Learning Japanese is thrilling until the moment when you get to look at three writing systems and thousands of Kanji characters looking back at you. Most beginners begin with the motivations but soon get lost on where to begin. Should you focus on speaking? Grammar? Kanji? Or just memorize phrases? The fact is that, with the right learning tool, this journey can be very easy and enjoyable.
Nowadays, to study Japanese, it is no longer necessary to rely on textbooks and classes. Some of the strongest apps are transforming lessons into games, connecting you with native speakers, enhancing your pronunciation, or even helping you to pass JLPT exams. No matter why you need to know anime without subtitles, navigate with ease in Japan (or develop professional language skills), a specific application is created to achieve just that.
In this article, we’ve carefully selected the Top 15 Best Apps to Learn Japanese based on features, usability, and learning style. No matter if you’re a complete beginner or already know some basics, you’ll find the perfect app to stay consistent and actually enjoy the process of mastering Japanese.
How to Choose the Right Japanese Learning App
- Know Your Goal First – Are you studying Japanese to learn anime, to travel, to do business, or to pass the JLPT? Some apps are casual chat based and also some that specialise in grammar or learning Kanji. Making a decision according to your purpose is time-saving and confusion-saving.
- Test the Learning Style – There are apps that are gamified and entertaining and those that seem like organized digital textbooks. In case you like fast daily tasks, use interactive applications. In case you want to be explained in detail, go with grammar-based sites.
- Find Speaking Practice – Japanese pronunciation and pitch accent issue. Applications with voice recognition functionality or communication with a native speaker can help you become a much more confident speaker.
- Kanji Support Matters – The Kanji is among the most challenging components of Japanese so ensure the app provides organized learning of Kanji using the spaced repetition or mnemonic strategies.
- Offline and Progress Tracking Features – In case you are going out or have a weak wireless internet, then offline lessons can help. Moreover, the progress tracking will keep you on track and track progress.
How to Learn Japanese Faster With Apps
- Be Consistent Daily – Even 10-15 minutes per day is superior to hours per week of study. Coherence develops recollection and more powerful language patterns.
- Combine Multiple Apps – Use one program as a grammar program, another one as a vocabulary program, and another one as a speaking practice program. Balanced language development is provided by mixing tools and choosing Great Online Tools that complement each other effectively.
- Active Recall Practice – Do not simply read or listen. Attempt to create sentences, read aloud and quiz yourself frequently to enhance memorization.
- Keep Small Attainable Goals – You should not have the goal of learning Japanese, rather set smaller goals, such as mastering Hiragana within a week or learning 20 new words every day. Mini victories will get you going.
- Go Beyond the App – Watch Japanese videos, listen to music or follow simple Japanese content online. All that you study on the app is better and easier to remember when you are exposed to it in reality.
Comparison Table for Apps To Learn Japanese
| Tool Name | Learning Focus | Best For (User Level) | Teaching Method | Offline Access & Progress Tracking |
| Duolingo | Vocabulary, Basic Grammar, Reading, Listening | Beginner, Casual Learners | Gamified Lessons | Offline Mode (Premium), Streak & Progress Tracking |
| Rosetta Stone | Speaking, Listening, Immersive Learning | Beginner to Intermediate | Immersive Image-Based Method | Offline Access, Structured Progress Tracking |
| Busuu | Grammar, Vocabulary, Conversation | Beginner to Intermediate | Structured Curriculum + Native Feedback | Offline Mode, Study Plan Tracking |
| Memrise | Vocabulary, Listening | Beginner to Intermediate | Spaced Repetition + Native Videos | Offline Mode, Progress Stats |
| LingoDeer | Grammar, Kanji, Vocabulary | Beginner to Intermediate | Structured Curriculum | Offline Mode, Quiz Progress Tracking |
| HelloTalk | Speaking, Conversation Practice | All Levels | Language Exchange with Native Speakers | Limited Offline, Chat History Tracking |
| Tandem | Conversation, Speaking, Cultural Exchange | Intermediate to Advanced | Language Exchange + Tutor Option | Limited Offline, Conversation Tracking |
| Drops | Vocabulary | Beginner, Casual Learners | Visual Gamified Learning | Offline Mode (Premium), Streak Tracking |
| Pimsleur | Speaking, Listening | Beginner to Intermediate | Audio-Based Spaced Repetition | Offline Lessons, Progress Tracking |
| MochiKanji | JLPT Vocabulary, Kanji | JLPT Aspirants | Spaced Repetition System | Offline Mode, Detailed Review Tracking |
| Anki | Vocabulary, Kanji, JLPT Prep | Serious Learners, All Levels | Custom Flashcards + Advanced SRS | Offline Access, Custom Progress Stats |
| WaniKani | Kanji, Vocabulary | Beginner to Advanced | Radical-Based Structured System | Web-Based, Level Tracking |
| JapanesePod101 | Listening, Grammar, Conversation | Beginner to Advanced | Audio & Video Lessons | Offline Downloads, Learning Dashboard |
| LingQ | Reading, Listening, Vocabulary | Intermediate to Advanced | Learning via Real Content | Offline Mode, Vocabulary Tracking |
| Human Japanese | Grammar, Sentence Structure | Beginner | Textbook-Style Structured Lessons | Offline Access, Lesson Tracking |
List of Top 15 Apps to Learn Japanese
1. Duolingo
Website: https://www.duolingo.com
Duolingo is one of the most popular language-learning apps in the world and is especially beginner-friendly for Japanese learners. It is also widely recognized as one of the best Apps To Learn Japanese. It uses short, interactive lessons that feel like a game, making it easy to stay consistent. The app introduces Hiragana, Katakana, basic Kanji, vocabulary, and grammar through bite-sized exercises that gradually increase in difficulty.
