Community "Nihongo Kyoshitsu" Activities Report, vol.9

The regional Japanese language education coordinators of the Tokyo Metropolitan Foundation “TSUNAGARI” are visiting Japanese classes in Tokyo and introducing them in the Community "Nihongo Kyoshitsu" Activities Report.

In our ninth report, we are introducing "Space-I" in Shibuya-ku!

Some information about Shibuya-ku

As you may be aware, Shibuya-ku is at the center of youth culture, and its streets contain many stores and facilities. In recent years, the scramble crossing and other locations have attracted global attention as tourist spots.

Population (as of June 1, 2024):　　　        231,950 

No. of foreign nationals among population:    12,395

 

 

Space-I

Space-I is a class where learners enjoy having conversations in Japanese. Its activities are carried out at Shibuya-ku Sogo Care Community Seseragi. Learners form pairs with supporters and study for two hours once a week. Pairs have the freedom to decide the content of their conversations and the way they move forward, enabling learners to speak Japanese in a fun atmosphere.

 

I also joined in the activities—the content of our conversations was wide-ranging, and we introduced each other to the differences between Japan and the learners' countries, including school systems, how to get your driver's license, and surnames and names. I saw a lot of instances of learners forgetting they were practicing Japanese because they were talking about their interests, and becoming engrossed in the conversation.

 

 

In learning breaks, the class also shared information about local events with everyone. There were pairs that engaged in further conversation about events, and information about the events acted as a catalyst for the learners to become interested in local society. Space-I holds events four times a year. Everyone can enjoy these events, and content includes cooking, wearing kimono, and creating kokedama (moss balls for growing plants). 

Lots of supporters are currently involved in activities, but the large number of people who want to learn means there aren't enough supporters, so the class is recruiting supporters. Mr. Suzuki, the representative of the class, told me that people can enjoy getting involved in Space-I's activities, and that  participants are also able to learn a lot from the learners.

If you are interested in Space-I's activities, please contact us by email.

Representative: Mr. Suzuki

suzukikeiji.ften※gmail.com    (Please replace "※" with "@" to send us an email.)

 

 Try visiting...

I saw people from all sorts of backgrounds gathered together, enjoying conversations, and I felt that Space-I has become more than a Japanese class—it is a space for exchanges with local people. I also participated in the activities, and the time passed before I knew it! 
I thought it would be great if there were more classes in Tokyo in which learners and supporters can have fun as they get involved in activities.

by MN