C.W. (learning Japanese with Yoko since October 2010): written on 04/11/2020

"I have been studying Japanese with Yoko since 2010. The day of our first lesson, I didn’t speak a word of Japanese, but after no time at all I found myself shedding my English training wheels, communicating only in Japanese during our lessons. I became extremely confident in speaking Japanese, to the extent that many Japanese speakers thought I had experience living in Japan. Today, I am fluent, though I still continue my classes with Yoko for consolidation and to learn even more vocabulary. Yoko is a dynamic teacher that will cater her lesson style to your needs. Coming from someone who started from the very beginning I can confidently tell you that, whether you’re a beginner or advanced, Yoko will go above and beyond to help you reach your language learning goals!"

C.B. (learning Japanese with Yoko since March 2012): written on 20/11/2020

"Yoko-sensei is a great teacher at all levels. She is very responsive and flexible to the learning needs of her students and it is a pleasure going to lessons. I highly recommend anyone interested in learning Japanese to learn with her."

E.K. (learning Japanese with Yoko since March 2012): written on 02/02/2021

"Learning Japanese with Sunshine Japanese is great! Yoko-sensei is really patient and puts a lot of thought into lesson planning and student progression. You can learn at your own pace in a friendly and supportive environment."

S.J. (learning Japanese with Yoko since October 2012): written on 26/11/2020

"I have been on a continuous learning journey with Yoko for eight years as a truly special teacher. To achieve any level of Japanese language competency is a significant challenge – Yoko has made this possible for me. Yoko is always patient; understanding of my knowledge and knows how to gently guide me along the pathway. Her teaching is tailored to my needs; varied and enthusiastic; whilst always ensuring my on-going progress. Yes, I’m a fan and recommend her kind teaching."

C.A. (learning Japanese with Yoko since September 2013): written on 20/06/2021

"I highly recommend Yoko O’Brien to anyone looking for an excellent Nihongo Sensei (Japanese teacher). Yoko-san is dedicated to her students and goes out of her way to tailor lessons to what is best suited to each individual student. This could be for study, travel, work, even helping prepare and practise speeches to present during school homestays in Japan. Her patience, guidance and generosity over the years is greatly appreciated and I am so grateful to have Yoko-san as my Nihongo Sensei."

M.C. (attended a Travel Japanese course in 2023): written on 12/02/2023

"YOKO'S TRAVEL COURSE IS A MUST DO!



Yoko's short travel course is an excellent way to enrich your Japanese experience if you intend on travelling to Japan. The travel course provides easy Japanese to help communicate throughout your travels while keeping polite and respectful to everyone. This short course is perfect for first timers to Japan or frequent travelers who would like to learn a little more of the language.



Yoko is an excellent and very kind teacher who is also helpful with any questions you may have. 10/10 recommend this course!"

V.P. (attended a Travel Japanese course in 2023): written on 21/03/2023

"If you are travelling to Japan, for the first time or the next of many visits, do yourself a favour and sign up for the Sunshine Travel Course. Yoko-sensei gives you the basic language and skills to handle the situations you will encounter on your trip, from airport arrival, hotel check-in, restaurants, train travel and money, to regional foods, sightseeing and activities...as well as an understanding of many cultural nuances which will smooth and enrichen your visit. . It's fun, and relevant, all tailored to your travel interests and language ability. I had some basic Japanese, very little, but Yoko has taken me to another level. Incredible what you can learn in a short time with Yoko, while having a lot of fun. And lessons are flexibly timed to work with your busy schedule. No excuses! Highly recommended."





C.M. (learning Japanese with Yoko since March 2023): written on 25/10/2023

"I am thrilled to share my heartfelt testimonial for Yoko, my dedicated teacher at Sunshine Japanese, who played an instrumental role in helping me prepare for my unforgettable trip to Japan.



When I first embarked on this journey to learn Japanese and prepare for my trip, I was unsure of what to expect. However, from the very beginning, Yoko's passion for teaching and her commitment to her students became evident. She not only imparted the language but also instilled a deep appreciation for Japanese culture and customs. Her teaching extended beyond textbooks; she shared her personal experiences and insights, making the upcoming adventure to Japan all the more exciting.



Yoko's teaching style is exceptional. She tailored our lessons to my specific needs and goals for the trip, focusing on practical conversational skills, essential phrases, and cultural etiquette. Her patience and encouragement were invaluable as I stumbled through the intricacies of the language, and she always made sure I felt confident and well-prepared.



Thanks to Yoko's guidance, my trip to Japan was an unforgettable and enriching experience. I could communicate with locals, order at restaurants, and navigate through the beautiful cities with ease. Yoko's insights were invaluable, allowing me to connect with the people and culture on a deeper level.



In conclusion, Yoko is not just a Japanese teacher; she is a cultural guide and a friend. Her unwavering support, patience, and expertise were instrumental in making my trip to Japan an incredible adventure. I am forever grateful for her dedication, and I wholeheartedly recommend Yoko to anyone looking to learn Japanese and prepare for an unforgettable journey to the Land of the Rising Sun. Thank you, Yoko, for being an integral part of my Japanese learning experience and helping make my first trip to Japan a cherished memory. I look forward to continuing my lessons with you for many years to come!"

As a Japanese teacher and the founder of Sunshine Japanese, I am fortunate to have taught and am teaching very wonderful students.



Everyone strives to become the best they can be and show their true spirit when working hard to succeed in their studies.



I love sharing and teaching Japanese language, culture, and lifestyle with students of all ages and from near and far.



Looking forward to more fun and joy to be had, teaching Japanese at Sunshine Japanese.

Contact Me

Contact Me

Do you have any questions, would like more information or would like to have a custom lesson plan, please let me know.