“A Memorable Day at the Japanese Language Festival” is a guest blog written by an anonymous attendee of the Nihongo Matsuri on September 10th 2023. All pictures were taken by the organization of the event, with many thanks to Tibo for editing them!
A Memorable Day at the Japanese Language Festival
Hello there! I just had to share my incredible experience at the Japanese Language Festival that took place on September 10th at the Leidsche Rijn Library. It was an event organized by ONK (the Organization of Japanese Teachers in the Netherlands) and Japan Fans, and let me tell you, it was an absolute blast!
As soon as I walked into the library, I was greeted by a vibrant atmosphere buzzing with excitement. The event was a haven for language enthusiasts like me. What impressed me the most was the warm and inclusive environment. No matter your proficiency level, everyone was encouraged to participate and engage in activities. And oh, the activities! They had a plethora of games that were both entertaining and educational. I found myself engrossed in challenging yet enjoyable language games, which helped me brush up on my Japanese skills in a fun way.
One of the highlights for me was the interactive sessions with the teachers and native speakers. Their patience and encouragement made me feel at ease while practicing my speaking and listening skills. It was such a confidence booster to converse in Japanese without any fear of judgment.
The festival was not just about language; it was a celebration of Japanese culture. The organizers had thoughtfully arranged for delightful snacks that transported me straight to the streets of Japan. And the music! Ah, the live guitar performances accompanied by soulful Japanese songs created a cozy, intimate ambiance. It was impossible not to get lost in the music and soak in the cultural richness.
But what truly made this event unforgettable were the people. All the teachers were incredibly kind and patient, making sure everyone felt included and supported. I made some wonderful friends within the group – fellow language enthusiasts who shared my passion for Japanese culture. We laughed, learned, and bonded over our shared love for the language.
There was just one downside – the event was held quite far from where I live. If it were closer, I would be a regular attendee at the Japan Fans study group in the Leidsche Rijn Library every Friday. Fortunately, the organizers had already created virtual groups, including the Haiku Club and the online book club. I am thrilled that I can continue my language learning journey and engage with the community, albeit in a virtual space.
In conclusion, I can’t express enough how grateful I am for the Japanese Language Festival. It was a day filled with laughter, learning, and new friendships. To anyone passionate about Japanese language and culture, I highly recommend joining such events. They not only enhance your language skills but also provide a platform to connect with amazing people who share your interests.
I’m eagerly looking forward to the next event, and until then, I’ll be actively participating in the online study groups. Arigatou gozaimasu, ONK and Japan Fans, for this wonderful experience!
