Learning a new language can be fun and rewarding! But, it can also be challenging. Are you ready to learn Japanese like a pro?
When you’re learning any new language, it’s so helpful to have a few reliable resources to turn to. Today, we’re going to take a look at 5 great websites that will show you how to learn Japanese and help you practice. We’ll share a helpful video, too!
Is Japanese Hard to Learn?
Japanese is known as one of the most complicated languages to learn. Many people find that getting pronunciation down and understanding Japanese grammar rules is fairly straightforward. However, learning Kanji (the Japanese symbols that represent words) can take some extra effort.
With that said, with helpful resources and a Japanese tutor, it can be extremely exciting and gratifying to learn Japanese language.
Check out this timeline for beginners.
This is video shares why you should learn the Japanese language and gives an intro to get you started:
Thank you to JapanesePod101 for the use of this video!
What Websites Help You Learn Japanese?
A great way to master the Japanese language is by using various websites. From learning basic grammar and vocabulary to reading guides and watching videos, these sites offer a variety of activities to help you learn Japanese. Mix and match them or find your favorite to help you master this unique language!
- PuniPuni
- Kids Web Japan
- Tofugu
- Tae Kim’s Guide to Learning Japanese
1. PuniPuni
PuniPuni is a well-rounded resource for learning Japanese. It will help you improve through four basic skills: reading, writing, listening, and speaking. There are lots of fun animated videos that teach everything from basic Japanese grammar to vocabulary and verb conjugations. You can download free eBooks to learn Hiragana and Katakana, and you can purchase additional learning tools through the online store.
2. Kids Web Japan
Kids Web Japan isn’t just for kids! It’s a useful online tool for Japanese students of all ages. Learn greetings and common phrases with the aid of fun cartoon-like pictures, and download audio files to learn proper pronunciation. If you want to learn Japanese history, you can read some of the ancient Japanese folk legends. Plus, have fun and test your knowledge with interactive games and quizzes.
3. Tofugu
Tofugu is a blog with lots of great content for anyone learning Japanese. You will find easy-to-use guides with videos and graphics to help you understand the different aspects of the language and articles on effective and creative ways to learn and practice Japanese. Plus, if you’re planning a trip to Japan to practice your language skills, you will love the travel guides available on this site.
4. Tae Kim’s Guide to Learning Japanese
Tae Kim’s Guide to Learning Japanese may have fewer frills than some of the others, but it doesn’t make it any less resourceful. This online guide is a thorough, comprehensive resource for how to learn Japanese. Find lessons and practice exercises on Hiragana and Katakana and detailed sections on different aspects of Japanese grammar. The site is easy to navigate, so you can find exactly what you’re looking for and spend time studying the areas where you need additional assistance.
5. Denshi Jisho
A reliable Japanese dictionary is a necessity for anyone learning Japanese. With Denshi Jisho, you can translate words from English to Japanese (and vice versa), look up Kanji symbos, and find the translation for basic sentences.
Learn Japanese Like a Pro!
While it takes a lot of time and effort to learn Japanese like a pro, these websites can supplement the work you do with your private tutor. You will discover lots of great new resources as you continue your language lessons.
Love these online resources? Here are four more Japanese websites. Check them out, and have fun learning!
Photo by GSCSNJ
Maile Proctor