A Japanese language proficiency tournament was held at the Ikuo Hirayama International Caravanserai of Culture in Tashkent, organized by the Embassy of Japan in Uzbekistan.

A traditional Japanese card game helped young participants test their knowledge. Each card featured poetic lines, proverbs, and sayings, and players had to quickly recognize which card corresponded to the first letter announced by the game’s host. This game tests familiarity with literary sources and enhances listening comprehension, quick thinking, and reaction speed.

As noted by Hatori Takashi, Ambassador of Japan to Uzbekistan, this annual event provides a platform for young people passionate about the Japanese language to showcase their skills, gain motivation for further achievements, and deepen their understanding of Japan’s rich culture.

More than 20 students participated in the tournament, representing Tashkent State University of Oriental Studies, Tashkent State University of Law, Uzbekistan State University of World Languages, University of World Economy and Diplomacy, Samarkand State Institute of Foreign Languages, Japan Digital University in Tashkent, the Academic Lyceum of TSUOS, and the Uzbekistan – Japan Center.

The tournament’s top performer was Anaida Malkhasova, a student at the Uzbekistan State University of World Languages. A total of six prize-winning places were awarded, with the winners receiving commemorative gifts from the Embassy of Japan in Uzbekistan.

Nazokat Usmanova, UzA