I speak Japanese, and that opens up a lot. Culture there is rich. People super talented in many areas. But to be braced for the future, definitely Mandarin Chinese. My daughter (6) has this wonderful opportunity to go to school in Shanghai for 3 years. I put her in a Hong Kong-based British school known for Chinese language instruction. She’s been at it for nine months, and she is already conversing without much hesitation. Learn Chinese, then you feel comfortable dealing with Japanese characters. It is your ticket to the world of splended wonders! I m envious of you. All the best.