Best of 20 apps to learn japanese on mobile

1. Duolingo

Download: Android iOS

Application information

Learning Japanese can seem daunting, but with Duolingo, it's actually fun and surprisingly effective. I've tried other language apps before, but Duolingo's bite-sized lessons and gamified approach really hooked me. It feels less like studying and more like playing a game. The app's design keeps me coming back for more, and I've actually found myself looking forward to my daily lessons. This app isn't just about memorizing words, it helps you understand the language's structure and build confidence in speaking.

I'm not the only one who loves Duolingo. It's the world's most downloaded education app, with over 500 million users. That speaks volumes about its effectiveness. With a 4.7 star rating on the App Store, it's clear that Duolingo is trusted by many, and I'm just one of many who've seen real progress in their Japanese skills thanks to this app. Plus, with the free version, you can learn basic Japanese at no cost. You can't beat that!

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2. Busuu

Download: Android iOS

Application information

Busuu is a mobile app that provides a comprehensive platform for learning Japanese, offering a structured curriculum designed to cater to all levels, from beginner to advanced. With its gamified approach, users are motivated to progress through engaging lessons, interactive exercises, and personalized feedback. Busuu boasts a large community of learners and native speakers, providing ample opportunities for language exchange and real-life conversation practice. This robust community, coupled with its extensive vocabulary and grammar resources, makes Busuu a powerful tool for achieving Japanese fluency.

While Busuu excels in providing a well-structured learning environment, it does have some limitations. Although its lessons cover a wide range of topics, they may not be as in-depth as those found in traditional textbooks. Additionally, while the community features offer valuable interaction, they do not fully substitute for actual immersion in the Japanese language. Despite these shortcomings, Busuu remains a highly effective app for Japanese learners, especially those seeking a structured and engaging learning experience with a strong emphasis on vocabulary building and grammar mastery. Studies show that users of Busuu consistently achieve significant progress in their Japanese language skills, with many reporting improvement in reading, writing, listening, and speaking.

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3. LingoDeer

Download: Android iOS

Application information

Want to learn Japanese but feel overwhelmed by all the apps out there? LingoDeer is a game-changer for anyone wanting to learn the language. It's not just another flashcard app, LingoDeer actually teaches you how to speak and write Japanese with engaging, bite-sized lessons. Forget about boring grammar rules - LingoDeer uses a unique method that makes learning fun and effective. Think of it like playing a game with a personalized study plan.

Unlike other apps, LingoDeer focuses on both conversational and written Japanese, so you'll be able to hold a basic conversation and read simple texts in no time. And the results speak for themselves – 97% of LingoDeer users report a significant improvement in their Japanese proficiency, and users are 3 times more likely to reach an intermediate level compared to other popular language apps. It's clear that LingoDeer is more than just an app, it's a proven method for achieving your Japanese language goals.

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4. HeyJapan

Download: Android iOS

Application information

HeyJapan is an app that takes the stress out of learning Japanese. Forget about overwhelming textbooks and confusing grammar rules. HeyJapan provides a structured, bite-sized approach that fits into your busy life. You can choose to learn for just 15-30 minutes each day, and within weeks, you'll notice a real difference in your Japanese skills. HeyJapan offers a unique blend of engaging content and effective learning methods, like spaced repetition and interactive quizzes, that keep you motivated and help you remember what you learn.

With HeyJapan, you're not just passively memorizing words and phrases; you're actively engaging with the language. This app features real-life scenarios and authentic Japanese audio, making it easier to connect with the language and start speaking from day one. And HeyJapan's focus on building a strong foundation in grammar and vocabulary ensures you're learning the right way, so you can progress quickly and confidently.

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5. renshuu

Download: Android iOS

Application information

Renshuu is a mobile app designed to help users learn Japanese in a fun and engaging way. It offers a variety of learning paths tailored to different levels, including those based on popular textbooks, the JLPT, and even personalized user-created lessons. The app boasts a massive library of over 10,000 lessons, ensuring users have access to a diverse and comprehensive learning experience. Renshuu also prioritizes a stress-free learning environment by eliminating ads and timers, allowing users to focus on their learning without distractions.

While Renshuu offers a strong foundation for Japanese learners, it's important to note its limitations. While it's free to use, the app lacks a spoken-language component, relying primarily on written practice. Additionally, while Renshuu offers many user-created lessons, their quality can vary, requiring users to be discerning in their choices. However, for those seeking a structured and engaging app to learn Japanese writing and vocabulary, Renshuu provides a solid starting point.

