Japanese
Lesson Category
Price
Lesson time
Speaks
Teachers from
More

1160 Japanese tutors available

Our platform connects you with the best Japanese teachers from around the world. You can browse through their profiles, read reviews from other students, and choose the perfect Japanese teacher for you.

Learn Japanese with the teacher Nagisa.
Nagisaid verified
Smart Lesson
Professional Teacher
Speaks :Japanese
Native
·
English
C1
·Korean
C1

Certified Japanese Teacher | 10+ years Exp | Improve Your Speaking Fast ● Around 10 years of experience as a Japanese language teacher - 2 years in Taiwan - 3 years in Korea - 1.5 years in Australia - 4+ years online ● Certified Japanese language teacher ● Experience teaching conversation, vocabulary, and grammar (beginner to advanced) ● Experience teaching JLPT preparation (N5–N1) ● Experience teaching Business Japanese

USD 10.00/trial
Learn Japanese with the teacher Hana.
5.0

482 Lessons

Hanaid verified
Professional Teacher
Speaks :Japanese
Native
·
English
B1

Welcome to Hana's lesson :) For kids, business, cusual conversation...everything!! 私は日本語教員養成講座を修了し、 これまで、アメリカ人、韓国人、ベトナム人、中国人、香港人へ日本語を教えたことがあります。 ビジネス日本語を教えるのが得意ですが、日常会話レッスンもできますよ。 I had successfully completed The 420 hours Course based on The Agency for Cultural Affairs Model for Teaching Japanese as a Foreign Language. And I have ever taught Japanese to American, Korea, Vietnamese, Chinese and Hong Konger. I'm good at teaching business Japanese language but you can also speak casual conversation for my lesson.

USD 9.00/trial
Available 00:00 Tomorrow
Learn Japanese with the teacher Hitomi.
5.0

270 Lessons

Hitomiid verified
Smart Lesson
Community Tutor
Speaks :Japanese
Native
·
English
C1
+1

Friendly and Supportive teacher from Tokyo, Focused on conversation skills I'm a friendly tutor, dedicated to helping you become a confident Japanese speaker. While we'll work on grammar, vocabulary, and pronunciation, I focus on making you comfortable with real, everyday through conversation.

USD 8.50/trial
Learn Japanese with the teacher Kazuto.
5.0

1,480 Lessons

Kazutoid verified
Smart Lesson
Professional Teacher
Speaks :Japanese
Native
·
English
B1
+2

KAZUTO🐶Experienced📚Beginners Welcome🤩Best Fit For You💪Fun & Relaxed🛀 👨‍🏫 The reasons to choose Kazuto ✨Certified teacher ✨I've taught more than 1000 students ✨ I offer you lessons and materials that suit your purpose ✨ You can learn the Osaka dialect ✨ I teach you many times until you understand ✨ You can study Japanese for anime, manga, and games. Completed all the requirements of the Japanese Language Teacher Training Course(420 hours) Passed the Japanese Language Teaching Competency Test

USD 17.00/trial
Available 09:30 Today
Learn Japanese with the teacher Yuri.
5.0

724 Lessons

Yuriid verified
Smart Lesson
Community Tutor
Speaks :Japanese
Native
+1

⭐️みんなに つたわる ていねいな 日本語を まなびませんか?:)旅に 日本に 来た時、きっと 役立ちます。あなたの 生活にも 役立ちます。私が 全力で サポート します⭐️ (きほんてきに えいごは はなしません。これは にほんごを ならう ひとに とって ゆうこうです。) 基本的に英語は話しません。これは日本語を習う人にとって有効です。 (かいわ ちゅうしんの lesson です。) 会話中心のレッスンです。 (さいしょの lessonで、あなたのlevelを かくにん します。) 最初のレッスンで、あなたのレベルを確認します。 (levelに あわせて ゆっくり はなしたり、 しぜんなspeedで はなすことを こころがけています。) レベルに合わせてゆっくり話したり、自然なスピードで話すことを心掛けています。 (あなたの レベルや がくしゅうしたい ところを きいて、) あなたのレベルや学習したいところを聞いて、 (gesture を つかったりして、 じゅぎょうを したい と おもって います) ジェスチャーを使ったりして、授業をしたいと思っています。

USD 7.00/trial
Available 23:00 Today
Learn Japanese with the teacher Yukari | ゆかり.
5.0

