International Protocol & Global Etiquette Programme for Elite Executives
Executive Presence Begins with Refined Demeanor
The International Protocol and Etiquette Academy of Japan - ICPA
Welcome to Japan’s Premier Institution for International Protocol and Etiquette Education
At ICPA, we empower high-calibre executive leaders in the global arena—including politicians, diplomats, government officials, embassy personnel, corporate executives, and international professionals—to master the art of refined international protocol and etiquette.
We are equally dedicated to cultivating world-class instructors, contributing to meaningful globalisation by developing individuals who serve as cultural bridges across nations.
Executive Presence Begins with refined demeanor
Global Etiquette and international protocol are not merely imitated—they are understood, internalised, and applied with intention.
ICPA provides executives with the knowledge and cultural intelligence behind refined behaviour, enabling confident and dignified conduct across international settings. When knowledge becomes empathy, and empathy builds trust, true executive presence is born.
– This is the philosophy of ICPA.
Academic Foundations
ICPA's programmes are grounded in scholarly research and educational theory, providing depth beyond surface-level manners.
Logical Understanding
ICPA teaches the “why” behind the behaviour, enabling individuals to act with confidence, consistency, and cultural sensitivity.
Cross-cultural Empathy
Through intercultural learning, ICPA fosters respectful connections across diverse backgrounds and beliefs.
Become a Certified International Protocol Specialist
Japan's Premier Internationally Accredited International Protocol and Global Etiquette School
The International Protocol and Etiquette Academy of Japan – ICPA is Japan’s only internationally accredited institution dedicated to cultivating true global leaders through refined training in protocol, international etiquette, and cross-cultural intelligence.
Certified By The International Protocol Accreditation Association
International Accreditation as Japan's Representative from the World VIP Protocol Association
Our Mission
ICPA empowers individuals through accredited education in international protocol, etiquette, and diplomacy.We inspire and cultivate professionals to embody presence with dignity and to build alliances across cultures, enabling them to lead with cultural intelligence, empathy, and refined professionalism.
Our Vision
We envision a world where cultural elegance and mutual respect transcend borders, a world in which individuals with presence and integrity connect societies, creating lasting alliances for harmony and prosperity.
Our Values
Our values are embedded in our name::
I – Inspire: Inspiring people to awaken their dignity and vision
C – Cultivate: Cultivating cultural intelligence and empathy
P – Presence: Embodying grace, authenticity, and true leadership
A – Alliance: Building bridges and fostering harmony across nations and cultures
These values define ICPA-certified professionals, shaping leaders who stand with poise, understanding, and a global vision.
Six Reasons Why Professionals Choose ICPA
1
Japan’s Only Internationally Accredited Academy
ICPA is the sole institution of its kind in Japan officially recognised for delivering world-class education in protocol and etiquette.
Our programmes meet global standards of excellence.
2
Harmony of Eastern Grace and Western Refinement
Our curriculum seamlessly integrates the elegance of Western etiquette with the depth of Japanese tradition, cultivating truly global sophistication.
3
Applied Intercultural Intelligence
Students develop authentic intercultural understanding and diplomacy skills by engaging deeply with diverse cultural frameworks and global communication models.
4
Premium Digital Learning Platform
Access our fully digitised system—video lessons, downloadable resources, and guided modules—anytime, anywhere.
Flexible, elegant, and designed for the modern professional.
5
Elite International Learning Community
Join a distinguished network of global professionals.
Our learners connect, collaborate, and grow together through shared values and elevated learning.
6
Recognised Qualifications and Career Pathways
Our certifications are globally respected.
We provide tailored support for your journey—from teaching and public speaking to entrepreneurship and institutional collaboration.
How Does ICPA Compare to Other Protocol & Etiquette schools?
