5 Apps to Learn Japanese in 2021 (Android and iOS)

Lingualeo

Lingualeo is a convenient, interesting and effective service designed for learning and practicing, including the Japanese language.
The application contains a large number of different workouts, including:

1. Vocabulary training.
2. Exercises for developing grammar.
3. Courses on various topics.
4. Possibility of training using video materials.
5. Articles and book materials in the original language.

The application allows you to create your own dictionary. It can be supplemented with new words manually or you can select sets of words from already prepared ones.

A full review of this language learning app can be found here.

Kanji Study

Android (), iOS (not updated by the developer, )
One of the best applications for those who learn Japanese. It is aimed primarily at writing, at studying Japanese characters - kanji.

One of the modes for learning kanji is flashcards.

To achieve this, Kanji Study provides a number of functions:

• Just cards with kanji “on one side”, and its readings, translations and other information “on the other” - an ideal mode for the first acquaintance with signs
• Several modes of quiz tests - you can guess different readings, you can translate, you can, on the contrary, choose the correct sign in accordance with the meaning or translation, and there is also a very cool mode where you need to remember all the kanji readings
• A character writing trainer is, in my opinion, much more effective than the tedium of writing characters ten times on paper, and allows you to brush up on how to write kanji anywhere (I'll say this again and again, but your time in the toilet, Finally, it won’t just be flushed down the toilet!)

Search for kanji taking into account the number of strokes (!) and the radicals included in it

You can also use Kanji Study as a Japanese dictionary; it is very convenient and fast. Write at least a reading, at least a translation, at least a part of the reading, at least the radicals included in the kanji - the search happens right there on the fly.

There is also an advanced paid add-on that is aimed at those who want to delve deeper into the etymology and history of kanji. Most people can safely ignore this addition, but for interested kanji enthusiasts it could be very interesting.

In Kanji Study you can start studying with kana

It is important that the application is also suitable for beginners who decide to learn Japanese on their own, because here you can start with hiragana and katakana (Japanese syllabaries that are taught very first).

The free version of this application for learning Japanese provides a ton of functionality and will definitely fully satisfy the needs of a beginner starting to learn Japanese from scratch, because basic kanji are available for learning for free. And when the time comes to move on to the blocked sections, I think no one will have any doubt that the application is worth its money - this is a purchase that will serve you for years and will pay for itself many times over. The application is a one-time purchase, no subscriptions! It is made by one person , your purchase will be the best gratitude for his truly titanic work.

Advantages

• Many study modes that can be very flexibly customized
• The ability to learn both individual kanji and words, as well as remember it all in the context of entire sentences
• A very cool search that can replace a separate dictionary application
• Distribution model - you can start for free, and if the desire continues, you will only need to pay once, and the price is the same as an hour of a tutor

Flaws

• The translation into Russian is incomplete, because it is done by volunteers (if you know English, it is better to switch to it right away)
• The iOS version is abandoned and is much inferior to the Android version in terms of functionality. This happens because the developer does not have time to work on two versions at the same time (however, in December the author announced that he had begun to deal with the iOS version)

KanjiTree

The KanjiTree app is a program for step-by-step learning of the Japanese language in a game format.
Training is built on three main stages:

• familiarization with the initial stages of kanji recognition;
• proofreading words;
• mastering grammar skills.

KanjiTree contains 6,355 kanji, which are divided into categories based on users' knowledge levels. The application is able to assess the level of material that has been learned by the user and build a graph of the progress of the mastered data.

The software contains an impressive dictionary and is equipped with system tips that are later used during the game.

Mondly

The Mondly app allows you to learn Japanese from scratch step by step.
The beginning of training is based on mastering basic dialogues, highlighting the main, most commonly used terms and statements, which are subsequently used as the basis for constructing sentences. The software contains system modules equipped with a speech recognition function. This makes it possible to repeat material already covered and pay more detailed attention to pronunciation.

