Special Japanese-Hungarian storytelling collaboration in Budapest – PHOTOS
On November 5, Tuesday, Hungarian storytelling met Japanese Rakugo through a special international collaboration hosted by the Hungarian National Theater and co-organized by The Japan Foundation, Budapest.
With the goal of opening an international dialogue between the art of storytelling in different nations, The Japan Foundation, Budapest invited Rakugo performer, Master Shinoharu Tatekawa and Rakugo researcher from Kanagawa University, Professor Kimie Oshima to Budapest. Here they were joined by the legendary Hungarian storyteller Mr. András Berecz. The performance took place on a very memorable day, as later in that same evening Mr. Berecz went on to receive the prestigious Artist of the Nation Award.
In the first half of the program, the audience had the opportunity to watch a performance from both storytellers. Since Rakugo has many specificities that the Hungarian audience might not have been familiar with, before Mstr. Shinoharu took the stage, Prof. Oshima held a brief presentation about Rakugo in general. To give the reader the gist of it, Rakugo is traditional Japanese humorous storytelling that was originally created by monks to make it easier for their religious teachings to reach the general public by wrapping them up in humorous stories. Rakugo is performed sitting down, by one person only, using the limited tools of a handkerchief and a folding fan.
After that, Mstr. Shinoharu took the stage and performed a traditional Rakugo piece, Tea Ceremony, the story of a rich but uneducated man and his servant who takes on holding tea ceremonies as a hobby in order to appear sophisticated, but they have absolutely no clue as to how to brew tea.
Next, it was time for a Hungarian story. Mr. Berecz performed his piece, Angyalfütty, a story of how an angel falling from heaven led to the creation of dance and different dance styles down here on Earth. The highlight of the performance was how Mr. Berecz involved his Japanese interpreter in the demonstration. Although shy at first, she became also a performer.
Storytelling roundtable discussion
In the second half of the program, the two worlds of storytelling finally met in the form of a roundtable discussion between Mstr. Shinoharu and Mr. Berecz, moderated by Prof. Oshima. As expected from the two participants who are masters of humor, the discussion was just as funny and entertaining as the performances themselves. It was also very insightful, both the participants and the audience wished it could have gone on for twice as long. However, it was time to send Mr. Berecz off so he could receive the highest honor an artist can be awarded in Hungary.
Before returning to Japan the next day, Mstr. Shinoharu and Prof. Oshima held a workshop at Károli Gáspár University of the Reformed Church, one of the few universities in Hungary where students can major in Japanese Studies. The workshop was open to the public but was conducted entirely in Japanese. The students got to try their hands at Rakugo storytelling, many of them bravely took the stage and gave short performance in their second language.
The Japan Foundation was established in 1972, its purpose is promoting cultural co-operation between Japan and the other countries of the world. The Budapest Office opened in 1991, and since then organizes cultural events, performances, exhibitions and lectures, with the aim of introducing every segment of Japanese culture. The Foundation offers Japanese language courses, support of academic research and different grant programs as well.
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Hungary showcases pavilion for Osaka World Expo 2025
Hungary has presented its pavilion for the Osaka World Expo to take place over six months from April 13, 2025, Expo 2025 Magyarország Nonprofit said on Monday.
Osaka World Expo 2025
With participants from around 161 countries, the Osaka World Expo is expected to attract 30 million visitors, mainly from Japan and the East Asian region, including South Korea and China.
Expo 2025 Magyarorszag noted that the region is the world’s largest tourism source market, and successful Hungarian participation could significantly increase inbound traffic.
Around 309,000 visitors arrived in Hungary from East Asia last year, spending close to 905,000 guest nights, figures from the National Tourism Data Service Centre (NTAK) show. Turnover from China quadrupled, while turnover from South Korea more than tripled and turnover from Japan more than doubled from a year earlier.
That growth was supported by seven direct flights connecting Chinese cities and the Hungarian capital, operating 21 times a week.
Anna Aulner-Bálint, Hungary’s ambassador to Japan, said Hungary would open a diplomatic mission in Osaka during Expo 2025, adding that the international fair could support Hungarian SMEs’ entry onto markets in the region and pave the way for partnerships with local businesses.
Expo 2025 Magyarorszag managing director Ákos Kristó said the world fair presented a “one-of-a-kind opportunity” for Hungary and pointed to the more than 180 Japanese-owned companies in the country. Those companies have invested around EUR 3.2bn in Hungary and employ close to 32,000 people, he added.
The Hungarian pavilion will highlight Hungarian gastronomy, crafts and music, as well as featuring a dedicated area for economic development.
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INTERVIEW with Japan’s Ambassador to Budapest on Japanese investment in Hungary, the Ukraine war, culture and more
We at Daily News Hungary had the pleasure of conducting an interview with Her Excellency Ambassador Ono Hikariko, Ambassador of Japan to Hungary. Read the intriguing conversation below!
Daily News Hungary (DNH): You arrived in Budapest a few months ago, how do you feel being here and what are your first impressions of Hungarians?
Her Excellency (H. E.) Ambassador Ono Hikariko: I am honoured to serve as the Japanese Ambassador to Hungary, which has a long-standing friendship with Japan and is full of charms. I am also fascinated by living in the beautiful city of Budapest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
While in Budapest, I find it wonderful that music and art are deeply integrated into everyday life. The Hungarian people are full of warm hospitality. I also appreciate that people, including travellers, can get a safe and memorable experience in Hungary with reasonable precautions
DNH: Although the distance is great, Hungarians feel very close to the Japanese and have a great respect for them. What do you think about this?
H. E.: Japan and Hungary have maintained friendly bilateral relations for more than 150 years. It is worth noting that the Japanese government supported Hungary’s post-regime change reforms, and Japanese companies were among the first to enter the Hungarian market. We are proud of our track record in that Japan has always been a strong supporter of Hungary’s economic development in both the public and private sectors.
