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If you hire this pro, you’re covered by a money-back guarantee. Learn more
About
I have been teaching and sharing my knowledge of Japanese for over 20 years. My educational background is in Computer Science and Mathematics, and I also bring professional experience as a technical marketing specialist — this combination allows me to explain language concepts in a clear, structured, and practical way, while keeping lessons fun and engaging.
I have a strong interest in different cultures and in learning other languages, and this passion deeply shapes my teaching style. I believe language and culture are closely connected, and I enjoy helping students understand not just how Japanese is spoken, but why it's used in certain ways.
I customize every lesson plan to fit each student's individual needs, goals, and learning style. My students consistently see progress in their Japanese — often after just one lesson.
All ages and skill levels are welcome:
For younger students, lessons focus on speaking, listening, and visual tools, making Japanese fun and engaging from the very first class.
For adult students, I teach through a cultural lens, with strong emphasis on real-life communication and speaking practice throughout each lesson.
I also offer JLPT preparation courses and remote lessons for your convenience.
Lesson rates:
1 hour — $80
1.5 hours — $115
2 hours — $140
I'm also flexible on pricing depending on lesson frequency, so feel free to reach out to discuss a schedule that works for you.
I truly enjoy meeting every student who's interested in learning Japanese. Everyone comes from a different background with different goals, and watching my students gain confidence and improve their skills is the most rewarding part of what I do.
Overview
Current Top Pro
Hired 47 times
Serves San Francisco, CA
Background checked
1 employee
16 years in business
Business hours
SunClosedMonClosed
Payment methods
This pro accepts payments via Apple Pay, Cash, PayPal, Square cash app, Venmo, and Zelle.
Services offered
Work location
My customers travel to me
I work remotely (phone or internet)
Projects and media
Projects and media
Reviews
Customers rated this pro highly for work quality, professionalism, and responsiveness.
Exceptional 5.0
33 reviews
5
100%
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Read reviews that mention:
Justin l.
Apr 10, 2025
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Hired on Thumbtack
Mayumi is a great teacher. In my experience, the money is second and her student’s education is first. She truly cares about what she does and that is shown in the documents she hands out and the lessons that she teaches. In a span of 3 months, I can definitely say I understand Japanese more than I ever did. No other teacher can compare. Thank you Mayumi! Highly and whole heartedly recommend!
Details: 18 - 25 years old • Beginner • Full fluency • Beginner • No experience • Basic reading/writing skills • I travel to the japanese tutor • The japanese tutor travels to me • Phone or internet (no in-person meeting)
Japanese Lessons
Vicky L.
2 days ago
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Hired on Thumbtack
Sensei is very professional and prepare classes very diligently to match with my pace. I like to talk with her in Japanese, with my limited level of fluency, she is always very patient and willing to correct me to help me improve. I am grateful to have a teacher like her.
Details: Phone or internet (no in-person meeting)
Japanese Lessons
Bruce J.
Jul 15, 2026
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Hired on Thumbtack
Mayumi is very skilled at teaching Japanese, She is patient and friendly.
Details: 65 years or older • Beginner • Conversational proficiency • No experience • No experience • Basic reading/writing skills • I travel to the japanese tutor • The japanese tutor travels to me • Phone or internet (no in-person meeting)
Ganbare Nihongo by Mayumi's reply
Thank you so much for your review !
Japanese Lessons
Nicolo R.
Mar 31, 2026
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Hired on Thumbtack
Amazing teacher who helps students achieve their goals through personalized lessons, materials and practice
Details: 18 - 25 years old • Beginner • Conversational proficiency • Beginner • No experience • Basic reading/writing skills • I travel to the japanese tutor • The japanese tutor travels to me • Phone or internet (no in-person meeting)
Japanese Lessons
Brian B.
May 17, 2024
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Hired on Thumbtack
Mayumi is an awesome tutor! I appreciate her engaged and effective teaching style. Very flexible and accommodating, whether you want to learn at a slow or fast pace. I highly recommend her to anyone looking to work on their Japanese!
Details: 18 - 25 years old • Beginner • Beginner • Beginner • Professional or academic reading/writing • Phone or internet (no in-person meeting) • I travel to the japanese tutor • The japanese tutor travels to me
Japanese Lessons
Credentials
Background Check
Mayumi Blair
FAQs
What should the customer know about your pricing (e.g., discounts, fees)?
I offer a range of basic rates suitable for clients wishing to undergo 1, 1.5 or 2 hour sessions.
Depending on lesson frequency, my rates are adjusted accordingly and I am always open for discussion.
What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
With a new customer I'll begin by organising a prerequisite introductory phone or video call, which is then followed by an assessment meeting in which I will gain an understanding of the client at hand's interests and objectives. From there, I suggest a learning plan which can easily be tailored, and subsequently begin working with the new client.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I hold a degree in Mathematics and Computer Science, which may seem unrelated to teaching Japanese at first. However, my analytical background has helped me approach language learning with structure and efficiency, making it easier to break down complex concepts for my students.
In addition, I am going to say I might have a "degree" in patience—a skill that’s arguably harder to obtain! Over the past 14 years, I’ve dedicated myself to teaching Japanese with passion and care, tailoring lessons to each student’s unique needs. Through self-study, immersion, and years of teaching experience, I’ve developed the expertise to help students succeed at any level.