Give yourself the freedom of learning Japanese from 25 of the best apps to learn Japanese. It has become largely apparent that learning online has been the preferred method for many students and with so many languages available at the click of a button, the field has seen an uprising in the number of people learning Japanese. However, over the years Japanese has come to be seen as quite a complex, sometimes difficult-to-master language.
Today’s article will help you understand that through the use of the right language-learning app, the learning experience doesn’t have to be a boring, tedious affair. In fact, quite the opposite, many apps now cater to making the experience as fun, engaging, and interactive as possible! All that you need to get started is to find the app that best suits your learning style, time, and schedule you’re ready to go.
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How to choose the best app to learn Japanese for yourself?
The key to choosing the best Japanese learning app for your individual person is understanding the way in which you best absorb and retain information. It’s important to understand whether you’re a visual, audio, or interactive learner or perhaps you’re a combination of all three! This will help you narrow down the list of the best options to optimize your learning experience.
Can I really learn Japanese with apps?
Yes! People all around the world are improving their language skills daily. Apps have simply created a more convenient, less complicated way for users to educate themselves. Many even consider learning via an app the best way to learn a language as it allows users to learn at a pace that suits their schedules.
Here are the Best Apps to Learn Japanese:
1. Best Entertainment App to Learn Japanese: Pocket Colony
key features:
- Social networking with Japanese speakers
- Fun, interactive learning experience
Price: FREE
Available On: Qoo app
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
A fun way to learn Japanese | It may be hard to play the game at first for non-Japanese speakers |
The platform is interactive | Only available on the Qoo app |
This fun app was brought to the public by Japan’s Cocone Corporation. A dress-up game, the app allows users to dress up and create cute outfits for adorable avatars at their will. Not only that, but users get the opportunity to learn Japanese in a truly engaging and interactive manner as the app also functions as a social media network allowing players to converse. This means that gamers get to interact with native Japanese speakers, giving them a more thorough understanding of the language from a local perspective.
2. Best App for Japanese Audio Lessons: Pimsleur Japanese
key features:
- Audio recordings
- Reading lessons
- Speaking, role-playing challenges
- Flash Cards
- Speed round tools to test memory
Price: Installation and download are FREE but there may be in-app charges
Available On: Google Play Store
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Convenient learning of Japanese on the go | Lessons can be time consuming |
Audio lessons are available, great for pronunciation practice | Audio lessons cannot be replayed |
Learning can happen offline | |
Lesson flash cards provided |
The Pimsleur app has been recognized worldwide as one of the most comprehensive language-learning apps. With one of the most well-thought-out learning programs, the app gives users the options of multiple global languages at their fingertips. Learners have the option of learning Japanese in a way that best suits them for their purposes, whether they be conversational or reading with multiple tools for learning.
3. Best App to Learn Japanese Writing: Obenkyo
key features:
- Tae Kim’s guide to Japanese grammar
- Japanese syllabary lessons
- Lessons in Hirangana, Kanji and Katakana
- Flash Cards
Price: FREE
Available On: Google Play Store
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Helps memorise Japanese hirangana, kanji and katakana | Lessons can be quite involved and feel complicated for newcomers |
The app gives multiple-choice options in lessons | Lessons can feel time-consuming |
Users are provided with flashcards | |
Users have access to Tae Kim’s grammar guide |
This app helps learners learn, memorize and understand Japanese characters such as kanji, hiragana, and katakana. Learners will also be taught Japanese numbers in romanji, hiragana, and kanji allowing them to be able to read and memorize various aspects of the Japanese language with ease. This app gives users the freedom to learn at a speed that suits them as users are provided flashcards that can be viewed offline. Students can also look forward to fun interactive learning games to help increase memory.