This year marks the 100th anniversary of the start of Japanese language education in Eötvös Loránd University (ELTE). Thanks to such a long-standing friendly relation and the efforts of our predecessors, the Hungarian people have developed a deep interest in Japan and its culture, and are eager to further their understanding.
DNH: Japanese investment is a major contributor to Hungary’s economy. What trends do you see? Will more Japanese companies come to Hungary in the near future?
H. E.: I am pleased to note that Suzuki cars, a company that had been in investment negotiations even before the regime change and commenced manufacturing shortly thereafter, are now affectionately referred to as “our car” in Hungary. Currently there are about 180 Japanese companies active in Hungary, predominantly in the manufacturing sector and particularly within the automotive industry. Given the concentration of EV production in Hungary, there are numerous Japanese manufacturers of EV-related components.
As Hungary boasts a substantial number of talented and highly skilled individuals, I believe that Hungary will continue to be an attractive destination for Japanese investment in research and development, start-ups, and other high value-added innovative sectors.
Additionally, the popularity of Japanese cuisine has been rising recently, with an increasing number of restaurants serving Japanese food in Hungary. I welcome this development as another means to strengthen the relations between our two countries.
DNH: What kind of Hungarian companies can establish themselves in Japan? Which Hungarian products do the Japanese buy?
H. E.: Japan aims to become “the best country in the world in which to do business” by actively promoting foreign direct investment through various incentives, including financial support and expedited procedures.
Particular attention is being given to the fields of semiconductors, digital transformation (DX), green transformation (GX), and bio-healthcare. There is a significant potential for collaboration with Hungarian companies that possess outstanding technologies and expertise in areas such as IT and green technologies. In particular, start-ups offer promising opportunities for bilateral investment.
Hungarian products popular in Japan primarily include food items such as wine and foie gras, and crafts like Herend and Zsolnay tableware. Recently, Hungarian honey has also gained popularity. Given the Japanese affinity for charming (Kawaii) stuff, I personally believe that Miska jugs may become popular in Japan.
DNH: What is your opinion on the relationship between the governments of the two countries? What meetings have been held recently and what meetings are expected in the near future?
H. E.: On May 21, 2024, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade Péter Szijjártó visited Japan and held meetings with the Japanese Foreign Minister, the Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry, and the Minister of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism.
During the Foreign Ministers’ Meeting, the Ministers exchanged views on bilateral relations, the situation in Ukraine, and regional affairs including in East Asia, and agreed to continue the close bilateral discussions. During the meetings with the Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry and the Minister of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism, respectively, a Memorandum of Cooperation on cooperation and exchange of information in the field of nuclear energy, and a Memorandum of Cooperation in the field of water management were also signed. The Japanese government intends to continue exchanges with Hungary at various levels.
I am also confident to expect that the opening of the new Consulate in Osaka scheduled for this year and the Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, Japan will greatly contribute to further strengthening our bilateral relations.
DNH: There is a war going on in the neighboring country and the world is completely divided on this matter. The Hungarian Government believes that Ukraine should not be given weapons, that it should not be helped, and that peace is needed at all costs. The Western countries, on the other hand, are helping Ukraine against the invading Russians precisely so that they can defend themselves. Where does Japan stand on this issue?
H. E.: As we emphasized at the “Summit on Peace in Ukraine” in Switzerland, Japan’s position is that “just and lasting peace” should be realized on the basis of the principles of international law, including the UN Charter, and that any attempt to unilaterally change the status quo through force or coercion must not be justified.
We respect that the Hungarian government has so far taken in Ukrainian refugees, provided medical assistance to displaced people, offered free train tickets and subsidized companies that employ them. Japan has been cooperating with Hungary in providing humanitarian aid to Ukraine.
Japan’s position that it will strongly promote support for Ukraine and sanctions against Russia remains unchanged, and we intend to continue our discussions with Hungary, which is a NATO and EU member state. At the same time, we aim to respond to the situation in Ukraine in cooperation with like-minded countries in the world.
DNH: How stable is the situation in your region, with North Korea, Russia and China as counter-poles?
H. E.: The security of Europe, the Atlantic and the Indo-Pacific region are inextricably linked, and Prime Minister Kishida has consistently asserted that “Ukraine today may be East Asia tomorrow”. We welcome the fact that many countries, including the European countries, share this view and are showing increased interest and engagement in the Indo-Pacific region.
Recent developments in military cooperation between Russia and the DPRK will not only lead to a further deterioration of the situation in Ukraine, but are also seriously concerning in terms of their impact on the security of the region surrounding Japan. Any attempt to unilaterally change the status quo in the East and South China Seas by force is unacceptable.
In response to this challenging security environment, Japan has been working to achieve a budget level of 2% of GDP of the combined budget for fundamental reinforcement of defense capabilities and complementary initiatives, and has also been strengthening cooperation with like-minded countries. As part of these efforts, most recently, officers from the Japanese Ministry of Defense and the Self-Defence Forces visited Hungary to observe NATO’s Vigorous Warrior 2024 Multinational medical exercises.
DNH: Leaving politics aside, let’s talk about Japanese culture. Suffice it to mention haiku, Japanese gardens or even kimono in dress. Which aspects of your culture have been most adopted by Hungarians, and why do you think you have so many followers in Hungary?
H. E.: Cultural exchange is a vital aspect of the Japan-Hungary relationship. In recent years, a diverse range of Japanese culture has gained popularity in Hungary, such as Manga, Anime, Japanese cuisine, and Sake. At the ‘Japan Day’ event held at the Museum of Ethnography in June this year, a variety of programs were organized, including traditional Japanese musical performance (using Japanese traditional music instruments such as Shamisen and Koto), martial arts, kimono dressing, tea ceremonies, traditional handicrafts, Japanese swords, cosplay, and J-POP. I was impressed by the large number of Hungarian visitors, who showed great enthusiasm for Japanese culture.
