Hiragana, katakana, and kanji make up the Japanese writing system. When you start learning Japanese, figuring out how to read and write can feel overwhelming; after all, Japanese is completely different from the Roman alphabet! You then learn that there are three different writing systems used all at once. How is that even possible? Not to worry – these systems are simpler than you might expect! Each one has unique, defining characteristics and uses; once you learn more about these, reading and writing Japanese will be a breeze!

We’ve covered smaller articles for each Japanese writing system. Don’t forget to check out our downloadable hiragana chart and quiz for a more detailed guide and resource recommendation.

Origins of the Japanese Alphabet

Do you know about the history and the origin of hiragana and katakana? Originally, the Japanese ancestors did not have a writing system. Around the fifth century, they started using kanji, ideograms that were adopted from China and Korea. They only used the phonetic reading of the kanji, regardless of their meaning. At that time, the ideograms were called manyogana (万葉仮名).

However, kanji’s characters are composed of many strokes. They take longer to write, as you have noticed by now! Due to their difficulty, those ideograms were slowly simplified into kana alphabets, namely hiragana and katakana. They are called syllabograms, as each character corresponds to one sound in the Japanese language. According to historians, the change was initiated by Buddhist priests who thought kanji could not accurately represent the Japanese language and that a phonetic alphabet would be better.

Examples of Change

On the left is the manyogana, and on the right are simplified hiragana and katakana forms.

  • 安 →あ 阿 → ア (a)
  • 以 →い 伊 → イ(i)
  • 宇 →う、ウ(u)
  • 衣 →え 江 → エ(e)
  • 於 →お、オ(o)

This change is thought to have occurred between the eighth and ninth centuries.  Hiragana can be considered a simplified calligraphy form of the kanji’s strokes. On the other hand, katakana is taken from a single element of a kanji. In some cases, the Hiragana and Katakana are created from different ideograms.

Some hiragana and Katakana express the same sound and have similar shapes, such as り and リ. However, some can be dissimilar, such as あ and ア. Hiragana is said to be cursive, while katakana is more angular. Do take note that one sound can have more than one hiragana. In 1900, the two kana scripts, hiragana and katakana, were codified. This led to the clear establishment of rules for the Japanese system in 1946.

Japanese Writing System #1: Hiragana

Whenever you just start out learning Japanese, hiragana is usually the first writing system you learn. Hiragana is technically a syllabary or a way of writing where symbols represent whole syllables (such as “ba” and “to”) instead of individual sounds (such as “b” or “t”)5. This is because all Japanese words are made up of these small syllables, so there’s no need to write out individual sounds!

In Japanese, there are 46 basic syllables:

  • The basic vowels: a, i, u, e, o.
  • The k-line: ka, ki, ku, ke, ko.
  • The s-line: sa, shi, su, se, so. (Notice that the “si” sound is instead replaced by “shi.”)
  • The t-line: ta, chi, tsu, te, to. (Notice that the “ti” and “tu” sounds are instead pronounced closer to “chi” and “tsu.”)
  • The n-line: na, ni, nu, ne, no.
  • The h-line: ha, hi, fu, he, ho. (Notice that the “hu” sound is actually said as “fu.”)
  • The m-line: ma, mi, mu, me, mo.
  • The y-line: ya, yu, yo.
  • The r-line: ra, ri, ru, re, ro.
  • Wa, o/wo, and n. (These sounds are unique, so they are generally placed together. The “o/wo” symbol can be pronounced either way and “n” is considered a whole syllable in Japanese.)

There are also 23 additional syllables in Japanese; these are formed with additional marks that we’ll cover in a minute.

  • The g-line: ga, gi, gu, ge, go.
  • the z-line: za, ji, zu, ze, zo. (Notice that “ji” is used instead of “zi.”)
  • The d-line: da, ji, zu, de, do. (“ji” and “zu” are pronounced the same way as in the z-line but have different uses.)
  • The b-line: ba, be, bu, be, bo.
  • the p-line: pa, pi, pu, pe, po.

Writing Hiragana

So, now that we’ve covered the basic sounds, let’s see how these syllables are written down in hiragana:

hiragana chart

Hiragana is generally round in shape, with lots of curves and bends. This characteristic is a key way to tell what symbols are hiragana! You can also combine a consonant with a / ya / yu / yo / sound by attaching a small 「や」、「ゆ」、or 「よ」 to the / i / vowel character of each consonant.

Now, let’s take a look at those 23 additional sounds:

  • the g-line: が(ga), ぎ(gi), ぐ(gu), げ(ge), ご(go).
  • the z-line: ざ(za), じ(ji), ず(zu), ぜ(ze), ぞ(zo).
  • the d-line: だ(da), ぢ(ji), づ(zu), で(de), ど(do). 
  • the b-line: ば(ba), べ(be), ぶ(bu), べ(be), ぼ(bo).
  • the p-line: ぱ(pa), ぴ(pi), ぷ(pu), ぺ(pe), ぽ(po).

Did you notice something about the above sounds? The hiragana for the g-line is identical to the k-line, and the same goes for the z-line and s-line, the t-line and the d-line, the h-line and the b- and p-lines! The only difference is the addition of diacritical marks; these marks go to the upper right of the hiragana and can be either two short diagonal marks (called a dakuten) or a small circle (called the handakuten). This is pretty nice, as you don’t have to memorize even more symbols!

There are also contracted sounds in Japanese. These sounds are basically combinations of sounds ending in “-i” and the y-line and are considered one syllable as well. All you have to do for these is add a small y-line hiragana after the main hiragana! (Notice that not all of these syllables keep the “y” sound.)

  • the k-line: きゃ(kya), きゅ(kyu), きょ(kyo)
  • the s-line: しゃ(sha), しゅ(shu), しょ (sho)
  • the t-line: ちゃ(cha), ちゅ(chu), ちょ(cho)
  • the n-line: にゃ(nya), にゅ(nyu), にょ(nyo)
  • the h-line: ひゃ(hya), ひゅ(hyu), ひょ(hyo)
  • the m-line: みゃ(mya), みゅ(my) みょ(myo)
  • the r-line: りゃ(rya), りゅ(ryu), りょ(ryo)
  • the g-line: ぎゃ(gya), ぎゅ(gyu), ぎょ(gyo)
  • the z-line: じゃ(ja), じゅ(ju), じょ(jo)
  • the b-line: びゃ(bya), びゅ(byu), びょ(byo)
  • the p-line: ぴゃ(pya), ぴゅ(pyu), ぴょ(pyo)

So, that is the basics of how hiragana is written. However, there are also double consonants and long vowels, which are written with variations in hiragana (and katakana). We recommend checking out our full-length article about double consonants and long vowels to learn more about those!

How to Use Hiragana

Hiragana can be used for many things; it’s like the all-rounder of writing Japanese, and it represents all the syllables of the Japanese language! Hiragana is used when writing verb endings, particles, grammar words (such as conjunctions), and many native Japanese words, as well as for words that do not have a corresponding kanji character. Hiragana is also used in furigana; this is when hiragana is written in a small font above kanji for those who don’t know the kanji’s reading.

Long Vowels and Double Consonants in Hiragana

In Japanese hiragana, double consonants are represented by adding a small “tsu” character (っ) before the consonant that is doubled. For example, the word “katta” (勝った), meaning “won”, would be written as かった, with a small “tsu” between the two “t” characters.

Long vowels in hiragana are done by extending a consonant or vowel with another vowel, depending on the vowel in accordance with the following chart.

For example, the word “ookii” (大きい), meaning “big”, would be written as おおきい.

Vowel SoundExtended byExample
aおばあさん
i, eおおきい、きれい
u, oこうこう、くうき

Example

Let’s start off with a simple sentence – “My pet’s name is Bob.” (What a funny name for a pet!) In Hiragana, this looks like this:

わたしの ぺっと の なまえ は  ぼぶ です。
Watashi no petto no namae wa bobu desu.

So, we can write a whole Japanese sentence just using hiragana! This is how most people (including native speakers) start off reading and writing Japanese. Of course, as you learn about katakana and kanji, some of these words will be replaced.  However, you will see that the particles (の [no] and は [wa]) and the native verb です(desu) will remain the same, as these are some of the things that specifically use hiragana!  

Now that you’ve learned the basics, it’s time for practice! Head on over to our list of practice sheets, apps, and quizzes to make sure you’ve got a solid understanding of hiragana!

Tips for Writing in Japanese

1. There are no spaces in the Japanese writing system

Japanese is written with no spaces, so a combination of hiragana, kanji, and katakana helps distinguish words within a sentence. As you improve your Japanese writing and reading skills, you’ll start to feel that reading kanji is often easier than reading a sentence that consists solely of hiragana.

2. Be careful of hiragana characters that sound and look similar

Pay more attention when pronouncing “tsu” and “su”. Beginner-level students also have a hard time discerning ro (ろ), re (れ), ru (る) — and nu (ぬ) and me (め) because they look similar.

3. Correct stroke order and direction are important

Writing hiragana with the correct stroke order and direction will help you intuitively know how to write new characters, and it has a big effect on how readable it ends up looking.

Japanese Writing System #2: Katakana

Katakana  Chart for Japanese learners

After hiragana, it’s a good idea to learn katakana next; katakana works the exact same way that hiragana does, just using different characters; some katakana symbols even look similar to their hiragana counterparts!  In fact, hiragana and katakana are often collectively referred to as kana, since they are so similar!

