Learning a new language can be an exciting and rewarding experience, and if you’re looking to learn Japanese, you’re in luck! With the advancement of technology, language learning has become more accessible than ever.
There are numerous mobile apps available on both iOS and Android platforms that can help you master the Japanese language. Whether you’re a beginner or an intermediate learner, these apps offer a wide range of features to enhance your language skills.
In this article, we’ll explore the 10 best apps to learn Japanese that are worth trying out.
Top 10 Apps to Learn Japanese for iOS and Android in 2023
1. Duolingo (iOS/Android)
Duolingo is a well-known language learning app that offers courses in various languages, including Japanese. With its gamified approach, Duolingo makes learning fun and interactive.
It covers all aspects of language learning, such as vocabulary, grammar, listening, and speaking. The app’s bite-sized lessons and progress tracking system keep learners engaged and motivated.
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2. Memrise (iOS/Android)
Memrise is another popular language learning app that offers a comprehensive Japanese course. It focuses on vocabulary building and employs spaced repetition techniques to help you memorize words effectively.
The app includes native speaker audio, grammar explanations, and interactive exercises to improve your listening, speaking, and reading skills.
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3. HelloTalk (iOS/Android)
HelloTalk is a unique language exchange app that connects learners with native Japanese speakers. Through text, voice, and video chat, you can practice your language skills with native speakers, receive feedback, and build friendships.
It’s a great way to immerse yourself in the Japanese language and culture while making connections with people from around the world.
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4. Tandem (iOS/Android)
Similar to HelloTalk, Tandem is a language exchange app that connects language learners with native speakers. You can find Japanese language partners and engage in language exchanges through text, voice, or video chats.
Additionally, Tandem offers language learning resources, including grammar guides and vocabulary lists, to support your learning journey.
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5. Innovative Language Learning (iOS/Android)
Innovative Language Learning provides an extensive library of audio and video lessons, podcasts, and study materials for learning Japanese. With lessons ranging from beginner to advanced levels, you can learn grammar, vocabulary, and cultural insights at your own pace.
The app also offers quizzes, flashcards, and interactive exercises to reinforce your learning.
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6. Anki (iOS/Android)
Anki is a powerful flashcard app that utilizes spaced repetition to help you memorize Japanese vocabulary and kanji characters. You can create your own flashcards or download pre-made decks shared by other learners.
Anki’s algorithm adapts to your learning progress, ensuring efficient vocabulary retention over time.
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7. Lingodeer (iOS/Android)
Lingodeer is a comprehensive language learning app that provides interactive lessons for Japanese learners. It covers all aspects of language learning, including grammar, vocabulary, listening, speaking, and reading.
Lingodeer’s user-friendly interface and engaging exercises make it an excellent choice for beginners.
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8. Rosetta Stone (iOS/Android)
Rosetta Stone is a renowned language learning platform that offers an immersive and interactive Japanese course. Through a combination of visual and audio input, Rosetta Stone focuses on developing your listening and speaking skills.
The app incorporates speech recognition technology to provide real-time feedback on your pronunciation.
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9. Obenkyo (Android)
Obenkyo is a free Japanese learning app exclusively available for Android users. It provides comprehensive lessons on hiragana, katakana, kanji, grammar, vocabulary, and more.
The app features stroke order animations for writing practice and quizzes to test your knowledge.
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10. Kanji Study (Android)
Kanji Study is a dedicated app for learning kanji, the Chinese characters used in the Japanese writing system. It offers interactive lessons, flashcards, and quizzes to help you master kanji.
The app also provides detailed information about each character, including stroke order, readings, and example words.
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FAQs on Best Apps to Learn Japanese
Q1: Can I use these apps if I’m a beginner in learning Japanese?
A1: Yes, many of these apps are designed to cater to beginners. They offer introductory lessons, step-by-step guidance, and explanations of basic grammar and vocabulary.
Q2: Are these apps available for both iOS and Android?
A2: Yes, the apps listed in this article are available for both iOS and Android devices. You can find them on the respective app stores for each platform.
Q3: Do these apps provide pronunciation practice?
A3: Yes, several apps offer audio components, including native speaker audio, to help improve pronunciation. They often incorporate speech recognition technology to provide real-time feedback on your pronunciation as well.
Q4: Can I track my progress and see my improvement over time?
A4: Yes, most of these apps include progress tracking features. They allow you to monitor your learning achievements, completion rates, and sometimes even provide statistics on your performance.
Q5: Do these apps offer writing practice for Japanese characters?
A5: Yes, some apps provide writing practice for Japanese characters such as hiragana, katakana, and kanji. They often include stroke order animations to guide you in writing the characters correctly.
Q6: Are there any opportunities for language exchange with native Japanese speakers?
A6: Yes, a couple of the apps mentioned, such as HelloTalk and Tandem, provide language exchange platforms where you can connect with native Japanese speakers for text, voice, and video chats to practice your conversational skills.
Q7: Are these apps free to use?
A7: Many of these apps offer free versions with limited features, while some also have premium subscriptions or in-app purchases for accessing additional content and features. The pricing models vary, so you can choose based on your preferences and budget.
Q8: Can I use these apps offline?
A8: Some apps offer offline functionality, allowing you to download lessons, materials, or flashcards for offline use. However, note that certain interactive features and real-time feedback may require an internet connection.
Q9: Are these apps suitable for self-study or should I use them alongside a formal language course?
A9: These apps can be valuable tools for self-study, and many learners have successfully used them as their primary learning resource. However, combining them with a formal language course or additional learning materials can further enhance your progress and understanding.
Q10: Can I switch between devices and continue my progress?
A10: Yes, many of these apps offer synchronization across multiple devices. You can sign in to your account on different devices and continue your learning seamlessly, with your progress and data being synced.
Conclusion on Best Japanese Learning Apps
With the help of these 10 best apps to learn Japanese, you can embark on a language learning journey that suits your preferences and learning style.
Whether you prefer gamified lessons, language exchange with native speakers, or comprehensive study materials, these apps offer a range of features to enhance your Japanese language skills.
So, pick the one that resonates with you and start your exciting journey towards mastering the Japanese language. Ganbatte!