I believe that the emotional bond between Japan and Hungary transcends geographical distance. The shared cultural heritage and the spirit of mutual understanding and respect may be what attracts the two nations to each other. We sincerely hope that the people-to-people exchanges between our countries will continue to deepen through cultural exchanges.
Both the Embassy and myself will continue to share information about Japan and Japan-Hungary exchanges on our social media platforms. We cordially invite Daily News Hungary readers to follow us there.
DNH: Japanese gastronomy doesn’t need to be introduced to anyone, but how familiar are people in Japan with Hungarian food?
H. E.: Prior to my arrival, I had the opportunities to taste authentic Hungarian meals prepared by Hungarian chefs at a restaurant in Tokyo. I found that Hungarian cuisine appeals well to Japanese tastes.
Hungary’s diverse food culture, including the Tokaj wine and Gulyas soup, is well known in Japan. Foie gras dishes are particularly popular, and much of the foie gras consumed in Japan comes from Hungary.
I would like to promote Hungary’s diverse food tradition and café culture on the Embassy’s Facebook page and other media platforms.
DNH: When it comes to Hungarian food, which soup-main dish-dessert trio do you like the most?
H. E.: I’m a big fan of Gulyás and other Hungarian soups. As to main course, I prefer either Töltött Káposzta or Paprikás Csirke. Desserts are hard to choose from since there are so many delicious options, but I particularly like Palacsinta, Beigli, and Kürtőskalács, specially from the street vendors.
DNH: Our last question: Budapest is by far the most popular tourist destination in Hungary. You have probably visited several other regions, which three rural attractions would you recommend to your friends if they were to come here?
H. E.: I’ve only been here for about four months, so I’m on a journey to explore the charms of various regions in Hungary. Of the places I’ve visited so far, I’ve been particularly impressed by the beauty of Tihany around Lake Balaton and I also have fond memories of visiting wineries and tasting wine in Tokaj.
My family will be visiting Hungary this summer, and we plan to explore some other destinations together. I’ll share my third favorite place with you at another time in the future.
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Hungarian government plans new foreign bond issuance following gigantic Chinese loan
The Hungarian government recently secured a EUR 1 billion loan from China under more favourable terms than the market, according to Finance Minister Mihály Varga, who did not disclose details about the interest rates. Varga hinted that Hungary might issue a Samurai bond in Japan this fall.
Issuance of new foreign bond on the horizon
The government’s goal is to involve more Hungarian institutional investors, such as banks and insurance companies, in purchasing Hungarian government securities. This approach aims to reduce the reliance on foreign and retail investors, which could also impact the conditions of retail government bonds. Varga told ATV that while the loan’s terms are favourable compared to market conditions and will mainly fund infrastructure development, further details on interest rates and usage were not provided.
Varga explained, “Disclosing additional information could harm business interests in bilateral agreements.”
New partners
He noted that Hungary’s debt management strategy has long relied on multiple sources to diversify its capital requirements. In recent years, in addition to traditional Anglo-Saxon and European markets, Qatar, Japan, and China have become significant partners.
A Samurai bond issuance in Japan is planned for this fall.
The minister highlighted the traditionally good relationship with China, citing previous issuances of Panda bonds, including Green Panda Bonds aimed at supporting green transitions. The current loan, negotiated at a favourable rate, will primarily support transportation and energy infrastructure projects.
Foreign currency debt at “appropriate level”
In a previous interview with Inforádió, Economic Minister Márton Nagy mentioned that Hungary’s foreign currency debt is at an appropriate level. However, he stressed the importance of prioritising debt issuance in Hungarian forints and extending its maturity. The regulation of investment funds and insurers, encouraging them to purchase government bonds, was also discussed.
Nagy pointed out that this year’s primary balance of the state budget shows a balance, with the deficit only arising from state interest expenses. The primary balance is neutral, and the deficit corresponds to the size of the interest expenses, amounting to 4.3-4.5%. Next year, these interest expenses are expected to decrease significantly to 3.4-3.5% of GDP.
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Minister Nagy: Japan is an important partner of Hungary
Agriculture Minister István Nagy on Wednesday met Ryosuke Ogawa, the deputy minister for international relations of the Japanese agricultural ministry, to discuss the priorities of Hungary’s European Union presidency and issues regarding food waste and animal health.
According to a ministry statement, Nagy said at the meeting held in Budapest that Hungary will preside over a transitional period after the European parliamentary elections, which will enable ministers of the 27 member states to make proposals to the European Commission directly.
Hungary aims to simplify regulations and “turn the Common Agricultural Policy’s focus to farmers”, Nagy said. The main topics would be competitiveness, crisis-resistance, sustainability, a farmer-centered policy and integrating scientific results into agriculture, he said.
Nagy: Japan an important trading partner
Hungary will also work to reduce the food waste produced in retail by half by 2030, drawing on the country’s measures that had led to Hungary reducing food waste by 27 percent in the past 6 years, he said.
Hungary will also hold a conference on food waste reduction in the autumn, to which Nagy invited the Japanese delegation.
In an attempt to promote sustainable fishing, Nagy said Hungary “will work on setting up a model based on scientific results and a consensus between member states.”
Speaking about trade relations with Japan, Nagy said the country was an important trading partner of premium products, especially those under protected geographical indication.
He thanked Ogawa for Japan’s decision to agree on a regional approach to Hungarian pork exports. Hungary is the first country hit by African swine flu from which Japan allows imports from unaffected regions, he said.
“We would like to expand mutually beneficial cooperation. Hungarian food safety regulations and experts provide a good baseline for stronger relations in that field, too,” he added.
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Suzuki CEO Toshihiro Suzuki in Budapest
Prime Minister Viktor Orbán held talks with Toshihiro Suzuki, the CEO of Suzuki Motor Corporation, in Budapest on Monday.
