Stories from around the world, each with its own message with telling in Japanese.
The "International Speech Contest in Japanese" is an event in which international learners of Japanese present their own experiences and thoughts in Japanese.
Topics include life in Japan, cultural differences, encounters with people, reflections on learning the language, and the future of society.
Through the participants’ speeches, delivered in their own words, the event provides an opportunity to reflect on Japan and the wider world, and to foster mutual understanding.
The first international speech contest in Japanese was held in Tokyo.
Started co-hosting with Japan Foundation.
Until then, the event had been held only in Tokyo, however from 1998, it would be held in various cities across the country, with those cities acting as co-hosts.
It will be held the 65th contest in Ibara city, Okayama.
It’s not just about the accuracy of the Japanese; it’s about what participants want to convey and what feelings they wish to share. Each participant speaks in their own words.
New perspectives and insights emerge from the words of participants from various countries, cultures and backgrounds.
It is a forum where people meet through the Japanese language and learn about each other’s cultures and values.
This competition began in 1960, and since then many nationals have shared their thoughts and experiences in Japanese.
For over 60 years, it has provided a forum for cultural exchange through language, whilst observing the changing face of Japan and the world over the years.
You could watch the speeches on Youtube.
You can see highlights from previous competitions, speeches by participants and the results.
