Turning Japanese: Unlearning Japan | An 8 Week Language and Culture Workshop with Emi Suzuki | Term 4 | 2026

We acknowledge this event takes place on the unceded lands of the Wurundjeri Woi-Wurrung people of the Kulin Nation. We pay our respects to Elders past & present. Always was, always will be, Aboriginal land.

Think everything you know about Japan might only be part of the story? And is your Japanese still very, very basic? Perfect. This workshop is for you.

Over eight weeks, we'll explore Japan beyond the familiar stereotypes and simplified narratives that often shape Western understandings of Japanese people, culture, and society. Together, we'll unpack assumptions, ask questions, and discover the diversity, contradictions, and complexities that make Japan far more than just sushi, samurais, and anime.

Alongside this journey of Unlearning Japan, we'll continue building practical beginner Japanese language skills. If you can in a very basic way introduce yourself, know a few simple phrases, or you have joined Turning Japanese Workshop 1, you're ready to join us. This is not an intermediate language course. We'll focus on simple conversations, useful verbs, expressive adjectives, and the confidence to communicate in everyday situations.

No language perfection required—just curiosity.

Ready to challenge what you know, learn some Japanese, and discover new perspectives on Japan? Join us for Turning Japanese: Unlearning Japanese Language and Culture

Join now—there are only 12 seats!

Friday's 6.30 - 8pm at NECCHi East Coburg, 32 Nicholson St, East Coburg

Dates:

Oct 23

Oct 30

Nov 6

Nov 13

Nov 20

Nov 27

Dec 4

Dec 11

Meet Emi

Emiko Suzuki, a.k.a. Emi, is a Naarm (Melbourne)-based Japanese language teacher who weaves cultural understanding into every lesson. Born and raised in Japan, she studied literature before moving to Naarm, where she has been teaching the language and working as a chef.

With several years of teaching experience, Emi supports learners from all backgrounds and loves the connections that grow through a shared learning journey.

A passionate linguist herself, she has studied Spanish and is currently learning Arabic. Through learning multiple languages and relocating to an English-speaking country, Emi has developed a lived understanding of the challenges faced when beginning a new language. In her teaching, she draws on this experience to guide students through cultural and linguistic exploration with empathy, clarity, and practical techniques for adult learners and those studying Japanese as a second or third language.

Accessibility:

Info can be found here.

And don't forget! NECCHi Members, are entitled to 10% off a full price ticket when you enter your membership discount code. Join NECCHi now to enjoy all the benefits NECCHi Neighbour 2026.

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