Japanese

Our programme and course materials comprise linguistic and cultural contents, with a high level of interaction between lecturers and students. We use a blended learning method, with online resources available for our students to interact with the Japanese language and culture at their own pace. Our communicative, action-oriented approach engages students in activities such as skits, role-plays, and experiential learning projects, which help our students to achieve their language learning goals. In order to add to the learning experience, a Japanese Language Corner (JLC) is available for 6 weeks per semester, where NTU students can get assistance from Japanese exchange students.

For more information, please contact Japanese language coordinator at [email protected]
To get involved join the NTU Japanese Appreciation Club.

1. Learn about the Japanese culture.
Japan has a long history and a distinctly unique culture. When you learn Japanese, you become not only proficient in the language, but also gain an understanding of the culture. A familiarity with the Japanese culture allows you to step outside the culture you live in and see it from a fresh, new perspective. So a study of Japanese can open your perspective on the values of the nation, including aesthetics, ethics, and values.

2. Knowing Japanese creates job opportunities.
Japan is a prosperous country and has a diverse economy. Leading Japanese companies are among the largest, most efficiently run, and most well-known firms in the world. Familiar names such as Canon, Casio, Honda, Minolta, Mitsubishi, Sony, Toshiba, Toyota, and many others are large players in the global market. , hence, whether you're in the field of business, engineering, manufacturing, research, or economics there are good opportunities for working for a Japanese company.

3. Learning Japanese brings business opportunities.
Japanese consumers spend billions of dollars each year on consumer goods and services. The typical household has savings and a disposable monthly income. Many companies and businesses spent billions in direct investment in Japan. Thus, being able to communicate with potential customers in their own language is key to winning their business. Understanding the Japanese work ethic and business etiquette can make or break an important business deal.

4. The Japanese are innovators.
Considering that Japan is geographically isolated island nation that is densely populated and poor in natural resources makes the strength of the Japanese economy very impressive. The Japanese have relied on their creativity and scientific research to succeed. The Japanese are known as high tech leaders in fields such as industrial robotics, optical media, and semiconductor manufacturing. Their drive for innovation has made the Japanese the world leaders in annual patent filing applications.

5. Learning Japanese could help you to study abroad.
Japanese schools have high standards of learning at all levels of education. If you’re interested in studying abroad, Japan would be an excellent place to do so. Of course, studying in a different country would be most beneficial if you can speak the language well.

6. Make friends online.
The Japanese make up the third largest language community on the internet and Japan boasts a population that is among the world’s most internet savvy. An estimated 88 million Japanese are connected to the Internet, yet mostly use Japanese-language sites. Knowing Japanese can connect you to Japanese people in an instant. They may just be future friends or acquaintances, business associates, or even the market that you or your future employer hopes to target.

7. Nothing is lost in translation.
Japanese anime and television shows are very popular and many of you grew up watching Japanese shows. However, you might be surprised about exactly how much is lost in translation. This includes anything from phrases being edited to sensors attempting to make the content child-friendly. When you are able to understand the original content, you do not have to worry about inadequate editing issues.

8. Sing your favourite Jpop song.
If you are a fan of Jpop, but do not speak Japanese, you are clearly missing out on the complete enjoyment. You may think it is enough to listen passively or hum along to the melody, but it is an entirely different experience when you can truly understand the meaning and emotion behind the songs.

Learn Japanese and be intrigued and enriched by its language and rich culture. Our innovative and creative pedagogy will leave you with memorable learning experiences.​

The Language Immersion Programme (LIP) is a short-term Japanese Programme organised and run by the centre for Japanese Language at Waseda University. The goal of this 3 week is to cultivate students’ overall Japanese language ability. The classes are provided in different levels, and students can study apply for the programmes that suit their own abilities. Find more information on the Japanese LIP on the NTU OGEM website or email: [email protected]

Waseda University 早稲田大学 
Waseda University is considered to be one of Japan's most prestigious universities, consistently ranking amongst the top universities in Japanese university rankings. The university holds a memorandum of agreement with Cambridge University, the University of Hong Kong, and Yale University among its 432 partnership institutions in 79 countries. If you are interested in studying Japanese at Waseda University, please follow the link: