In the process of Mandarin learning, Japanese students always have problems when distinguishing Tone 2 and Tone 3, especially in connected speech. So, in this paper, we investigate the production of these two tones in disyllable words on the basis of tone-dependent F0 distribution, trying to show the characteristics of native speakers and the systematic error pattern of Japanese. Getting the error pattern of a specific learner group is of great importance in improving teaching method of Mandarin disyllables, and developing computer assisted mandarin pronunciation technology.

Index Terms: Mandarin disyllables, tone production, Japanese learners, F0 distribution, tonal range