2,063 Lessons

Yukari | ゆかりid verified
Professional Teacher
Speaks :Japanese
Native
·
English
C2
·French
C1
·German
B2
+1

Certified teacher and translator - Become fluent through fun and interactive lessons! I offer Japanese lessons for all levels, using my original materials, designed to help you learn Japanese in a fun and engaging way, incorporating varied topics and activities. Certified in 2005, I mix different techniques I find effective, based on precise bilingual instructions and comprehensible input. I'll help you build on grammar, as well as your understanding of real-life Japanese language, society and culture, so that you will be able to express yourself with confidence and feel like yourself in that language. ☆Postgraduate Certificate in Teaching Japanese as a Foreign Language (IIEL) ☆Kanji Kentei Level 2 ☆Teaching in English (C2 proficiency) and French (DALF C1)

USD 20.00/trial
Learn Japanese with the teacher Hiro.
5.0

2,351 Lessons

Hiroid verified
Professional Teacher
Speaks :Japanese
Native
·
English
C2
·Spanish
B2
+1

I have been teaching Japanese on italki since 2017, and since then, I’ve received great feedback from my students. Their feedback has motivated me to become even more dedicated to teaching Japanese. Each student has unique goals and interests, so my lessons are 100% personalized based on their needs and proficiency levels. I strive to create a friendly and relaxed atmosphere during our sessions so that students feel comfortable. I don’t want to be just a teacher—I aim to be your language partner and personal guide to help you achieve your goals!

USD 5.00/trial
Learn Japanese with the teacher Atsu.
5.0

120 Lessons

Atsuid verified
Professional Teacher
Speaks :Japanese
Native
·
English
B1
+1

【日本語教育のテストに合格したプロの知識◎】2年で 110人以上2000レッスン達成✨ [Professional Japanese Language Instructor with Certified Qualifications | Expert Knowledge] Logical lessons + fun! We'll learn at your own level and pace. About the lessons 😎 ✅ Our instructor has passed the professional Japanese language teaching certification exam. ✅ Learn grammar efficiently. ✅ Learn vocabulary and expressions by reading texts. ✅ Learn effective strategies for taking the JLPT exam. ✅ Gain insights into Japanese culture and everyday expressions. 【日本語教育のテストに合格したプロの講師◎|プロの知識】 論理的な授業+楽しい!あなたのレベル・ペースでいこう。 〇授業について😎 ✅日本語教育のテストに合格したプロの講師です◎ ✅効率的に文法を学びます。 ✅文章を見て、語彙や表現を学びます。 ✅JLPTを解くポイントを学びます。 ✅日本人の感覚や日常表現を学ぶことができます。

USD 10.00/trial
Learn Japanese with the teacher 田部井ゆかり.
田部井ゆかりid verified
Professional Teacher
Speaks :Japanese
Native
·
English
B2
+2

Certified Japanese tutor with 20+ years of experience. Expert instruction for all levels, from begin 🎓 Professional Educator with 4 National Licenses I have over 20 years of experience in schools and online, holding- • Certified Japanese Language Teacher (National License) • Elementary School English Teaching License • Junior High & High School English Teaching Licenses 📚Career Highlights📚 〈Toddlers〉 10 years of Right-Brain Education. Boosting cognitive skills through flashcards and puzzles. ✨ 〈Elementary School students-junior high & high school students〉 ・10 years running a private school & experience as a 5th-grade homeroom teacher. • 10 years of online academic coaching. Specialist in entrance exam prep and interview coaching for students returning to Japan.

USD 6.00/trial
Learn Japanese with the teacher Mizuka.
5.0

3,014 Lessons

Mizukaid verified
Smart Lesson
Professional Teacher
Speaks :Japanese
Native
·
English
B1
+1

Certified Japanese Teacher:I have taught over the 4000 lessons I was Prima Ballerina at Opera National Romania. So I managed to work Ballerina and Japanese Teacher. I have certification as Psychology Counselor. I will keep your motivation and teach you Japanese according to your goal. Also you will get correct Japanese pronunciation. I am from Tokyo and I speak standard Japanese. Let’s Talk with standard Japanese! I am a teacher for you, but I am a student as well. Let's study and have fun together! I'm looking forward to helping you and tell Japanese and Japanese Culture on a full scale for many people from around the world who want to learn. If you have any questions please feel free to contact me.