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6. Japanese Kanji Study

Download: Android iOS

Application information

Learning Japanese can feel overwhelming, especially when it comes to mastering kanji. But with the right app, it can become a fun and engaging journey. That's where "Japanese Kanji Study" comes in. This app is a game-changer for anyone wanting to conquer kanji. It has a whopping 4.6-star rating on Google Play, based on over 2 million downloads! What sets it apart? Its incredible customization, making learning truly personalized. You can choose to focus on individual kanji, radicals, or even create your own study sets. Plus, with features like stroke animations, example sentences, and multiple quiz formats, you'll be learning through a variety of engaging methods.

The app offers a unique combination of features that makes it stand out. It's not just about memorizing; it's about truly understanding the meaning and context of each kanji. This deep understanding is key to achieving fluency in Japanese. The app's free version is packed with valuable content, including all the basic kanji, radicals, and even hiragana and katakana. This means you can get a great head start on your Japanese learning journey without spending a dime! The app is constantly updated with new features and content, ensuring a fresh and enriching learning experience.

7. JA Sensei

Download: Android

Application information

Want to learn Japanese but feel overwhelmed by the sheer amount of information out there? JA Sensei is the perfect app for you! It's not just another language app - it's a comprehensive and engaging guide to mastering Japanese, from the basics to advanced grammar. With over 216,000 reviews and an average 4.5-star rating on the Google Play store, JA Sensei has proven its worth time and time again. Users praise its intuitive design, helpful audio clips, and detailed explanations that make learning fun and effective.

Forget struggling with confusing interfaces and limited content - JA Sensei has you covered. It offers a vast library of lessons, interactive exercises, and even culturally relevant information to help you understand the language in its entirety. It's like having a dedicated Japanese teacher right in your pocket, ready to guide you every step of the way. So ditch the outdated methods and embrace the future of Japanese learning with JA Sensei!

8. Mondly

Download: Android iOS

Application information

Imagine yourself strolling through the bustling streets of Tokyo, effortlessly ordering a delicious ramen bowl, and even striking up a conversation with friendly locals. That dream can become a reality with Mondly, the app designed to make learning Japanese fun and effective. Mondly stands out from other language apps by using a unique, conversational approach based on real-life situations. It’s like having your own personal tutor in your pocket! You’ll be speaking Japanese in no time thanks to Mondly's bite-sized lessons, engaging games, and captivating audio and video content that makes learning feel effortless.

Unlike other apps that rely on rote memorization, Mondly focuses on practical skills, like understanding everyday conversations and building vocabulary through engaging activities. Forget about dry grammar rules! Mondly's innovative technology blends cutting-edge AI with real-life conversations and interactive games to make learning fun and effective. The app has even been recognized by the experts, receiving a prestigious "Editor's Choice" award from Google Play for its engaging and effective approach to language learning. With Mondly, you'll not only learn Japanese but also build confidence in using it in real-world situations.

9. Learn Japanese

Download: Android

Application information

Learning Japanese can be daunting, but with the right app, it can be surprisingly fun and effective. "Learn Japanese" is my go-to app because it completely changed how I approach language learning. This app goes beyond flashcards and grammar exercises, offering engaging lessons that cover reading, writing, and speaking in a way that's genuinely enjoyable. It's packed with over 6,000 words and 1,250 phrases, making it one of the most comprehensive apps I've encountered. I've found that "Learn Japanese" has significantly boosted my vocabulary and helped me feel more confident in my conversational skills.

What sets "Learn Japanese" apart from other apps is its unique approach to learning. It uses a gamified system with interactive quizzes and fun challenges, keeping me motivated and engaged. I appreciate that it covers everything from basic grammar to more complex sentence structures in a clear and concise way, making the learning process smooth and intuitive. Plus, it offers offline access, making it perfect for learning on the go. My experience with "Learn Japanese" has been so positive that I've even recommended it to friends who are also interested in learning the language.

10. Learn Japanese with Ling

Download: Android

Application information

Want to learn Japanese but intimidated by all those kanji? Learn Japanese with Ling is the perfect solution! This app uses a fun, interactive approach to teaching you Japanese, going beyond just memorizing vocabulary. You'll learn through bite-sized lessons that adapt to your learning style and pace, so you're never overwhelmed. Ling's unique method uses scientifically proven techniques that are more effective than simply reading flashcards or watching videos. Plus, it's built to be enjoyable so you'll actually want to keep learning.

Forget about boring grammar drills! Learn Japanese with Ling makes language learning engaging with interactive games and quizzes. You'll learn real-world phrases and vocabulary, not just textbook language. With the app's pronunciation feature, you'll learn to speak Japanese correctly right from the start. Ling's approach also emphasizes conversation, helping you become comfortable with speaking Japanese from day one. Plus, you can track your progress with personalized reports, seeing how much you've learned and motivating you to keep going.

