Center for Japanese Language and Culture
*Information related to faculty members/students and graduate schools at Gifu University here are all that of the time of interviewing.
The Center for Japanese Language and Culture offers opportunities to learn Japanese language and Japanese culture
The Center for Japanese Language and Culture was established in May 1995 under the name 'International Student Center.' Initially, its main purpose was to provide Japanese language education and academic and life guidance for government-sponsored international students. Nearly 30 years later, the center now undertakes a wide range of activities in response to requests from both inside and outside the university. The main focus is on Japanese language and cultural education for international students. Experienced Japanese language teachers provide detailed instruction to help students acquire advanced Japanese in a short period of time. Additionally, the center is responsible for providing education in international understanding for Japanese students, including multicultural exchange, and collaboration with local governments.
The cornerstone of Japanese language education for international students is the 'Japanese Language Courses.' There are two types of courses: an intensive course where students can acquire advanced Japanese in six months to a year, and a standard course where students can learn Japanese alongside their specialized studies. Programs are tailored to individual levels. Furthermore, for international students who have majored in Japanese language and Japanese culture in their home countries, we offer the 'Japanese Language and Culture Studies Course,' which focuses on improving Japanese proficiency intensively over one year, and the 'Japanese Society and Culture Program' for exchange students. Additionally, we conduct Japanese language classes as part of short-term study abroad programs like summer and winter schools, and regional exchange activities in Gujo City, Gifu Prefecture. Regarding Japanese culture, we hold workshops on Gujo Odori Dance and Nohgaku performances. The center also operates an international exchange lounge where Japanese students act as tutors for international students.
What we value is providing the opportunity to study in Japan, specifically in Gifu. Studying at Gifu University offers students opportunities not only to develop their Japanese language skills but also to gain an understanding of the local culture. Therefore, we focus on education that emphasizes experiences not found in school textbooks. The center offers workshops that allow international students to experience authentic Japanese culture, which even Japanese people rarely have the chance to do. These workshops are highly rated by participating international students.
At Gifu University, we are actively increasing new partnership agreements with universities overseas, and the number of international students studying at Gifu University has been steadily growing. We will continue to develop new, attractive programs and provide flexible and detailed Japanese language and cultural education that can meet the diverse needs of students.
Associate Director, Gifu University Organization
for Promotion of Glocalization (GU-CLOCAL)
Director, Center for Japanese Language and Culture
Professor Shingo Hashimoto
