Hi,

I recently decided to learn Japanese. I had had that in mind for several years now, but a couple of days ago, I read a blog about Japan and decided to just start it. Textfugu was recommended there and I actually learned Hiragana by using Hiragana42 and then tried out the first chapter of Textfugu. I liked it, so here I am, going back through that chapter to actually do all the tasks this time (yes, even the Hiragana related ones; it can only help to go over it again, even after Hiragana42). So, here’s my answer to the big question.

I want to learn Japanese for several reasons. One is actually one of the weak reasons, it’s “because it’s fun”. I think it is a really interesting language and I enjoy learning something entirely different. But now to the hard reasons. Within the next 10 years (I know it’s a long timeframe, but that’s the time I want to give myself), I want to at least be able to do the following (everything else is a plus, as well as finishing sooner):

* I want to be able to use Japanese in Japan

I want to be able to go to Japan and know enough Japanese to not be completely helpless without English. I want to be able to read enough Japanese, to find my way around on trains. I also would like to speak enough Japanese to ask for directions, go grocery shopping and maybe have simple conversations. It’s ok if I’m slow or if I have to write down some things or look them up, but I want to be able to do day-to-day things.

* I want to be able to watch anime and read mangas

I know this is a tough one, so I’m ok with being limited to children’s books and movies. I can take it further from there.

* I want to be able to watch Japanese baseball

I love baseball, even though it’s not popular in my home country and there are a lot of Japanese players I admire and so I would like to watch some games and follow some of the commentary.