The strength of Duolingo lies in its simplicity and habit-building approach. With streak tracking, daily goals, and reward systems, it keeps learners motivated. While it may not provide extremely deep grammar explanations, it is an excellent starting point for building foundational vocabulary and sentence structure in Japanese.
Platform: Android, iOS, Web
Top Features:
- Gamified learning with streak rewards
- Bite-sized daily lessons
- Reading, listening, and writing practice
- Hiragana and Katakana training
- Free version available
Pricing:
- Free
2. Rosetta Stone
Website: https://www.rosettastone.com
Rosetta Stone is known for its immersive learning method. Instead of translating from English, it teaches Japanese using images, audio, and context — helping learners think directly in Japanese. This natural approach improves pronunciation and listening skills from the beginning. As a comprehensive Learning management system, it also provides structured progress tracking and guided lesson paths for consistent improvement.
The app also includes TruAccent speech recognition technology, which helps you refine pronunciation. It’s ideal for learners who prefer structured lessons and are willing to invest in a premium experience for deeper language immersion
Platform: Android, iOS, Windows, Mac, Web
Top Features:
- Immersive, translation-free learning
- TruAccent speech recognition
- Structured lesson paths
- Offline access
- Audio companion lessons
Pricing:
| 3 Months | 12 Months | Lifetime |
| $15.95/mo | $11.95/mo | $219 |
3. Busuu
Website: https://www.busuu.com
Busuu offers structured Japanese courses combined with community-based learning. The app covers vocabulary, grammar, and conversation skills while allowing learners to receive feedback from native Japanese speakers. This real-world correction makes learning more practical and interactive, making it one of the most effective Apps To Learn Japanese available today.
The study plans are customizable based on your goals, whether you’re learning for travel, business, or personal interest. Busuu also provides official certificates upon course completion, which can be useful for motivation and progress tracking.
Platform: Android, iOS, Web
Top Features:
- Personalized study plans
- Native speaker feedback
- Grammar-focused lessons
- Vocabulary review system
- Offline mode
Pricing:
- Free
4. Memrise
Website: https://www.memrise.com
Memrise focuses heavily on vocabulary building through spaced repetition and video-based learning. It uses real-life video clips of native Japanese speakers, which helps learners understand authentic pronunciation and natural expressions.
The app’s memory techniques make it easier to retain words long-term. Memrise is especially useful for expanding vocabulary quickly and improving listening comprehension with real-world context.
Platform: Android, iOS, Web
Top Features:
- Spaced repetition system
- Native speaker video clips
- Vocabulary-focused learning
- Fun quiz-style exercises
- Offline access
Pricing:
| Monthly | Annual | Lifetime |
| $10.32 | $43.96 | $79.14 |
5. LingoDeer
Website: https://www.lingodeer.com
LingoDeer is specifically designed to learn asian languages like Sanskrit, Korean, Japanese etc, making it more grammar-focused compared to many other apps. It provides clear grammar explanations in English, which is extremely helpful for beginners trying to understand sentence structure and particles.
The lessons are structured logically, covering Hiragana, Katakana, Kanji, vocabulary, and grammar step-by-step. It’s an excellent choice for serious learners who want a deeper understanding rather than just memorizing phrases.