USD 20.00/trial
Learn Japanese with the teacher Mayuko.
5.0

42 Lessons

Mayukoid verified
Professional Teacher
Speaks :Japanese
Native
·
Chinese (Mandarin)
B2
·English
B1
+2

【ビジネス日本語を学びたい方】面接の準備、就職活動サポートします \日本で働きたい方をサポートします/ あなたの勉強している日本語を「壁」ではなく「架け橋」に変えましょう! こんにちは! 元 IT企業マーケティングコンサルタントのMayukoです。 留学生の新卒採用、外国に住んでいる方の中途採用(転職活動)のサポートいたします。 私自身、従業員数2万人以上の大企業から、4人のベンチャー企業まで多様な企業で就業した経験があり、新卒時の就職活動では40社以上の書類審査、面接を受けました。 ・自己PRや志望動機の整理、面接の練習、書類の添削など ・仕事で必要な敬語、IT・マーケティング用語の使い方、ビジネスメール ・業界・職種に合わせた、ビジネス会話の練習など ・帰化(法務局からの面接練習)、永住権取得 (N3以上取得) に関するサポート ・生徒さんのご要望に応じます。  例)内定獲得後は、敬語の練習や仕事に役立つAI翻訳プロンプトの指示文を一緒に考えたこともあります。 ずっと書類審査や一次面接で落ち続けていた人も、数回私のレッスンを受けてくださると、一発で内定をもらう人も多いです。受ける企業に合わせたPRは非常に重要です♪ 受講生の多くが、日本の企業への内定や転職を実現しています。 もちろん、私自身は日本文化、日本の歴史をこよなく愛する一人です。大学院では日本文化や日本語学を専攻しました。ぜひ、日本に興味がある方もレッスンを受けてみてくださいね!

USD 10.00/trial
Learn Japanese with the teacher kwon 권.
5.0

3,581 Lessons

kwon 권id verified
Community Tutor
Speaks :Japanese
C2
·
Korean
Native
·English
Native

All levels are welcome, from beginner to advanced, including TOPIK exam preparation. When I was in Korea, I taught Japanese to Korean students. After moving to Australia, I began teaching Korean to foreign learners and completed a Korean language teacher training program to support my students more effectively. I enjoy making Korean easy to understand and fun to learn. Even difficult grammar points can be explained clearly with the right approach, and I’m here to guide you step by step. Let’s work together to improve your Korean with confidence 😊

USD 6.00/trial
Available 00:00 Tomorrow
Learn Japanese with the teacher Kosuke.
5.0

956 Lessons

Kosukeid verified
Smart Lesson
Community Tutor
Speaks :Japanese
Native
·
English
C1

Japanese man who teaches you to speak natural everyday Japanese. My motto is to make sure my students have FUN while studying with me. I provide a space for my students to practice real-world Japanese. I know from personal experience that the language used in a textbook is COMPLETELY different to the language used in real life. I’m here to teach you natural-sounding Japanese that is sure to be helpful, whether speaking to friends, travelling Japan, or just watching anime! 僕のモットーは楽しみながら学習することです。僕のクラスではテキストブックで習う日本語よりももっと日常の会話や、日本への旅行の時、友達と話すときに使える自然な日本語を教えます。 恥ずかしがらず楽しい会話をしながら日本語を学びましょう!

USD 14.00/trial
Available 21:00 Today
Learn Japanese with the teacher Yurika.
5.0

989 Lessons

Yurikaid verified
Community Tutor
Speaks :Japanese
Native
·
English
B1
+1

back in Japan! excited to make new friends through lesson! You can be self taught, but you will realize how a language in actual communication can be totally different than in textbooks. (maybe anime too😅) If you'd like to master a language and be comfortable with communicating in another language, you can't escape from the steps of learning and understanding the culture. It helps you a lot for better communication for sure! Although you can easily collect information on the internet, you wouldn't know if that's true or not until you actually experience by talking to local people or visiting the country. And i am here to help you improve your Japanese and answer your questions/curiosity about Japan! I can possibly be your tour guide in Japan!

