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Japanese paper lanters.

Japanese

Japanese, spoken by the 127.3 million inhabitants of the Japanese archipelago, is the ninth most widely spoken language in the world, and represents the third largest economy. Its appeal is increasingly enhanced by many cultural exports (manga, anime, martial arts, kawaii culture, and much else) that have grown exponentially over recent years. Many students of this language also find it a valued skill for work in business, government, the travel industry, and numerous fields of research. Study abroad in Japan provides opportunities for credit toward the minor.

Japanese Program

Japanese temple gate.

East Asian Studies Minor

The East Asian Studies minor provides an interdisciplinary approach to exploring the languages, politics, society, and cultures of countries in East Asia.

Resources For You

  • Student Organizations

    Learn more about the benefits of involvement in a registered student organization.

  • Japanese Faculty

    Meet the professors and professionals with whom you will be working.

Explore Your Options

  • Earn Free Credit Hours

    If you took this language in high school, you may be able to begin at a higher level of this language at ISU, making you eligible to earn four to eight hours credit for free. This can amount to more than $2,000 in savings.

    Email us with questions about placement.
  • Partner with Us

    If you love this language and culture as much as we do, let’s chat. We’re happy to visit high school classrooms, show you around our space, and come up with new ideas to celebrate and pass on this language and culture.

    Email Laura Edwards to start a conversation.

Japanese Alumni

Daily Spangler

"As I worked to complete my East Asian Studies minor and learned more about Japanese history, culture, and language, I fell in love with Japan. I studied abroad in Asahikawa, Japan, for one month and decided to move to Japan upon graduation."

Daily Spangler'14
minor in East Asian Studies