Platform: Android, iOS, Web
Top Features:
- Detailed grammar explanations
- Structured curriculum
- Kana and Kanji practice
- Progress tracking quizzes
- Offline study mode
Pricing:
| Monthly | Quarterly | Yearly | 3 Yearly | 6 Yearly |
| $14.99 | $39.99 | $95.99 | $189.99 | $239.99 |
6. HelloTalk
Website: https://www.hellotalk.com
HelloTalk is one of the most popular Apps To Learn Japanese, as it is a language exchange app that connects you directly with native Japanese speakers. Instead of traditional lessons, it focuses on real conversations through text, voice messages, and even video calls. This helps learners naturally practice real-world Japanese.
One of its biggest advantages is the built-in correction feature, where native speakers can edit your sentences directly. If your goal is conversational fluency and cultural understanding, HelloTalk provides a powerful platform to interact with real people.
Platform: Android, iOS
Top Features:
- Language exchange with native speakers
- Text, voice, and video chat
- Built-in correction tools
- Translation and pronunciation support
- Community posts and discussion features
Pricing:
- Free
7. Tandem
Website: https://www.tandem.net
Tandem is another popular language exchange app that connects learners with native Japanese speakers around the world. The platform focuses on meaningful conversation practice, allowing you to improve speaking and listening skills in real-time.
Unlike structured course-based apps, Tandem emphasizes cultural exchange. You can choose partners based on interests, goals, or proficiency level, making learning more personalized and engaging.
Platform: Android, iOS, Web
Top Features:
- One-on-one language exchange
- Audio and video calls
- Community matching system
- Text correction tools
- Professional tutor option available
Pricing:
| Free | Pro |
| $0 | $59.90/mo |
8. Drops
Website: https://languagedrops.com
Drops is designed for quick vocabulary learning sessions that take only five minutes per day. It uses visual associations and swipe-based interactions to make learning Japanese words fun and fast, making it one of the most popular Apps To Learn Japanese for beginners.
The app focuses mainly on vocabulary rather than grammar, making it ideal for beginners who want to build word knowledge quickly. The design is clean, colorful, and highly engaging, which helps maintain daily learning consistency.
Platform: Android, iOS
Top Features:
- 5-minute daily sessions
- Visual learning approach
- Swipe-based interactive exercises
- Topic-based vocabulary sets
- Clean and modern interface
Pricing:
| Monthly | Yearly | Lifetime |
| $13.25/mo | $71.39/yr | $163.19 |
9. Pimsleur
Website: https://www.pimsleur.com
Pimsleur is an audio-focused language learning program that is excellent for improving listening and speaking skills. It follows a scientifically backed spaced repetition method, encouraging learners to actively respond during audio lessons.
The app is particularly effective for learners who prefer learning while commuting or multitasking. It builds conversational confidence by emphasizing pronunciation and real-life dialogue rather than reading and writing alone.
Platform: Android, iOS, Web
Top Features:
- Audio-based lessons
- Focus on pronunciation and speaking
- Spaced repetition method
- Hands-free learning mode
- Downloadable lessons
Pricing:
- $12450 one time
10. MochiKanji
Website: https://mochidemy.com
MochiKanji is a Japanese-focused learning app that emphasizes spaced repetition and vocabulary retention. It is especially popular among learners preparing for JLPT exams because it organizes vocabulary lists according to JLPT levels.
The app provides detailed progress tracking and smart reminders to ensure consistent review. If you are exploring Apps To Learn Japanese, preparing for Japanese proficiency tests, or want a more structured vocabulary system, MochiKanji can be a strong companion tool.
Platform: Android, iOS
Top Features:
- JLPT-based vocabulary lists
- Smart spaced repetition system
- Daily reminders and streaks
- Detailed progress tracking
- Customizable study goals
Pricing:
- $121445.14/yr
11. Anki
Website: https://apps.ankiweb.net
Anki is a powerful flashcard-based learning app that uses an advanced spaced repetition system (SRS) to help learners remember Japanese vocabulary and Kanji efficiently. Unlike many ready-made course apps, Anki allows users to create fully customized decks or download shared decks specifically designed for JLPT levels and Kanji study.
What makes Anki especially valuable is its flexibility. You can add audio, images, example sentences, and even pitch accent information to your flashcards. It’s ideal for serious learners who want full control over their study material and long-term memory retention.
Platform: Android, iOS, Windows, Mac, Linux
Top Features:
- Advanced spaced repetition algorithm
- Fully customizable flashcards
- Downloadable community decks
- Kanji and JLPT-focused study options
- Sync across multiple devices
Pricing:
- Free
12 WaniKani
Website: https://www.wanikani.com
WaniKani is specifically designed to help learners master Kanji and vocabulary through a structured, level-based system. It teaches radicals first, then builds them into Kanji, and finally connects them to vocabulary words. This logical progression makes learning complex characters more manageable.
