Best Language Apps for Learning to Speak Japanese
Dreaming about exploring Japan? There’s never been a better time to learn to speak Japanese! We’re sharing our favorite Japanese language-learning apps, so you can practice your Japanese from home—and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime in Japan.
WaniKani
Cost: Free trial, with monthly and yearly subscriptions thereafter
WaniKani is a super accessible mnemonic-based learning system that gets you up to speed on reading Japanese quickly. It promises you can learn 2,000 kanji and 6,000 vocabulary words in just over a year. Why not get started now?
Todai
Cost: Free, with an option to subscribe to remove ads
With the Todai app, read simple news stories and practice listening and reading Japanese offline. There are options for different reading levels, as well as helpful audio.
Kanji Star
Cost: Free for beginning levels, with an option to purchase additional levels
Learn kanji by drawing kanji right on your iPhone or iPad with Kanji Star! This app will help you practice your stroke order and writing based on grade level or your level in the Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT).
Imiwa
Cost: Free
Imiwa is a multilingual Japanese dictionary that includes both the rōmaji (English alphabet) version of a word and its kanji equivalent. It’s totally free and does not require an internet connection—so you have no excuse not to try it if you have iOS!
Duolingo
Cost: Free, with an option to subscribe to remove ads
A classic option for language learning and available on both iOS and Google Play, Duolingo requires just five minutes a day, and feels more like a game than work. Although it calls its lessons “bite-sized,” that doesn’t mean you can’t pick up the pace if you want, especially if you’ve got some extra time on your hands.
- Flexible itineraries including a two week ‘Best of Japan’ and 11 days in Hokkaido
- The top sights and unique experiences: Wander the shrines and temples of Ueno-koen park and stop in Tokyo National Museum for world-renowned Japanese art. Learn about samurai heritage in Sanmachi Suji or zazen meditation at the Buddhist temples of Kyoto, and get an unforgettable lesson in 20th century history at Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park
- Outdoor adventures: Hike the trails of Mt. Fuji or the river-filled valley of Kamikochi and relax in a communal onsen hot spring. Ski or snowboard at a world-class resort, surf in the Pacific off the coast of Shikoku, or dive along the coral reefs of Okinawa
- The best local flavors: Feast on ramen or an elaborate spread of sushi, sample fresh seafood at the world’s largest fish market in Tokyo, and drink your way through the famed beer scene in Sapporo
- Honest insight from American expat and longtime Tokyo local Jonathan DeHart
- Full-color, vibrant photos throughout
- Detailed maps and useful tips for navigating public transportation
- Focused coverage of Tokyo, Mt. Fuji, Kanazawa, Kyoto, Kansai, Hiroshima and Miyajima, Okinawa, Tohoku and Hokkaido, Shikoku and Kyushu, and more
- Thorough background information on the landscape, wildlife, history, government, and culture
Just exploring the cities? Check out Moon Tokyo, Kyoto & Hiroshima or Moon Tokyo Walks.
About Moon Travel Guides: Moon was founded in 1973 to empower independent, active, and conscious travel. We prioritize local businesses, outdoor recreation, and traveling strategically and sustainably. Moon Travel Guides are written by local, expert authors with great stories to tell—and they can’t wait to share their favorite places with you.
For more inspiration, follow @moonguides on social media.
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