#Japan #Tokyo #Hao Chinese Academy #Yoko Matsumoto #Chinese Pronunciation

20th Anniversary Celebration of HAO Chinese Academy

In 2025, HAO Chinese Academy, operated by AEON Corporation, is set to celebrate its 20th anniversary with a special event: the 6th edition of a series of commemorative projects. This notable event will take place on August 2, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM at the AEON headquarters in Shinjuku, Tokyo. Renowned instructor Yoko Matsumoto, an expert in Chinese phonetics education, will lead a specialized course focused on Chinese pronunciation, designed for learners looking to enhance their linguistic skills.

Importance of Pronunciation in Language Learning

Many learners, despite having a good grasp of grammar, find their spoken Chinese does not convey the intended meaning. The root of this issue often lies in pronunciation—especially in distinguishing tones, vowels, and consonants. This course will address challenges commonly faced by Japanese speakers and will incorporate listening quizzes to provide an engaging and thorough understanding of pronunciation complexities. Attendees will gain insights into the theoretical aspects of phonetics while also practicing practical techniques to communicate effectively in Chinese.

About the Instructor

Yoko Matsumoto obtained her degree from Tokyo University of Foreign Studies and furthered her studies with a doctorate focusing on Chinese phonetics at Waseda University. She has extensive experience as a lecturer for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan and has conducted numerous pronunciation clinics in China and Taiwan. Matsumoto is well-respected for her ability to combine theory with hands-on instruction, offering students a unique learning experience.

Course Outline

• - Date and Time: August 2, 2025, 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM (including a 15-minute break)
• - Venue: AEON Headquarters, 16th Floor, Nittochi Nishi Shinjuku Building, 6-10-1 Nishi Shinjuku, Shinjuku, Tokyo
• - Capacity: 30 participants (first-come, first-served, minimum of 5 to start)
• - Fee: 4,400 yen (tax included) for current students of HAO Academy / 5,500 yen for others

Course Content

• - First Half (80 minutes): Practice in tones, vowels, consonants, and non-retroflex sounds along with listening quizzes
• - Second Half (85 minutes): Focus on retroflex sounds complemented with listening strengthening quizzes

Learning Materials

Participants will receive handouts based on Dr. Matsumoto's published work, Learning Chinese Pronunciation through Mechanisms. This course will also serve as an ongoing series for those interested in deepening their understanding of Chinese pronunciation; purchasing the book is encouraged and can be obtained at a special price with shipping discounts for course participants.

Registration Information

• - Application Period: June 9, 2025 – August 1, 2025
• - How to Apply: Applications can be made directly at HAO Chinese Academy locations for both current and prospective students.
• - Locations: Applications are accepted at Shinjuku, Shibuya, Ikebukuro, Shinbashi, Kanda, Iidabashi, Yokohama, and Kashiwa campuses.

Previous Anniversary Events

To commemorate its 20-year journey, HAO Chinese Academy has organized several educational and cultural initiatives:

• - 1st Event (September 2024): Workshop on Chinese cultural practices, featuring a Mid-Autumn Festival seminar.
• - 2nd Event (November 2024): A talk by Chen Shumei about effective methods for learning Chinese.
• - 3rd Event (February 2025): A collaboration with the film Fengshen 2.
• - 4th Event (May 2025): A seminar led by Takagi Mitori on how to effectively learn Chinese.
• - 5th Event (June 2025): Collaboration with the film Chengchuan er Qu.

About HAO Chinese Academy

Since its inception in 2004, HAO Chinese Academy has been dedicated to delivering high-quality Chinese language lessons and service. With diverse learning approaches such as e-learning, online classes, and in-person lessons, the academy aims to enrich the Chinese language education landscape in Japan. Their mission is not only to teach language but also to cultivate a deeper interest in Chinese culture, history, and arts among learners.

Conclusion

With a commitment to bridging cultural gaps through language, HAO Chinese Academy continues to evolve and support its students in achieving their dreams through the study of Chinese. For anyone looking to improve their Chinese through effective pronunciation training, this special course is an unmissable opportunity.

For more information about HAO Chinese Academy, visit their official website here.

About AEON

Founded in 1973, AEON has played a significant role in enriching lives through language education, fostering global competency in learners with over 50 years of experience. By leveraging their proven teaching methodologies alongside innovative technologies through their partnership with KDDI Group, they continue to provide tailored language learning experiences that meet various student needs.