Writing Katakana  

the basic vowelsア(a), イ(i), ウ(u), エ(e), オ(o)
the k-lineカ (ka), キ(ki), ク(ku), ケ(ke), コ(ko)
the s-lineサ(sa), シ(shi), ス(su), セ(se), ソ(so)
the t-lineタ(ta), チ(chi),ツ(tsu), テ(te), ト(to)
the h-lineハ(ha), ヒ(hi), フ(fu), へ(he), ホ(ho)
the n-lineナ(na), ニ(ni), ヌ(nu), ネ(ne), ノ(no)
the m-lineマ(ma), ミ(mi), ム(mu), メ(me), モ(mo)
the y-lineヤ(ya), ユ(yu), ヨ(yo)
the r-lineラ(ra), リ(ri), ル(ru), レ(re), ロ(ro).
ワ(wa), ヲ(o/wo), and ン(n).

Now, let’s take a look at those 23 additional sounds:

  • the g-line: ガ(ga), ギ(gi), グ(gu), ゲ(ge), ゴ(go).
  • the z-line: ザ(za), ジ(ji), ズ(zu), ゼ(ze), ゾ(zo).
  • the d-line: ダ(da), ヂ(ji), ヅ(zu), デ(de), ド(do). 
  • the b-line: バ(ba), ビ(bi), ブ(bu), べ(be), ボ(bo).
  • the p-line: パ(pa), ピ(pi), プ(pu), ぺ(pe), ポ(po).

The contracted sounds are also formed in the same way as in hiragana. However, katakana has additional combinations with small vowel letters to transcribe foreign sounds that did not originally exist in Japanese. These are generally easy to pronounce, as you simply combine the consonant of the main katakana symbol with the vowel of the smaller one.

Examples of this include the フェ (fe) in カフェ (kafe), the ティ (ti) in パーティー (paatii), and the ウィ (wi) in ハロウィーン (harowiin)!

You can see that katakana is simpler and has more straight lines than hiragana; this is one major way to tell them apart!

If you want to learn more about katakana, check out our article below and get a free, downloadable PDF of our chart!

Read More: What is Katakana? Free Katakana Chart and Learning Guide

How and When to Use Katakana

Another way to tell them apart is by their usage. Katakana is used for foreign loanwords or words from different languages. ハンバーガー (hanbaagaa, hamburger) and アルバイト (arubaito, part-time job) are examples of Japanese words taken from English and German, respectively. Many non-Japanese names are spelled using katakana as well!

Katakana is also often used for onomatopoeic words, which are words that imitate sounds, such as “pikapika” (sparkling), “gacha” (clacking sound), or “wanwan” (dog’s bark).

Katakana can also be used to emphasize words, similar to how words might be italicized or bolded in English. You can usually see this more in signs or advertisements, like メガネ, megane (glasses) or ラーメン (raamen, glasses).

Long Vowels and Double Consonants in Katakana

Long vowels in katakana are so much simpler than hiragana. All long vowel sounds are denoted by a simple dash: ー.

For example, the word “アート” (aato), meaning “art”, has a long “a” sound represented by the horizontal line over the “a” character.

Double consonants in Katakana are represented using a small “tsu” character (ッ) just like in Hiragana. For example, the word “バッグ” (baggu), meaning “bag”, has a double “g” sound represented by the small “tsu” character.

Example of Katakana

Remember the pet with the funny name? Let’s take another look at that sentence, this time adding in katakana – try to guess where the katakana will be!

わたしのペットのなまえは ボブ です。
Watashi no petto no namae wa bobu desu.

Did you guess petto and bobu? Both of these words are English loanwords and names, so they would be written in katakana. Including katakana when writing Japanese is also a great way to make the words easier to distinguish from each other; writing in all hiragana could make it hard to tell words apart, since Japanese doesn’t normally use spaces!

Difference between Hiragana and Katakana

Why are there 2 syllabic Japanese scripts? In the event that the difference is stylistic, you will learn that hiragana is used to write native Japanese words. Those words will have no kanji representation, and the ideogram will be too ancient or too difficult to write. This kana script is also the one used to write grammatical elements such as particles: を (wo)、に (ni)、へ (he;e)、が (ga)、は (ha).

On the contrary, the Japanese use katakana to write words of foreign origin and foreign names. If you like to read manga in Japanese, you will certainly notice that katakana is also used to represent onomatopoeia and emphasis.

Have you heard of the word “furigana”? Furigana are hiragana and katakana characters written in small forms above kanji in order to show the pronunciation. Furigana is used in kids’ books and Japanese language textbooks for learners, in order to teach the reading of unknown kanji.

Japanese Writing System #3: Kanji                                                               

Kanji is usually the last system to be learned, even for native Japanese speakers! Kanji are Chinese characters and were Japan’s first writing system. They were first introduced to Japan over 1,500 years ago; hiragana and katakana actually evolved from these symbols!

Kanji are complex characters that represent words or ideas, and they form the backbone of the Japanese writing system. In fact, it is estimated that there are over 50,000 kanji characters, although only a fraction of those are commonly used.

Reading Kanji

Kanji is different from hiragana and katakana in that there are multiple ways to pronounce a single character. This is because there is a Chinese way to read a character (called the on-yomi) and a Japanese way (the kun-yomi). The on-yomi was the original way, but when kanji started to be used to write native Japanese words, new pronunciations were added1. So, if you see a character pronounced one way in one word but differently in another, this is why!

Writing Kanji

Radicals

All kanji are made up of one or more radicals. A radical is simply a small symbol that, either by itself or when combined with other symbols, makes up a complete kanji character. Take, for instance, the radical 一. By itself, this is the complete kanji for ichi (one). But, it can be added with the radical亅to form the kanji 丁! There are 214 total radicals used in 13 different positions when forming kanji, though some radicals and positions are used more frequently than others. If you think of all kanji as being made up of these smaller radicals, then they will be easier to learn!

There are roughly four main types of kanji, based on how and why the radicals are arranged1:

1. Pictograms

These kanji originally came from pictures, simply drawing the object itself to represent it in writing1. It’s like writing “😊” to represent “smiley face” – just like emojis today! Take a look at 山 (yama, mountain) for example; doesn’t the character 山 remind you of how a mountain looks, with a pointy peak at the top?

2. Simple Ideograms

These kanji originally used lines and dots to “represent numbers or abstract concepts.1” So, instead of drawing an object, you would try to visually represent the idea you wanted to convey. Take “up” and “down” for instance; drawing a dot above a line could represent “up” while a dot below a line would signify “down.” This is where 上 (ue, up) and 下 (shita, down) came from1!

3. Compound Ideograms

Basically, these are kanji formed by combining two or more simpler kanji1. The kanji used in 休む (yasumu, to rest), for example, is a combination of 人 (hito, person [often written as ⺅ when used as a radical]) and 木 (ki, tree)1. A lot of the time, the two simpler kanji are chosen because of their connection to the resulting character. For 休, a person leaning against a tree would be resting – which is why 人 and 木 were chosen to form this character!  

4. Phonetic-ideographic Characters

These kanji are usually found when a character’s original on-yomi sounded like a native Japanese word, but the kanji associated with the sound didn’t represent the word’s meaning. So, to remedy this, those in the past added an additional kanji to clarify the meaning. In other words, these kanji are formed by combining one kanji that has the word’s pronunciation and another kanji that represents the word’s meaning. One example of this is the character for sei (clean). Water is generally associated with cleaning, so the kanji for water 水 (mizu, often written as ⺡) is added to the kanji 青 (sei, blue) to get 清 sei (clean).

As you can see, kanji are definitely more complex than hiragana or katakana, but don’t worry – there are plenty of simple kanji too! Plus, knowing the radicals and kanji types will help to make learning and remembering kanji easier. Knowing the stroke order, or the steps in which each character is written, can help make memorization easier too; check out this site to look up any kanji and see its stroke order (and other helpful information)!

Uses

Kanji is used for nouns, verb stems, and adjectives. So, kanji are used for most major words that you will encounter in everyday Japanese! While hiragana and katakana are crucial, you also can’t rely on just those when reading and writing; you have to learn kanji as well!

Example

Let’s take one last look at Bob, this time reading the sentence as it would be written in everyday Japanese:

私のペットの名前はボブです。
Watashi no petto no namae wa bobu desu.

Well, using kanji certainly makes the Japanese sentence shorter! In this case, the pronoun watashi (I) and the noun namae (name) use kanji. If there was a different verb in this sentence (like “look” or “ate”), then there would most likely be kanji there as well. Finally, using these new symbols makes the sentence even easier to read, as they are visually quite different than hiragana or katakana!

While all of this might seem overwhelming at first, it’s nothing you can’t handle with a little practice! Simply writing the kanji out is a great way to see how the radicals work together and to memorize their combinations; but, if you’re looking for something a little bit more high-tech, there are also some kanji apps we recommend you can use to practice as well!

Conclusion

Well, we certainly covered a lot of ground today! Let’s review everything to make sure you remember what we learned.

Japanese has three types of writing systems: hiragana, katakana, and kanji. Hiragana is curvy, represents small syllables, and is used for grammatical information, particles, and native Japanese words! Katakana is straight, also represents small syllables, and is used for loanwords from other languages. Kanji are complex characters made up of radicals, represent a concept, a sound, or a mixture of the two, and are used for nouns, verb stems, and adjectives.

And those are the main points! Not so bad, right? You are now ready to start reading and writing Japanese like a pro! If you feel like you need more help, though, feel free to reach out to us or join one of our many Japanese language classes here!

FAQ

What is the Japanese writing system?

The Japanese writing system uses Hiragana, Katakana, and Kanji scripts.

What does Hiragana represents?

Hiragana represents native Japanese words, grammatical particles, and verb endings.

What does Katakana represents?

Katakana represents foreign words, loanwords, onomatopoeic words, and emphasis.

How many characters are there in hiragana and katakana?

There are 46 characters in each of the Hiragana and Katakana scripts.

What is the closet thing to English chracters?

There is no such thing as the Japanese alphabet, but the closest things would be called hiragana and katakana.

