Japanese

Introduction to Japanese:


Japan is home to over 120 million people, brimming with rich histories, cultures, and identities. An eclectic mix of neon lights, anime, manga, and pop culture juxtaposes shrines, temples, and traditions reaching thousands of years old. No matter what your interests are, Japan has something for you!


Japan is one of our strongest global trading partners, adding almost $5 billion to our economy in 2021. Imports include technology, cars, and ecommerce; exports include our agriculture, horticulture, forestry, and fishing industries. This connects strongly with our local curriculum in Te Kāreti o Waihora where many from our community work within these industries.


Learning Japanese involves understanding how language and culture simultaneously evolve. While exploring new grammar, vocabulary, and writing systems, we can connect our own culture in Aotearoa New Zealand to Japan, and appreciate things we understand similarly, differently, and find a way to meet within these cultural boundaries. Students taking Japanese enjoy the community and cultural aspect of languages, by connecting with other Japanese learners in Canterbury, inbound exchange students from Japan, and online exchanges with host schools.



Why learn a language:


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Potential Career Pathways:



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