The Japanese abacus makes abstract numbers tangible – as an image that anchors itself in the mind. Many who start with it eventually calculate entirely without any aid.
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In secondary school, it is no longer quick calculation that counts, but the ability to hold numbers securely in mind and work with them flexibly. This is exactly where the Soroban comes in: those who calculate with the abacus build a precise inner mental image and thereby specifically train working memory and concentration — foundations that are increasingly important in mathematics as well as in the sciences. Older children benefit twofold: they gain confidence within the number range and a mental calculation technique that serves them well in everyday school life.
The Soroban engages both hemispheres of the brain at once: the left for logical, structured calculation, the right for the spatial visualisation of the beads. Studies from Japan and China show that regular Soroban training measurably improves processing speed and working memory.
The abacus is not a replacement for a calculator – it is a thinking tool that builds a mental model for numbers, one that works even without the device.
The beads represent numerical values directly as a position in space. This makes it easier to understand place values, magnitudes and arithmetic operations.
Over time, an inner image of the abacus takes shape. Experienced learners solve complex problems in their heads – the physical abacus becomes unnecessary.
In Japan, the Soroban is part of the school curriculum. Cognitive science research confirms positive effects on concentration and number sense.
The Soroban activates both hemispheres of the brain: children specifically improve their concentration, attention and memory. Regular practice builds stamina and helps them solve even complex problems calmly and with focus.
Visualising the calculation steps in the mind fosters imagination and strengthens children's creative side. They learn to think flexibly and to view problems from different angles – a key to innovative thinking.
When children realise they can solve difficult calculations entirely on their own, they grow beyond themselves. This strengthens not only their self-confidence but also has a positive effect on many other areas of life.
Studies show that children who master mental arithmetic also perform better in other school subjects, because they grasp connections more quickly and remember information more easily.
Mental calculation is like a workout for the mind: it fosters logical thinking, problem-solving and structured working – skills that are indispensable in today's and tomorrow's digital world.
The Soroban isn't about dry mathematics. Playful elements, practising together and tangible moments of success turn learning into a real adventure. This creates genuine joy in learning – and the motivation to keep going.
The Soroban has a long tradition, especially in Asia. Learning with the abacus lets children immerse themselves in a new culture and broaden their horizons playfully – entirely without pressure.
The Soroban is the Japanese variant of the abacus and has a long and fascinating history that is significant both culturally and pedagogically. The abacus was originally developed in ancient China and has been in use for over 2,500 years. In the 14th century it made its way to Japan. The Japanese adapted the design to their own needs, which led to the development of the Soroban. In the 17th century, the Japanese mathematician Mitsuyoshi Yoshida simplified the design to a 5:1 bead ratio to optimise use of the decimal system. In the 20th century, the Soroban was further reduced to a 4:1 bead ratio, which increased efficiency. Competitions and certifications in Soroban skills remain common to this day.
Calculating with the abacus demands focus, patience and precise hand movements – skills that carry over into other areas.
Every calculation requires full attention. Distracted movements immediately lead to wrong results – this trains conscious focus.
Intermediate results are not written down but held in mind. This trains working memory in a direct way.
Two-handed operation and a steady calculating rhythm foster coordination and a structured working pace.
Instead of memorising rules, an intuitive feel develops for magnitudes, estimates and the place-value system.
Courses take place in small groups. Each session lasts 50 minutes.
6 – 9 years · weekly during term time
6 – 9 years · weekly during term time
9 – 14 years · weekly during term time
Ritzenbergstraße 3, 3rd floor · 01067 Dresden
Applies to all courses
There's no race. The method builds on itself: those who understand the foundation naturally get faster.
The build and logic of the Soroban, the four basic operations – step by step, without time pressure.
Targeted exercises build automaticity. Movements become surer, thinking becomes faster.
The abacus moves from the table into the mind. Those who reach this stage calculate with an inner image.
In one hour you'll get to know how it works, see how the Soroban functions and can ask any questions. No obligation.
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