Expert Lecture Series: 'English Humor 101' by NHK Radio's Ken Tooyama to be Held on July 11

Nichibei Conversation Academy (1-6-2 Yotsuya, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo) will host the third installment of its Expert Lecture Series, 'English Humor 101,' on Saturday, July 11, 2026, with Mr. Ken Tooyama—a well-known figure from NHK Radio English programs—as the guest speaker. The lecture aims to improve English communication skills by studying humor patterns popular in English-speaking countries, humorous expressions suitable for daily conversation, techniques for constructing jokes, and the appropriate mindset and language use when dealing with humor.

◆ Event Overview

Theme: Mr. Ken Tooyama's 'English Humor 101'

Speaker: Ken Tooyama

Date and Time: Saturday, July 11, 14:00–15:30 (90 minutes)

Venue: Nichibei Conversation Academy (in-person)

Capacity: 30 participants (in-person, first-come, first-served)

Participation Methods: In-person attendance: ¥3,500 / Online attendance

The event will be conducted in a hybrid format combining in-person and online participation. The in-person session is limited to 30 participants, while the online session accommodates up to 50. Both formats are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Online participation is free of charge. Early registration is recommended.

Registration and details available here

This lecture offers an opportunity to expand expressive range and deepen cross-cultural understanding through English humor. Attendees in person will experience the speaker’s delivery style and audience reactions firsthand.

◆ Recommended for:

Those interested in learning English humor

Those wishing to broaden their conversational English expression

Those interested in cross-cultural communication

◆ What You Will Learn:

Tips for using humorous English expressions in daily conversation

Humor patterns and cultural backgrounds in English-speaking countries

Fundamentals of constructing and delivering effective jokes

This lecture is the third in the 'Expert Lecture Series' hosted by Nichibei Conversation Academy this academic year. Previous speakers include Mr. Wataru Ogose, recipient of the 'Bonne & Ueda Memorial International Journalist Award' and familiar from NHK English courses, and Mr. Urashima, a long-time instructor in English oral reading. Another lecture is scheduled for autumn. The series aims to provide participants with a deeper understanding of English learning methods and insights, welcoming learners from beginner to advanced levels.

Speaker Profile

Ken Tooyama (Tooyama Ken)

Born in Hokkaido. Graduated from the Faculty of Foreign Studies, Tokyo University of Foreign Studies. Completed the Master's Program in Teaching English as a Second Language at Temple University, Japan Campus. Formerly English Department Chair at Kanda Institute of Foreign Languages, instructor for NHK Radio programs such as 'English for Everyone' and 'Introduction to English Conversation,' Associate Professor at Toyo Eiwa Women's University, Visiting Professor at Temple University Japan Campus (Intercultural Communication Course), and lecturer in the Executive Management Program at the University of Tokyo. Currently President of COMUNICA, Inc. His publications include 'NHK Radio English Conversation: The Straw Millionaire,' 'Challenge Super-Fast Listening! English Commercials and Announcements,' and 'Ken Tooyama's Useful Phrases for the Workplace' (all published by NHK Publishing).

◆ About Nichibei Conversation Academy

Nichibei Conversation Academy is an English education institution established in 1945. Since its founding, it has provided practical English training for government agencies, corporations, and individuals, supporting Japan's global talent development for over 80 years.

Contact

International Educational Advancement Foundation, Nichibei Conversation Academy (Yotsuya, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo)

TEL: 03-3353-9621

Office Hours: Weekdays 10:00–19:30 / Saturdays 9:45–17:30

Email: info@nichibei.ac.jp

Last year, on May 31, 2025, a lecture by Mr. Ken Tooyama was held and reached full capacity. This will be the second special lecture by Mr. Tooyama in as many years. The event will be held at Komore Yotsuya Global Study Square, a 3-minute walk from Yotsuya Station.