#Nagano #Ponpikipai #Asako Iida #Enbooks

Learn to Count in Japanese with Joy

In an exciting new release slated for June 26, 2026, Enbooks is set to unveil 'Ponpikipai no Pon', a delightful picture book aimed at teaching Japanese counting in a fun and engaging manner. This enchanting book is written by Asako Iida, a leading authority in counting research and a professor at Chuo University.

Why Counting in Japanese Can Be Confusing

For children, Japanese counting can seem like a perplexing puzzle. Consider the challenges they encounter:

• - When referring to long objects like cucumbers or pencils, is a snake counted as one of them?
• - Why do we say 'ippon', 'nihon', and 'sanbon'?
• - And why are frogs counted as 'ippiki', cats as 'ippiki', and all creatures as 'ippiki' too?

These are common questions that many children face when learning the intricacies of Japanese counting. 'Ponpikipai no Pon' cleverly addresses these inquiries by introducing children to the magical phrase 'ponpikipai', transforming their understanding of number classification into a fun learning process.

Engaging Features of 'Ponpikipai no Pon'

The book introduces counting through three main engaging elements:

1. A Magical Kindergarten Adventure
Set in a familiar kindergarten, the characters learn to master the magical phrase 'ponpikipai' to navigate the rules of counting correctly. This educational narrative is perfectly suited for children around the age of four, where curiosity about the world blooms.

2. Relatable Counting Terms
Children will encounter the counting words 'pon', 'piki', and 'pai', which represent common categories like books, small animals, and cups. As they read, they will naturally grasp the nuances of Japanese counting methods without even realizing it.

3. Sound Fun
The story beautifully illustrates the whimsical sounds associated with counting in Japanese, making learning an auditory adventure. Children will discover how the phrases change when counting different items, reinforcing the learning of counts through playful sounds and rhythms.

A Magical Plot Summary

The story begins as children enter a magical kindergarten, where they meet their mentor, Teacher Josu. Under her guidance, Kazukun, Ecchan, and Kantakun learn the art of the magic words that help them summon food and creatures. Each item requires specific counting words. For example, to conjure one cucumber, they properly use 'pon', whereas summoning two frogs requires the use of 'piki'.

However, their eagerness leads to unexpected challenges. When they decide to test their newfound magic on the way home, unusual creatures appear, placing them in quite a predicament!

Josu’s enchanting command, 'ponpikipai no pon, midori no yasai!', brings forth cucumbers, while further spells summon celery, asparagus, zucchini, and green beans. Each counting term reveals the fun rhythm and sounds making learning enjoyable.

Insights from Asako Iida

Asako Iida emphasizes that readers should enjoy the fascinating sound variations associated with counting. Japanese counting involves different counters, called