The Mondly app is equipped with artificial intelligence that takes into account the abilities of each individual user, offering him more suitable content and a better pace of learning.

Translators and dictionaries

As an addition to these applications, you must remember that you must have a good dictionary or translator installed. When you are doing a particular exercise, you may have doubts about a particular word because you don't know its meaning.

imiva?

This is a multilingual dictionary that will allow you to translate any word from Japanese to Spanish and vice versa. In addition, it will also offer you a range of synonyms in Spanish to cover different variables. Various verb tenses are also included to have a much more comprehensive translation.

imiva?

Developer: Pierre-Phi di Costanzo

Camera Translator: Translation

In addition to regular translators, where you need to enter the source text to be translated, it uses a camera. With a simple photo of the phrase you want translated or a poster, you can instantly get a translation on your iPhone. This makes the task of translating a phrase from Japanese to Spanish on your mobile phone much easier.

Camera Translator: Translation

Developer: Vulcan Labs Company Limited

Simya

The Simya app stands out for its step-by-step learning process and simple and intuitive interface.
Classes begin with an introduction to the basic structures of speech. After which, they gradually move on to the dialogues themselves, gradually increasing the complexity. The training material is carefully selected and is as easy to understand as possible. The program contains options for correctly composed phrases, often used in life, which can be useful in different situations.

LearnJapanese

The LearnJapanese app focuses on vocabulary in learning Japanese.
Training takes place in the format of audio lessons, which use phrases and sentences often used in life. During each lesson, the user learns new symbols. Depending on the complexity, from 5 to 15 new words can be proposed, followed by translation and explanations. LearnJapanese contains:

• Japanese alphabet;
• dictionary of Japanese words;
• grammar lessons.

Websites

Japanese language online - the site contains a good selection of materials for learning: grammar, videos, vocabulary for levels from beginner to advanced. You can also prepare for exams separately and read interesting articles about Japan.

Krakozyabr - the portal contains useful materials on grammar, vocabulary, punctuation, and hieroglyphs. There are texts to read in Japanese.

Ninna no Nihongo - we have already mentioned this portal above. There is a huge database of materials on all aspects of language in theory and practice. The resource offers lessons, preparation for exams, and studying a database of hieroglyphs.

First lessons from Naoe Nagonuma - this site has a selection of 40 basic Japanese lessons. Classes are constantly updated.

Orient Express - a site dedicated to the culture of the Land of the Rising Sun. There are materials related to culture and traditions, as well as lessons, reference tables, textbooks and audio recordings.

Busuu

The Busuu application provides interactive online lessons for learning, including the Japanese language.
Program features:

1. Developed in a simple form, with phrases voiced with clearly defined diction, and pictures.
2. Contains interactive exercises and tasks of varying difficulty for users.
3. The ability to interact with other users, including native speakers, is included.
4. The emphasis of the program is on learning spoken phrases.

Imiwa

The Imiwa application is a Japanese dictionary with a simple and intuitive interface that allows you to translate characters into various languages.
The training material contains:

• a kanji database distributed across levels;
• personal sets containing lists of symbols;
• examples and conjugations;
• tools for users.

The special feature of the Imiwa application is the use of a traditional Chinese keyboard, which supports the function of drawing characters on the screen.

Manga Boxing

For a simplified perception of comics, Manga Box seemed very good to me. The application has one of the largest libraries of books from popular authors. So, it doesn't matter what kind of books you like to read, the chances are pretty high that the app can keep you glued to your books with different genres. Plus, the app adds new content every day, so there's always a chance you'll stumble across something that's truly interesting to read. In terms of customization, I found Manga Box a little light. But if you're not a fan of full customization, you won't have any complaints. With a seamless interface and easy-to-use tools, it offers a smaller learning curve.

Install: Android (Free, in-app purchases available)

Kanji Recognizer

The Kanji Recognizer app helps you quickly recognize unfamiliar characters written by hand or with a stylus. After recognizing what was written, the program:

• Leads reading;
• Gives the meaning in English;
• Gives the key number;
• Indicates the number of strokes in the hieroglyph and the elements of which it consists.

