About Us
Discover more about Granlibro!
OUR MISSION
To help people head out into the world and realise their dreams.
Language opens doors to new experiences, careers, and opportunities. We exist to support that journey.
Our Brand Story
The initial idea for Granlibro was born when Yukio, our founder, lived in Mexico in 2018. He met many friends who dreamed of living abroad but felt unable to take that step due to price differences, language barriers, employment challenges, and cultural gaps. These obstacles caused many people to give up on their dreams altogether.
Through countless conversations with people from diverse backgrounds around the world, Yukio truly thought that these struggles were not unique to specific countries - they were universal. He became determined to create a service that could support people like them, no matter where they were from.
The Meaning of Granlibro
Granlibro officially began on 1 December 2019. The name itself carries the essence of our origin. Yukio's surname, Jimoto, is written with the Japanese kanji characters 地 (ground) and 本 (book). Inspired by his time in Mexico, he translated "book" into Spanish as "libro", and noticed that "ground" shared a similar feeling and sound with "grande" - meaning "great" or "big" in Spanish.
Combining these ideas, Granlibro was born: a "great book" for people stepping into a bigger world.
How We Started
The platform started from a small desk in a tiny apartment in Tokyo. Yukio himself also registered as a Japanese tutor on Granlibro to gain first-hand experience.
Through teaching students from around the globe, he directly learnt about the joys and challenges faced by both tutors and learners. These experiences have continually shaped how Granlibro grows and improves.
Even now, more than 6 years since our launch, Yukio still teaches some of the very first students. They remain at the heart of why Granlibro exists, and all our students remind us of the importance of genuine connection.
What We Value
Granlibro is more than a place to learn languages. It's a multicultural space where students can experience new cultures through learning, and tutors can discover different perspectives and know-how through teaching. For many, it becomes the first meaningful step toward building a life abroad.
Our mission is simple:
To help people head out into the world and realise their dreams.
Language tutoring is the first step toward fulfilling that vision.
Why You Should Choose Granlibro
Our platform connects students and native tutors for personalised online lessons.
For Students
-We'll match you with the best native tutor.
-Enjoy personalised 1-on-1 online lessons.
-Lesson materials are included.
-All levels are welcome.
-Support is available for any troubles.
For Tutors
-Matched with students that fit your availability.
-Lesson support is available.
-Original lesson materials are included.
-Secure payment.
-Support for student-related issues.
+ Personal Booking Coordinator Support
Both students and tutors can get in touch with the Granlibro team anytime via Teams chat. If you have any issues, requests, questions, or would like to change your tutor, please feel free to contact us!
Who We Serve
A wide variety of learners enjoy our service!
Kids to Seniors
Not only adults in their 20s to 50s, kids and seniors also enjoy our lessons!
Beginners to Advanced Levels
All levels are welcome!
Busy Professionals Needing Flexibility
Flexible scheduling is available!
Learners Who Prefer 1-on-1 Instruction
We coordinate everything you need for your learning!
Student Testimonials
“I highly recommend Granlibro to all Japanese learners around the world!!!"
Sena
“I had the opportunity to take private lessons from native Japanese teachers at affordable..." Read more
10,000+ Lessons in 30+ Countries!
We're proud of our students' progress above all!
Message to Students & Tutors
Hi, this is Yukio from Granlibro!
Having lived in both the U.K. and Mexico, I speak English, Spanish, and a little Chinese in addition to Japanese as my native language. Because of this, I truly understand the joy that comes from learning a new language - how it opens doors, connects people, and brings you closer to life abroad. I created Granlibro so that you can experience that same joy whilst taking meaningful steps towards your dreams overseas.
As someone who also teaches Japanese on Granlibro, I know first-hand the challenges and fulfilment that come with language tutoring. With this experience, I'm committed to supporting our tutors with practical guidance and everything they need to provide the best lessons possible.
To all our students, tutors, team members, and everyone involved in Granlibro - I want this to be a place where you can learn, connect, and enjoy every moment. Your happiness and growth mean the world to me, and I'm deeply grateful for your continued support.
Thank you always for being a part of Granlibro!
