Japanese 1 (Beginners) Group 1

Location: South Kensington Campus | Level: Beginners

Who is this course for?

The course is designed for complete beginners with no prior knowledge of Japanese.

Course overview

This course offers an introduction to speaking and understanding Japanese for absolute beginners. You will learn essential vocabulary, basic grammar and develop foundational skills in speaking, listening, reading, and writing. The course emphasizes practical communication skills for everyday situations, and you will also learn about Japanese culture and society.

As well as speaking and listening skills, you will be introduced to the Japanese writing systems, starting with Hiragana, and will engage in activities that promote understanding of Japanese customs and daily life.

Sessions are designed to be  accessible and engaging, encouraging you to build on your prior learning through practical and collaborative communicative tasks. The programme will depend in part on the specific group dynamics, with the tutor moderating the content depending on the development of skills across the whole group.

The course fosters an inclusive and supportive learning environment, accommodating diverse learning styles and backgrounds. The sessions are designed to be accessible and engaging, encouraging lively discussions and practical application of the language skills acquired.

This course uses a textbook and other material to teach the course. Advice on which course textbook to buy will be given in the first class.

Term dates - subject to confirmation

•  Autumn/Michaelmas Term: week beginning 12 October 2026 until week ending 11 December 2026

•  Spring/Lent Term: week beginning 11 January 2027 until week ending 20 March 2027

For course content and language level enquiries: Contact the Japanese Coordinator, Dr Yuki Tokumaru at y.tokumaru@imperial.ac.uk

For enrolment and booking enquiries: Contact Christian Jacobi at c.jacobi@imperial.ac.uk

Class recordings

These classes are not recorded.

Imperial certificates

This course has no exams or assessments, so you can focus on enjoying your learning. If you attend regularly, you may also receive an Imperial attendance certificate. (T&Cs apply).