The application includes an exam to determine the level of Japanese language proficiency (Nihongo noryoku shiken, JLPT), which corresponds to the character.

Drops

If it's not a fun element of learning, it won't interest us for long. After studying The Drop for a long time, I can say that it never lets you get bored while learning.

It is compatible with more than 32 languages, including Japanese. Cleverly compiled word lists of over 2,600 words will help you better understand everyday words. Since each word is easily illustrated, you can easily understand it.

Additionally, Drops provides daily progress with a detailed report so you can better understand what you're learning and exactly what areas you need to focus more on.

Price: free

Drops

The Drops application is based on a special teaching method, in the form of an exciting five-minute game.
The information in this software is divided into several small, understandable courses, which greatly facilitates the learning process. Drops contains a database of thousands of the main and frequently mentioned words in conversation. The competent construction of the curriculum, accompanied by bright and clear illustrations, and a convenient tap and swipe control system, contribute to better memorization and assimilation of new information. And the entire learning process takes place in a relaxed atmosphere.

MetaLanguage

The MetaLanguage application, designed to teach the user the Japanese language, is unique in that teachers and native speakers directly participated in the creation of all educational content.
This approach allows the user, during the learning process, to obtain the most reliable quality data regarding the translation and pronunciation of various words and expressions. During the learning process, the user can create a personal list of necessary words and phrases, and subsequently work with them offline.

Rosetta Stone

As a language learner, you would greatly appreciate having the Rosetta Stone at your disposal. The reason why this app can be vital is because it is a simple yet very effective teaching method.

It links words with pictures so you can easily understand their meaning. You'll learn basic greetings, questions, and common phrases.

And use TruAccent technology to enhance your accent. Plus, the app provides instant feedback when you read stories out loud so you know if you're on the right track or not.

Price: free

Nemo

The Nemo application helps you acquire high-quality knowledge of the Japanese language in the shortest possible time.
The main functions of the software are:

1. Built-in phrasebook. It will help the user find the most popular words, correctly formulated questions and constructed expressions that are often used in speech.
2. Virtual cards. They help in learning and remembering the correct pronunciation of various terms and frequently used expressions.
3. Voice input function. Helps native speakers build their speech correctly.

The application is very easy to use, contains a “favorites” section and a repeat mode. And the built-in search engine helps you quickly find the information you need.

Manga reader

Claiming to be the best manga app for both iOS and Android, Manga Reader has a lot of tricks to help you win. First of all, the app offers you access to thousands of manga from over 30 sources, making it a one-stop platform. Thanks to its smart filter, it allows you to quickly find specific comics. Since it also keeps a close eye on your search history and what you're interested in, you should expect your recommendations to be accurate. What caught my attention was the ability to download up to 5 manga at the same time. Save it for when you're in a rush to put all your favorites in a special kitty for continuous offline reading.

Installation: Android and IOS (Free in-app purchases available)

Obenkyo

The Obenkyo app allows you to learn Kanji, Katakana and Hiragana.
Includes lists of different levels and a dictionary of 14,000 kanji with additional flash cards. Obenkyo can allow you to practice writing katakana and hiragana with just your finger on the touch screen. For ease of use and understanding, the application has translated the first chapters of the text on grammar into Russian.

The knowledge testing control system is presented in the form of an exam, where acquired knowledge of writing, particles and theoretical answers are tested.

Quizlet

Quizlet has a user-friendly interface and well-designed design.
The program allows you to memorize words and kanji using cards, create personal lists by adding decks of cards and words yourself, and also use already generated lists of other users. The program is equipped with the following modes:

• learning words;
• conducting written testing;
• listening.

Quizlet monitors the dynamics of acquired knowledge and exchanges cards with friends and teachers.

