A growing number of young people are studying Japanese language because they are attracted to Japan’s “cool” culture. For these young people, The Japan Foundation Japanese-Language Institute, Urawa, has developed the series “Erin’s Challenge! I Can Speak Japanese.”
The program features mini-dramas by up-and-coming actors together with clear and fun explanations by animation characters. In addition to language study, the program is designed to help learners develop an attitude conducive to cultural understanding.

■Title
  “Erin’s Challenge! I Can Speak Japanese.”

■Production & Development
  The Japan Foundation Japanese-Language Institute, Urawa

■Co-production
  NHK Educational Corporation

■ Production collaboration
  Directions, Inc.

■Skit writer
  Hirokazu Yamana

■Skit (mini-drama) cast
  Ellie Toyota (Stardust Promotion, Inc.)
  Kana Kurashina (SMA Entertainment, Inc.)
  Meguru Ishii (P.B.B.)
  Hideo Ishiguro (Production Ogi Co., Ltd.)
  Jutta Yuki (Stardust Promotion, Inc.)

■Voice actors
  Takashi Nagasako, Kayo Sakata

1-minute introductory video of ”Erin’s challenge! I Can Speak Japanese.”