Recently, a new way of learning Chinese quietly emerged into Tokyo. Japan Overseas Chinese News and the Japan-China Exchanges Institute jointly initiated "Sunday Chinese Corner" in Tokyo.
Every Sunday afternoon, several Japanese people learning Chinese and interested in China gather in Nishi-Ikebukuro Park in Tokyo; and by using Chinese, exchange information and their experiences in China. "Chinese Corner" has drawn an enthusiastic crowd and has received much attention from the media.
"Chinese Corner" occurs at a time when China's international influence is growing and the number of Chinese learners is increasing. But many do not have opportunities to have face-to-face language exchanges with other learners and Chinese people. Many Japanese who have been to China for study or work do not have the opportunity to use Chinese after returning to Japan. On this basis, Japan Overseas Chinese News and the Japan-China Exchanges Institute – already having experience in organizing two Chinese essay contests, "English Corner," and "Japanese Corner" in China – established the first "Sunday Chinese Corner" on August 5th.
"Chinese Corner" is held in Nishi-Ikebukuro Park in Tokyo – an easy place to find. It is free and open to the public. People can come and go as they please. Each time, the organizer offers one or two topics for participants to focus on in their discussion. In addition, participants also get free copies of Chinese newspapers and journals. Many of them prefer to follow the "Chinese Corner" activity by watching a Chinese movie, singing Chinese songs, or eating Chinese food.
"Sunday Chinese Corner" is a non-governmental activity. It has become an important platform for exchanges by Japanese and Chinese people who are concerned with China; and serves as a window for people overseas to receive messages about China. So far, 300 people have attended "Chinese Corner," including well-known scholars, government officials, company employees, young students, and housewives, from both countries. There is among them an 85-year-old old man and 4-year-old child. "Chinese Corner" covers a variety of topics ranging from Chinese relics to Chinese cuisines.
"Chinese Corner" is actually a type of Confucius Institute. A Confucius Institute provides a classroom in which students learn Chinese culture and language on campus. However, "Chinese Corner" is slightly different. It encourages a free exchange environment and relaxed modes of communication. A Confucius Institute offers regular and authoritative education. "Chinese Corner" offers liberal and lively communication opportunities. A Confucius Institute is more official; while the "Chinese Corner" is not.
Establishing a Confucius Institute requires economic support; while "Chinese Corner" only needs support from enthusiastic overseas Chinese. Friendly Japanese and Chinese students introduce the latest news and Chinese culture to their Japanese friends at "Chinese Corner," and are recognized for their efforts. For example, civil servants from the Chinese government studying in Japan have talked about the Chinese political system; the Chinese media have introduced their presence in Japan and their role in promoting Chinese-Japanese relations; Chinese writers have taught Chinese literature and writing methods; Chinese enterprise managers in Japan have shared their investment experiences; Waseda University students have demonstrated to people popular household electrical appliances from within the Yan'an cave dwellings in northwest China, and China's rising purchasing power.
The spread of Chinese culture and China's image overseas are under the influence of a variety of factors. The Confucius Institute plays an important role in promoting China's international cultural activities. In the future, "Chinese Corner" will become a useful supplement to the Confucius Institute. As more Confucius Institutes are established throughout the world, more and more "Chinese Corners" will also be introduced into the international community.
(The author Duan Yuezhong is editor-in-chief of the "Japan Overseas Chinese News" and director of the Institute of the Japan-China exchanges)
|
Comment
Tell A Friend
Print Format
Save Article