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Five Reasons to Learn Japanese

Posted: 23rd May 2017 08:35

Globally Renowned Companies

According to the World Bank, Japan has the third largest economy in the world.  Needless to say, this is largely due to the thriving business centres of cities such as Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka and Yokohama.  Being such an influential world market makes Japan a go-to country for ambitious business people; whichever sector you’re interested in, understanding Japanese will put you ahead of your competitors in making strong business connections.  Home to the head offices of worldwide known brands such as Toyota, Mitsubishi, Nissan, Honda and Hitachi, Japan is a world centre for economic prowess.

Anime Aficionados

Cartoons and anime are inseparable from Japanese culture.  If titles such as One Piece, Fairy Tail, Bleach, Naruto Shippuden and Shingeki no Kyojin mean anything to you, then you’ll understand that although subtitles are available, there is nothing quite like understanding the direct meaning from the writers themselves.  Learning Japanese will firstly reveal the message of these stories but, if your interest goes further than just watching the chronicles of the Elric brothers in Fullmetal Alchemist, you could always study animation and art at one of Japan’s specialist university departments.

Technological Wizards

Ever wanted your own robot like Short Circuit or maybe R2-D2 from Star Wars?  Well, Japan is at the forefront of robotics, creating humanoids that can recognise emotions, as well as demonstrate sign language.  Understanding Japanese will put you in an advantageous position, if you wish to pursue a career in the technological world, as you will be more useful to prospective employers.  With new inventions every day such as the ability to manipulate 3-D images and glasses that will tell you if you need to sleep, the crazy and innovative technology of the future is at your fingertips in Japan.

Spiritual Journey

Shinto is Japan’s largest indigenous religion, whilst Buddhism was imported in the 6th Century.  Learning about these religions gives you an excellent insight into Japanese culture and if you want to explore properly, there are plenty of universities in and outside Japan that offer specialised courses in these areas; what better research to gain than from in Japan.  If you practise Shintoism or Buddhism then partaking in meditation classes or a course at a monastery is the perfect way to immerse yourself in your religion.  Learning Japanese fluently is a must in these instances as there are very few courses in English.

Martial Arts

Whether you’re a beginner or a passionate student, Japan provides an excellent setting to develop your skills in the martial arts.  Developed from the fighting style of the samurais, karate, kendo and kyudo are just some of the options available from the hundreds of dojos throughout Japan.  Although learning Japanese isn’t essential, it will elevate your grasp of your learning whilst you’re a student.  Apart from being able to understand the meaning behind the moves, you’ll also find it easier to communicate with your fellow students and make friends, as well as sparring partners.

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