4. Best App to Learn Japanese with Tutor Support: AmazingTalker
key features:
- 1 -1 tutored lessons
- Qualified tutors
- Flexible learning
- Flexible lesson pricing
Price: FREE
Available On:
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
The app is free to download | Users may encounter bugs in the app |
Flexible lesson pricing |
As indicated above, the Amazingtalker app is a great language-learning platform that allows users from around the world to connect with tutors that will not only suit their budget but also meet their schedules. Users have the experience of being taught by qualified Japanese tutors who fluently speak the language. This is the best app to learn Japanese by finding your very own tutor!
5. Best App to Learn Japanese Reading: Kanji Study
key features:
- Flashcards
- Multiple Choice quizzes
- Writing challenges
- Quick Kanji Word search
Price: FREE to download, however, may include in-app purchases
Available On: Google Play Store, iStore
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
The app creates an easy way for users to learn and memorize kanji | Some features may have to be paid for |
Students learn in a fun, interactive way with games |
This fun app gives learners a plethora of ways to assist them in memorizing and understanding Japanese Kanji. Offering users a highly customizable experience, the app provides various tools such as flashcards, quizzes, and writing challenges to get learners used to recognizing, memorizing, and being able to read Kanji.
6. Best Japanese App for Grammar and Words: Tae Kim’s Guide to Learning Japanese
key features:
- Learning nouns
- Grammar particle lessons
- Social expressions
Price: FREE
Available On: iStore
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Offers in-depth, comprehensive lessons | Lessons can be quite time consuming |
Offers lessons in advanced topics | Might be confusing for newcomers |
Although is an app available on the Google Play store, users should understand that it is merely a port over of the information available on the app. However, in saying that whether learners choose to utilize the app or website they will be gaining access to one of the most well-thought-out, comprehensive Japanese guides. Learners will get a thorough walk-through of every aspect of Japanese grammar and the best situations to use the applicable phrases in, making it essential for everyday life in Japan.
7. Best Free App to Learn Japanese: Duolingo
key features:
- Short lessons
- Interactive lessons
- Fun challenges to keep users engaged
- Rewards for reaching milestones
Price: FREE (with in-app purchases)
Available On: Google Play Store, iStore
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Short lessons | Learners may feel the need for in-depth lessons that cover more aspects of the Japanese language |
Fun ways to learn and memorize Japanese | |
Lessons that help with navigating everyday conversation | |
Lessons are simple and uncomplicated |
Needing no introduction, Duolingo has quickly made a name for itself in the language learning community, with users touting its effectiveness worldwide. With its fun, interactive and bright lessons, users only have to dedicate 20 minutes a day minimum if they wish, making it convenient for those leading busy lives on the go. The daily challenge rewards add a fun aspect, keeping the journey interesting and motivating users to keep going.
8. Best App to Learn Speaking from Japanese Native Speakers: Tandem
key features:
- Voice notes, audio and video calls to improve pronunciation
- Correction on grammar with in-app messages
Price: FREE
Available On: Google Play Store, iStore
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Multiple ways to learn | Some features do require a purchase |
Learning that is suited to the users’ learning style. | One needs a decent internet connection for calls with other users |
Choice of virtual or in-person lessons | |
More than 300 languages to choose from | |
Social networking with other users |
Utilizing the aspect of social networking, Tandem not only offers customers the chance to choose from over 300 international languages to learn but users can do so in an interesting, interactive way. The app offers learners the opportunity to connect and chat with Japanese speakers, allowing them to form a more real-life understanding of the language
9. Best App to Learn Japanese Vocabulary: Drops
key features:
- Visual learning queues
- Fun, interactive learning with illustrations
- Visual vocabulary games
- Quick lessons
Price: FREE (with in-app purchases)
Available On: iStore, Google Play Store
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Lessons are quick | No grammar lessons |
Lessons are fun and entertaining | Only vocabulary lessons |
Great for short attention spans |
The Drops app brings a different approach to learning. Where many apps combine some fun learning methods with more traditional ones, Drops brings users a world of fun. When using the app, learners can look forward to colorful, bright vocabulary games that help with memorization. Lessons are also not tedious, drawn-out affairs making the app a great option for anyone with a busy schedule.
