The Benefits of Learning Japanese: Insights from a Long-Term Learner
Learning a language can be incredibly rewarding, and Japanese stands out as a particularly valuable skill. Whether you wish to live and work in Japan, understand manga and anime, or communicate effectively with Japanese colleagues, there are numerous advantages to mastering this beautiful language. This article delves into the personal experiences and insights of an individual who has spent decades learning and applying Japanese.
Understanding the Demand and Its Evolution
One of the earliest reasons I learned Japanese was due to the growing demand for multilingual communication in international business. In the 1970s, Japan was experiencing rapid industrial growth, transforming it into a global export powerhouse. Companies needed comprehensive materials in multiple languages, including English and Japanese, to facilitate the understanding of their products and services. My own company was at the forefront of this, providing translation and localization services for Japanese products. This work was highly lucrative, generating over $200,000 monthly for several years.
However, as time passed, the dynamics shifted. Economic changes and a burgeoning foreign presence in Japan led to the outsourcing of these tasks to more cost-effective markets, such as Singapore. This shift illustrated how economic factors significantly impact the value of language skills in the global market. Today, the value of multilingualism lies in the ability to bridge gaps in communication, especially where English proficiency may be lacking.
Personal Journey: Intensive Learning and Long-Term Gains
My journey to fluency began as a young professional working in Tokyo, where I immersed myself in the language over several years. I attended an intensive one-on-one course, dedicating about 20 hours per week over a five-year period, blending weekday evening and weekend study sessions. This commitment paid off handsomely as it equipped me with the necessary language skills to excel in my work as a US-based consultant for a Japanese tech company. My 78th birthday arrived, and I was still working as a consultant for a Japanese tech startup, demonstrating that continuous learning can lead to sustained success.
Free Resources for Japanese Language Learning
For those looking to start their Japanese language journey without a large financial investment, there are several free resources available. I personally found Memrise to be particularly effective in teaching hiragana, a fundamental component of the Japanese writing system. Duolingo also offers a useful course for beginners, while more advanced learners might benefit from Wanikani, known for its comprehensive approach to teaching kanji and vocabulary. Wanikani even rewards users with physical stickers for reaching certain milestones, adding an extra layer of motivation to the learning process.
Stay Connected with Japanese Language Learning Resources
To stay up-to-date with the latest in Japanese language learning, you can check out our YouTube channel, NOMITALK. We regularly post new episodes, and you can easily switch between Japanese and English subtitles by clicking on the subtitle icon. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced learner, there is always something new to discover and learn about the Japanese language and culture.