The platform uses mnemonics and spaced repetition to improve memory retention. It’s especially helpful for learners who find Kanji overwhelming and want a systematic method to tackle reading and character recognition step-by-step.
Platform: Web (mobile-friendly)
Top Features:
- Radical-based Kanji learning system
- Mnemonic memory techniques
- Spaced repetition system
- Level progression tracking
- Vocabulary integration with Kanji
Pricing:
| Monthly | Yearly | Annual |
| $9/mo | $89/yr | $299 |
13. JapanesePod101
Website: https://www.japanesepod101.com
JapanesePod101 offers thousands of audio and video lessons covering beginner to advanced levels. It focuses heavily on listening comprehension, real-life dialogues, and cultural insights. Each lesson typically includes explanations of grammar and vocabulary in English.
The app also provides downloadable lesson notes, flashcards, and personalized learning paths. It’s a strong option for learners who enjoy podcast-style learning combined with structured lesson guidance.
Platform: Android, iOS, Web
Top Features:
- Audio and video lesson library
- Grammar explanations in English
- Downloadable lesson notes
- Vocabulary flashcards
- Personalized learning dashboard
Pricing:
| Premium | Premium Plus |
| $5.50/mo | $12.58/mo |
14. LingQ
Website: https://www.lingq.com
LingQ focuses on learning Japanese through reading and listening to real content such as articles, podcasts, and stories. Among the popular Apps To Learn Japanese, it stands out by encouraging learners to immerse themselves in authentic materials rather than relying on traditional lessons.
The app allows you to click on unfamiliar vocabulary to see meanings instantly and save them for review. This approach is ideal for intermediate learners who want to expand vocabulary naturally through exposure.
Platform: Android, iOS, Web
Top Features:
- Learning through real-world content
- Instant word lookup
- Vocabulary tracking system
- Audio integration
- Progress statistics
Pricing:
| 1 Month | 1 Year | 2 Years |
| $14.99 | $10.9 | $8.99 |
15. Human Japanese
Website: https://www.humanjapanese.com
Human Japanese is known for its clear and detailed grammar explanations. Unlike gamified apps, it feels more like an interactive textbook, making it perfect for learners who want to deeply understand sentence structure and Japanese language rules.
The app provides cultural notes, example sentences, and audio recordings for better comprehension. It’s particularly helpful for beginners who prefer structured explanations rather than quick quizzes.
Platform: Android, iOS
Top Features:
- In-depth grammar explanations
- Cultural insights
- Audio pronunciation support
- Structured lesson format
- Beginner-friendly design
Pricing:
| Monthly | Yearly |
| $5/mo | $49/mo |
Conclusion
In conclusion, studying Japanese can appear challenging at first, but with the help of the appropriate application, the process can become much more comfortable and even pleasurable. Choosing the right Apps To Learn Japanese can make a significant difference in your progress. It is not important to install all apps, but to select the one that fits your purpose and learning style. Some apps are good for speaking practice, learning Kanji, and understanding well-structured grammar.
It is important to remember that consistency is more important than speed. Even 15 minutes of practice a day can have great outcomes in the long run. Use smart tools and practice regularly, and you will gradually become aware that you know how to use words, construct sentences, and feel confident. Japanese is not as frightening as it appears — all you need is the right support system.
FAQs
1. Can I learn Japanese Only Using Apps?
Yes, you can build a strong foundation using apps. However, combining apps with real practice like watching Japanese content, speaking with native speakers, or reading simple texts will improve your skills faster.
2. Which App Is Best For Learning Kanji?
Apps that use spaced repetition and structured Kanji systems are most effective. WaniKani and Anki are popular choices because they help you remember Kanji through smart review methods.
3. How Long Does It Take To Learn Japanese Using Apps?
It depends on your consistency and study time. With daily practice, beginners can understand basic conversations in a few months. Fluency usually takes longer and requires continuous learning and practice.
4. Are free Japanese Learning Apps Good Enough?
Many free apps offer excellent beginner-level content. However, premium versions often unlock advanced lessons, better practice tools, and offline access, which can improve your learning experience.
5. What Is The Fastest Way To Improve Japanese Speaking Skills?
The fastest way is to practice speaking regularly. Use apps with voice recognition features or connect with native speakers through language exchange platforms to build real conversational confidence.