Comparison with Domestic Protocol & Etiquette Schools in Japan
Comparison with Programmes Teaching Japanese Etiquette to Foreigners
Comparison with Global Protocol & Etiquette Schools
Comparison with Domestic Protocol & Etiquette Schools in Japan
*Download the comparison HERE
| Comparison Item | The International Protocol and Etiquette Academy of Japan – ICPA | Domestic Manners Association A | Advanced Manners School B |
|---|---|---|---|
| Student Satisfaction Rating | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 99% | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ 82% | ⭐️⭐️⭐️☆☆ 67% |
| International Accreditation | ★ The only internationally accredited institution in Japan | None | None |
| Target Audience | Aspiring instructors, doctors, lawyers, politicians, diplomats, researchers, Japanese aiming for international careers | Working women seeking elegance and refinement | Housewives, career changers |
| Educational Goals & Philosophy | To train professionals and global leaders through intercultural understanding and international protocol. English instruction available. | Learning beautiful behaviour and etiquette | Practical daily manners and re-entry skills |
| Depth & Structure of Curriculum | Over 1,000 pages of materials combining theory, practice, multimedia, and case studies | Mainly intermediate-level practical training | Basic posture and textbook-centred instruction |
| Integration of Theory and Practice | Based on intercultural theories, religion, and historical context | Practice-based with limited theory | On-site training with minimal theory |
| Cultural Breadth & Depth | Japanese etiquette, international protocol, religious and imperial culture, comparative culture | Daily life and traditional Japanese norms | Modern lifestyle etiquette |
| Academic Level | University to postgraduate-level academic standard; research support provided | General adult education level | Practical business training level |
| English Course Availability | All courses available in English; ideal for Japanese aiming to become global instructors | Japanese only | Japanese only |
| Global Partnerships | Official partnerships with institutions in the UK, Europe, and the Middle East; embassies and international entities | None | None |
| Qualification & Professional Titles | International instructor licences, certified protocol expert titles | Private certificates or participation awards | Internal recognition only |
| Trainer Income & Licensing Rights | Trainers can earn royalties (up to 45%) from official courses and retain up to 95% revenue from their own original courses. Includes full licensing for business operation. | No income model provided. Trainer activity is typically voluntary or limited to internal training. | Not licensed for independent instruction. Trainers teach under supervision without business rights. |
| Post-Certification Support | Teaching opportunities, full teaching kits, global events, franchise system | Mock classes, graduation events only | Study circles, community groups |
| Events & Public Presence | Events with diplomats, multilingual lectures, presence at global forums | Ceremonial events and alumni gatherings | Local workshops and exchange events |
| Online Learning & Material Access | Video lectures, full access to online materials, immediate start as qualified instructor | Zoom lectures, PDF handouts only | Some PDFs and limited online content |
Comparison with Programmes Teaching Japanese Etiquette to Foreigners
| Comparison Item | The International Protocol and Etiquette Academy of Japan – ICPA | Corporate Manners Training Provider | Cultural Experience Programme Organiser |
|---|---|---|---|
| Student Satisfaction Rating | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 99% | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ 80% | ⭐️⭐️⭐️☆☆ 70% |
| Target Audience | Foreign diplomats, executives, wealthy clients, intercultural educators | Foreign employees and trainees | Tourists, students, foreign residents |
| Educational Goals & Philosophy | To train professional instructors in Japanese etiquette with intercultural and protocol expertise | Quick adaptation to Japanese corporate manners | To promote appreciation of Japanese culture |
| Depth & Structure of Curriculum | Over 1,000 pages of professional materials covering culture, religion, theory, and practical skills | Manual-based instruction with role-plays | Experience-based: seasonal customs and traditional arts |
| Integration of Theory and Practice | Incorporates intercultural theory, religion, behaviour science, and applied exercises | Practice-heavy with limited theoretical background | No theoretical framework; fully experiential |
| Cultural Breadth & Depth | Covers Japanese manners, international protocol, imperial culture, and cross-cultural values | Workplace etiquette, communication, and basic customs | Tea ceremony, bowing, festivals, cultural norms |
| Academic Level | University/professional training level | Corporate training level | Culture school/community course level |
| Languages & Accessibility | English and Japanese; materials include technical terms and bilingual lectures | Primarily English for business use | Japanese with some English assistance |
| International Accreditation | ★ Only internationally accredited Japanese etiquette and protocol school | Not accredited internationally | None |
| Global Partnerships | Official partnerships with the UK, Europe, Middle East; extensive international engagement | None | Some collaboration with cultural NGOs |
| Certification & Recognition | Official global instructor credentials, bilingual certification available | Completion certificates (internal) | Informal participation certificates |
