Questions to Sensei from the Students
I am currently compiling questions which the students (seito) are asking me. I will publish them below, as I get them.
Seito: How long does it take to learn Japanese?
Sensei: Everybody learns at their own pace. Some people are naturally good at languages and some people have more difficult. It's ok! As long as you don't give up! It took me about 7 years before I felt like I could understand and speak Japanese. I studied for 4 years at college, but I didn't feel like I understood it very well. However, after living for 3 years in Japan, I was really good! As an elementary school student, you're learning at a young age, so it will be much easier than starting in college!
Seito: What is Jujutsu?
Sensei: Jujutsu is a traditional Japanese art used by samurai warriors to protect themselves against people with weapons. In traditional Japan, many people carried swords, and even women carried knives for protection. Modern practice is with a wooden sword. Students are taught techniques to protect themselves against would-be attackers. It's a difficult art to learn, but can be enjoyable and a great cultural experience. It's hard to explain, so here is a video that should help.