They reviewed the situation of the automotive industry in Europe and Hungary and the challenges posed by the industry’s technological transformation.
Orbán said Hungary had an interest in Suzuki’s success, adding that the ties between Hungary and the company “is more than just business; it is a friendship”.
Speaking about the Hungary’s economy, Orban told his partner that it was expected to grow this year and in 2025 as well, adding that credit ratings agencies, investors, Hungarian entrepreneurs and the Hungarian people had trust in the country.
“We are optimistic,” Orbán said, adding however that the war in Ukraine posed a big threat.
“The situation is in that regard very difficult, because the war destroys not only human lives, families and the assets of people, but entire economies,” the prime minister said.
As we wrote in January, Suzuki has announced a temporary halt regarding the production of the Vitara and S-Cross models at its Esztergom plant for a week due to the recent events at the Red Sea, details HERE.
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- Japanese TDK investing EUR 67m in Szombathely, details HERE
Japanese TDK investing EUR 67m in Szombathely
Péter Szijjártó, the minister of foreign affairs and trade, said at the inauguration of a building at the Japanese-owned company’s base in the city on Friday that TDK could create 250 jobs with a 26 billion forint (EUR 67 m) investment in Szombathely, western Hungary.
The investment programme is adding 12,000sqm of production area at the base, he said. TDK is bringing electronics production for the automotive industry that aren’t made anywhere else in Europe to Szombathely, the minister added.
He said Hungary had faced “tight competition” in attracting the investment, adding that it was supported with 6.7 billion forints (EUR 17.2 m) from the state.
In a press release, TDK said it was bringing production of sensors not made elsewhere in the European Union to the base as the manufacturing base for the products at a TDK base in Indonesia reached its capacity limit.
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- Japan’s national holiday celebrated in Budapest, Ambassador Otaka bids farewell
- Celebrating Hungarian culture in Tokyo, Japan – details HERE
Strategies For Hungarian-Japanese Parents To Improve Kids’ English
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English has become the global lingua franca, bridging cultures and offering opportunities. For Japanese families living in Hungary, this presents both an opportunity and a challenge.
Research shows that children raised in bilingual environments enjoy significant cognitive benefits, including improved problem-solving skills, enhanced creativity, and heightened mental flexibility.
However, a 2023 study by the Hungarian Institute for Educational Research found that only 38% of Japanese-Hungarian families report consistently using both languages at home. This discrepancy highlights the unique obstacles faced by parents navigating two distinct linguistic and cultural landscapes.
With over 5,000 Japanese expatriates currently residing in Hungary, according to the Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the demand for effective bilingual parenting strategies is greater than ever. Language barriers, cultural differences, and the sheer logistical challenges of maintaining two languages can often feel overwhelming.
In this article, we will talk about the strategies for Hungarian-Japanese parents to improve their kids’ English.
Raising bilingual children is an investment in their future, but it’s an investment that requires a roadmap. This guide is that roadmap.
Expose Children To English Early On:
Research consistently shows that early exposure to English is key to developing fluency and confidence. A landmark study by the University of Washington found that children who begin learning a second language before the age of five exhibit brain patterns similar to native speakers.
This “early advantage” can lead to lifelong benefits, including enhanced cognitive abilities and broader cultural understanding.Early exposure to English helps develop fluency and confidence.
But what does early exposure look like for Japanese families in Hungary? It’s more than just language classes; it’s about creating an immersive English environment within the home.
Studies published in the Journal of Multilingual and Multicultural Development emphasize the effectiveness of simple, everyday activities in language acquisition.
These activities include:
- speaking English at home
- watching English-language TV shows and movies
- reading English books and comics
These activities provide children with exposure to authentic pronunciation, vocabulary, cultural nuances etc. They also build foundational language skills and foster a love of reading.
However, data from the Hungarian Institute for Educational Research indicates that only 42% of Japanese parents in Hungary report regularly engaging in these activities with their children.
Encourage Children to Use English in Daily Life:
While early exposure lays the groundwork for language acquisition, active engagement is crucial for solidifying those skills.
Encouraging children to use English in their daily lives creates a dynamic learning environment that fosters confidence and fluency.
Research published in the journal Language Learning emphasizes the importance of creating opportunities for meaningful language use, beyond the confines of formal instruction.
Here are some interactive and enjoyable ways to integrate English into your child’s daily routine:
- Board games, card games, and even simple word games like “I Spy” can transform language learning into a fun and social activity.
- The rhythm and melody of songs make them incredibly memorable, helping children internalize vocabulary and pronunciation effortlessly.
- Encourage journaling, storytelling, or even simple note-taking in English to strengthen writing skills and self-expression.
Studies conducted by the British Council have shown that children who actively use English in various contexts demonstrate faster language development and greater confidence in their communication skills.
Provide Opportunities for Children to Practice English:
Providing children with structured opportunities to practice English can significantly accelerate their language development. These experiences not only reinforce language skills but also cultivate cultural awareness and a global perspective.
Consider these options for providing your child with enriching English practice:
- Immersing children in an English-speaking school environment provides consistent exposure to the language and fosters peer-to-peer interaction in English.
- These informal settings offer a fun and relaxed way for children to practice English through play, games, and social activities.
- オンライン 英会話 (Online English conversation) classes provide a convenient and flexible way for children to interact with native English speakers and practice their language skills in a safe and supportive environment.
- While not always feasible, even short trips to countries like the UK or the US can provide a powerful immersive experience, exposing children to authentic language use and cultural immersion.
A study conducted by the University of Cambridge found that children who participate in these types of activities demonstrate higher levels of English proficiency, greater cultural awareness, and increased confidence in their communication skills.
Support Children’s Learning:
Parental involvement plays a pivotal role in a child’s language development. Research published in The Modern Language Journal shows that children whose parents actively support their learning efforts demonstrate higher levels of motivation, engagement, and ultimately, achievement.