How many kanji I should learn?

To be considered fluent in Japanese, you must learn from 1500 to 2500 kanji characters.

If you’re just starting to learn Japanese, you will probably be introduced to hiragana and the hiragana chart on your first day. This Japanese writing system is one of the fundamental building blocks of the language. But what exactly is hiragana, and why is it important?

In this blog post, you’ll find a free downloadable hiragana chart PDF, perfect for beginners, along with hiragana practice sheets to help you memorize each character. Plus, we’ve included links to some of the best apps for learning Japanese, so you can continue your practice on the go.

Want to start learning Japanese? Join Coto Academy’s Japanese course and start speaking with confidence! Start learning today. 

What is Hiragana?

Hiragana, spelled ひらがな, is one of the three Japanese writing systems, alongside katakana and kanji. 

There are 46 basic hiragana characters, and they are known for their soft, curved, and flowing strokes. These characters are used in everyday Japanese writing and are essential for reading and writing in the language.

Just started learning Japanese? Head to our main article about the Japanese writing system for a more comprehensive guide on katakana, hiragana and kanji. 

Hiragana Chart Japanese Practice
Hiragana Practice Chart

Download Free Hiragana Chart

If you prefer learning Japanese the traditional way, our free hiragana chart and practice sheets are perfect for you! Below, you’ll find our popular hiragana chart. 

Simply click the link to open it in a new tab, where you can easily print it out and start practicing anywhere, anytime! 

In this blog, we share our own PDF learning Hiragana practice sheets and links to some popular apps for learning Japanese. Just started learning Japanese? Head to our main article about the Japanese writing system for a more comprehensive guide!

Japanese hiragana chart practice sheet

Download Free Hiragana Practice Sheet

Ready to practice your hiragana? After you’ve memorized the characters, download our free hiragana practice sheet designed specifically for beginners. 

How to use the practice sheets:

  • Print the sheets or complete them digitally on your laptop.
  • In the first section, draw lines connecting the hiragana characters to their matching sounds.
  • In the second section, practice writing each hiragana character yourself to reinforce your memory and improve your handwriting.

We have also combined hiragana chart and practice sheet! You can download them on view mode, and print them for a physical copy.

How Do You Read Hiragana?

Unlike alphabets in English and many other languages, where a group of  letters represent individual sounds, each hiragana character represents an entire syllable, such as “ka,” “no,” or “mu.” This makes hiragana a syllabary rather than an alphabet.

At the core of hiragana are the five basic vowel sounds: /a/, /i/, /u/, /e/, and /o/. These simple, consistent vowels form the foundation for reading all other hiragana combinations.

HiraganaRomaji (Latin alphabet)Sound
alike “ah” in “car”
ilike “ee” in “see”
ulike “oo” in “boot”
elike “eh” in “get”
olike “oh” in “go”

These vowels might be little compared to the English language, which has 12 to 14, including diphthongs — sounds formed by the combination of two vowels in a single syllable.

Although Japanese vowels are more stable and clearly defined, there are some divergence for /a/, /e/ and /o/. For example, Japanese has what we call long vowels, or chouon, where the vowels are pronounced “twice as long as a normal vowel. 

You can read more about the long vowels in our article below! But for now, let’s stay focused on the basics — beginner-level hiragana to get you reading and writing in Japanese!

Read More: Guide to Long Vowels and Double Consonants in Japanese Language

How Hiragana is Used

Once you’ve got a handle on what hiragana is, the next question is: how is it actually used in Japanese? The answer is — everywhere! Hiragana plays a critical role in reading, writing, and understanding Japanese, working alongside kanji and katakana to form the complete written language.

Here’s a breakdown of how hiragana is commonly used:

1. Grammatical particles 

Most obviously, hiragana is used for small grammar words (called particles) that show the role of each word in a sentence. For example, some of the most basic Japanese particles are:

  • は (wa): Topic marker
  • を (o): Direct object marker
  • に (ni): Used to indicate time, direction, position and more.

Read More: 11 Essential Japanese Particles to Know

2. Okurigana

These are the hiragana characters that follow kanji to complete verb and adjective conjugations. Kanji often shows the base of the word, but hiragana shows the tense, politeness, or form.

For example, take the verb 食べる (taberu), which means “to eat.” In this word, is the kanji representing the meaning “eat,” while べる is written in hiragana and completes the verb form. The conjugation can be:

  • 食べます (tabemasu): To eat 
  • 食べません (tabemasen): To not eat

Check out our handy guide on how to conjugate Japanese verbs if you want to learn more!

3. Words Without Kanji

Not all Japanese words have a kanji representation. Some common or simple native words are written only in hiragana, especially in children’s books.

For example:

  • よく (yoku): Often
  • さようなら (sayounara): Goodbye

4. Furigana (Pronunciation Guides)

Because hiragana is the most basic and accessible form of Japanese writing, it’s often used to support readers when they read a Japanese text. This is called furigana: small hiragana characters written above or beside kanji to indicate pronunciation that acts as a phonetic guide to help readers understand how to pronounce unfamiliar or complex kanji. 

This is especially common in manga, textbooks, and literature aimed at younger readers or learners.

hiragana chart blocks scattered on table

Should I Learn Hiragana or Katakana First? 

Between learning hiragana and katakana, it is best to start with hiragana, as it forms the foundation of the Japanese writing system. Hiragana is used for native Japanese words, grammar particles, and verb endings, making it essential for reading and writing everyday Japanese. 

Most beginner courses and textbooks introduce hiragana first to help you build basic literacy skills. Katakana, on the other hand, is primarily used for foreign loanwords, onomatopoeia, and emphasis, so it’s typically learned after hiragana. By mastering hiragana chart first, you’ll set a strong base that makes learning katakana easier and faster.

If you are ready to learn katakana, head to our article below to download our free chart that you can print or store on your phone!

Read More: What is Katakana? Free Katakana Chart and Learning Guide

Tips for Learning Hiragana 

Some people can learn hiragana in a day, but for most, it takes consistent practice. Here are some effective tips to help you master hiragana:

  1. Understand all the different hiragana first

Start by getting familiar with all 46 basic hiragana characters. Focus on recognizing their shapes and associating them with the correct sounds before moving on to more complex study.

  1. Practice writing with your hand

While it’s easy to type in Japanese using a keyboard, writing by hand helps you build muscle memory and understand proper stroke order. Try taking five kana each day and write them out twenty times each. This repetitive practice is one of the most effective ways to retain what you learn.

  1. Use flashcards, like Anki

Flashcards are a great tool because they promote active recall—forcing your brain to remember rather than just recognize. Apps like Anki can be used to study Japanese. It uses spaced repetition, which shows you cards just before you’re likely to forget them. 

Apps for Learning Hiragana

If you are just getting started with learning hiragana, you may think that it is easier to learn with an Japanese learning app, besides just relying on the hiragana chart.

Apps are convenient and easy to take with you to practice using while you are out and about. However, we also suggest that you take some time to physically write the characters, as it will cement them in your brain.

That being said, we recommend several apps for being fun and easy to use.

Learn Hiragana & Katakana with Dr. Moku

Dr. Moku’s Hiragana and Katakana Mnemonics are 2 separate apps. One for Hiragana and one for Katakana. In each app, they associate all the kana with pictures, making it easy for you to remember them.

It also uses mnemonic hacks (tying each character to a visual story-based meaning) rather than just rote memorization.

Mindsnacks (Limited Free Version)

Mindsnacks has a visually appealing interface, and the limited free version allows you to practice learning Hiragana and Katakana characters.

It is the closest thing to a learning video game that we have found.

If you want to learn Japanese with apps, check out our recommendations for the best Japanese learning apps!

Ready to Start Your Japanese Learning Journey?

Just started learning Japanese? After mastering hiragana, the next steps include learning katakana, basic phrases, and sentence formation. But studying Japanese doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. 

Start your learning journey with Coto Academy for fun, conversation-focused classes, perfect for beginners. Join intensive, part-time or online Japanese courses at Coto Academy.  Reach your goals faster!

Fill out the form below for a free level check and course consultation!

Hiragana FAQ

What is hiragana used for?

Hiragana is a fundamental script in Japanese, used for writing sentences, grammatical particles (like は, が, を), and parts of words. It is also used for words that don’t have kanji or for furigana (small hiragana above kanji to show pronunciation).

How many hiragana characters are there?

There are 46 basic hiragana characters. Some characters can change their sounds when small marks (゛or ゜) are added, like か (ka) to が (ga) or は (ha) to ぱ (pa).

What’s the easiest way to learn hiragana?

The best ways to learn Hiragana are:

  • Learn mnemonics (e.g., し (shi) looks like a smiling face)
  • Practice writing daily
  • Use flashcards to memorize characters
  • Listen to hiragana songs or use learning apps

What’s the difference between hiragana and katakana?

Hiragana and katakana both represent the same sounds but are used differently. Hiragana is for native Japanese words and grammar, while katakana is used for foreign words, names, and emphasis. They look different but sound the same!

Can I write everything in Hiragana?

Yes, but it’s not ideal. Japanese writing combines hiragana, katakana, and kanji, so writing everything in Hiragana can be hard to read and understand.

What’s the difference between hiragana and romaji?

Romaji is the Romanized version of Japanese (using the English alphabet). Hiragana is the actual Japanese script used in writing.

How long does it take to learn Hiragana?

For most learners, it takes about 1 to 2 weeks to learn all 46 basic hiragana characters with daily practice. Some people can memorize them in a day, but becoming comfortable with reading and writing usually takes a bit longer.

Alphabet is the foundation of English language, and the same thing can be said about hiragana in the Japanese language. Mastering hiragana is important for anyone who want to learn the basics of Japanese. As one of the two Japanese alphabets — right next to katakana — hiragana is used for both Japanese grammars and function words.

