When searching for the best app for learning Japanese, it’s important to find one that suits your learning style and goals. Here, we’ve compiled a list of the best Japanese learning apps to help you on your journey.
- What you need for the best App
- Overall best Apps for learning Japanese
- Best App to learn Japanese as a beginner
- Best App to learn Japanese listening skills
- Best App to learn Japanese writing and reading skills
- Best App to learn Japanese conversation
- Best App to learn Japanese with interactive lessons
- Best App to find tutors and classes
- FAQs
What You actually need for the best App
The ideal app should match your learning style, whether it’s visual, auditory, or kinesthetic. It should also align with your learning path, whether you’re a beginner, intermediate, or advanced learner. Here are our recommendations based on different needs and preferences.
Overall best Apps for learning Japanese
MochiKanji is an excellent app for Japanese learners at any level. It offers engaging, interactive lessons and utilizes a powerful spaced repetition system (SRS) to help you master up to 1,000 Kanji and vocabulary words in a month. The app includes a built-in dictionary for convenient word searches, a writing practice section to improve your kanji strokes, and a conversation section to apply new vocabulary in context. Highly recommended for anyone serious about learning Japanese, MochiKanji is definitely worth a try.
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Best App to learn Japanese as a beginner
Best App to learn Hiragana and Katakana
MochiKana: This app is perfect for beginners who need to master the basic alphabet of Japanese. It uses interactive lessons and mnemonics to help you remember the characters effectively. The app also has a writing section where you can practice writing basic Hiragana and Katakana following the correct shape and stroke orders.
Best App to learn basic Kanji and vocabulary
MochiKanji: MochiKanji is perfect for beginners aiming to build a strong foundation in Kanji and vocabulary. The app’s unique spaced repetition system (SRS) ensures that you retain characters and words long-term by reviewing them at optimal intervals.
MochiKanji offers a variety of features to enhance your learning experience, including interactive lessons that make learning fun and effective, a comprehensive built-in dictionary to look up words and understand their meanings and uses, and dedicated sections for practicing Kanji strokes to perfect your writing. Additionally, it provides conversation practice sections where you can apply newly learned vocabulary in practical conversations.
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MochiKanji is designed to help you learn and memorize up to 1,000 Kanji and vocabulary words in just one month. The app’s user-friendly interface and structured learning path make it a highly recommended tool for anyone serious about learning Japanese.
Best App for real-life conversations
HelloTalk: HelloTalk is an innovative app that connects you with native Japanese speakers, allowing you to practice real-life conversations and get instant feedback. Here’s a more detailed look at what HelloTalk offers:
- Language Exchange: The app pairs you with native Japanese speakers who are learning your language, creating a mutually beneficial exchange. This immersive experience helps you practice speaking and listening in a natural context.
- Instant Feedback: One of the key features of HelloTalk is the ability to receive real-time corrections and feedback from native speakers. This instant feedback helps you correct mistakes on the spot and learn the correct usage of words and phrases.
- Text, Voice, and Video Chats: HelloTalk supports various communication methods, including text messaging, voice calls, and video chats. This versatility allows you to practice different aspects of the language and improve your overall fluency.
- Translation and Transliteration Tools: The app includes built-in translation and transliteration tools to help you understand and pronounce words correctly. These tools are particularly useful for beginners who are still getting familiar with Japanese characters.
- Cultural Exchange: Beyond language learning, HelloTalk facilitates cultural exchange. You can learn about Japanese customs, traditions, and daily life directly from native speakers, making your learning experience richer and more engaging.
With HelloTalk, you can immerse yourself in the Japanese language and culture, making significant strides in your conversational skills. The app’s community-driven approach ensures that you’re always learning in a supportive and interactive environment. Whether you’re practicing greetings, discussing hobbies, or delving into more complex topics, HelloTalk provides the perfect platform to enhance your language proficiency.
Best App to learn Japanese listening skills
Best App to learn with podcasts
JapanesePod101: This app offers a comprehensive library of podcasts tailored to various proficiency levels. The podcasts cover a wide range of topics, from everyday conversations to cultural insights, helping you improve your listening skills and understanding of natural speech.
- Structured Lessons: JapanesePod101 provides structured lessons that progress in difficulty, allowing you to build your skills systematically.
- Cultural Insights: Each podcast episode includes cultural notes, giving you a deeper understanding of Japanese customs and etiquette.
- Downloadable Content: You can download episodes for offline listening, making it easy to practice your listening skills on the go.
Best App to learn with Anime and movies
Crunchyroll: Watching anime with Japanese subtitles can significantly enhance your listening skills. Crunchyroll offers a vast selection of anime titles, allowing you to hear natural Japanese speech and pick up new vocabulary in context.
- Subtitles in Japanese and English: Crunchyroll provides both Japanese and English subtitles, helping you understand the dialogue and learn new words.
- Wide Range of Genres: From action and adventure to romance and comedy, you can find anime that interests you, making learning more enjoyable.
- Interactive Community: Engage with other anime fans in the Crunchyroll community to discuss episodes and practice your language skills.
Best App to learn Japanese writing and reading skills
Best App to learn handwriting
Skritter: Skritter is an excellent app for practicing Kanji writing. It offers real-time stroke correction and helps you learn the proper order and direction of strokes.
