Enthusiasm for learning Chinese in Japan boosts people-to-people communication

Every Sunday afternoon from August 5, 2007 to now, dozens to hundreds of Japanese and Chinese people gather in Tokyo's Nishiikebukuro Park to talk in Chinese and Japanese.

"I like this Chinese Corner very much. I come to chat here as long as I have time. It's more about the latest Chinese news, culture and making Chinese friends than it is about learning the language," said 67-year-old Biju Nedzu.

"It is free and has no threshold; people can come and go as they like. That's why many Japanese people, many of whom have to work, come to the Corner all the year round. It has become a platform for sincere communication between Japanese friends and Chinese friends," said Duan Yaozhong, founder of the Chinese Corner.

On July 14, the 600th event of the Chinese Corner was held. Kyodo News Agency, Mainichi Shimbun and other Japanese media reported the event. The gathering of the people from the two nations through the years was recognized by the Japanese society and touched many Japanese people.

"Nowadays, Chinese language is no longer just a personal interest of Japanese friends, but an important skill related to one's future. More and more Japanese universities are offering Chinese courses, and Chinese teaching is also becoming increasingly active outside in the society," said Hu Zhiping.