10. Best Japanse App for Daily Life: Takoboto
key features:
- 200 000 Japanese words to learn
- Example phrases to help with understanding use
- Voice translations of text to speech
- Flashcards
Price: FREE (with in-app purchases)
Available On: Google Play Store
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Flashcards to help with memorization | Some features are locked behind a paywall |
Audio to help with pronunciation | |
Text to the translation search feature | |
Users can review their lesson history | |
Ready-made study lists |
Takoboto is an online dictionary app that allows users to easily translate from English to Nihongo. Learners also have the opportunity to learn kanji through the app, making it a one-stop shop. The app gives users easy-to-use tools that will help with memorization and learning such as flashcards and also audio queues. No doubt this is the best app to learn Japanese daily words for you.
11. Best Japanese App for Beginners: Kana Quiz
key features:
- Game quizzes
- Structured Japanese alphabet tables
- Audio to help with pronunciation
Price: FREE (with in-app purchases)
Available On: Google Play Store
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Easy to use | It may be difficult for non-Japanese speakers |
Learn Japanese hiragana, katakana, alphabet, and numerical system | Some features have to be paid for |
Customizable test scope |
This easy-to-use app is a great way for newcomers to test their Japanese skills. The app teaches users Japanese hiragana, Katakana, and the numerical system and is perfect for beginners. Once users feel confident, they are encouraged to partake in quizzes that are customizable to test their skills and help with their understanding of the language.
12. Best App for Japanese Translations: Waygo
key features:
- Visual translator
- No data connection required
- A pronunciation guide is also provided
Price: FREE
Available On: iStore
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
No data is needed to use the app | The app needs to be downloaded through the amazon app |
Translations can be shared via social media apps | |
Perfect for use in everyday situations when traveling | |
Easy to use |
The Waygo app is a translation software app that utilizes the camera on any smartphone to translate text in day-to-day life. Users can simply point and translate, making it the perfect resource for those traveling through japan, when visiting restaurants or public establishments. Customers will also be pleased to know that the app is 100% functional offline.
13. Best App to Learn Japanese Sentences: Japanese by Renzo
Key features:
- App offers pronunciation guides
- Regular updates of the latest language trends
Price: FREE (with in-app purchases)
Available On: Google Play Store, iStore
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Comprehensive list of English – Japanese translations | Certain features have to be paid for |
Users can create their own vocabulary lists | Those who aren’t familiar with the language may find it daunting |
Users may add notes to dictionary entries | |
It can be used offline |
This online dictionary app offers those who are somewhat familiar with the Japanese language the opportunity to carry the entire Japanese language in their pocket. Users may find this app useful when navigating everyday life, as it is constantly updated with new words and terms being used by Japanese speakers giving a constant, growing learning experience.
14. Best App to Learn Japanese by Flashcard Learning: Anki
Key features:
- Flashcards
- Text-to-speech integration
- Detailed statistics
- Syncing with the Ankiweb platform
Price: FREE
Available On: Google Play store, iStore
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Flashcards make memorizing easy | Users may not feel that they get as comprehensive a learning experience |
Users can customize card fonts | |
Users can read progress reports on their lessons |
Used by students around the world for ages, flashcards have been long regarded as a great tool for memorization when learning. Anki makes use of this tool is a great way to allow users to experience the Japanese language in an interactive and engaging way. With the Anki app customers can read through over 6000 pre-made flashcard decks or start customizing their own if they are somewhat familiar with the language.
15. Best App to Read Japanese News: Easy Japanese News
Key features:
- Immersive cultural and linguistic experience
- Keep up to date with the latest Japanese news
- Learn Japanese from sources such as newspapers and nationally televised news
- Users have access to music and podcasts
Price: FREE (with in-app purchases)
Available On: Google Play Store, iStore
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Constantly up to date with Japanese news | Users cannot add their own news feeds |
Up to date with the latest social language trends | |
The convenient dictionary included to help with everyday situations | |
Diverse news sources |
Many feel that they learn best from auditory stimulation as well as literature, Easy Japanese News brings users the best of every world. With the app, users can look forward to learning everyday Japanese from a variety of news sources in a variety of mediums. Not only does the app compiles news from traditional newspapers and televised episodes but learners may also choose to learn through podcasts and music playlists.