| Trainer Income & Licensing Rights | Trainers can earn royalties (up to 45%) from official courses and retain up to 95% revenue from their own original courses. Includes full licensing for business operation. | No income model provided. Trainer activity is typically voluntary or limited to internal training. | Not licensed for independent instruction. Trainers teach under supervision without business rights. |
| Post-Certification Support | Instructor licence, event access, material rights, global platform | No ongoing support | Event invitations, newsletter updates |
| Events & Exposure | Multilingual forums, diplomatic training events, international showcases | Internal workshops only | Seasonal events and exhibitions |
| Online Learning & Resources | All materials are shared digitally; instructors can begin teaching immediately | Zoom sessions and limited PDF handouts | Limited online materials, no structured platform |
Comparison with Global Protocol & Etiquette Schools
| Comparison Item | The International Protocol and Etiquette Academy of Japan – ICPA | US-based Protocol Training Institute | UK Traditional Etiquette Education Association | Chinese State-style Ceremonial Training Body |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Student Satisfaction Rating | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 99% | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ 85% | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ 88% | ⭐️⭐️⭐️☆☆ 70% |
| Target Audience | Instructors, diplomats, professionals, leaders across sectors | Executives, military, government clients | Adults interested in British refinement and heritage | Officials, public servants, ceremonial staff |
| Educational Goals & Philosophy | Combines Japanese etiquette and international protocol for global leadership | Focus on American-style business protocol and professional image | Promotes traditional British social etiquette and lifestyle | Government-based ceremonial training and compliance |
| Depth & Structure of Curriculum | 1,000+ page curriculum combining academic theory, practical training, and cultural context | Module-based, workshop format, outcome-oriented | Short courses and personalised coaching | State-developed programme, formal instruction style |
| Integration of Theory and Practice | Based on intercultural theories, religious frameworks, historical and comparative methods | Practical tools with minimal theoretical context | Includes cultural background but limited theoretical approach | Tradition-focused, pragmatic application |
| Cultural Breadth & Depth | Includes Japanese/Western etiquette, royal customs, and cross-cultural comparison | Primarily US corporate etiquette and presence | British aristocratic etiquette, social tradition | Chinese traditional etiquette, state protocols |
| Academic Level | Equivalent to university/postgraduate level | Supplementary to executive education | Cultural education level | State-mandated professional development |
| Languages & Accessibility | Bilingual (English & Japanese), suited for global learners | English only | English only | Chinese only |
| International Accreditation | ★ The only accredited school in Japan with global protocol authority ties | Accredited (e.g. ACCET) | No formal accreditation (heritage-based) | Certified by regional government entities |
| Global Partnerships | Partners with the UK, Europe, Middle East; global seminars & lectures | Limited industry partnerships | Cultural/lifestyle media collaborations | Connected to official state institutions |
| Certification & Recognition | International instructor titles, English-language certification | Certification recognised in business circles | Prestige-based acknowledgements | State-issued certifications |
| Trainer Income & Licensing Rights | Trainers can earn royalties (up to 45%) from official courses and retain up to 95% revenue from their own original courses. Includes full licensing for business operation. | No income model provided. Trainer activity is typically voluntary or limited to internal training. | Not licensed for independent instruction. Trainers teach under supervision without business rights. | |
| Post-Certification Support | Instructor support, teaching kits, speaker events, franchise opportunity | Corporate coaching and networking | Referral system, follow-up sessions | Placement opportunities via state channels |
| Events & Exposure | Participation in diplomatic events, international panels, speaker forums | Workshops and keynote events | Cultural events, publishing | Official ceremonies and training |
| Online Learning & Resources | Digital materials, online access, rapid deployment for certified instructors | Partial digital access, course kits optional | Some videos, basic online materials | Offline dominant; digital tools are minimal |
The First-Class Global Executive Programmes
Voice of students
Testimonials
Testimonials
Working with Mari has been a delight over the past two years. She has been an excellent source of knowledge of Japanese etiquette and protocol and has remotely assisted us with projects in the UK, as well delivered training to several clients of The English Manner - always receiving excellent feedback. Mari's work ethic is unquestioned and she always goes above and beyond to deliver for us. Thank you!
Mr William HansonDirecter The English Manner
The international protocol training taught me global communication and gave me the further upper hand to behave as the head of a very prestigious company. You cannot learn this from books or the internet. I consider Murata Sensei's guidance to be strict and precise, high standard top coaching. I could feel a great change in myself. I believe this is something that other coaches cannot do. We look forward to further guidance from her.
Mr Hiroyuki Toyoda CFO Toyoda Trike K.K
I had studied protocol before from another instructor, so I had an image of that, but it's totally different! Murata-sensei is outstanding. She has taught me a grade above in business, diplomacy and behaviour, and I will continue to improve.
