feel quite different. Here’s what parents usually notice:
Formality and Atmosphere
- Kindergarten (Yōchien) entrance ceremonies tend to be more formal.
You’ll often see organized seating, a stage setup, school or class songs, and longer speeches from the principal or teachers. Some kindergartens treat the ceremony almost like a small school event, with decorations, performances, and a more structured flow. - Nursery (Hoikuen) ceremonies are usually simpler and shorter.
They may feel more relaxed and practical, focusing on welcoming families, introducing teachers, and explaining daily routines rather than holding a formal program.
Length of the Ceremony
- Kindergarten: About 40–60 minutes with an additional classroom introduction afterward.
- Nursery: Often 30–60 minutes with a quick orientation and time to meet the staff.
Program Content
- Kindergarten: May include a march-in, school song, class introductions, speeches, and sometimes small performances or greetings.
- Nursery: Usually consists of basic greetings, a short welcome speech, introductions of teachers, and explanations about care routines (naps, meals, pick-up rules, etc.).
Dress Code
- Kindergarten: Parents often dress semi-formally, and many children wear uniforms or neat, slightly formal clothes.
- Nursery: Still neat, but more casual. Comfort is usually prioritized since many babies and toddlers are attending.
Family Participation
- Kindergarten: Usually more photo-focused, with designated photo spots and organized group photos.
- Nursery: Photos are allowed, but the event may be low-key and without official photo sessions.
Extra Notes
Kindergarten ceremonies may highlight curriculum goals, annual events, and school expectations.
Nursery entrance ceremonies often include reminders about health checks, emergency procedures, and how to label belongings — practical details important for daily childcare.
What to wear (for parents and children)
- Parents: Business-casual to semi-formal is normal. Typical choices:
- Men: Dark suit or blazer and tie (not strictly required everywhere).
- Women: A modest dress, skirt & blouse, or suit. Many mothers wear darker or muted colors (navy, black, gray). High heels are common but not mandatory — choose comfortable shoes because you may stand or walk on tatami/carpets.
- Children: Smart but comfortable.
- Traditional smock/uniform if provided by the school, or neat clothes (dress, shirt & pants). Some families use a special outfit (white shirt, dark bottoms).
- Many kids wear new or special shoes for photos but are changed into indoor shoes (uwabaki) inside.
- A hat for outdoor photos is common. Avoid bright flashy costumes — the tone is respectful and calm.
What to bring
- A small bag for personal items.
- Indoor shoes or slippers (some facilities provide them; others don’t — better to bring).
- Name-tag or label (teachers often ask families to label bags and clothes).
- Tissues and wet wipes (always handy).
- A camera or phone for photos (see etiquette below).
- Documents the school requested (registration, insurance form, medical info) — bring the originals if requested.
Photography and etiquette
- Taking photos of your child is fine and expected. Be mindful of privacy: avoid posting photos of other children online without permission.
- Follow the school’s lead: some schools ask families to take pictures only during designated times. Flash photography may be discouraged during performances.
- Keep conversations quiet in the hall. Dress and act respectfully — the event is formal for many Japanese families.
Language and communication
- Many schools will provide a few English materials or an English-speaking staff member if they know there are international families. However, don’t expect full English support unless you signed up for an international program.
- Bring a friend or interpreter if you’re worried about missing important info, or politely ask the school in advance whether an English-language handout is available.
Practical tips and cultural notes
- Arrive early — doors often open 15–30 minutes before the start so families can line up and find seats. (But don’t crowd when you arrive.)
- Children’s nervousness — some children cry or cling to parents. This is normal. Teachers are used to comforting kids and will help during and after the ceremony.
- Gifts or flowers — not necessary. Schools usually provide small welcome packets, not the other way around.
- Shoes — many venues require you to remove shoes in the entrance; bring easy-to-remove footwear.
- Weather — April can be cool or rainy — bring a light coat and an umbrella.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Assuming everything will be in English — prepare for some Japanese-language only communication.
- Posting photos of other children on social media without permission.
- Wearing overly casual clothing — treat it as a slightly formal family event.
- Bringing too many people — most schools limit the number of attendees per child.
Q&A — Frequently asked questions
Q: Is attendance mandatory for entrance ceremony?
A: No, but highly recommended. It’s the official start and important for paperwork and meeting teachers. If you can’t attend, inform the school ahead of time.
Q: What if my child cries or refuses to enter?
A: Don’t worry — it happens all the time. Teachers are trained to comfort children; many ceremonies include a photo/open-class time afterward to help children settle.
Q: How long will the rest of the first day be?
A: After the ceremony, there’s usually a short classroom orientation (15–30 minutes) and time for photos. Some schools let children go home early the first day; check with your school.
Q: Can both parents attend?
A: Usually yes, but some facilities limit attendance to two family members due to space. Check the invitation for limits.
Q: What should I do if I don’t speak Japanese and I miss instructions?
A: Ask the school ahead of time if English materials are available. Bring a friend to translate, or politely ask staff for clarification — they’ll often help.
Q: Is there anything special I must sign at the ceremony?
A: It depends: you may be given forms or a handbook to sign/collect. If anything needs signatures, you’ll usually be asked to complete them right after the ceremony or at an orientation meeting.
Q: Do schools have COVID or health protocols?
A: Policies vary by facility and over time. Expect basic hygiene rules (handwashing, symptoms check). Follow the school’s instructions.
Q: Are there photos/videos of the ceremony provided by the school?
A: Sometimes. Some schools take group photos and sell them or distribute digital copies. Ask if this is offered.
Final checklist for the day
- Confirm date/time and where to go.
- Bring required documents and any forms asked by the school.
- Dress neatly and bring indoor shoes or slippers.
- Bring tissues/wipes and your camera/phone.
- Label your child’s belongings with name tags.
- Be ready to meet teachers and to listen to orientation points.
A few last tips to feel comfortable
- Smile and relax — teachers want families to feel welcome.
- Introduce yourself (simple English/Japanese phrase like “Hi, I’m [Name]. Nice to meet you!”) if language allows.
- Ask for contact methods (email or LINE) so you can receive updates.
Thank you for reading!
