#Japan #Tokyo #Nichibei Academy #Yuko Aotani #英語教育

Special English Seminars at Nichibei Conversation Academy in February 2026

In a bid to provide specialized instruction not typically covered in standard courses, the Nichibei Conversation Academy, based in Shinjuku, Tokyo, is set to hold a series of special English seminars in February 2026. Led by three prominent experts in the field, these seminars aim to address common challenges faced by English learners and enhance their ability to communicate effectively.

Overview of the Seminars

1. English Reading Aloud Seminar

Instructor: Yuko Aotani
A bilingual free announcer and English communication instructor, Aotani holds a position as an adjunct lecturer at Waseda University, specializing in English speech, public speaking, and narration. After spending her childhood in London, Aotani graduated from Sophia University and joined NHK, where she served as a main anchor for English news from 1992 to 2015. She also directed and produced the English literature reading program 'Listening Library,' promoting Japanese literature abroad. Aotani became an independent professional in 2015 and continues to inspire learners as a reading instructor.

Online Sessions: February 5, 12, 19 (Thursdays) from 19:00 - 21:00
Fee: ¥18,150 for three sessions
Capacity: 12 participants

Face-to-Face Session: February 11 (Holiday) from 9:30 - 12:30
Fee: ¥9,350 for one session
Capacity: 20 participants
Location: Nichibei Conversation Academy, Shinjuku, Tokyo

Focus Areas:

• - Participants will engage in a reading workshop based on Lafcadio Hearn's horror story 'Yuki-onna.'
• - Techniques on how to convey stories in English, including voice modulation, pacing, and expressive methods will be addressed.
• - Attendees will experience an approach to expressing Japanese literary works in English through reading.

2. Pronunciation Enhancement Seminar

Instructor: Tetsuto Shizuma
A noted professor emeritus at Daito Bunka University, Shizuma specializes in practical training in English instruction, particularly pronunciation teaching methods. He graduated from Tokyo University of Foreign Studies and holds both a master's and a PhD. He has extensive experience conducting workshops and training for English teachers.

Face-to-Face Sessions:

• - Beginner Level: February 1
• - Intermediate Level: February 8
• - Upper Intermediate Level: February 15

Each session from 13:30 - 15:30
Fee: ¥6,050 for each single session
Capacity: 10 participants
Location: Nichibei Conversation Academy, Shinjuku, Tokyo

Content Breakdown:

• - Beginner Level: Basics of pronunciation focusing on critical sounds like L, R, and TH.
• - Intermediate Level: Understanding differences in pronunciation, such as cars/cards, ear/year, and addressing phonetic changes.
• - Upper Intermediate Level: Using accent and intonation nuances to accurately convey meaning.

3. English Learning Methods Seminar

Instructor: Toshiyuki Takahashi
The editor of 'The Japan Times Alpha J,' Takahashi brings a wealth of experience to teaching English. Since joining The Japan Times in 2007, he has been involved in various editorial roles, focusing on international news and learning columns. Known for his belief that effective vocabulary learning requires deep engagement, he is a formidable instructor.

Sessions: Both face-to-face and online on February 15 from 10:00 - 12:00
Fee: ¥6,050 for one session
Capacity: 20 participants
Location: Nichibei Conversation Academy, Shinjuku, Tokyo

Key Takeaways:

• - The seminar will offer practical exercises and knowledge aimed at enhancing communicative competence.
• - Attendees can expect actionable learning methods that they can implement immediately.

Registration Information

For more details and registration, visit: Nichibei Conversation Academy Special Seminar

Additionally, from March 27 to 30, 2026, an 'English Teaching Methodology Seminar' will also be held, catering to those involved in or interested in English education. This hands-on seminar will teach applicable teaching methods for junior high and high school settings. Experts including Aotani, Shizuma, and Takahashi will be present for online sessions.

For inquiries, reach out to Nichibei Conversation Academy at TEL: 03-3359-9600 or MAIL: [email protected].

Established in 1945, Nichibei Conversation Academy has been a driving force in English education, delivering practical training for over 80 years, supporting the growth of global talent in Japan.