Because of this, having a strong foundation of hiragana means having a generally strong foundation of Japanese skills, too. Yet despite its importance, it shouldn’t take a long time for you to master hiragana. In fact, with the right teacher and support, it should only take no longer than a week for you to master hiragana, including reading and writing them. Hiragana’s shapes are relatively simple, especially if you compare them to kanji. Dwell no further. In this blog series, we’ll be breaking down all the Japanese phonetics (AIUEO or あいうえお) for beginners.

Want to take your kanji skills up a notch? Check our comprehensive kanji page for study tips, kanji life hacks and free worksheets!

Today’s Japanese Hiragana: Wa (わ)

Wa (わ) consists of the consonant “w” and the Japanese vowel “a”. Pronouncing the wa sound is pretty easy, too — you purse your lips and open your mouth when you make the sound. As the last kana or Japanese alphabet on every hiragana chart, wa (わ) is often associated with a word on a brighter note: warai (わらい), meaning laughter.

There’s a Japanese proverb that goes warau kado ni wa fuku kitaru (笑う門には福来る), and who can say no to that? The phrase means “good fortune and happiness will come to those who smile.”

And who shouldn’t live by the statement? In Japan, owarai (お笑い) is a broad term used to describe Japanese comedy. They can be seen on televisions and, just recently, YouTube, but owarai is a deep-seeded representation of Japanese culture. You’ll find that a lot of Japanese comedy can be traced from thousands of years ago, passed from one generation. There are three styles of owarai that perfectly captures the essence of Japan.

Learning hiragana? Don’t forget to check out our free hiragana chart and practice sheet that you can download and print!

Manzai

Manzai was once a traditional art of storytelling with roots that stemmed from the Heian period. Believed to have its beginnings from the song and dance performances, manzai perfomers would tour around courts, shrines and temples in celebration of the newyear. Manzai was reintroduced in Osaka by Yoshimoto Kogyo, and has since structured modern Japanese comedies.

Today, manzai is generally performed by two comedians, who play the roles of boke (ボケ) and tsukkomi (ツッコミ). Another characteristic is that the pair tend to match their outfits with each other. Boke, otherwise known as the funny man, delivers funny (and otherwise stupid) lines. They’re forgetful and airheaded, and it’s precisely their silly mistakes that stresses their partner, tsukkomi. Tsukkomi will usually hit the boke’s head or chest in retaliation.

Conte

Originating from the French word, “conte,” refers to funny skits. In Japanese, the word is written as konto (コント). It’s a type of manzai performance that focuses on storytelling, so it’s not uncommon to find a conte incorporating props and elaborate stage settings. In recent years, you can find a lot of rapid-fire short conte, which only goes less than 30 seconds.

Rakugo

Rakugo is a type of traditional Japanese storytelling that has been handed down since the early modern era. Performers sit on a zabuton cushino, centered on a stage, and let their bodies narrate the story. Interestingly enough, rops, costumes and music are abandoned in favors of fans and tenugui (thin cotton towels). A rakugo performer will adopt various gaze, postures and demeanors to play multiple roles. It is through the performer’s skill and sublime imagination that we can see a world unfurled and understand a deeper meaning in the art of Rakugo.

Pop Quiz

Here’s a question: In 2015, a certain manzai duo debuted and shocked the world. Who was the partner of a male named Kaneko from Tokyo?

The answer might be mind-boggling to some. Believe it or not, a robot named Pepper debuted as part of a duo called “Peppers”. They were able to successfully get past the first round of “M-1,” the most famous manzai contest in Japan. Kaneko went as far as to create a background for Pepper: a part-time worker born in Tokyo in December 1990.

Learning Japanese? Let’s Make It Easy

Studying Japanese doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Whether you’re starting out or looking to boost your career in Japan, with the right guidance and structured practice, becoming confident in Japanese is easier than you think.

Looking to boost your Japanese skill? Join intensive, part-time or online Japanese courses at Coto Academy. Start your journey today with lessons to help you reach your goals faster!

Want to study Japanese with us?

(more…)

Alphabet is the foundation of the English language, and the same thing can be said about hiragana in the Japanese language. Mastering hiragana is important for anyone who wants to learn the basics of Japanese. As one of the two Japanese alphabets — right next to katakana — hiragana is used for both Japanese grammars and function words. Today, we’ll be learning about the Japanese hiragana ro and rotenburo.

Because of this, having a strong foundation of hiragana means having a generally strong foundation of Japanese skills, too. Yet despite its importance, it shouldn’t take a long time for you to master hiragana. In fact, with the right teacher and support, it should only take no longer than a week for you to master hiragana, including reading and writing them. Hiragana’s shapes are relatively simple, especially if you compare them to kanji. Dwell no further. In this blog series, we’ll be breaking down all the Japanese phonetics (AIUEO or あいうえお) for beginners.

Want to get started on hiragana chart? Download and print our free hiragana chart and practice sheet PDF!

Today’s Japanese Hiragana: Ro (ろ)

The hiragana characters for the ‘R’ family have one of the most simple strokes — most of them are less than one stroke and, at the very most, two. There’s the ra, ri, ru, re, ro (ら、り、る、れ、ろ). The character for ro is is similar to ru (). The only difference is that there is no tail that curls inward. Remember to follow the stroke order and practice writing them as it is a great way to help you master hiragana in a short time. Be careful not to get ro and ru mixed up.

Learn a Japanese word from Ro (ろ): Rotenburo (ろてんぶろ)

What is a Rotenburo?

A rotenburo is an open-air hot-spring bath. “Ro” (露) means is exposed without walls or fences. “Ten” (天) means the sky, while “furo” (風呂) is, well, a bath in Japanese. Rotenburo is the second most common Japanese bath, right next to onsen.

Have you ever bathed in a rotenburo?

These days, rontenburo can be found on the rooftops of business hotels and in super sento bath houses even in Tokyo. The scenery can be breathtaking. Soaking your body into warm, mineral-rich hot water while getting the full view of gleaming city skyline is an experience a lot of people dream of. But while city rotenburo are just fine, without a doubt, rotenburo that offer natural views of the mountains or ocean is on another level.

Rotenburo, image, photo, picture, illustration

Author’s experience

There are a lot of impressive rotenburo. One of the greatest that I’ve visited so far was at an inn in Tobira Onsen spa in Nagano Prefectre. The surrounding was so white it was like stepping into a magical world. I felt like I was in some hazy dream.

Another one I’d like to mention was a rotenburo at an old inn in Ojiro Onsen spa town in Shizuoka Prefecture. The rotenburo was really close to the ocean — or more precisely, it sat on top of the ocean. The hot water would overflow from the bath to the sea water. It was as if I was bathing in the vast open sea instead of a small hot tub.  

Rotenburo, image, photo, picture, illustration

Japan’s Onsen Culture and History

By the way, wouldn’t you agree that the Japanese are unmatched their love of hot baths or onsen? Japan has about 100 active volcanoes, and this is why the country has lots of hot springs. Apparently, there are about 3,000 hot springs scattered throughout all 47 prefectures. There are also theories that say that Japan’s bathing culture started as much as 6,000 years ago, with rotenburo being one of the main predecessors. We can wonder if the Japanese who lived thousands of years ago had the same kinds of feelings about bathing in rotenburo as we do now.

Japan’s bathing culture continued on for centuries since then. During the Edo period (1603–1868), the city of Edo (or present-day Tokyo) had lots of public bathhouses (these were not rotenburo, but baths inside buildings). Not many of the houses in Edo had a bath, so lots of people would go to the bathhouse. Japanese bathouses turn into something. Not just a place for, well, taking baths, it becomes a spot for townspeople to get together and foster a sense of community. 

These days, small bathhouses are disappearing from towns and cities. On the other hand, facilities such as super sento are visited by lots of people, from children to old folks. They enjoy a variety of bathing styles.

About this week’s blog author:

Shigemi Matsumoto was a junior high school Japanese teacher for 23 years before joining Coto Language Academy. He is an experienced Japanese language teacher. He currently teaches Coto’s Intensive Courses (intermediate and advanced), Business Courses and Part-time N1 grammar and reading classes. He is also involved in developing teaching materials at Coto Academy. (more…)

Alphabet is the foundation of the English language, and the same thing can be said about hiragana in the Japanese language. Mastering hiragana is important for anyone who wants to learn the basics of Japanese. As one of the two Japanese alphabets — right next to katakana — hiragana is used for both Japanese grammars and function words. Today, we’ll be learning about the Japanese hiragana ru and routine (stylized as ru-tin in katakana).

Having a strong foundation of hiragana means having a generally strong foundation of Japanese skills, too. Yet despite its importance, it shouldn’t take a long time for you to master hiragana. In fact, with the right teacher and support, it should only take no longer than a week for you to master hiragana, including reading and writing them. Hiragana’s shapes are relatively simple, especially if you compare them to kanji. Dwell no further. In this blog series, we’ll be breaking down all the Japanese phonetics (AIUEO or あいうえお) for beginners.

Want to get started on hiragana chart? Download and print our free hiragana chart and practice sheet PDF!

Today’s Japanese Hiragana: Ru (る)

The hiragana characters for the ‘R’ family have one of the most simple strokes — most of them are less than one stroke and, at the very most, two. There’s the rarirurero (ら、り、る、れ、ろ). The character for ru is similar to ro(ろ). The only difference is that there is no tail that curls inward. Remember to follow the stroke order and practice writing them as it is a great way to help you master hiragana in a short time. Be careful not to get ro and ru mixed up.

Want to take your kanji skills up a notch? Check our comprehensive kanji page for study tips, kanji life hacks and free worksheets!