16. Best App to Learn Japanese by Structured Lessons: Busuu
Key features:
- Over 10 different languages to choose from
- Practice with native speakers
- Users have access to a study plan
- The app offers vocabulary training
Price: FREE (in-app purchases)
Available On: Google Play Store, iStore
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Great memorization tools | Some features need to be paid for |
Practicing pronunciation with native Japanese speakers | |
Lessons are created by linguistic experts | |
Users receive official certification once a course is completed |
Another app that has fast gained popularity since its inception, Busuu is an app created by linguistic experts to help learners excel. Whether you’ve just started your journey to learning Japanese or whether you are at an intermediate level, the app has a variety of lessons and methods to help you quickly find your footing.
17. Best Immersion App for Japanese: FluentU
Key features:
- Real-world videos
- Learning through film trailers, music videos, and news videos
Price: FREE (in-app purchases)
Available On: Google Play Store, iStore
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Users learn Japanese from an everyday, local perspective | users seeking literature may have a hard time |
Users get first-hand pronunciation experience | |
Great for those who struggle with memorization |
The FluentU app is a great way for those who aren’t skilled at memorizing written texts to learn Japanese. The app utilizes online video sources of various natures such as music videos, daily news updates, and films to help learners gain everyday, social understanding of the Japanese language.
18. Best Japanese App for Newbies: Mondly
Key features:
- Conversation with native Japanese speakers
- Statistics reports after every lesson
- Competition adds an element of fun with users from around the world
Price: FREE (in-app purchases)
Available On: Google Play Store, iStore
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Pronunciation lessons | Not challenging enough for certain users |
Fun learning environment | |
Feedback on learner pronunciation | |
Learners can customize lessons based on their study method of choice |
The Mondly app offers users the choice of more than 28 languages. Users can create a customized learning program that is easily molded to their schedule and learning level. The app is also beneficial in helping students memorize core Japanese words and phrases in fun, innovative ways.
19. Best App to Learn Japanese Grammar: Lingodeer
Key features:
- HD audio recordings by native Japanese speakers
- Learning the alphabet system
- Learning essential vocabulary systems
Price: FREE (in-app purchases)
Available On: Google Play Store, iStore
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Users can personalize their digital workbooks. | Learning order of topics can be unstructured |
Learning pronunciation from Japanese speakers | |
Fun, engaging ways to learn through illustrated flashcards |
Lingodeer brings together some of the best native Japanese-speaking tutors in order to put together lessons that feel comprehensive yet fun. Users can learn using adorable, illustrated flashcards as well as through the use of videos which are useful when learning about pronunciation. Students will also learn to read and write within the unique Japanese alphabet system.
20. Best App for Japanese Dictionary: Imiwa?
Key features:
- Covers a large Japanese vocabulary
- Users can integrate the Japanese keyboard into their smartphone keyboard
Price: FREE
Available On: iStore
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
An endless array of translation possibilities | The voice translation feature requires data |
Perfect for those who memorize literature well | |
Great for on-the-go use |
This online Japanese dictionary app allows users to take the Japanese world with them on the go throughout daily life. Users not only have access to translated words and phrases but can also access example sentences and phrases giving them a great understanding of how to best integrate them into everyday conversations.