This support goes beyond simply enrolling children in language programs; it’s about creating a nurturing environment where learning is valued and celebrated.
Helping out with kids’ English homework is not just smart, it’s also fun. Learning a new language can be like trying to solve a puzzle in a foreign country. It can be confusing and overwhelming.
But when you sit down with them and go through the homework, you’re not just checking off a to-do list. You’re showing them that you care and that you’re interested in what they’re learning. And that can make all the difference.
Plus, when you praise their progress and give them a little reward when they nail it, it’s like adding fuel to their motivation rocket. It gives them the confidence to keep going and try even harder next time. So, next time your kid’s got English homework, don’t just tell them to go do it. Pull up a chair, grab a pencil, and join in the fun.
This mindset is essential for overcoming challenges and achieving long-term success in language acquisition.
Watching English-Language Cartoons!
Cartoons are a fantastic way to immerse children in the English language, providing a fun and engaging platform for language acquisition. The combination of vibrant visuals, captivating audio, and relatable storytelling creates a multi-sensory learning experience that children genuinely enjoy.
Research suggests that children are more likely to retain information when it’s presented in a stimulating and enjoyable format.
Cartoons naturally cater to this preference, making them an ideal tool for introducing and reinforcing English vocabulary, pronunciation, and sentence structures.
Moreover, cartoons often feature repetitive phrases and simple dialogues, making them easier for young learners to understand and repeat. This repetition aids in language acquisition by reinforcing new words and structures in a natural and engaging way.
The exposure to authentic pronunciation and intonation through native English-speaking characters also helps children develop accurate speech patterns.
Conclusion
The journey of raising bilingual children in Hungary is a rewarding one, filled with both challenges and triumphs. While schools, playgroups, and travel offer valuable opportunities for English language practice, the role of parents cannot be overstated. As we’ve explored, Hungarian-Japanese parents have a unique opportunity to create a rich linguistic environment within the home, fostering their children’s English language skills through everyday activities, encouragement, and active participation in their learning journey.
By speaking English at home, engaging in language-rich activities, and seeking out additional opportunities for practice, parents can lay a solid foundation for their children’s bilingualism. Through consistent support and encouragement, they can instill in their children a lifelong love of learning and a confidence that transcends language barriers.
Disclaimer: the author(s) of the sponsored article(s) are solely responsible for any opinions expressed or offers made. These opinions do not necessarily reflect the official position of Daily News Hungary, and the editorial staff cannot be held responsible for their veracity.
Hungary’s government rejects pressure on energy policy
Hungary’s government rejects all attempts at political pressure on where it buys its energy, Péter Szijjártó, the minister of foreign affairs and trade, said in Tokyo on Tuesday, adding that national interests would always determine the government’s energy policy.
The three major crises faced by the world over the last five years all had a negative impact on energy markets, putting countries without a coastline or an abundance of gas or oil fields in an especially difficult situation, Szijjártó said at the Global Energy Security Talks conference, according to a ministry statement.
In his address, Szijjártó warned of mounting ideological and political pressure on energy markets, saying the recent period had demonstrated the importance of carrying out a responsible energy policy. He said this involved the government ensuring a country’s uninterrupted energy supply while also taking into consideration environmental protection aspects.
Szijjártó said this was only possible “if we get rid of the ideological approach and . if we get rid of hypocrisy”. Hungary, he added, stood by its position that energy supply was not a matter of ideology or politics, but one of physics and mathematics.
He noted that the sanctions imposed in response to the war in Ukraine had resulted in an energy crisis, while western Europeans “are proud of themselves that they got rid of Russian energy sources”. He added, however, that in reality, they were instead importing oil through third countries like India, and Russia also had the biggest share of western European LNG imports.
The minister also discussed the problem of pressure to diversify energy sources when the European Union did not want to contribute to infrastructure developments and spoke out against discrimination against nuclear energy.
Szijjártó said the Hungarian government rejected all forms of political pressure on where it chooses to buy its energy from and would always choose the best solution according to national interests.
He said decisions concerning the energy mix must remain within the EU’s national competence, and they should also consider a member state’s circumstances.
Hungary, he said, viewed the green transition as a means to preserving the planet rather as a political ideology or a monopoly. He added that Hungary was one of 21 countries that had managed to increase its GDP while reducing its harmful emissions.
Szijjártó underlined the need to find a balance between boosting competitiveness and environmental protection.
He highlighted three prerequisites for a responsible, carbon-neutral global energy policy of the future. The first, he said, was to ensure the role of nuclear energy, arguing that industrial growth would double the demand for electricity by the end of the decade, and nuclear reactors were the cheapest, safest and most sustainable energy sources for satisfying it.
He noted that the ongoing upgrade of Hungary’s Paks nuclear power plant involved a Russian general contractor in addition to American, German and French companies, adding that this could offer hope for a return to peaceful international cooperation.
Szijjártó said the second requirement was the transport sector’s transition to electric vehicles, on which a political decision has already been made in Europe. He added that this was also impossible without global cooperation, highlighting Hungary as a key meeting point for the sector’s Eastern and Western players.
Thirdly, Szijjártó underlined the need infrastructure developments related to energy supply, saying there was “no unnecessary infrastructure”.
He said the Hungarian government understood “diversification” of its energy supply to mean tapping new sources rather than replacing existing ones. He said this process was under way despite the EU not financing infrastructure developments in southeast Europe, arguing that gas would no longer be part of the energy mix in 15 years’ time.
“They might be right . but there are 14 winters to go, for which we have to ensure the safe supply of energy,” he said, adding that it was important to “avoid any kind of aggressive, artificially quick phase-out of gas from the national energy mixes”.
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Great girls! Hungarian women’s handball team qualified for the Paris 2024 Olympics
The qualifying tournament for the 2024 Paris Olympics was held in Debrecen, Hungary, Japan, Great Britain and Japan’s women’s handball teams all qualified for the event.
