OKAYAMA SANYO HIGH SCHOOL

Introduction

Okayama Sanyo High School, which was founded over 100 years ago, provides education based on three guiding principles: “Perseverance in Belief”, “Independence and Creativity”, and “Coexistence and Mutual Prosperity.”
In keeping with the school motto, “Make Your Strengths Shine,” we are committed to recognizing and developing each student’s unique qualities and talents, helping them reach their full potential.
In response to the needs of society and the local communities, the school offers four vocational departments, including the Department of Mechanical Technology. Among them, the Department of Automotive Technology, the Department of Culinary Arts, and the Department of Confectionery Arts are especially popular, as only a limited number of high schools in the Chugoku and Shikoku regions offer these specialized programs.
In addition, the General Studies Department offers a range of courses tailored to different educational and career goals. Some focus on professional training, such as the Public Service Course, the Comprehensive Preparatory Course – Childcare Track, the Beauty Course and the IT Course, while others, including the Advanced University Preparatory Course, the Challenge Preparatory Track and the Sports Preparatory Track within the Comprehensive Preparatory Course prepare students for higher education. The school also offers specialized courses in sports and music, supported by excellent facilities. This diverse range of courses is one of the key features of Okayama Sanyo High School.

Departments

Vocational Departments

The Department of Mechanical Technology
The Department of Mechanical Technology
Students in this department learn essential manufacturing skills such as welding, lathe work, casting, hand finishing, and technical drawing – practical skills essential to Japanese Monozukuri (manufacturing and craftsmanship). With access to well-equipped facilities, they can develop advanced techniques and often receive awards in skills competitions. On average, students earn more than 10 professional certifications during their three years of study, which leads to strong employment opportunities after graduation.
The Department of Automotive Technology
The Department of Automotive Technology
This department is certified by the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism as an official training facility for automotive mechanics. Students can obtain a national qualification as an automotive mechanic while still in school. Many continue on to our affiliated school, Okayama Automobile Engineering College, to earn higher-level qualifications and prepare for careers with leading car dealerships. Many students choose this department with the intention of continuing their education through our integrated program with Okayama Automobile Engineering College.
The Department of Culinary Arts
The Department of Culinary Arts
Accredited by the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare, this department enables students to acquire a national qualification as a cook upon graduation without the need for external examinations. Students receive hands-on training in Japanese, Western, Chinese and Korean cuisines directly from professional chefs active in popular restaurants. Over three years, students master around 160 recipes and gain the skills needed to work in prestigious restaurants and culinary establishments.
The Department of Confectionery Arts
The Department of Confectionery Arts
This department is accredited by the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare as an official training facility. Students can obtain a national qualification as a Confectionery Hygienist while still in high school, and nearly 100% of our students successfully earn their national license. Students also participate in various competitions, earning top prizes and recognition. The program offers diverse practical training in Japanese and Western sweets, as well as marzipan (almond-based confectionery art), sugar art, and more. Graduates often find employment at renowned patisseries run by leading pastry chefs.

General Education Department

Sports Course
General Studies Department –Sports Course
With facilities on par with sports universities, this course develops top athletes who embody the balance of “mind,” “skill,” and “body.” About half of the curriculum focuses on sports-related subjects such as Dynamic Visual Acuity Training and Sports Psychology. Students are required to join one of the school’s designated elite sports clubs: Karate, Judo, Wrestling, Track and Field, Baseball, or Soccer.
Music Course
General Studies Department –Music Course
This course offers one of the best environments in Japan for students to dedicate themselves to music, with exclusive facilities such as the large Onji Hall concert venue and 15 private practice rooms. All students belong to the Brass Band Club, aiming for success in national competitions. Professional musicians provide lessons, and the specialized music curriculum supports a wide range of future pathways, including entrance to music universities.
Public Service Course
General Studies Department –Public Service Course
This course is designed for students aiming to work in government and community-related careers, such as the national civil service, local government, or municipal offices. The curriculum is specialized in exam preparation, with students achieving nearly a 100% pass rate on the first stage of civil service exams. Students also pursue a variety of certifications, which can help them in the civil service examination process while providing opportunities to improve their concentration and gain a sense of achievement.
Advanced University Preparatory Course
General Studies Department –Advanced University Preparatory Course
This course develops both academic and inquiry-based skills, preparing students for admission to higher education institutions. By developing research and problem-solving abilities, students become well-prepared for entrance exams through comprehensive selection and recommendation systems. In addition to academic learning, students engage in volunteer work and community revitalization projects, often competing in and excelling at national-level contests.
Comprehensive Preparatory Course
General Studies Department –Comprehensive Preparatory Course
(Challenge Preparatory Track, Sports Preparatory Track and Childcare Track)
This course offers three focused pathways – Childcare, Challenge Preparatory and Sports Preparatory Tracks – tailored to students’ future goals. Each pathway provides strong academic support and guidance on balancing studies with club activities. The curriculum also incorporates elements of inquiry-based learning to foster critical thinking skills.
Beauty Course
General Studies Department –Beauty Course
This course specializes in the beauty field, with classes in hair styling (non-licensing), nail art, flower design, and bridal coordination. Professional instructors provide practical training, and students can earn relevant certifications in each field. As the culmination of three years of study, students present their skills in a special “Graduation Showcase.”
IT Course
General Studies Department –IT Course
This course equips students with a wide range of ICT skills, offering hands-on experience with cutting-edge technologies such as VR, AR, and robotics. The course is also well equipped with devices such as drones and high-performance PCs, allowing students to develop a broad understanding of the fundamentals of ICT while enjoying hands-on learning. They also pursue certifications such as the Applied Information Technology Certification, IT Passport, MOS (Microsoft Office Specialist) Certification, and other IT-related qualifications, which support both employment and further study.

Main Clubs

Karate Club
The Karate club is renowned and prestigious, with over 70 victories at international and national competitions (both individual and team). In winter, the club organizes and hosts the nationwide “Momotaro Cup,” where members sharpen their skills through intensive training. With its own dedicated dojo and strong alumni connections, the club continues to uphold its proud tradition.
Judo Club
One of the leading judo clubs in Okayama Prefecture, the team is committed to cultivating both mind and body through the spirit of judo. With a fully equipped, exclusive dojo, members train with dedication every day.
Wrestling Club
The Wrestling club is a highly competitive club that regularly sends athletes to national tournaments across various weight classes. Remarkably, about 90% of members begin wrestling only after entering high school, yet through daily training they grow into skilled athletes who perform at the national level.
Baseball Club
A distinguished baseball club that has competed at Koshien (Japan’s national high school baseball tournament) and produced professional players. The team’s philosophy is to bring together students who not only excel on the field but also truly love baseball. With its own off-campus baseball ground, the club trains intensively every day. Members also contribute internationally by donating baseball equipment overseas. Many alumni also work to promote baseball abroad through JICA and other organizations.
Soccer Club
The soccer club is well-established and has a large number of members,who train with the goal of reaching national tournaments. Practices take place at a dedicated outdoor ground and a modern artificial turf futsal field, providing an excellent training environment.
Track and Field Club
Students receive individualized training suited to their strengths and chosen events. Some members have competed in the Inter-High School Championships, giving athletes the chance to challenge themselves and refine their abilities at a highly competitive level.