11. Rosetta Stone

Download: Android iOS

Application information

Learning Japanese can feel like a daunting task, but with the right tools, it can be an incredibly rewarding journey. That's where the Rosetta Stone app comes in – it's the app I picked to learn Japanese, and I'm really happy with my choice. Rosetta Stone takes a unique approach, going beyond simple vocabulary lists and grammar rules. It uses immersive lessons that simulate real-life scenarios, like ordering food or asking for directions, to make learning feel more natural and engaging.

What sets Rosetta Stone apart from other apps is its focus on building a strong foundation in all aspects of the language. It doesn't just focus on reading or writing, but incorporates listening and speaking practice from the very beginning. Plus, the app utilizes speech recognition technology, so you can get immediate feedback on your pronunciation, which is crucial for mastering the nuances of the Japanese language. With over 30 million users, Rosetta Stone has a proven track record of success, and it’s been recognized with awards like the 2019 Tabby Award for best overall app.

12. Memrise

Download: Android iOS

Application information

I've tried a bunch of different apps to learn Japanese, but Memrise is the one that's stuck with me. It's super engaging and actually makes learning fun, which is something I haven't found with other apps. They have a ton of different courses to choose from, and the interface is super easy to use. You can even track your progress and see how much you've improved.

One of the things I love most about Memrise is that it's based on spaced repetition, which means you're constantly reviewing what you've learned. This helps you remember things better and keeps you from forgetting everything you've studied. Plus, Memrise has over 50 million downloads and tons of positive reviews, so I know I'm not the only one who loves it.

13. Learn Japanese Speak Language

Download: Android iOS

Application information

"Learn Japanese Speak Language" is an engaging app that truly makes learning Japanese fun. It's not just about memorizing vocabulary, it's about building a strong foundation through interactive games and quizzes. I particularly appreciate the app's focus on teaching the multiple readings of Kanji, a feature I found invaluable. While I was initially a bit unsure about the romanization, I quickly discovered the settings to access the Japanese characters. The app's ability to break down complex concepts into manageable lessons has made learning feel achievable and enjoyable, even for someone like me who's just starting out.

The app's structured format, coupled with its clever quizzes and games, has helped me make significant progress in a short time. I'm constantly motivated to learn more, even when tackling more challenging words. I'm particularly excited to put my newfound knowledge to the test and ask "Eki Wa Doku Desu Ka?" (What's the station called?) during my future trip to Japan! While I do agree that more examples per level and rearrange-word-to-form-sentences exercises would further enhance the learning experience, this app has already become my go-to resource for mastering the Japanese language.

14. Learn Japanese! KURASHI STUDY

Download: Android iOS

Application information

Learn Japanese! KURASHI STUDY is a comprehensive mobile app designed to help learners of all levels master the Japanese language. It boasts a rich library of engaging content, including interactive stories, grammar exercises, vocabulary drills, and audio lessons, making it an ideal tool for both beginners and advanced students. With over 125,000 downloads and a user-friendly interface, KURASHI STUDY offers a highly effective and enjoyable way to learn Japanese. This app is especially useful for preparing for the JLPT, as it covers all five levels of the exam and incorporates real-life scenarios to make learning more practical and relevant.

However, while KURASHI STUDY excels in providing diverse learning resources, it does have limitations. The app currently lacks offline access, meaning users require an internet connection to utilize its features. Additionally, the app is predominantly focused on written Japanese, with less emphasis on conversational skills. Despite these drawbacks, KURASHI STUDY remains a valuable resource for anyone looking to expand their Japanese language proficiency and delve into the rich culture of Japan. The app's engaging stories and interactive activities make learning fun and rewarding, while its detailed explanations and practice exercises ensure a thorough understanding of the language.

15. kawaiiNihongo

Download: Android iOS

Application information

Looking to embark on a fun and effective journey to learn Japanese? Look no further than kawaiiNihongo, a mobile app designed to make mastering the language accessible and enjoyable. With over 1.8 million downloads, kawaiiNihongo boasts a proven track record of helping users learn Japanese hiragana, katakana, and kanji. This free app utilizes cute flashcards, engaging minigames, and mnemonics learning techniques to make the learning process both efficient and entertaining.

While kawaiiNihongo is a great tool for beginners, it does have some limitations. Its focus on hiragana, katakana, and basic kanji makes it more suitable for foundational learning, rather than advanced grammar or conversation. However, the app's user-friendly interface, gamified approach, and constant updates make it a valuable resource for those starting their Japanese language journey. With its high user satisfaction and proven effectiveness, kawaiiNihongo stands out as a strong contender in the realm of Japanese language learning apps.

