Flying in and starting class from 0 is crazy. I just signed up for language school at Genki Jacs in Tokyo. It is now September 2024 and class starts in July 2025. I already have a copy of the text book and hope to finish it before the first day of class in 10 months. Maybe I won't succeed and I only get through like 6 chapters by then but I'll do my best. Language school is very expensive. I can't imagine not doing everything you can to prepare. It's going to be a 16 hour flight for me. If i somehow made it to my flight date still knowing nothing you can bet I would be in a panic to learn as much of the text as I can during the flight.
I do recommend them if you are serious about learning Japanese. The teachers really know what they are doing. And if you are an absolute beginner like me with no experience in the language, prepare to bring your A-game.