To qualify for the Games, they had to finish in the top two of the four teams in the tournament, which ran from 11-14 April.
Hungary first beat Great Britain 49-11, then Sweden, who were considered the favourites, by three goals (28-25). The Hungarian girls secured their qualification on Sunday in the tournament’s final match against Japan (37–28), and made it back to the Olympic qualifying round after 2021.
The team reached the quarter-finals at the Tokyo Olympics, and this could be a realistic goal again. Sweden also qualified for the Paris 2024 Olympics.
The men’s national team will also be in Paris. Details HERE: Let’s go to Paris! Hungarian men’s handball team qualifies for the Olympics at the last minute
“Three wins, first place, but most importantly, we’re going to Paris! I am very proud of the girls!” – were the Hungarian captain’s first words at the press conference. “I’m very happy and proud to be the coach of this team,” Vlagyimir Golovin said.
The draw will take place on Tuesday afternoon, the hats are as follows:
- First: Hungary, Norway
- Second: Netherlands, Germany
- Third: Spain, Slovenia
- Fourth: Sweden, France
- Fifth: Denmark, Brazil
- Sixth: Angola, South Korea
Read also: Hungary football team qualifies for European Championship 2024, details HERE
Japanese man wanted by Hungarian police for theft from Budapest Orthodox church
Police have issued an arrest warrant for a Japanese man after it emerged he stole from an Orthodox church in Budapest in early January.
Japanese man suspected of stealing from a Budapest church
Police have issued an arrest warrant for a Japanese man after it emerged that a perpetrator stole large amounts of money and other valuables from the Hungarian Orthodox Diocese in Budapest in early January, the National Police Headquarters (ORFK) Communications Service said in response to a question from Telex on Wednesday.
The perpetrator is suspected of theft to a significant value.
According to the police website, they are looking for a man named Suzuki George, born in Saitama in August 2002, for whom both international and European arrest warrants have been issued.
As previously reported by the Russian news agency RIA, large sums of money and other valuables were stolen from the building of the Hungarian Orthodox Diocese in Budapest in early January. Money and other property were stolen, some of which was in the safe. RIA reported that the theft scene was searched, and fingerprints and DNA samples were taken.
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Hungarians to develop AI based traffic control system
The European Interest Group CONCERT-Japan provides funding for a project coordinated by Vilmos Simon. The awarded consortium involves BME VIK MEDIANETS Lab as a member.
The project called ‘Multi-Input Deep Learning for Congestion Prediction and Traffic Light Control (TRALICO)’ was selected for funding under the European Interest Group CONCERT-Japan programme. This project is coordinated by Vilmos Simon, head of MEDIANETS Lab at the Department of Networked Systems and Services of BME’s Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Informatics.
In cooperation with the Nara Institute of Science (Japan) and the Istanbul IT and Smart City Technologies Inc. (Turkey), BME’s MEDIANETS research laboratory will develop solutions that will be able to predict the intensity of future traffic and forecast potential congestions using artificial intelligence. These predictions will be used to intervene in the control of traffic lights in real time in response to the traffic conditions identified. This will help reduce travel time and harmful emissions.
This solution is significant and unique as no similar solution has been tested in real life situations in a large urban environment in Europe or in Japan before. A key objective of the project is to have the partners test this solution in real life traffic conditions too, in one of the world’s largest cities, Istanbul. The reference solution created in Istanbul in the course of the three-year project is also expected to strongly support the solution’s future marketing as a large number of cities are interested in a similar solution.
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Japan’s national holiday celebrated in Budapest, Ambassador Otaka bids farewell
To mark His Majesty Naruhito’s birthday, the Embassy of Japan held a National Day reception at the Budapest Marriott Hotel on the evening of 16 February. The event was special as the much-loved and respected HE Masato Otaka, Ambassador to Hungary, bid farewell.
Considered one of the largest diplomatic events in Hungary, Japan National Day is always an interesting event in terms of both size and programme.
In his speech, HE Masato Otaka welcomed His Majesty and listed the most important events for Japan in the past year. He then referred to the international situation, which he said was very worrying and that Japan was doing its utmost to normalise the situation, whether in Ukraine, Gaza or the Korean peninsula.
In his speech, Masato underlined the close ties between Hungary and Japan and expressed his satisfaction that there are currently 180 companies operating here. He added that Japanese investors have made major investments in Hungary and are planning to do so in the future. At the end of his speech, the Japanese Ambassador to Budapest thanked everyone who helped him in Hungarian for the past three years he has spent here in Hungary.
He expressed his gratitude for having had the opportunity to meet so many valuable people and to serve Japanese-Hungarian relations.
The guests thanked Ambassador Masato, who will be the Head of Mission in Bangkok, Thailand, for his extraordinary service with a long round of applause.
We also found out that the next Ambassador of Japan to Hungary is already known, HE Hikariko ONO.
The Hungarian government was represented at the event by János Bóka, Minister for European Union Affairs, and Tibor Navracsics, Minister of Public Administration and Regional Development. In his speech, Mr Bóka also highlighted the excellent economic, cultural, and sports relations between Japan and Hungary.
The minister pointed out that the country of the rising sun has been a top 10 investor in recent years, with 27,000 employees in Japanese companies, and that Budapest certainly regards Tokyo as a strategic partner.
During the rest of the reception, 18 Japanese musicians, mostly members of symphonic orchestras from Hungary, gave a concert conducted by the baton of Haraguchi Shoji.
Several Japanese companies were also given the opportunity to introduce themselves to the attendees, and the Kicsi Japan restaurant contributed to the evening with excellent sushi.
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One week shutdown at the Suzuki factory in Esztergom -UPDATE
Suzuki has announced a temporary halt regarding the production of the Vitara and S-Cross models at its Esztergom plant for a week due to the recent events at the Red Sea, as stated in a company press release on Monday.