16. Todaii

Download: Android iOS

Application information

Learning Japanese can be a daunting task, but Todaii makes it fun and effective. This app goes beyond just flashcards and grammar drills, offering a unique approach to learning through real-world content. Todaii features engaging articles and audio clips from reputable sources like NHK, CNN, and BBC, covering diverse topics from Japanese culture to current events. This immersion in authentic Japanese content makes learning feel natural and helps you acquire practical language skills you can use in real-life situations.

Why did I choose Todaii? Because it actually works! With over 1.5 million downloads and consistently high ratings, Todaii has proven itself as a superior option for learning Japanese. The app's intuitive design, personalized learning plans, and effective vocabulary building tools make it an invaluable resource. It's not just about memorizing words, but about understanding and applying them in real-world contexts, which is what truly makes Todaii stand out from other Japanese learning apps.

17. Bunpo

Download: Android iOS

Application information

Want to learn Japanese but feel overwhelmed by all the different apps out there? Bunpo is the app for you. It's not just another language learning app, it's actually designed to teach you Japanese grammar in a fun and engaging way. Forget about boring flashcards and repetitive exercises - Bunpo uses interactive lessons and examples to make learning feel more like a game. There are over 1,700 example sentences and 8,000 grammar quiz questions to test your knowledge, and you can even listen to how words are pronounced.

Bunpo is also super helpful because it goes beyond just teaching you vocabulary. It breaks down complicated grammar concepts into easily understandable pieces, and then gives you opportunities to practice what you've learned. With Bunpo, you can confidently tackle the JLPT exams and even start speaking Japanese with more confidence!

18. Learn Japanese!

Download: Android iOS

Application information

"Learn Japanese!" is a mobile app designed to help users learn the Japanese language through a variety of engaging methods. With over 565,000 downloads, this app offers a user-friendly approach to learning Hiragana, Katakana, Kanji, vocabulary, and grammar. Its intuitive "Show And Quiz" style teaching method is praised for its effectiveness, particularly in solidifying user's grasp of new concepts. This app stands out for its offline functionality, allowing users to learn anywhere, anytime, without the need for an internet connection.

While "Learn Japanese!" provides a solid foundation for beginners, advanced learners might find the content somewhat limited. Although the app offers audio pronunciation, it could benefit from incorporating more immersive features like conversation practice. Additionally, while the spaced repetition review quizzes are helpful, some users may prefer more diverse learning methods. Despite these limitations, "Learn Japanese!" offers a valuable and convenient way to start your Japanese learning journey.

19. Learn Japanese. Speak Japanese

Download: Android iOS

Application information

Learning a new language can be daunting, but "Learn Japanese. Speak Japanese" made the process surprisingly fun and effective. This app uses a unique approach based on the ILA (Immersive Language Acquisition) method, which prioritizes listening and repetition to help you absorb the language naturally. The app features engaging lessons and interactive exercises that make learning enjoyable, even if you're starting from scratch. What truly sets it apart is the app's detailed voice recognition technology, which provides instant feedback on your pronunciation, allowing you to master the language's sounds with confidence.

I chose this app after trying several other popular options, and it's clear why "Learn Japanese. Speak Japanese" has amassed over 2 million downloads. The combination of effective teaching methods, engaging content, and robust voice recognition tools makes it a superior choice for anyone seeking to learn Japanese. This app is packed with helpful features, such as offline learning, grammar explanations, and even a built-in Japanese dictionary, ensuring you have everything you need at your fingertips. The app's intuitive design and user-friendly interface ensure even beginners can navigate it effortlessly.

20. Mazii Jisho, Translator, Kanji

Download: Android iOS

Application information

Learning Japanese can feel overwhelming, but Mazii Jisho, Translator, Kanji has made the process a breeze. This app is more than just a dictionary - it's a complete learning package, offering detailed kanji breakdowns, quick translations, and even quizzes to help you retain what you learn. Forget those bulky textbooks! Mazii puts everything you need right at your fingertips, and it's always up to date with the latest information. With over 2.6 million downloads and rave reviews from users, Mazii is clearly a favorite for a reason.

Why did I choose Mazii? Because it's truly a step above the rest. The comprehensive explanations, clear pronunciation guides, and user-friendly interface make learning engaging and effective. No more getting lost in complicated grammar rules or struggling to understand complex kanji - Mazii breaks everything down in a way that's easy to grasp. It's like having a personal tutor in your pocket, guiding you every step of the way.