USD 8.00/trial
Available 09:30 Today
Learn Japanese with the teacher Alessandro Jun.
5.0

145 Lessons

Alessandro Junid verified
Community Tutor
Speaks :Japanese
Native
·
English
Native
·Italian
Native
·Akan Twi
Native
·Portuguese
Native
·Spanish
Native
+1

I have more than three years experience as an Italian, English and Japanese teacher. Over these years teaching I have developed my spoken skills as well as experience in dealing with people from a diverse range of cultures and backgrounds.

USD 7.00/trial
Available 22:00 Today
Learn Japanese with the teacher Eri.
5.0

1,750 Lessons

Eriid verified
Smart Lesson
Community Tutor
Speaks :Japanese
Native
·
Japanese (Okinawan)
Native
·English
B1
·Japanese Sign Language
B1

I completed Japanese Teacher Training Course with this, I can easily share to you my learning that I got during the training. I know learning another language is not so easy but even its like that I will guide you in learning the language well. I have been a student myself that's why I can really understand students feeling. I can adjust to the students need. So, lets study, work hard together and have fun.

USD 7.50/trial
Available 09:30 Today
Learn Japanese with the teacher YUN.
5.0

316 Lessons

YUNid verified
Smart Lesson
Community Tutor
Speaks :Japanese
Native
·
English
B1

Slow and gentle for beginners. But remember—learning isn’t learning if it’s not fun! ʕ•ӫ̫͡•ʔ わたしは、だいがくいんで、ニホンザルの けんきゅうを していました。 そのとき、がくじゅつの ろんぶんを かきました。 また、がっかいでは、たくさんの はっぴょうを しました。 わたしは、PPT(パワーポイント)、レポート、りれきしょ、エントリーシート、さくぶん、にっきの てんさくが できます。 りゅうがくせいの Teaching Assistantを、2ねんかん しました。 また、いままでに、にほんごを おしえる ボランティアを、3ねんかん して いました。 I can help with proofreading PowerPoint presentations, reports, resumes, entry sheets, essays, and diaries, focusing on Japanese expression (not the content itself). Since I write pure literature novels in Japanese, I can guide literary Japanese expressions. I attended a writer's training school for four years, and my work has been published in doujinshi. I have served as a Teaching Assistant for international students for two years.

USD 5.00/trial
Available 22:00 Today
Learn Japanese with the teacher SARA.
5.0

714 Lessons

SARAid verified
Professional Teacher
Speaks :Japanese
Native
·
English
B1

初級者歓迎🌸資格ありの日本語教師|教科書・GENKI対応📚やさしく丁寧に会話力UP! : Beginner to Advance levels : Your CUSTOM-MADE lesson! リラックスした雰囲気で一緒に楽しく日本語の勉強をしましょう!私は日本語教育の資格を持っていて、日本語ボランティアや日本語学校、オンラインで日本語を教えた経験があります🌟皆さんの日本語学習のサポートをさせてください😊! 私は「学習者が自分の言葉で話すこと」を大切にしており、焦らず、ゆっくり、あなたのペースでレッスンを進めていきます💪 日本語ボランティアでは初級〜上級の方まで様々なレベルの方と日本語会話の練習をしました🗣️ 日本語学校では『みんなの日本語』を使って初級者に教えていました📚 Let's have fun studying Japanese together in a relaxed atmosphere! I'm a certified Japanese language teacher and have experience teaching Japanese as a volunteer, at a Japanese language school, and online. Let me support your Japanese language learning! I value "learners speaking in their own language" and will take lessons at your pace, slowly and without rushing.

USD 10.00/trial
Available 22:00 Today
Learn Japanese with the teacher TODO.
5.0

1,955 Lessons

TODOid verified
Professional Teacher
Speaks :Japanese
Native
+1

私はプロの日本語の先生です。 私のレッスンの特徴はお互いによく話すことです。 私は日本の文化や歴史、漢字を教えるのが得意です。 私は今まで初心者も上級者も、様々なレベルの学生を教えました。 小さな子どもから高齢な方まで、年齢も様々です。 どんなレベルでも日本語で会話ができます。 私のレッスンは、日本語だけを使いますが、問題ありませんよ。 どうしても分からな時だけ、少し英語かスペイン語で手伝います。 誰でも安心してください!

