Introduction to the Japanese Language

Hosted by the University of Tokyo
4 – 15 July, 2011

The University of Tokyo provides an introductory course for those new to Japan which will both facilitate participation in Japanese society and introduce characteristics of the Japanese language - such as the Japanese writing system, elementary grammar, and communication patterns. With the Japanese language learnt in these classes we hope our students will be able to experience a wider range of Japanese culture. To improve students' Japanese literacy, “practical” lessons, such as the use of dictionaries, will also be included in this course. This will enable students to continue their study of the language when they return to their home country.

The Center for Japanese Language Education at the University of Tokyo provides an e-learning website through which students should study how to read the Hiragana (a Japanese phonetic character system consisting of 46 characters) and numbers up to 100 before coming to Japan. Students will be provided with a password to access restricted e-learning materials for a limited period. Please note that students are only eligible for this course if they are enrolled in other GSP course(s) offered by the University of Tokyo. Read More >>

Testimonials

“I enjoyed the course a lot and am surprised at how much we learned and are able to understand. All the teachers were extraordinarily nice and helped us a lot.”
- 2010 participant from ETH Zurich

“A highly interactive and intensive language course meant for the elementary level. I highly recommend this course to students who want to learn Japanese language in a fun and interactive way."
- 2010 participant from the National University of Singapore

Summer Internship 2011

The University of Tokyo is offering a research internship opportunity for international students. Please visit http://www.iaruni.org/internships for more information.