Centenarian Cracks Kanji Exam: Now Eyeing Higher Level!

A 100-year-old individual in Japan has impressively passed the Level 3 Kanji Exam, with an aim to conquer the more difficult 'Pre-2nd Level'. Kanji Exam, or 'Kanken', is a proficiency test in Japanese Kanji (characters) that is widely regarded as challenging. Despite their advanced age, the ambitious centenarian is determined to continue their educational journey, having set their sights on the next level of the demanding test.

In Japan, the importance of lifelong learning in overall wellbeing is highly valued, especially for senior citizens, to maintain cognitive function and a productive, fulfilling life. The achievement of this centenarian is not just an inspiring individual story, but also reflects on the Japanese cultural respect for continuous learning and perseverance. Furthermore, 'Kanken' is deeply revered, demonstrating the individual's commitment to their language's traditional aspects.

In the US or the EU, senior education programs exist, but a similar level of engagement in rigorous academic pursuits like the Japanese 'Kanken' is less common among seniors.

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Those interested in learning Japanese or taking the Kanji Exam can find resources at the Japan Foundation’s website (https://www.jpf.go.jp/e/program/dl.html). Websites like Duolingo (https://www.duolingo.com/course/ja/en/Learn-Japanese) also offer beginners courses in Japanese.