21. Best App to Learn Japanese Speaking: HelloTalk
Key features:
- Language exchange, learn by speaking with native Japanese speakers
- Built-in grammar correction feature
- 1 on 1 language lessons
Price: FREE (In-app purchases)
Available On: iStore, Google Play Store
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
A better way to build an understanding of the Japanese vocabulary | Some features have to be purchases |
Users become familiar with current affairs |
Make friends and learn a new language all in one go! HelloTalk offers users the opportunity to learn Japanese in a truly immersive way. Users learn the language through conversations with native Japanese speakers. The app connects users of different proficiency levels and allows them to engage in current affairs, while also allowing for pronunciation and grammar correction along the way.
22. Best Podcast to Learn Japanese: JapanesePod 101
Key features:
- Flashcards
- Wordbank
- Voice recordings as well as allowing users to record their own pronunciation
Price: FREE
Available On: iStore, Google Play Store
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Users have access to over 2000 audio and video lessons | Some features from the website aren’t on the app |
Users can take these lessons anywhere at anytime | No quick-access dashboard, unlike the website |
All audio and video lessons come with text translations |
This learning podcast helps first-time and intermediate learners get a better grasp of the Japanese language with daily podcast episodes based on various aspects of the Japanese language. Seeing as it is a podcast it’s the perfect format for those who learn best through audio. However, the website and app also offer video lessons for those who learn visually, these videos also include translations and illustrated flashcards.
23. Best App to Learn Japanese with Quizzes: Learn Japanese: Benkyō
Key features:
- 2000+ Kanjis & vocabulary entries
- Fun quizzes
- Progress tracking through statistics
- Custom quizzes
- Flashcards
Price: FREE (must be paid for once the trial is completed)
Available On: iStore
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Learners can keep up with their lesson progress and learn where to improve | Users have to pay for the app once the trial period is over |
Word list management | The app may be difficult to navigate for those not used to it |
Audio samples for pronunciation |
The Benkyō app offers users a smart way to learn Japanese. The creators behind the app realized just how time-consuming learning and memorizing kanji could be so they streamlined the process for users. Learners can now speed up the process through the use of their highly optimized flashcards and customizable quizzes.
24. Best App to Learn Japanese for Kids: Mindsnacks
Key features:
- Offers lessons on romanji, Kanji, and kana
- Lessons come with matching audio clips
- Unique word games
- Illustrated image library
- Fun challenges and quests
Price: FREE (with in-app purchases)
Available On: iStore
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Lessons are fun and engaging | Upgrades are required to access certain lessons |
Over 800 Japanese words to learn | |
Students can review previously completed lessons | |
50 lessons designed by professional instructors |
The Mindsnacks app was created to bring a sense of fun and play to the world of language learning. Staying away from the rigidity of traditional methods of learning, Mindsnacks helps users learn Japanese through fun, brightly colored, and illustrated games and challenging quizzes that will keep them on their toes.
25. Best App to Learn Japanese: the All-In-One: JA Sensei
Key features:
- Progressive Japanese lessons
- Users have access to a phrasebook with over 900 common phrases
- Audio clips
- The app offers detailed grammar explanations
Price: FREE
Available On: Google Play store
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Users can get detailed feedback during their lessons | |
Users can compare their pronunciation with that of native Japanese speakers | |
Learners can customize their own personal word/phrase lists | |
Guide to Japanese culture |
This app offers one of the most thorough learning experiences. Users have the benefit of a detailed walk-through of Japanese grammar, vocabulary, pronunciation, and the alphabet. The app is perfect for learners of all skill levels, whether beginner or advanced and offers the user highly customizable quizzes that track progress levels.
Find Yourself the Best App to Learn Japanese
Learning Japanese can be fun only with the best app to learn Japanese! We hope that the article has helped you better understand that now you can take the power of learning into your own hands and not wait around to be in classroom-bound long, sometimes boring lectures. Narrowing down the best app to help you on your learning journey is a simple task. Once you understand how you best learn, whether it’s visually, through audio, or through written literature you can find the right app that will keep you engaged in learning Japanese characters for as long as your schedule permits. Still haven’t found the best app to learn Japanese for yourself? Then start your journey into the world of Japanese with lessons from native-speaking tutors from AmazingTalker.