International Protocol and Etiquette Certificates for Global Elites
Earn professional certification for the international stage
Become a True Professional on the Global Stage
The International Protocol and Etiquette Academy of Japan (ICPA)
The ICPA qualification programmes are designed for executives, politicians, diplomats, corporate directors, entrepreneurs, government officials, embassy personnel, and professionals engaged in international and intercultural relations who aspire to lead with confidence and distinction.
Far beyond the surface of etiquette, each programme offers an opportunity to master the advanced knowledge, cultural understanding, and refined techniques of both International and Japanese Protocol.
Participants cultivate the ability to act, teach, and represent with true executive presence and cultural intelligence.
As Japan’s only internationally accredited academy specialising in protocol and global etiquette education, ICPA focuses on professional and instructor qualification training.
Its exclusive certification system includes revenue opportunities for qualified graduates and a comprehensive professional support structure to ensure continued success.
Every discipline provides access to over 1,000 pages of specialist textbooks and instructor resources, forming an invaluable lifetime asset and the foundation for a globally recognised professional career.
ICPA’s educational philosophy is founded upon academic research, logical understanding, and intercultural intelligence, nurturing the intellect, dignity, and authenticity essential to the truly international individual.
Attain True Sophistication and Cultural Intelligence
― Earn an International Protocol Qualification and Lead the Next Global Generation ―
Global etiquette and international protocol are not acts of imitation. They are disciplines of intellect and intention, to be understood, internalised, and expressed with purpose.
At ICPA, participants study the knowledge, philosophy, and cultural awareness that underpin refined global behaviour ― cultivating the confidence and dignity to act with authentic executive presence in any international setting.
When knowledge transforms into empathy, and empathy into trust, leadership transcends culture and inspires humanity.
This is the principle of ICPA.
Academic Foundations
Built on global research and educational theory, the programme offers depth beyond conventional etiquette, developing cultured intellect and practical mastery.
Essential Understanding
By exploring the reason behind every action, participants gain clarity, confidence, and cultural sensitivity in professional conduct.
Intercultural Intelligence
Through immersive study of global perspectives, learners develop the ability to respect diversity and forge lasting trust across cultures.
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.
Accredited By The International Protocol Accreditation Association - Japan
International Accreditation as Japan's Representative from the World VIP Protocol Association
Our Mission
ICPA empowers individuals through accredited education in International Protocol, Global Etiquette, and Diplomatic Conduct. We cultivate professionals who embody dignity and authentic presence, capable of building trust and empathy across cultures.
Our Vision
We envision a world where cultural elegance and mutual respect transcend borders, and individuals with true presence and integrity create enduring alliances for harmony and shared prosperity.
Our Values
I: Inspire｜ Illuminate the path forward by inspiring and empowering others.
C: Cultivate｜ Nurture knowledge, culture, and human excellence to be passed on to future generations..
P: Presence｜ Embody genuine elegance and confidence through refined self-awareness and practice..
A: Alliance｜ Build meaningful global connections and achieve shared goals through collaboration.
Six Reasons Why Global Professionals Choose ICPA
The Only Institution of Its Kind
ICPA is Japan’s only internationally accredited academy dedicated to professional education in International Protocol and Global Etiquette.
An ICPA qualification is far more than a certificate — it is a globally recognised credential of expertise, credibility, and distinction.
Graduates gain access to over 1,000 pages of academic resources and specialised training materials in each field, uniting Western methodology with Japanese refinement to create an unparalleled educational framework that cannot be found elsewhere.
Qualified professionals receive official teaching licences, along with revenue opportunities, curriculum access, and full institutional support to establish or expand their careers as certified specialists.
An ICPA qualification stands as a hallmark of integrity, intellect, and international trust — a lifelong distinction on the global stage.
1
Internationally Accredited Excellence
ICPA represents Japan’s highest level of accredited protocol education.
Its qualifications are trusted by diplomats, executives, and international organisations, embodying the highest standards of professional integrity and global credibility.
2
A Vision You Can Believe In
ICPA embodies a vision of cultural elegance and mutual respect that transcends borders.
Beyond qualification, it fosters a community of like-minded leaders who share a commitment to creating a more respectful and harmonious world.
3
Comprehensive Professional Support
ICPA provides complete post-qualification support, including teaching opportunities, student management systems, and structured revenue programmes.
Certified professionals are guided step by step to build sustainable, rewarding, and globally recognised careers.
4
Unmatched Academic Depth and Professional Rigor
Each field of study includes over 1,000 pages of academic textbooks, specialist notes, and structured curricula, designed to develop not only etiquette but also intellect, philosophy, and practical mastery—the true hallmarks of global expertise.
5
Dual Mastery: Global and Japanese Protocol Education
ICPA uniquely integrates Western refinement with Japanese spiritual and cultural depth, offering comprehensive education in both International and Japanese Protocol.
Graduates acquire the ability to engage with confidence, grace, and precision in any cultural environment.
6
A Qualification for the Future
An ICPA qualification is a globally respected credential that opens doors to international careers in teaching, diplomacy, business, and education.
It empowers graduates to establish themselves as professionals of intellect, dignity, and authentic global presence.
How Does ICPA Compare to Other Protocol & Etiquette schools?
| 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 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 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 |
Our Specialist Qualifications
Explore ICPA’s internationally accredited programmes
Testimonials & Success Stories
Voices of Transformation from ICPA Graduates and Clients
Testimonials
Further voice from our clients
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.
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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