Speaking Japanese: 8 Phone Apps to Learn the Japanese Language
Looking for an app to learn Japanese? Here's an overview of the 8 best language apps! Free or paid
Looking for an app to learn Japanese? Here's an overview of the 8 best language apps! Free or paid, focused on pronunciation or character learning (hiragana, katakana, kanji): each offers its own advantages – and objectives...
1. JA Sensei
JA Sensei is a playful and very comprehensive tool that allows you to get started with Japanese, thanks to well-defined chapters. Conjugation, vocabulary, grammar, numbers, particles: the app covers all aspects of the Japanese language for solid foundational learning.
A "conversation guide" also allows you to learn expressions (along with their pronunciation, via audio clips). The app also enables you to get started with kanji – Chinese characters that allow you to write part of the Japanese language.
Practical Information Learning level: ideal for beginners, then progressing. Operating system: Android Access: premium content at €16 (this is a license purchase, not a subscription, giving unlimited access to the app – and ad-free). By creating your account, you can save all your data (including your progress tracking). To know: there is a free version |
2. Busuu
Busuu is a mobile application recognized for language learning (regardless of the language). For the Japanese version, it offers interactive dialogues, around fifty vocabulary and grammar lessons, as well as writing exercises, perfect for making progress.
Its visual supports promote memorization. When you arrive in Japon – whether in a major city or in the Japanese countryside of Hakone – you'll know how to pronounce everyday language expressions.
Practical Information Learning level: from A1 (beginner) to B2 (intermediate) Operating system: Android, iOS iPhone / iPad, Online service Access: paid. Premium version €34.99/year, premium+ version €6.50/month To know: there is a free version (sufficient for simple initiation) |
3. Obenkyo
Very effective for studying hiragana, katakana, and kanji, the Obenkyo app allows you to check your competency level periodically throughout your learning, particularly through multiple-choice quizzes.
This app is very effective for preparing for the Japanese JLPT test (Japanese Language Proficiency Test), the equivalent of the TOEIC – the only exam open to foreigners that officially evaluates your mastery of the language.
Practical Information Learning level: all levels Operating system: Android 4.0 Access: free (and ad-free) |
4. Rosetta Stone
Rosetta Stone is one of the most well-known language learning applications. Its Japanese version offers immersive training, with milestones that allow you to set objectives adapted to your current level! The app is renowned for its video visuals, images, and audio (which add a playful element), as well as its comprehensive program (speaking, writing, reading).
Practical Information Learning level: all levels Operating system: Android Access: paid (approximately €33/quarter). To know: there is a 3-day trial version |
5. Mondly
Mondly is an application designed to practice Japanese just a few minutes a day, but consistently. Thanks to its program, quizzes, and dashboard, it's easy to track your learning progress... The app also helps you develop good pronunciation through a voice recognition system.
Practical Information Learning level: Operating system: Android, iOS, online service Access: paid. Subscription €9.99/month (or €47.99/year). License purchase (€60 with unlimited access). |
6. FluentU
FluentU stands out somewhat from other learning platforms, with "real" Japanese videos (not content created specifically for the app). In addition to offering authenticity, it allows you to segment videos and thus follow dialogues and subtitles almost word for word.
The application features approximately 1,000 videos, as well as podcasts. Both formats allow you to practice by varying subjects (Japanese culture, news, advertisements, etc.)
Practical Information Learning level: Operating system: Android, iOS 16.4 Access: paid. Subscription €15/month (or €120/year). To know: there is a 15-day trial version |
7. Rocket Languages
The Rocket Languages app is designed for anyone who wants to learn to speak Japanese (or improve their language skills). It offers numerous audio clips that allow you to learn and refine your pronunciation.
The app is divided into five sections: Japanese vocabulary, hiragana, katakana, and kanji writing lessons, audio listening, language and culture. Translation exercises also facilitate memorization.
Practical Information Learning level: from beginner to advanced level Operating system: Android, iOS, Windows XP, 7/8/10/11, and Macintosh Access: paid. There are 3 levels; the price varies depending on the course subscription (€138 level 01; €230 levels 1 and 2; €240 for all 3 levels). All 3 offers are license purchases, giving unlimited access to the app. |
8. Write It! Japanese
Write It! Japanese is a useful tool for learning the basics of the Japanese writing system: hiragana and katakana. Thanks to its hundreds of kana characters, the app enables a tracing system on your smartphone screen; very effective for learning to write and draw characters! Multiple-choice quizzes also allow you to customize exercises.
Practical Information Learning level: beginner Operating system: Android, iOS, Windows 10 (v2004) Access: paid (approximately €7). To know: there is a free trial version. Method for learning to write (only) |
FAQ
How can you learn Japanese on your own?
The basics involve learning the alphabet. There are three writing systems to know: Hiragana (46 characters that allow you to start with pronunciation), Katakana (used to transcribe foreign words into Japanese), and Kanji (symbols that mean words, ideas, or even entire sentences).
What is the best website to learn Japanese for free?
The Easy Japanese site allows you to learn expressions through dialogues (and 96 free lessons!). It presents itself in the form of 10-minute lessons, ideal for beginners.
What is the best method to learn Japanese?
There are many methods to learn Japanese as a self-taught learner, including Assimil (a technique ideal for beginners and intermediate learners) and Minna no nihongo (a demanding method, but one that guarantees solid foundations).
