A number of education boards began preparatory classes Saturday out of concern that children's education may suffer as a result of the introduction of the five-day school week later this month.
"Saturday school" classes started in some areas, including Tokyo's Taito Ward, Noda city in Chiba Prefecture and Fukaya city in Saitama Prefecture.
The schools are designed for students who want help in their studies or with their regular class work. Attendance is not mandatory.