FunEasyLearn

The FunEasyLearn application contains a unique method of learning Japanese by memorizing information using flashcards.
The database memory contains 5,000 values, which allows the user to independently select materials for study, as well as download the necessary information from dictionaries. The software allows you to synchronize data on different devices, providing the opportunity to re-take training, anywhere, at any convenient time, while displaying performance statistics.

Google Translate

A popular application that allows you to simultaneously translate text and teach Japanese.
The software is capable of performing various functions:

• automatic recognition of hieroglyphs (photographed or handwritten);
• translate oral speech, simultaneously entering and saving data into a phrasebook, as well as some fragments and copied text into 103 languages ​​of the world;
• maintain access to dictionaries offline.

Crispy manga manga

When you have an official manga app, getting the latest manga titles directly from Japan becomes a simple matter. As you might have guessed, Crunchyroll Manga is the official manga app for Android and iOS that allows you to quickly access the most popular manga books as soon as they hit newsstands in Japan. So staying up to date with all the hottest books like Fairy Tail, Space Brothers and Attack on Titan will be a smooth ride for you.

The app has a clean look and also offers some neat customization tools so you can fine-tune all your favorite titles to suit your reading tastes. Please note that Crunchyroll Manga's Freemium model is quite simple. Therefore, you will need to get a premium membership if you want to get the entire catalog of the series or have unlimited reading access.

Installation: Android and IOS (Free in-app purchases available)

L-Lingo

The L-Lingo application for learning the Japanese language is equipped with a high-quality Russified interface. The voluminous and high-quality software content contains:

• pictures of symbols;
• expressions and words;
• examples of listening by native speakers.

The L-Lingo program is capable of influencing visual memory, as well as auditory and muscle memory, promoting faster memorization of material. The application has developed 65 lessons, which are divided into relevant topics, for learning words of varying complexity and working on pronunciations. Knowledge in the application is reinforced with interesting verification tests.

Japanese characters

The application is used to study Chinese characters, which are used in Japanese writing.
Each hieroglyph contains an individual name and description of the meaning. The user has 6 levels of difficulty available. Each level studied is divided into lessons, each of which contains 10 hieroglyphs.

Lessons are based on three pillars:

1. Exercises. For them, special cards are used, with the help of which they study and subsequently repeat the material covered.
2. A list of hieroglyphs that reveal the meaning of each symbol and explain its name.
3. Repetition and consolidation of material.

LingoDeer

The LingoDeer app is dedicated to teaching Japanese.
During the lessons, the user learns to read and write hieroglyphs, learns the basic meaning and step-by-step order of writing traits. Learning occurs through exercise. The transition from one exercise to another is allowed only after the previous one has been correctly completed. LingoDeer software includes test tasks that demonstrate the quality of the material learned, and are subsequently reflected on an animated progress graph.

Learn languages ​​with Memrise

Memrise is what you need to master the Japanese language. It offers several interactive activities such as Listening Skills, Flash Repetition, Classic Repetition and Difficult Words so that you can learn and practice all the nuances of the language.

To make sure you speak correctly with the right accent, you can record and compare your pronunciation with the local one. Set daily goals to memorize words and practice them when reading, writing and speaking.

Offline mode ensures your learning is never interrupted. Additionally, to access all the courses and features Memrise offers, you'll need to subscribe to the premium ($8.99 per month) version of the app.

Price: Free

Japanese

The Japanese app is an in-depth educational dictionary with many search options.
The functions of the application are as follows:

1. Show examples of using words in sentences.
2. Conducting lexical and grammatical analysis of sentences for better assimilation of grammatical structures.
3. Play audio files with accurate pronunciation of words.
4. Conducting an exam to determine the level of Japanese language proficiency.

Mango languages

"Mango Languages" looks fully featured to provide a more personalized learning experience. One of the notable features of this app is that it supports over 70 languages, making it a top-notch choice for students.

Engage in real conversations to speak flawlessly. And make the most of the pronunciation pop-ups to help you speak correctly. Moreover, it also allows you to compare your accent with that of native speakers so that you can easily identify deficiencies.

Price: free