USD 7.00/trial
Available 01:00 Tomorrow
Learn Japanese with the teacher Happy(Sachiko).
5.0

54 Lessons

Happy(Sachiko)id verified
Community Tutor
Speaks :Japanese
Native
·
English
C1
+2

​Achieve Natural Japanese Step-by-Step! Have Fun Exploring Language & Culture with a Travel Lover I currently teach online to students worldwide through direct contract and language platform. I also have teaching experience to international students in person. I don't want to just teach language, but want to show you background of it, so that you can understand not only Japanese but also Japanese culture. I believe this makes your learning much more fun! I hope you find learning Japanese fun and easy to keep going! < My qualifications related to Japanese teaching> - Teaching license for high school and junior high school - TOEIC 940 - a sense of fun :)

USD 6.00/trial
Your final payment will be made in USD

Frequently asked questions about online Japanese classes

Do I need a tutor to learn Japanese?

You can learn Japanese without a tutor using free apps, textbooks, and online videos, but it usually takes much longer. Self-study often lacks real speaking practice, immediate feedback, and clear guidance, which makes it harder to stay motivated and progress confidently.Hiring a Japanese language tutor is worth it because they provide personalised lessons, real-time correction on pronunciation and grammar, and structured learning designed around your goals, whether that’s everyday conversation, business Japanese, or passing the JLPT exam.

While it’s possible to learn without platforms like italki, doing so often feels overwhelming and slow because you don’t have a clear learning path or someone to hold you accountable. Combining private Japanese lessons from an online Japanese tutor with extra resources like kanji apps, flashcards, and podcasts gives you the best of both worlds, professional guidance to learn correctly and extra practice to accelerate your progress.

How much does a Japanese tutor cost per session?

Online Japanese lessons typically range from $15 to $60 per hour, depending on the tutor’s experience and lesson format. Many learners choose private Japanese tutors because they provide personalized guidance, instant correction, and real conversation practice that help them progress faster than studying alone.

On italki, you have access to both community and professional tutors, making it easy to find a Japanese teacher that matches your goals and budget. A 30-minute Japanese lesson typically costs between $3 and $10.

How quickly will I become fluent with a Japanese teacher?

Fluency in Japanese depends on your study habits, consistency, and starting level, but working with a Japanese teacher can significantly speed up your progress. Experts estimate that reaching professional working proficiency in Japanese takes about 2,200 hours of study. That said, you don’t need that much time to start speaking. Most learners reach a conversational level after 400–600 hours, which often means 6–12 months of regular tutoring.

Lessons are tailored to your needs, you receive hands-on guidance, and you practice real conversation in every session.This focused approach to Japanese teaching helps you stay consistent, motivated, and moves you toward higher levels of fluency.

Why should I use a Japanese language tutor to learn Japanese with italki?

Using a Japanese language tutor on italki helps you learn the Japanese you’ll actually use, not just textbook phrases, by focusing on real conversations, common expressions, and situations you encounter in daily life.

Your private Japanese tutor can help you practice conversation, review grammar, prepare for exams like the JLPT, or build confidence in speaking, with lessons customized to your level and pace. They correct mistakes on the spot, suggest natural ways to phrase things, and explain cultural context, so you communicate appropriately in any situation.

All lessons are available anytime online, and most operate on a pay-as-you-go system, so you only pay for the private Japanese lessons you take. For learners looking for extra support, italki Plus also offers an optional subscription with features like AI-powered study tools, exclusive events, and discounts.

How do italki's online Japanese classes work?

italki’s online Japanese classes are simple, flexible, and personalized. Here’s how they work:

  • 📝 Create an account – Sign up on italki and start browsing hundreds of qualified Japanese tutors with detailed profiles showing their teaching style, experience, and student reviews.
  • 🔍 Find a tutor – Choose a tutor that fits your goals and schedule, filtering by price, availability, specialization, or tutor type. Many tutors offer trial lessons to help you find the right match.
  • 💻 Book and attend lessons – Meet your private Japanese tutor via italki’s video platform. Your tutor will assess your level, discuss objectives, and tailor lessons to your needs.
  • 📚 Practice between lessons – Tutors often provide extra resources or conversation practice to help you progress.
  • ⏱️ Learn at your own pace – Lessons are fully flexible and can be scheduled daily, weekly, or as often as you like, allowing you to maintain consistent practice and make steady progress in learning Japanese online.

How often should I meet with an online Japanese tutor?