- Stroke-by-Stroke Guidance: Skritter guides you through each stroke, ensuring you learn the correct form.
- Spaced Repetition: The app uses spaced repetition to reinforce learning and improve retention.
- Progress Tracking: Track your progress and see how much you’ve improved over time.
Best App to learn grammar
Bunpo: Bunpo focuses on Japanese grammar, providing clear explanations and practice exercises to solidify your understanding.
- Grammar Lessons: Comprehensive lessons covering all levels, from beginner to advanced.
- Practice Exercises: Interactive exercises to test your understanding and reinforce learning.
- Progress Tracking: Keep track of your progress and identify areas for improvement.
Best dictionary App
Takoboto: An easy-to-use dictionary app that helps you find definitions, example sentences, and related words quickly.
- Offline Access: Use the dictionary offline, making it convenient for on-the-go learning.
- Example Sentences: See how words are used in context with example sentences.
- Kanji Information: Get detailed information about Kanji, including readings and meanings.
Best for story-based learning
LingQ: LingQ uses stories and articles to help you learn vocabulary in context. It’s excellent for developing reading skills and understanding usage in real scenarios.
- Wide Range of Content: Access a library of stories, articles, and podcasts.
- Interactive Learning: Highlight words and phrases, and create flashcards for review.
- Community Support: Join the LingQ community to discuss content and practice your skills.
Best App to learn Japanese conversation
Best App with pronunciation feedback
Rosetta Stone: Known for its speech recognition technology, Rosetta Stone helps you practice pronunciation and receive immediate feedback.
- Speech Recognition: Get real-time feedback on your pronunciation.
- Interactive Lessons: Practice speaking in various scenarios with interactive lessons.
- Progress Tracking: Track your improvement and see how your pronunciation evolves.
Best App to ask for common and natural Japanese phrases
HiNative: This app allows you to ask native speakers about common phrases and expressions, ensuring you learn natural and culturally appropriate language.
- Question and Answer Format: Ask questions and get answers from native speakers.
- Cultural Insights: Learn about cultural nuances and proper usage of phrases.
- Community Support: Engage with a global community of language learners and native speakers.
Best App to learn Japanese with interactive lessons
MochiKanji: This app stands out for its interactive lessons that engage users through games and challenges, making learning fun and effective.
- Game-Based Learning: Learn through interactive games and challenges.
- Spaced Repetition: Reinforce learning with spaced repetition.
- Progress Tracking: Monitor your progress and stay motivated.
Best App to find tutors and classes
Italki: Italki connects you with professional Japanese tutors for personalized lessons. You can choose from a wide range of tutors based on their profiles and user reviews.
- Personalized Lessons: Get one-on-one lessons tailored to your needs.
- Flexible Scheduling: Schedule lessons at times that suit you.
- Tutor Profiles: Read reviews and choose the best tutor for you.
By exploring these recommended apps, you can find the best tools to suit your learning style and goals. Whether you’re starting from scratch or looking to refine your skills, these apps offer a comprehensive and engaging way to learn Japanese.
Finding the best Japanese learning app depends on your specific needs and learning style. Whether you’re a beginner looking to master Hiragana or an advanced learner wanting to improve conversation skills, there’s an app that’s right for you. Start with our recommendations, and you’ll be well on your way to mastering Japanese. Happy learning!
FAQs
What is the most accurate app to learn Japanese?
The most accurate app for learning Japanese depends on your goals, but MochiKanji, WaniKani, and Lingodeer are considered some of the best. MochiKanji focuses on vocabulary, Kanji, and retention using a spaced repetition system. It is particularly effective for learners aiming to master Kanji and Japanese phrases efficiently. WaniKani is highly praised for teaching Kanji in a structured way, while Lingodeer is great for building grammar and sentence structure. These apps offer clear explanations, detailed lessons, and interactive exercises, making them reliable choices.
Is Duolingo a good tool to learn Japanese?
Duolingo can be a decent introduction to Japanese, but it has limitations. It focuses more on basic vocabulary and phrases, which makes it suitable for beginners. However, it lacks depth in grammar explanations and Kanji instruction. Duolingo’s lessons are game-like and easy to follow, which can help maintain motivation, but for serious learners, it’s often recommended to pair Duolingo with more comprehensive resources like MochiKanji or Genki textbooks for deeper understanding and structured progress.
What’s the best platform to learn Japanese?
The best platform depends on your learning style. For comprehensive learning:
- MochiKanji: Excellent for Kanji and vocabulary mastery using spaced repetition and interactive flashcards.
- Lingodeer: Strong for grammar and structured lessons.
- WaniKani: Best for those focused on learning Kanji.
- Genki (textbook + online resources): Ideal for structured, all-around learning with grammar, listening, and cultural context.
Each of these platforms provides focused, well-organized lessons, making them some of the best tools for learning Japanese at various levels.
Is Easy Japanese a good app?
Easy Japanese can be useful for beginners or those looking for simple, conversational Japanese. It focuses on practical phrases and everyday dialogues, which can be beneficial for travelers or casual learners. However, it doesn’t delve deeply into grammar, Kanji, or advanced vocabulary, so it’s best used as a supplementary resource alongside more comprehensive apps like MochiKanji or Lingodeer for well-rounded learning.
