Land of the Rising Sun
Comprised of over 3,000 islands, Japan boasts the world's tenth largest population at 128 million people. In addition to having a fascinating and ancient history, Japan has secured a place in the 21st century as being an intricate piece of the global economy.
Learn to speak Japanese at South Mountain Community College now. Courses focus on vocabulary, grammar, and conversational skills, and also allow a glimpse into the complex heritage and customs of Japanese culture.
Courses
Listing of Courses
- NC500 Speedy Japanese I
- NC500 Speedy Japanese II
- NC500 Speedy Japanese III
Fast Facts
- Japan has 192 volcanoes, of which 58 are still active.
- Japan has an area slightly smaller than California and has a population of 127 million, making this country the fifth most populous in the world.
- The five main islands of Japan are Honshu, Kyushu, Shikoku, Hokkaido and Okinawa.
- English-speaking policemen wear a red armband.
Shintoism, Buddhism and Christianity are the main religions practiced in Japan.
- The three largest corporations in Japan are 1) Mitsubishi, 2) Sumitomo, and 3) Itoh.
- Japan's unemployment is about 3 percent.
- Tradition says that the eldest son and his wife have the major responsibility for caring for his parents.
- Most Japanese have studied English in school, but their studies were geared toward passing exams, not holding conversations. As a result, many hesitate to speak English, but may understand more than most
- Americans give them credit for.
- The Japanese consider it inappropriate to show affection in public.
- The average female marries at age 24 and the average male at age 27.
- In most homes and some restaurants, you'll have to remove your shoes before entering.
- Green tea is the national drink of Japan.
- Japanese drive on the left side of the road.
(Sources: National Geographic, US Navy)