Ms Misako ToyodaCEO Toyoda Trike K.K
In this international society, I am convinced that international protocol is essential for people at the top of companies. I myself have had the opportunity to meet the Prime Minister of Malaysia, the Thai Royal Family and other people at national representative level, and I firmly believe that this is what I needed to learn. Thanks to Murata Sensei's guidance, which was tougher than I expected, it has motivated me and has been a great learning experience. I would like to continue learning.
Mr Anthem WonPresident, Asian Development Capital Ltd.
I thought that this education is necessary not only for people working in companies, but also for children in this global society. I felt that we are getting better and better ourselves by acquiring knowledge and education. I would like to learn a lot more in the future.
Mrs Kaori OkutsuWedding Planner
I thought that international education is also necessary for leadership in doctors' work. I was surprised at how much I didn't know about so many things. It is the best self-improvement.
Mr Satoshi Yamashita35 years old Physician, one-off course in international etiquette
I was able to spend very intensive study time and the month from the start to the end of the course was very fulfilling. I would like to continue learning at the intermediate and advanced levels and become a communicator of this learning.
Ms Rika Kinoshita (25)The Royal Elegance Beginner
Recommendation. 'All the things I thought I knew but didn't'. Of course if you are involved internationally, but even if you are not, I think you will need it in the future.
Mr Takayuki Sugimoto29, doctor, one-off course in international etiquette
I felt that no one could give me a better answer than Murata-sensei, who is backed by experience, offers personalised solutions, gives suggestions to help me visualise where I want to go, and has the power to support my growth.
Ms S.Y (32)The Royal Elegance Single 5-hour introduction
The intermediate level is much more powerful than the beginner level and has given me more and deeper learning and confidence. It really confirms that learning about etiquette and manners and culture is an important thing in life.
Ms Rika Kinoshita (26)The Royal Elegance Intermediate
This was no run-of-the-mill etiquette school! Murata Sensei is a wonderful person who you can really trust, both as an instructor and as a woman, because she is on the axis and never wavers.
Ms Mika HatoriThe Finishing Touch Beginner
おすすめします。村田先生の無駄のない、メンタル面を含めたアドバイスは、毎回本当に勉強になり、高得点を取得できました。パワーがあり、とても魅力的な先生なので、お会いするだけでも刺激を受けます。
畑戸麻佳さん大手社長秘書 TOEIC高得点取得
村田先生に日本人の特徴を踏まえて、英語をお教えいただき、仕事に活かせるようになりました。また、毎週、国際化などのトピックについて、お話いただき、日々、刺激を受けています。
寺田宗平さんビジネス英語受講 アメリカ在住
Thanks in part to Murata-sensei, two out of the four students exceeded their target of over 700 scores! Both the recipients and the students were very happy. We are very pleased to report that the lessons were well received and easy to understand.
某大手企業社員女性外国人対応受付
おかげさまで目標点700点を超えました。村田先生の素晴らしいご指導の賜物です。特に先生の発音がきれいで、徹底した文法のご指導も素晴らしかったです。たったの10日間ですが、もっと学びたいと思いました。
某大手企業男性海外進出企業
村田先生は英語の知識はもちろんの事、国の違いによるイントネーションの違いや文化までご存知で驚かされました‼︎リスニングからリーディング、英作文など繰り返し実践して頂き、90分のレッスン時間があっという間に終わりました。“ローマは1日にしてならず”
関 良平さん 50代 経営者男性
Despite the limited time, thanks to the well-designed curriculum, we were able to learn in a short time the minimum required in the field. It was not only classroom learning, but we also practised how to stand and escort in person, which gave us good practice in advance.
Mr Shingo ShimizuSelf-employed
Latest News
- In addition to Global Etiquette and World Protocol, ICPA's Specialist Qualification Programme also qualifies students to teach Japanese Etiquette and Protocol.
- Numerous students are recruited for teacher training programmes that offer certification!"
- International Protocol global train-the-trainer programme for bilinguals is also fully in place.
Further voice from our clients
Beyond Language: Human Skills That Drive Global Success
At ICPA, we understand that international success requires more than language fluency.
Our programmes cultivate the essential human skills that define true global leaders:
- Empathy and cultural awareness
- Adaptability in diverse environments
- Graceful, diplomatic communication
- Business-ready etiquette and protocol competence
These qualities—refined through our internationally accredited training—empower our graduates to succeed in diplomacy, global business, and elite social leadership.
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