How often you meet with an online Japanese tutor depends on your goals, schedule, and current level. Beginners often benefit from 2–3 online Japanese lessons per week to build consistency, practice speaking, and reinforce new grammar and vocabulary. Intermediate and advanced learners may have 1–2 online Japanese lessons per week for focused practice, exam preparation, or conversation skills.

Consistency is key. Short, regular lessons are usually more effective than longer, infrequent sessions. Your learning style also matters: some students do well with more intensive lessons, while others prefer a slower, steady pace. A private Japanese tutor can help you design a schedule that fits your lifestyle, and lessons can be adjusted as your goals evolve.

Do italki's Japanese tutors offer free online Japanese lessons?

While italki Japanese tutors don’t offer completely free lessons, many provide trial lessons at a heavily discounted rate. Each student can book up to three trial lessons (one per tutor), giving you the chance to experience different Japanese teaching styles before committing. These trial lessons let you try a Japanese lesson online, assess the tutor’s approach, discuss your goals, and see if their style suits you. It’s a low-risk way to find the right Japanese teacher for your needs.

Do I need a basic understanding of the Japanese language before I can take Japanese classes with italki?

No. You don’t need any previous knowledge to start learning Japanese on italki. The platform has many Japanese tutors for beginners who specialize in teaching students with no prior knowledge of Japanese. These tutors understand the challenges of starting from scratch and know how to make the language approachable from day one.

Finding a Japanese tutor for beginners is simple. When browsing tutor profiles, filter by specialization (such as “beginners”), watch introduction videos, and read reviews from other students.

Starting as a complete beginner can even be an advantage, since your Japanese instructor will guide you toward good pronunciation and grammar habits from the very beginning.

What is the difference between an italki Community tutor vs. Professional tutor?

The main difference between an italki community tutor and a professional tutor lies in their qualifications, teaching style, and focus.Professional tutors are certified teachers with formal training. They offer structured lessons with prepared materials, covering grammar, vocabulary, and exam prep. They provide study resources and detailed feedback during online Japanese lessons, making them ideal for beginners or students seeking systematic learning.

Community tutors, on the other hand, are native or fluent speakers without formal teaching credentials. They focus on conversational practice, helping learners build fluency and confidence in a flexible, informal, and often more budget-friendly way.Many learners use both: professional Japanese tutors for foundational skills and community Japanese tutors for speaking practice.

What are the benefits of private online Japanese lessons?

Private online Japanese lessons with a dedicated Japanese language instructor make learning faster, easier, and more enjoyable than group classes or self-study. Your lessons are customized to your level, goals, and interests, be it mastering kanji, improving pronunciation, preparing for the JLPT, or speaking confidently in daily conversation.

This personalized Japanese tuition speeds up learning because your tutor adapts the pace and teaching style to suit how you learn best. You can ask questions freely, revisit difficult concepts, and spend extra time on areas that need the most attention without holding back other students.

Plus, private online Japanese lessons are convenient and adaptable. You can access qualified Japanese tutors from anywhere, often at rates lower than a local in-person instructor. This kind of Japanese tutoring helps you make real progress and use the language confidently.

How to hire a Japanese tutor with italki?

Hiring a Japanese tutor on italki is simple and straightforward. Here’s how to get started:

  • 📝 Create an account – Sign up for free on the italki website or mobile app and select Japanese as the language you want to learn.
  • 🔍 Find a tutor – Use the “Find a teacher” search feature to browse qualified Japanese teachers.
  • 👀 Review profiles – Watch introduction videos and read student reviews to find a tutor who fits your learning goals and style.
  • ⚙️ Filter tutors – Narrow your search by price, availability, lesson type, tutor type, or location.

Once you find a tutor you like, follow these steps:

  • 🎯 Book a trial lesson – Experience their teaching approach firsthand to see if they’re the right fit.
  • 📅 Schedule regular lessons – Set up private lessons at times that suit your schedule.
  • 💻 Use italki Classroom – All lessons take place on italki’s built-in Classroom, which handles scheduling, payments, and reminders, making your online Japanese lessons simple and effective.

How can I find the best online Japanese tutors near me?

To find the best online Japanese tutors near you, you can also explore Japanaese tutors in major cities like:

Don't miss out on the opportunity to learn Japanese from the comfort of your own home. Browse our selection of experienced Japanese tutors and enroll in your first lesson now!