Translation guide
In Japanese, the term for preschool depends on the age of the child and the type of institution. The most common general term is 保育園 (hoikuen) for daycare/preschool for children from infancy to age 5, while 幼稚園 (yōchien) is specifically for ages 3–5 and is more academically oriented. There is also a newer combined system called 認定こども園 (nintei kodomoen).
A facility that cares for and educates children before elementary school, typically from infancy to age 5, often while parents work.
The most common term for daycare/preschool. It accepts children from around 0 to 5 years old and focuses on care and early education. Often used for working parents.
I leave my child at preschool.
A more formal term for 保育園, often used in official contexts. Same meaning.
An educational institution for children aged 3 to 5, focusing on preparation for elementary school, often with a curriculum.
A newer type of institution that combines daycare and kindergarten functions, offering care and education for children from infancy to age 5.
A certified center that provides both daycare and kindergarten services. It integrates care and education.
Referring to the period or concept of education before elementary school, often used in phrases like 'preschool education'.
保育園 (hoikuen) is primarily a daycare facility for children from infancy to age 5, often with longer hours to support working parents. 幼稚園 (yōchien) is a kindergarten for ages 3–5, with shorter hours and a focus on early education. In casual conversation, 保育園 is often used as a catch-all for preschool, but the distinction matters in formal contexts.
When describing something related to preschool (e.g., preschool teacher, preschool age), you can use 保育園の or 幼稚園の depending on the type. For general 'preschool education', use 就学前教育.
There are few preschools in this area.
Specifically for ages 3–5, more academically oriented than 保育園. Often part of the formal education system.
My daughter will enter kindergarten next year.
Certified childcare centers have the functions of both daycare and kindergarten.
Formal term for preschool education, used in policy or academic contexts.
The importance of preschool education is increasing.