Will you go abroad for study when you are 70 years of age? 

Kano Shoji is a 71 year old man from Wakayama prefecture, Japan, who is learning Chinese and Chinese culture in JISU. Kano said that JISU was a paradise for language learners.

To Study in Changchun 

Kano graduated from Tokyo University and once worked in the International Exchange Centre in Wakayama prefecture. 

With his friend’s recommendation, he contacted JISU. Kano said with excitement: “It is said JISU has a special atmosphere and its courses are well-designed with special features. What’s more, it attaches great attention to communication and understanding the diverse cultures of the world.” However, he worried that JISU would refuse him because of his age. To his surprise, the admission process was simple and he was accepted quickly.

It is known that JISU admits more than 300 oversea students from America, Russia, Italy, Japan, Korea, Mexico, Portugal, Ukraine and some 20 other countries yearly. Piao Chunlan, a teacher of International Exchange and Communication Department in JISU, said that JISU always considers itself responsible for building bridges between nations by enhancing international communication and cross-cultural exchange. Thus, it warmly welcomes overseas students regardless of their age to study the language and culture of China.

That’s why JISU sent an admission letter to Kano, as soon as his health conditions and learning objectives were confirmed. 

To learn for the sake of learning 

Before Kano came to China, he once lived for a period of time in Korea and Cambodia. However, he has always had a special interest in China. According to Kano, “China and Japan share a lot in common. Cultural homology caused similarities in dressing, language and customs. I passionately hope to experience the culture which seems so similar but is actually quite different.”

After arriving in Changchun, he enjoyed walking on the streets, shopping in the malls downtown, sightseeing in Jingyuetan National Forest Park, and trying the coffee and food at JISU. All of these experiences have strengthened his determination to learn Chinese here at JISU. “When studying for reasons other than wealth and fame, you really discover how fascinating learning is!”  

Kano’s road to learning at JISU has not always been easy, though. “We missed Kano at the airport when he arrived in Changchun”, said Li Xiaofei, a teacher responsible for foreign student management at JISU, “But he managed to reach our campus by the light rail by himself.” “Also, while he went through introduction formalities the next day, he lost his passport. With the help of all the teachers and students, the passport was found within 2 hours. Although Kano met lots of difficulties at beginning, he was always optimistic about life and learning. He earned respect and touched us with his stamina and devotion for knowledge.”

The runner in a paradise for learning 

Kano gets up at 5 in the morning. After having some coffee and cookies, he goes to the class or library to study. Because his Chinese is currently not great, while listening to teachers in class, he draws pictures to help himself memorize the knowledge. He loved the course Chinese Cultural Workshop. In the workshop he experienced traditional Chinese culture and festivals through Chinese calligraphy, drawing kites and other traditional Chinese activities. On April 4th, Kano wrote the Chinese characters “live and learn” in Chinese on his own kite stroke by stroke. When he flew his kite by himself, he was smiling like a child. 

Outside of classes, Karo spends most of his time reading. He loves books in the library ranging from Chinese and world culture to biographies and history. Karo insists that people should always live and learn. It’s like a runner on the running track. As long as I am alive, I will run down the road of knowledge.

Karo has met a lot of Chinese students on campus. He said that the young generation has embodied the prosperity of China in the best way. “The young generation does not need to worry about war or lack of food and clothing. They can follow their hearts and make their dreams come true. They are the future and power of China.”