Therefore, these two models will not be produced for a week, starting from 15th January to 22nd January. This decision was made due to delays in the arrival of Japanese-made engines, Reuters wrote.
Magyar Suzuki Ltd., with a share capital of HUF 5.5 billion (EUR 14,503,447), was established in 1991, involving Suzuki of Japan, the Hungarian government, Itochu and the World Bank. The production of the popular Suzuki Swift commenced in 1992.
The Japanese car manufacturer has gained significant trust within the Hungarian market and has maintained its position as the market leader for seven consecutive years (2015-2022), currently holding the second place as of 2023.
In the latest announcement, Suzuki revealed plans to invest HUF 9.3 billion (EUR 24,524,011) in Hungary, allowing them to expand production capacity and establish a more sustainable, carbon-neutral Esztergom plant.
Red Sea and the Houthis
The Houthis, an Iran-backed rebel group, regard Israel as their enemy and are known for targeting ships passing through the Red Sea. Notably, they avoid attacking Russian and Chinese vessels. Although Iran denies involvement, there is clear evidence of Tehran’s support for the Houthis. Recent reports indicate that the rebels are employing Iranian drones to target not only merchant ships but also British and US military vessels.
Last week, Tesla and Volvo also announced temporary suspensions of production at their European factories.
As we wrote earlier, Hungary provides significant support for automotive promoters, details HERE.
In other news, a Chinese electric car brand is to be available in Hungary first in the region, find more information HERE.
UPDATE
Nearly two thousand workers will be directly affected by the production line shutdown, but the company stressed that this will not affect workers’ wages, according to VG.
Suzuki produces around 650 cars a day in Esztergom, so
the one-week shutdown will mean that around 4,550 vehicles will not be finished.
According to the factory, this shortfall will be made up later and in the future parts will be delivered via an alternative route.
The ships are being rerouted, and production is expected to resume on Jan 22, the company’s communications head said.
Hungarian FM expresses condolence over Japan earthquake
Péter Szijjártó, the minister of foreign affairs and trade, expressed his condolence and sympathy to Japanese Foreign Minister Yoko Kamikawa over the earthquake that hit Japan on New Year’s Day.
In the letter also sent to MTI, Szijjártó said he was “deeply saddened” to learn of the devastating earthquake that hit Japan.
“Let me express my deepest condolence and sincere sympathy to you and the people of Japan in these tragic moments. We trust that your reconstruction efforts will be successful and life can soon return to normal,” Szijjártó said.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims and their families at this difficult time,” Szijjártó added.
By Thursday, the number of the victims rose to 78 and 50 people are still missing in Ishikawa prefecture, central Japan, after a magnitude 7.6 earthquake hit on New Year’s Day.
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Hungarian survivor: Japanese earthquake the worst natural disaster I have experienced
An earthquake with a magnitude of 7.6 struck Japan on Monday. The Meteorological Agency has issued a tsunami warning and authorities have urged residents in affected areas to flee to higher ground. A Hungarian living in Japan told the tabloid Blikk what she experienced.
On Monday afternoon, an earthquake with a magnitude of 7.6 struck western Japan. The Japan Meteorological Agency has issued a tsunami warning for the coastal prefectures of Ishikawa, Niigata and Toyama following the earthquake on the Noto Peninsula in Ishikawa Prefecture.
A Hungarian survivor told Blikk, a Hungarian tabloid, how she escaped the tsunami. Fruzsina Váradi said that on the train she was travelling on, the central earthquake alarm on everyone’s phone went off at the same time. The train then came to a stop with the emergency brake on. As earthquakes are not uncommon in the island country, passengers did not panic, even though they knew there was a problem.
The passengers were taken off the train and led to the roof of a building.
“We knew there was an earthquake and experts were expecting a big tsunami. The first reports were of a column of water 5 metres high, which is extremely dangerous. This is the worst natural disaster I have experienced, and I have felt earthquakes since I have lived here. You have to do what you’re told. It was getting dark, it was cold, and I didn’t know if I would have to spend the night on the roof,” Váradi told Blikk.
The building where the passengers were led is a tsunami shelter, where they were given hot tea. Fruzsina didn’t stay overnight, her boyfriend took her home. For the time being, she still can’t get to work because of the disaster.
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South Korean, Japanese, American companies invest in Hungary creating lots of jobs – UPDATED
A consortium of South Korea’s LG and Canada’s Magna is investing 20 billion forints (EUR 52.7m) in building its first European plant turning out parts for electric cars, in Miskolc, in north-east Hungary, the foreign minister said in Budapest on Tuesday.
According to a ministry statement, Péter Szijjártó said production is slated to start in 2025 at the plant which is creating 200 jobs, and the government is supporting the project with a 6.2 billion forint grant, Szijjártó said.
Hungary’s economy is expected to hit new records this year, with investment volume doubling to 13 billion euros and exports growing by 6-8 percent to 150 billion euros, he said.
Car manufacturing, which makes up 30 percent of Hungary’s industrial output, is key to that performance, he added. Since vehicles are the source of some 20 percent of all emissions, realistic climate protection goals are also impossible without curbing them, he said.
Hungary’s automotive exports have grown 3.5-fold in the past decade, last year surpassing 12,000 billion forints, he said. This year, the sector’s performance grew by 18 percent in the first 11 months, he said.
Japan’s TDK announces HUF 3.5 bn investment in West Hungary
Appliances and electronics company TDK Hungary Components is investing 3.5 billion forints (EUR 9.2m), which comes with a 1.5 billion forint government grant, at a plant in Szombathely, in western Hungary, the company announced on Tuesday. Szijjártó welcomed the announcement, saying the project is receiving funds from a government scheme aimed at saving businesses.
In a speech, Szijjártó highlighted the Hungarian economy’s “huge achievements even during the black years of the global economy”. He noted last year’s record investments, exports and employment, adding that new records were expected in all three areas in 2023.