Learn a Japanese word from Ru (る) Routine (ルーティン)

The Japanese word for ルーティン is a loan word from the English word routine, and it has the same meaning. While it might not be a Japanese hiragana, the word routine is still interesting and evokes several opinions. Some food for thought: Do you have a fixed daily routine?

Japanese definition of routine

Routines are used to refer to “a fixed task every time.” People might have the impression that having a routine means having a boring life.

However, ever since a few years ago, it has been used more often to refer to a series of motions that an athlete goes through before an important match. At crucial moments, they go through some fixed motions to stabilize their mental state, strengthen their muscles and heighten their focus.

Routine of a Japanese language teacher

In my opinion, routines produce results. I eat natto and eggs for breakfast, drink coffee when I reach my workplace and stretch before sleeping. It helps me stay grounded in life, and once I get used to it, I don’t think of doing them consciously. It becomes a rhythm that I look forward to at the beginning and end of the day.

Examples of Japananese routine

As for Japanese people, you can look at our star example Ichiro Suzuki — the baseball athlete, national treasure, and first MLB player to enter the Japanese Baseball Hall of Fame. Ichiro works out at least four times a day and uses eight high-tech sports machines. By consciously doing the same motions that you usually do, you will be able to show off your true abilities without succumbing to the pressure in situations that make you nervous.

There are likely many athletes who stick to a fixed routine not just in crucial moments, but for their daily schedules as well. From the meals they eat and the clothes they wear, small, mundane practices help nurture their mental health.

You don’t need to be an athlete to develop your own life routine. You can start by thinking about the best Japanese study routine. Maybe brew a cup of coffee before settling in on your desk? Maybe draw a fixed schedule?

I know a few people who have succeeded in making studying a habit. One person comes to our Coto class and revises one hour before class. Another person uses an app to learn new words for 15 minutes every morning. One person listens to Japanese podcasts on the train on the way to work. After three months, these routines will become a small form of self-confidence.

About this week’s blog author:

Yumi Yoshida is one of our great Coto Japanese language teachers who’s from Tohoku. She has 16 years of experience working as a Japanese teacher. In her free time, Yumi loves to hike, travel and drink Japanese sake. She thinks the best way to learn Japanese is to engage in fun and friendly conversations in Japanese.

(more…)

Alphabet is the foundation of the English language, and the same thing can be said about hiragana in the Japanese language. Mastering hiragana is important for anyone who wants to learn the basics of Japanese. As one of the two Japanese alphabets — right next to katakana — hiragana is used for both Japanese grammars and function words. Today, we’ll be learning about the Japanese hiragana ra and ramen.

Having a strong foundation of hiragana means having a generally strong foundation of Japanese skills, too. Yet despite its importance, it shouldn’t take a long time for you to master hiragana. In fact, with the right teacher and support, it should only take no longer than a week for you to master hiragana, including reading and writing them. Hiragana’s shapes are relatively simple, especially if you compare them to kanji. Dwell no further. In this blog series, we’ll be breaking down all the Japanese phonetics (AIUEO or あいうえお) for beginners.

Want to get a fuller view of the hiragana chart for your Japanese study? Check out our article on learning hiragana!

japanese-hiragana-ra-ri-ru-re-ro-

Today’s Japanese Hiragana: Ra (ら)

The hiragana characters for the ‘R’ family have one of the most simple strokes — most of them are less than one stroke and, at the very most, two. There are the ra, ri, ru, re, ro (ら、り、る、れ、ろ). The character for ra contains two strokes. Remember to follow the stroke order and practice writing them as it is a great way to help you master hiragana in a short time.

Learn a Japanese word from Ra (ら): Ramen (ラーメン)

When you learn the Japanese hiragana alphabet ra (ら), you may think of the ramen (ラーメン). The world loves ramen, but no one can match the same obsession that Japanese people have. In fact, it’s so popular, that there are over 30,000 ramen shops in Japan. Depending on the area and shop (and local specialties), the taste of the soup and the type of noodles also vary. Everyone has their own favorite, but each one of these bowls is just as delicious. This time, I am going to tell you about the phrases that you need to know when ordering ramen at a shop.

A ramen enthusiast? Check out our article for the best ramen shops in Tokyo.

Common Japanese phrases when ordering at a ramen shop

A lot of popular ramen chains in Tokyo provide English menus, but small ramen shops are the true hidden gems — and, most of the time, they will only hand out Japanese menus. Learn these useful Japanese words and phrases so you don’t get lost when ordering a bowl of ramen.

Japanese Vocaulary for Noodles

Let’s start with noodles! Depending on the shop, you might be able to choose how firm you want your noodles.

  • Soft – やわらかめ(yawarakame)
  • Medium – 普通(futsuu)
  • Slightly Firm – やや硬め(yaya-katame)
  • Firm – 硬め(katame)
  • Hard – バリ硬(bari-kata)
  • Wire – 針金(harigane)
As you go down the list, the noodles get firmer. When you challenge noodles with “Wire 針金(harigane)” hardness, it would be best to do it when your stomach is feeling well. 
 
Want to take your kanji skills up a notch? Check our comprehensive kanji page for study tips, kanji life hacks and free worksheets!

Japanese Vocabulary for Ramen Soup Preference

Next up is the soup base. People’s preferences are pretty divided in this aspect.
  • Light – あっさり(assari): Soup is refreshing and not greasy.
  • Rich – こってり(kotteri): Soup is oily with a strong flavor and stock from pork bones.
  • Very Rich and Thick – 超こってり(cho-kotteri): Soup has a very strong flavor with lots of oil.

Japanese Vocabulary for Ramen Toppings

Now we will move on to toppings! What toppings do you like?
  • Cha-siu – チャーシュー(cha-shu): The king of ramen toppings! It is marinated pork that is cooked and thinly sliced.
  • Aji-tsuke Tamago – 味付け卵(ajitsuke-tamago), or Aji Tama味玉(ajitama): A boiled egg that is marinated in soy sauce.
  • Menma – メンマ(menma): Bamboo shoot that is boiled and fermented.
  • Green onions – ねぎ(negi): A herbal flavor that ramen must have! In Kanto(Eastern Japan), white long onions are popular, while green onions are popular in Kansai(Western Japan).

There’s a lot of ways you can customize your ramen — although we can’t guarantee the salaryman beside your booth won’t raise an eyebrow. It’s easy to fall into the temptation of ordering all the toppings. 

Additional Information

On top of all the information above, here’s two additional things which, if you know, would make you an expert!

  1. Kae-dama – 替え玉(kae-dama): Asking for seconds on only the noodles, without soup.
  2. Soup Wari – スープ割り(soup-wari): After finishing the tsukemen noodles, diluting the tsuke sauce with stock soup so that you can drink it.

japanese hiragana quiz fun facts

Quiz!

At a particular ramen shop in the city, there is a menu called “Designated R-20” (individuals who are under 20 years old cannot order from it). So, what’s the secret indgredient in that ramen? ?

The answer is tequila! The menu has a notice, stating “Entirely Alcohol”. I heard that it even comes with lime, which is a must-have with tequila. It seems to be quite a special custom. If you want to experience getting drunk while eating ramen, definitely go try it!

About this week’s blog author:

Ayana Nezu has a long history in education and training. In 2017, she joined Coto Language Academy – her first time in a Japanese Language School. She currently is based at our Azabu Coto Japanese Club location and is recently obsessed with Rakugo. (more…)

 

Origin of the Japanese Alphabets

Originally, the Japanese language did not have a phoenetic writing system. Around the fifth century, they starting using kanji, ideograms that were adopted from China and Korea. They only used the phonetic reading of the kanji, regardless of their meaning. At that time, the ideograms were called manyogana (万葉仮名).

However, kanji’s characters are composed of many strokes. They take longer to write, as we are sure you have noticed by now! Due to their difficulty, those ideograms were slowly simplified into kana alphabets, namely Hiragana and Katakana. They are called syllabograms, as each character corresponds to one sound in the Japanese language. According to historians, the change was initiated by Buddhist priests who thought kanji was unable to accurately represent the Japanese language, and that a phonetic alphabet would be better.

Learning hiragana? Check out our free hiragana chart and practice sheet that you can download and print!

Examples of Change

On the left is the manyogana, and on the right are simplified hiragana and katakana forms.

  • 安 →あ 阿 → ア (a)
  • 以 →い 伊 → イ(i)
  • 宇 →う、ウ(u)
  • 衣 →え 江 → エ(e)
  • 於 →お、オ(o)

This change is thought to have taken place between the eighth and ninth century.  Hiragana can be considered a simplified calligraphy form of the kanji’s strokes. On the other hand, katakana is taken from a single element of a kanji. In some cases, they are created from different ideograms.

Some characters in the Japanese alphabet express the same sound and have similar shapes, such as り and リ. However, some can be dissimilar, such as あ and ア.  Hiragana is said to be cursive while katakana is more angular. Do take note that one sound can have more than one hiragana. In 1900 the two kana scripts, hiragana, and katakana were codified. This led to the clear establishment of rules for the Japanese system in 1946.

Difference between Hiragana and Katakana

Why are there 2 syllabic Japanese scripts? In the event that the difference is stylistic, you will learn that hiragana is used to write native Japanese words. Those words will have no kanji representation or the ideogram is too ancient or too difficult to write. This kana script is also the one used to write grammatical elements such as particles: を (wo)、に (ni)、へ (he;e)、が (ga)、は (ha)…

On the contrary, Japanese use katakana to write words of foreign origin and foreign names. If you like to read manga in Japanese, you will have certainly noticed that katakana is also used to represent onomatopoeia and emphasis.

Have you heard of the word “furigana”? Furigana is Hiragana and Katakana characters written in small forms above kanji in order to show pronunciation. Furigana is used in kids’ books and Japanese language textbooks for learners, in order to teach the reading of unknown kanji.

