Earn an International Protocol & Global Etiquette Qualification at Japan’s Only Internationally Accredited Certification Authority
The International Protocol and Etiquette Academy of Japan -ICPA
The International Protocol and Etiquette Academy of Japan (ICPA) is Japan’s only internationally accredited awarding body authorised to issue professional qualifications in International Protocol and Global Etiquette.
ICPA does not operate as a finishing school or a manners academy.
We function as a professional certification authority that defines the international standards, assessment frameworks, and licensing systems by which protocol professionals are recognised.
Our role is to establish, evaluate, and validate the competence of individuals who operate in diplomacy, international business, cultural advisory, and elite professional environments.
Japan's Premier Internationally Accredited International Protocol and Global Etiquette School
International Accreditation as Japan's Representative from the World VIP Protocol Association
Attain Professional Authority Through Cultural Intelligence
International protocol and global etiquette are not stylistic preferences.
They are professional disciplines governing how trust, authority, and credibility are established across cultures.
At ICPA, you do not memorise social rules.
You acquire the knowledge systems, behavioural logic, and cultural frameworks that allow you to function with authority in international, diplomatic, and executive environments.
An ICPA qualification certifies that you can:
interpret complex cultural contexts
act with precision under scrutiny
represent organisations and individuals at international level
earn trust in high-stakes global situations
Academic Foundations & Logic
ICPA programmes are built on: historical and diplomatic research behavioural and social science intercultural theory institutional protocol systems This ensures that every action you perform is not guessed or copied — it is logically justified and professionally defensible.
Essential Mastery of the 'Why'
True professional authority comes from knowing why something is done. ICPA trains you to: understand the historical origins of protocol interpret cultural meaning justify behaviour in professional contexts This transforms uncertainty into measured, confident judgement — the hallmark of elite professionals.
Intercultural Intelligence
ICPA qualifications certify your ability to: operate across cultures without offence or loss of authority adapt behaviour while maintaining identity build trust in international, diplomatic, and corporate environments This is not social skill. It is international professional competence.
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 an Awarding Authority
1
Japan’s Sole Internationally Accredited Academy
ICPA is Japan’s only institution fully accredited to issue global protocol qualifications. Graduates receive an Official Instructor Licence, granting the right to conduct certified courses. We offer a structured business model where certified trainers can earn revenue and royalties, supported by our exclusive intellectual property uniting Western methodology with Japanese refinement.
2
A Symbol of Global Trust
Representing Japan’s highest level of protocol education, ICPA qualifications are trusted by diplomats, executives, and international organisations. Holding this qualification signifies that you embody the highest standards of integrity and global credibility required to teach and lead others.
3
A Vision of Cultural Elegance
ICPA embodies a vision where mutual respect transcends borders. Beyond qualification, we foster a community of like-minded professionals who share a commitment to creating a more respectful, harmonious, and elegant world.
4
Career Support & Mentorship
Our relationship does not end with certification. ICPA provides complete post-qualification support, including teaching opportunities, curriculum access, and student management systems. We guide you step-by-step to build a sustainable, rewarding career as a certified protocol specialist.
5
Unmatched Academic Depth
Our curriculum offers an overwhelming depth of knowledge, including over 1,000 pages of proprietary academic resources. We go beyond “how-to” etiquette, developing the intellect, philosophy, and practical mastery necessary for you to become a teacher of true substance.
6
Dual Mastery: East & West
ICPA uniquely integrates Western refinement with Japanese spiritual depth. Graduates acquire the rare ability to engage with confidence, grace, and precision, bridging two worlds with authenticity—a vital skill for any global instructor.
How Does ICPA Compare to Other 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, professionals in various fields (doctors, lawyers, diplomats), Japanese aiming for international careers | Working women seeking elegance and refinement | Housewives, career changers |
| Educational Goals & Philosophy | To train professionals who can build global trust 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 | Aspiring instructors, intercultural educators, executives, diplomats, and high-net-worth clients | 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 | Aspiring instructors, professionals and leaders across sectors, diplomats, international careerists | 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. | 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 |
Our Specialist Qualifications
Explore ICPA’s internationally accredited programmes
Corporate Projects
Latest News
- ICPA Principal Featured in Top Story on Imperial Protocol Standards in President Trump's 2025 Audience with the Emperor, Following Interviews with Asahi Shimbun and Toyo Keizai
- 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.
Success Stories
Voices of Transformation from ICPA Graduates and Clients
Testimonials
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