Japanese companies currently make up Hungary’s 9th largest investment community, employing nearly 40,000 people, Szijjártó said. Bilateral trade was worth 2.5 billion euros last year, showing a 23 percent increase in the first 9 months of the year, he added. TDK Hungary will deploy a heat pump system and solar panels at its Szombathely plant.
Hungary car industry innovative, high-tech
Hungary’s automotive industry has become innovative and uses cutting-edge technology, Szijjártó said at the announcement of a capacity expansion at wheel rim maker Howmet-Kofem in Szekesfehervar, in central Hungary.
The US-owned company is investing 17 billion forints (EUR 44.8m) to expand production capacity, Szijjártó said on Tuesday. The government is supporting the investment, which will create 80 jobs, with a 5 billion forint grant, he added.
The US has been a key player in Hungary’s economic performance in recent years, Szijjártó said. Trade volume between the two countries reached a record 8 billion dollars last year, and has grown by a further 11 percent this year, he said.
Read also:
- International train between Hungary and Romania ceases operation – Read more HERE
- Check out the “Hungarian Chernobyl” in THIS article with photos and video
Coca-Cola inaugurates HUF 8.7 bn expansion near Budapest
Coca-Cola HBC Magyarorszag inaugurated a 8.7 billion forint (EUR 23m) expansion at its bottling plant in Dunaharaszti, on the outskirts of Budapest, on Tuesday.
The 3,000sqm addition will boost capacity at the soft drink maker’s base by 30 percent, the minister of foreign affairs and trade said at the ceremony. The state supported the investment with 740 million forints, Szijjártó said. US-owned Coca-Cola HBC Magyarorszag buys two-thirds of its feedstock from local suppliers and exports its products to 17 countries, he noted.
US companies form the second largest community of foreign investors in Hungary, the foreign minister said. Their investments last year reached over a record 8 billion dollars, he said, adding that with an 11 percent increase, a new record was expected to be set this year.
Hungary to fight ‘serious battles’ to protect sovereignty
Hungary will have to fight “serious battles” in the coming months to preserve its sovereignty, Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto said in a video on ruling Fidesz’s Facebook page on Tuesday.
The minister said Europe’s economy and physical security faced “dramatic challenges”. While the war in neighbouring Ukraine has been going for a year and a half now, Hungary is under constant migration pressure, and “Brussels is always forcing solutions that would create a kind of superstate”, Szijjarto said. “The more Hungarians that support the government, the greater its chances will be in emerging victorious from these battles,” he said, urging the public to fill out the National Consultation survey.
Celebrating Hungarian culture in Tokyo, Japan
On 21 October, 2023, the heart of Tokyo resonated with the vibrant colors and rhythms of Hungarian culture. How did the day go and what kind of events did they host?
A successful 4th Hungarian Festival
The Liszt Institute of Tokyo organised the highly successful 4th Hungarian Festival last month. This massive open-air event unfolded with a full-day stage program, creating a cultural bridge between Hungary and Japan. If you’re a foreigner living in Hungary and want to learn more about our culture through fun festivals like this, read our article about the best festivals to learn about Hungarian traditions.
Diverse performances and artistic showcases
The festival featured an array of performances, including folk dancers, folk musicians, singers, and storytellers from Hungary. Surprisingly, there were Japanese people performing dressed in traditional Hungarian clothes. Going beyond traditional boundaries, the Japanese audience was treated to the talents of Hungarian classical music artists, singers, and dance groups from Japan. The stage program, comprising 14 diverse programs and boasting over 100 performers, showcased the richness of Hungarian culture and talent. Noteworthy acts included Mihály Timár, leader of the Timár Ensemble, classical musicians such as Kaneko Mijuji and István Kohán, and the enchanting Fény children’s choir.
Stipendium Hungaricum Scholarship’s 10th anniversary
As part of the festivities, the 10th anniversary of the Stipendium Hungaricum scholarship was celebrated, recognising and applauding academic achievements. Additionally, the Veszprém-Balaton 2023 European Capital of Culture program was introduced, further highlighting Hungary’s cultural contributions.
Folk costume fashion show and engaging activities for all ages
Accompanying the festival, a fashion show unfolded in collaboration with the Liszt Institute’s temporary exhibition, “Folk Costume Reconsidered”. This captivating display demonstrated the integration of Hungarian folk art motifs into modern clothing, presented by the well-known Japanese celebrity Kōichi Sugiyama. Moreover, the festival catered to families with children through various activities led by Kitti Csőke, a Hungarian-Japanese storybook author. Children enjoyed playhouses, craft programs, and a Rubik’s Cube speed challenge hosted by the Speedcubing Hungary Association.
Cultural exhibitions and virtual spaces
Beyond the stage performances, cultural exhibitions adorned the festival grounds. Gábor Erdélyi’s photography exhibition showcased the beauty of Veszprém. Additionally, the Hungarian-designed TEREMTec virtual exhibition space allowed visitors to explore a virtual model of Hungary. People could admire downtown Veszprém and images of the Balaton region by Csaba Toroczkai.
Gastronomic delights and exhibitors
Ten stands and two mobile buffets offered a taste of Hungary, featuring renowned companies such as Iroiro, Mitsui Trading House, Suzuki Car Dealership, and Kürtös Bee. Attendees could savour Hungarian products and culinary delights, contributing to the immersive experience.
Media coverage and sponsorship
The event received extensive media coverage, with one national and one regional TV program, along with over 70 print and digital media outlets. The Hungarian Festival was possible because of the support of the Liszt Institute of Tokyo, the National Cultural Fund, the Stipendium Hungaricum Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, the Hungarian Academy of Arts, and various Japanese sponsors.
The 4th Hungarian Festival in Tokyo proved to be a resounding success. It attracted thousands of visitors, including Hungarians visiting and living in Japan, and fostered cultural exchange between the two countries.