Want to Learn Japanese? Let’s Make It Easy

Studying Japanese doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Whether you’re starting out or looking to boost your career in Japan, with the right guidance and structured practice, becoming confident in Japanese is easier than you think.

Looking to boost your Japanese skill? Join intensive, part-time or online Japanese courses at Coto Academy. Start your journey today with lessons to help you reach your goals faster!

Want to study Japanese with us?

Downloading and using Anki decks can be one of the most effective and easiest ways to learn Japanese. Anki is a free, open-source flashcard program that uses a spaced repetition system (SRS), allowing you to revisit new vocabulary repeatedly but in a programmed time frame. Through this, you can spend more time on words you have a harder time remembering and less on easier ones.

Though Anki is extremely versatile, we strongly recommend Anki to learn new Japanese words and building vocabulary over time. Still, when you are just starting out, you should use pre-made Anki decks. Once you know your learning preference, you can then customize it. Anki decks can easily be downloaded from the Anki website.

So, what are the best options? Check out our recommendations for the 15 best Japanese Anki decks below!

How to choose the right Anki deck?

An Anki deck is essentially a set of flashcards grouped together. You can have multiple decks for different topics (e.g., “JLPT N5 Vocabulary”, “Medical Terminology”, “GRE Prep”). Each card typically has a front (question, prompt) and a back (answer). You can also include audio, images, and formatting.

When learning Japanese with Anki, the front of the card is often the Japanese word, and the back shows the English meaning. As you become more familiar with Anki, you can start customizing your cards to suit your learning style. You can add audio, pictures, tags, custom fields, or other types of media to make your flashcards more engaging and effective!

With there being hundreds of Japanese Anki decks for learning, choosing the right one can be difficult and confusing. This is especially so for first-time users of Anki who are still figuring out how to use the software. It’s not hard when you get used to it, but we don’t want to add more to your full bowl.

On the Anki website, there is a section under ” Popular categories: Languages ” where you can see links to landing pages for different languages.

Click on the “Japanese” link, and it will bring you to a page full of different Japanese Anki decks. If you already have a topic in mind that you want to study, there is a manual search option in the top right corner.

If you have a problem choosing, click on each Anki deck and look at the reviews. A rating column also shows the ratings of the different tabs.

Once you have chosen the Anki Deck you want to use, just simply click the “download” button to open Anki on your device.

Before that, head to our Japanese learner’s guide to starting Anki flashcards.

Best Japanese Anki Decks

1. Japanese Core 2000 Step 01 Listening Sentence Vocab + Images

japanese anki decks

Japanese Core 2000 Step 01 is one of the most popular and used Anki decks to memorize Japanese vocabulary. Specifically customized for beginners to Japanese, this Anki Deck has over 2,000 Japanese words for you to learn.

The contents in this Anki deck are well-structured, with images provided for easier memorization. The deck contains 405 audio files and 235 images, and example sentences for the Kanji.

It would probably take 2-3 months to complete this Anki deck if you practice consistently. As we know, consistency is the number one thing for improvement.

Visit the Anki website to download the Anki Deck onto your computer. The flashcards will appear on your screen once the deck is imported to your device. You can edit the cards by clicking on the “edit” button.

Download Anki deck here.

2. Japanese Core 2000 Step 02 Listening Sentence Vocab + Images

2. Japanese Core 2000 Step 02 Listening Sentence Vocab + Images

Japanese Core 2000 Step 02 is the second part of the Japanese Core 2000 Anki series. Make sure you start with Step 01 before you visit Step 02. Still, for beginners, this Anki Deck is a more advanced version with audio files, English translations, and images provided in the flashcards.

There are Japanese Kanji, verbs, and example sentences that are used in everyday life. This Anki Deck has over 404 Audio files and 236 Images.

Similar to Step 01, it would probably take you 2-3 months to complete this Anki Deck if you practice consistently.

Visit the Anki website to download the Anki deck onto your computer. The flashcards will appear on your screen once the deck is imported to your device. You can edit the cards by clicking on the “edit” button.

Get Anki decks here.

3. Japanese Basic Hiragana

If you have already learned the basic Japanese writing system, you can skip this. But if you are just a beginner, we recommend Japanese Basic Hiragana. Unlike the Japanese Core Series Anki Deck, this Anki deck does not have any pictures, but it is particularly helpful if you want to remember hiragana characters.

The deck was modified from the TextFugu Hiragana deck and only includes 46 basic audio hiragana character files.

However, you can type in romaji under particular hiragana characters. You can easily complete it as the contents are basic and simple for beginners. Since there are only 46 notes, the deck is a good refresher for new learners.

Since it only covers fundamentals, it does not have all the hiragana characters. So, you might want to move on to more advanced Japanese Anki Decks once you have completed the Deck.

Download Anki deck here

4. JLPT Grammar from Jtest4you

This is the all-in-one Anki deck if you want to focus on grammar. The Jtest4you Anki Deck is a JLPT grammar-focused flashcard. It includes example sentences, romaji, and translations that can be added to the front and back of the flashcards.

What’s good about this Anki deck is that the vocabulary is divided into different JLPT levels, so you can study words relevant to your current situation.

In most flashcards, the front would be the kanji and example sentence in Japanese, while the back of the flashcard would be the furigana, romaji, and English translation.

Visit the Anki website to download the Anki deck onto your computer. The flashcards will appear on your screen once the deck is imported to your device. You can edit the cards by clicking on the “edit” button.

Download Anki deck.

5. Japanese Visual Novel, Anime, Manga, LN Vocab – V2K 

If you are interested in Japanese visual media, Japanese Visual Novel, Anime, Manga, LN Vocab – V2K Anki Deck could be perfect for you.

This Anki Deck has over 2,000 common words in popular Japanese media, such as novels, anime, and manga. In Japanese media, words and phrases often serve various contexts and examples.

Hence, this Anki deck helps users link the particular kanji and familiar English translations.

It is a beginner-focused Anki deck where users will learn kanji and furigana, along with a pre-recorded audio that can be found at the front of the flashcard.

You will be able to pick up heaps of useful words, such as 全然駄目だ、結構, that are frequently mentioned in anime and manga. It will also significantly improve your reading and listening comprehension.

Visit the Anki website to download the Anki deck onto your computer. Once the deck is imported to your device, the flashcards will appear on your screen. You can edit the cards by clicking on the “edit” button.

Download Anki deck here.

6. Katakana Reading Practice

Katakana Reading Practice is an Anki deck that acts as a guide for beginners in learning katakana. With over 1,000 words and phrases in Katakana, the contents of the flashcard focus a lot on foreign loanwords, proper names, onomatopoeia, animal names, as well as brand names.

Many users of this Anki deck have found it very helpful in improving their speed and confidence in speaking and writing katakana.

English speakers might think it’s unnecessary to learn katakana. After all, they are loan words from English — but you’d be surprised by some Japanese katakana words that don’t sound similar to the original English words.

Visit the Anki website to download the Anki deck onto your computer. Once the deck is imported to your device, the flashcards will appear on your screen. You can edit the cards by clicking on the “edit” button.

Download Anki deck here.

7. Official KanjiDamage deck

KanjiDamage is the ultimate deck to learn Kanji with the KanjiDamage method, which is basically learning Kanji using mnemonics. There are over 1,700 Kanji to learn from in this Anki Deck.

You will learn a mix of commonly used Kanji as well as uncommonly used Kanji that have been put in random order. The stroke order of how to write the Kanji is also included.

If you want to learn kanji frequency instead, check out another Anki Deck made by the same user, which is a reordered version of this Anki deck. It has been reordered based on the frequency of each Kanji character so that you can more common characters first, followed by the uncommon ones.

Visit the Anki website to download the Anki Deck onto your computer. Once the deck is imported to your device, the flashcards will appear on your screen. You can edit the cards by clicking on the “edit” button.

Download Anki deck here.

8. All in One Kanji Deck

Looking to learn pretty much everything there is to learn about Kanji? All in One Kanji deck is one of the most comprehensive and informative collections out there. It is perfect for those looking to practice writing the Kanji and gaining more knowledge on kanji meaning and readings.

The Anki deck is nicely formatted. With over 10,000 flashcards, you will learn how to read each kanji in onyomi, kunyomi, and nanori as well as learn the number of strokes and stroke orders.

It also teaches you how each Kanji has been changed from its original Chinese elements to become a Japanese character.

Download Anki deck here.

9. Tofugu: Learn Hiragana Deck

This Anki deck created by Tofugu helps you learn Hiragana through Mnemonics. In this Anki Deck, you will be able to learn the basics of Japanese pronunciation.

Download Anki deck here.

10. Tofugu: Learn Katakana Deck

This Anki deck, created by Tofugu, helps you learn Katakana through Mnemonics. In this Anki Deck, you will be able to learn the basics of Japanese pronunciation.

Through descriptive and animative mnemonics, they make learning fun and interactive, and are a perfect method for memorization! Visit the Anki website to download the Anki Deck onto your computer. Once the deck is imported to your device, the flashcards will appear on your screen. You can edit the cards by clicking on the “edit” button.

Download Anki deck here.

11. Japanese Course Based on Tae Kim’s Grammar Guide & Anime

This is a self-contained Japanese course for beginners, built around Tae Kim’s Grammar Guide, a popular free resource known for its clear explanations of essential grammar points. The creators also developed a companion Anki deck, making it easy to study and review.

The course places a strong focus on listening comprehension, using real anime scenes to reinforce learning. Each flashcard shows a Japanese phrase on the front, along with a video clip of the sentence used in an anime. The back of the card includes the English translation and a detailed grammar breakdown, helping learners understand both meaning and structure.

Download Anki deck here.

12. Genki 1 & 2 Kanji

If you’ve taken a Japanese class, chances are you’ve used the well-known Genki textbook series. This Anki deck is a simple but effective tool I created to help me learn how to write the kanji introduced in Genki I and Genki II.

The deck covers individual kanji characters from Lesson 3 to Lesson 23, following the exact order presented in the textbooks. Each flashcard shows the English meaning, along with the on-yomi and kun-yomi readings on the front, and the kanji character on the back.

It’s perfect for reinforcing writing practice and memorizing readings in context with the Genki curriculum.

Download Anki deck here.

13. Katakana Reading Practice

Reading katakana can be surprisingly challenging, even if you’ve already memorized the characters. Unlike hiragana, katakana is often used for foreign loanwords and names, which don’t always follow typical Japanese word structure. 

This Anki deck features 1,000 cards designed to help you read katakana with speed and confidence. It focuses on loanwords from English, German, French, Portuguese, Chinese, and more, along with wasei-eigo (English-inspired words made in Japan like salaryman). You’ll also find cards with onomatopoeia, company names, animal names, and other real-world katakana usage to give you the exposure you need.

Download Anki deck here.

14. Remembering the Kanji 1, 6th Edition (2200 Kanji)

This Anki deck includes all 2,200 kanji from the 6th edition of Remembering the Kanji 1 by James W. Heisig. It was created to offer a complete and accurate companion to the book, as many existing shared decks were either incomplete, based on older editions, or lacked consistency in format and content.

The deck focuses solely on kanji characters, excluding primitive elements that are not kanji themselves. Each card includes a link to an external website for stroke order diagrams, allowing for easy reference and writing practice. It’s an ideal tool for learners following the Heisig method who want a streamlined, comprehensive study aid.

Download Anki deck here.

15. All in One Kanji Deck

This comprehensive Anki deck includes the full set of 2,136 Jouyou Kanji — the official list of kanji designated by the Japanese Ministry of Education for daily use. These are the characters taught in Japanese schools and used in newspapers, books, and official documents. In addition to the Jouyou Kanji, the deck covers JLPT N5 to N1 kanji, 861 Jinmeiyou Kanji (used primarily in names), the 2,500 most frequent kanji, 3,007 kanji from Heisig’s Remembering the Kanji, and more.

Download Anki deck here. 

Each card contains rich, detailed information: the English meaning, readings (on-yomi, kun-yomi, and nanori—name readings, listed separately), stroke count, stroke order, and an example compound word. It also includes kanji classification levels such as JLPT level, Jouyou grade, and usage frequency. Note that a lower frequency number indicates more common usage, while “Grade S” refers to kanji taught in Japanese secondary school

Studying Japanese? Take the Free Japanese Level Assessment Test

Coto Japanese Academy is a unique Japanese Language School in Iidabashi, Tokyo and Yokohama. We offer relaxed and fun conversational lessons for all levels of Japanese learners. Coto Japanese Academy prides itself on its community atmosphere and fun lessons that focus on the creation of opportunities to speak and learn Japanese. If you are interested in studying Japanese in Tokyo or Yokohama, please visit our contact page.

FAQ

What is Anki?

Anki is a powerful flashcard app that uses spaced repetition to help you memorize information more efficiently. For Japanese learners, it’s especially useful for retaining kanji, vocabulary, grammar points, and listening comprehension.

Can I customize the Japanese Anki deck?

Yes! Anki is very flexible—you can edit cards, add audio, images, mnemonics, or even create your own card types to match your study style.

What’s included in this Japanese Anki deck?

That depends on the deck, but typically you’ll find:

  • Listening and reading practice (optional with media decks)
    Some decks are based on popular resources like Genki, Tae Kim, or Heisig, and include JLPT-level tagging (N5 to N1).
  • Kanji cards (with meanings, readings, stroke order, and examples)
  • Vocabulary cards (with context sentences and audio)
  • Grammar explanations

Summer in Japan brings iconic experiences like fireworks and lively festivals, while hinting at the cooler season ahead.

Thinking about your next plan? Discover the latest Japanese courses opening in the coming months at Coto Academy’s four physical locations and our online school. Whether you’re studying in Tokyo, Yokohama, or from abroad, there’s a program for you.

If you have questions or want to explore different courses without friendly staff directly, fill out the contact form below to get in touch. You can immediately book an online meeting with our team!

Coto Japanese Academy Iidabashi

coto academy course 2025

1. Business Japanese Course

Advance your career in Japan with Coto Academy’s intensive 3-month Business Japanese Course, designed specifically for working professionals.

This program focuses on building practical fluency in keigo (honorific language), formal expressions, and effective communication in the Japanese workplace.

Courses are offered at intermediate, upper-intermediate, and advanced levels, each emphasizing real-world application and business context to help you confidently navigate professional environments in Japan.

  • Duration: September 9 – November 22
  • Schedule: Every Saturday, 14:10 – 17:00 (24 lessons in total)
  • Location: Coto Academy Iidabashi
  • Price: 64,800 yen

2. JLPT 3-month Intensive Course

Taking the last JLPT for 2025? Coto Academy students have historically had a 75% higher pass rate than the national average, thanks to our expert-designed JLPT preparation curriculum.

Join our 3-month intensive course and turn your current knowledge into test-ready skills. With just 3 focused hours per week, you’ll strengthen key areas like listening, reading, grammar, and vocabulary.

  • Duration: September 6 – December 6 
  • Available lessons: JLPT N4 to N1
  • Schedule: Every Saturday, 14:10 – 17:00 (42 lessons in total)
  • Location: Coto Academy Iidabashi
  • Price: 98,280 yen

3. Total Beginner Course

Join Coto Academy Iidabashi’s Lite Intensive course, which is a semi-intensive Japanese lesson happening twice a week. If you have never studied Japanese before, this course is perfect for you.

  • When: Monday and Wednesday, 19:10 – 21:00
  • Starting date: August 4

Coto Academy Yokohama

1. Part-time Course for Beginners

Ready to build a solid foundation in Japanese? Join our Active Basic Japanese Grammar A, a part-time course designed specifically for beginners who want to learn practical grammar for everyday conversations.

  • Schedule: Monday & Wednesday
  • Time: 19:10–21:00
  • Start date: July 2

2. Bridge to Intermediate

Another part-time course, this class is perfect for upper-beginner students aiming to move up to the intermediate level. The jump from JLPT N4 to N3 can often feel quite big — that’s why this course is designed to be the perfect bridge.

  • Schedule: Monday and Thursday
  • Time: 19:10 – 21:00
  • Start date: July 10

3. Essential Grammar and Conversation

Designed for upper-beginner learners, this part-time course focuses on mastering essential grammar and learning how to apply it in real-life conversations

  • Schedule: Every Saturday
  • Time: 10:10 – 12:00
  • Start date: July 12
coto academy course 2025

Coto Academy Online

Learn Japanese from anywhere with Coto Academy’s online school. Our flexible point-based system lets you purchase lesson credits, choose the courses you want through our user-friendly portal, and receive personalized recommendations based on your level and goals. Create a free account and browse lessons today.

For group lessons, we offer two convenient formats:

  • Part-Time Courses: Join anytime and study at your own pace.
  • Lite Intensive Courses: A structured, weekly program ideal for learners who want steady progress.

Check out the upcoming online Japanese lessons below. 

1. Practical Japanese for Beginners (Part-time)

Build the foundation you need to navigate Japan with confidence. In this course, you’ll learn to read and write hiragana and katakana, plus a wide range of useful phrases for everyday situations.

  • Schedule: Saturday
  • Time: 10:00 – 11:50 (JST)
  • Material: Nihongo Fun & Easy 1 (2nd edition)
  • First class: July 26
  • Recommended point plan: 16-point subscription plan (16,800 yen)

2. Lite Intensive Beginner 2 (Lite Intensive)

The continuation of our Lite Intensive Beginner 1, this course picks up from the next chapter of the Genki 1 textbook.

Not sure which level is right for you? Fill out the form below for a free level check and personalized consultation with our staff to find the best fit for your goals.

  • Schedule: Every Tuesday & Friday
  • Time: 9:00-10:50 JST
  • Start date: July 8th
  • Materials: Genki 1, Genki 1 Workbook
  • Recommended point plan: 32-point subscription plan (32,000 yen)

3. N4 Grammar and Conversation (Part-time Essential Grammar & Conversation)

Sign up for Coto Academy’s convenient online course that focuses on essential JLPT N4 grammar and provides plenty of conversation practice. 

  • Schedule: Fridays
  • Time: 9:00-10:50 JST
  • Start date: July 11
  • Material: Coto original PDF handouts
  • Recommended point plan: 16-point subscription plan (16,800 yen)

Please note that the subscription will automatically be charged every 4 weeks without notice.

How to Sign Up at Coto Academy

If you’re a current or past Coto Academy student, please fill out the form again. We’ll recognize you, but it’s always great to see your new goals.
For new students, don’t worry! Even if you’re unsure about which course to take, you’ll receive a free level check and a consultation with our in-house advisor who will recommend the best program for you.

Register for Your Class Today!

FAQ

What is the difference between the part-time and lite intensive courses?

The Lite Intensive course is a structured Japanese program where you attend regular classes, typically twice a week. The Part-Time course offers more flexibility. You can join anytime, and classes are held once a week.

Where are the physical school locations of Coto Academy?

Coto Academy has physical school locations in Shibuya, Iidabashi, Yokohama, and Minato.

Does Coto Academy offer weekend and evening lessons?

Yes, we provide weekend and evening lessons, ideal for busy residents in Japan who cannot study during daytime hours.

How do I join Coto Academy’s online school?

You can create a free account and purchase points either as a one-time payment or via subscription. Each lesson costs a certain number of points depending on whether it’s a group or private lesson. If you’re unsure how to proceed, simply fill out the inquiry form—our staff will be happy to assist you in navigating the website.

Can I start taking Japanese lessons anytime?

For part-time Japanese lessons, yes, you can start anytime. Just fill out the inquiry form to ask about the schedule and availability.

How much do lessons cost?

Lesson fees vary depending on the type of course you choose. Please contact us for detailed pricing information.

As you get ready to explore Japan, it’s not just about packing your suitcase or making sure you have enough yen. One of the smartest ways to prepare is by downloading the best travel apps for Japan. 

For a place like Japan, with numerous mobile app options, it can be challenging to determine which ones are worth using, especially if they require payment for certain features. So here’s a list of must-have travel apps in Japan — tested and updated for 2025 — to make your trip as stress-free as possible. 

Best Japanese Travel App for Navigation & Transit

Understanding the transit system in Japan can seem super hard to understand from afar, but these apps will help you to understand step-by-step where you need to go and how to get there! 

1. Google Maps

If there is one app to download from this list, it will be Google Maps. They give the most accurate updates when it comes to travel time, crowd size, and delays occurring. 

It’s particularly useful because you will most likely use public transportation when traveling around Japan. Google Maps can also tell you how much it will cost to go on your routes, how far something is within walking distance, and store hours, making it one of the most used apps by foreigners by far! 

2. Japan Travel by Navitime 

If you really wanna feel like a local, this is the app for you. Japan Travel by NAVITIME helps users travel around Japan by train, transit, and the Shinkansen. You can also use their online website version and read about the best ways to explore Japan for yourself and your needs.  

With these travel apps in Japan, some things might still get lost in translation, so you need to know how to understand the essential Japanese train announcements, too. 

3. Go Taxi 

As the most used taxi app in Japan, Go Taxi is used very similarly to Uber! It serves 45 of Japan’s 47 prefectures. You can reserve rides ahead, or use them in a hurry! It has an easy-to-use format and is overall well-used among foreigners and locals alike. 

Read More: How to Take a Taxi in Japan

4. Yahoo Transit

 Yahoo Transit is the most localized for Japanese people, making it the most accurate platform of all your options! It is traditionally in Japanese, but can be translated on Yahoo/Google easily. They include time for walking through the train station and transferring platform, which Google Maps often doesn’t have! So if you’re looking for a step-by-step guide, this is the app for you! 

Read More: How to Navigate Japan’s Train System Without Pasmo or Suica

5. SmartEx

Thinking about taking the Shinkansen? This app will help you with every step of the process. You’ll need to register your account on their website prior, but once your account is made, you can use both the app and the website with ease. It is worth noting that you will be logged out of the app if you don’t use it often, but if you have already purchased your ticket, just add it to your digital wallet and you won’t need to get back in. Once you purchase your Shinkansen tickets, the website says you should also print out your tickets just in case it cannot read your QR code.  

6. Suica or PASMO app 

If you plan on using the transit system in Japan, plan to have a Suica orPASMO either physically or on your phone’s digital wallet. I find it easier to have it on your phone, so that way you can see all your charges and your remaining balance whenever you’d like. It’s very easy to add money back onto it as well, rather than having to stop at the station to refill your card. 

Best Japanese Apps for Translation & Language

Traveling to cities like Tokyo may be more English-friendly, but things can still get lost in translation. While we also cover the best Japanese dictionary apps in another blog, here are some of our favorite travel apps for Japan.

7. Google Translate 

Google Translate has a lot of key features that make it exemplary for translating apps. Their camera text scanning is great for signs and menu translations, you can also hold your phone up to listen to native speakers talk to better know how to reply back (I’ve had to use this a few times when in sticky situations!), and the app allows for users to use it even in offline mode. 

8. DeepL

This app is better for more natural translations, especially for Korean/Chinese speakers

These translation apps allow for more natural translations rather than the literal meaning. This works especially for Korean and Chinese speakers. With Papago, you’re able to translate text, images, documents, and websites, plus listen to how to speak it. DeepL has a glossary feature that is super helpful, as well as AI-powered tools to help you write in another language! 

9. Yomiwa 

Yomiwa is a modern (and offline!) Japanese dictionary that has kanji recognition and real-time translation. It uses a diverse number of sources to provide the most complete dictionary app. You are able to input words and sentences using kanji, hiragana, katakana, and romaji. There are many options for translating that users have loved since its creation. 

Best Travel Apps for Accommodation & Booking in Japan

10. Airbnb 

If you are tired of hotels and want something like a Japanese homestay, Airbnb is a good compromise. Airbnb is known for its short-term stays with a local flavor for foreigners to fall in love with. With its easy-to-navigate app and ability to contact the owner directly to make your stay more at home, it’s easy to see why most people pick this over a hotel. Depending on the area, too, you may be able to see lower prices for your stay. 

Read More: Affordable Accommodation in Tokyo

11. Booking.com

Booking.com has a lot of different filters for last-minute or discounted rates with things like hotels, flights, and car rentals. Though known for its cost-effective measures, if you use this site, it is said to make sure you do your research ahead of time to ensure everything is in order before you arrive. While most users state they have no problems with the website, it is warned that new users read through what they are selecting before purchasing. 

12. Klook 

Klook has been on the rise in recent years due to the wide variety of bookings you can make through it. You can book tours, hotels, museum tickets, and more through them. They have discounted rates or promotional codes you can use to lower your costs. Their website and app are easy to use and have been proven to work, especially for the Shinkansen! 

Getting to try new foods in a new country is super exciting and a great new experience. But in a place like Japan where the population is over 126,000,000 people, getting a reservation or two might be the move. Here are our top apps for finding restaurants.

13. Tabelog 

As the ‘Yelp’ of Japan, this app is the most used by locals for user reviews and ratings.  Users can book restaurants directly from Tabelog! It is worth noting, though, that most reviews and places will be primarily in Japanese, so just make sure you are looking at the star review rating! 

14. Google Maps (Restaurants)

Less used than Tabelog for locals, Google Maps is still able to provide thorough details for restaurant searches that include English reviews, photos, and hours. If you’re looking for popular tourist attractions/foods, this is definitely the app to use more often! 

15. Omakase

Ready for some high-end restaurant experiences? Omakase will be exactly what you’re looking for! This app helps users set up reservations at some of the best high-end restaurants in Japan for meals like omakase sushi, wagyu, or traditional Japanese foods.  Log in, and enjoy some of the best culinary experiences you can get!

A foodie exploring Japan? You might be interested in:

Best Japanese Apps for Payments & Finance

Recently, Japan has been shifting from a cash-based society to digital payment systems. There are a lot of mobile payment apps in Japan we recommend, but we have also selected a few apps for money exchanges. 

16. Wise 

Wise is a multi-currency travel account that is the perfect solution for travelers. Making an account is completely free; you only pay for transactions! It is transparent and cheap, with fast transfers. For Japan, this is a good way to watch conversion rates with how you use your money! 

17. XE Currency 

Another great currency tool that has real-time exchange rates. You can send money to over 190 countries across 130 currencies. It also tracks your historical currency rates to analyze rate trends and to stay on track of spending. 

18. PayPay

Another popular cashless app in Japan, this app can be used at stores nationwide and helps people to save money while shopping by earning PayPay points! This is a commonly used app amongst the locals, especially while grocery shopping, and is used for paying bills. 

Other Travel Apps for Japan You Can Download

19. Weather app 

There are many good weather apps to be used while in Japan, but just remember that the weather is usually more humid than you expect, and to always bring a UV umbrella with you– whether that’s for rain or sun! Personally, we use Tenki or Yahoo Weather!, which can give you daily weather maps as well as information about earthquakes and more.

20. MyMizu 

While most restaurants will give you free water when you’re seated, sometimes finding free water can be hard! Bringing your own water bottle around is a good idea to help reduce plastic usage. This app helps users to find places where they can get free water, as well as keep track of the money they’ve saved by refilling their bottle! 

21. LINE or WhatsApp

These two apps are the most commonly used messaging apps in Japan (for keeping in touch with locals or services). Some restaurants or services offer discounts if you add them on LINE! Both are completely free, and you can register using your normal phone number, rather than needing a phone number from the country you’re in (in this case, you don’t need a Japanese phone number)!

22. Japan Official Travel App 

This app has it all. It can give you emergency information, guides, etiquette tips, and can also tell you other apps to download based on your needs. If there is an app to start with, start with Japan’s Official Travel App! 

Conclusion

It may seem like there are a lot of apps needed to just get around Japan, but at the end of the day, you can try out what you’d like and look things up as needed. Google will always be a reliable first source to help with whatever you may need.

If you’re interested in using what the locals use but don’t know Japanese, try out Coto Academy’s part-time classes to fit right in with the Japanese culture! Fill out the inquiry form below for a free consultation and level check.

FAQ

Is the Japan official travel app free?

Yes, it is completely free! It is made specifically for tourists visiting Japan, both for iOS and Android users. 

Can I travel to Japan without Google Maps?

There are many options out there for travel, making it so Google Maps does not have to be what you solely rely on. However, Google Maps does a good job of updating users on delays and other situations while also giving step-by-step routes for their destination. 

What is the Best Travel App for First-Time Travelers in Japan?

Google Translate is usually said to be the best and most convenient app for first-time travelers. If you’re looking to bridge the language barrier through text, voice, or image translation, this is the app to use! 

What is the most popular messaging app in Japan?

LINE is the most popular messaging app in Japan, with over 80 million users. It allows for global messaging and voice, and video calling! 

Why is Apple Maps not recommended to tourists?

Apple Maps is not usually recommended to tourists because it does not provide users with the most up-to-date information, especially for companies that do not use any English. Travelers looking for a similar app should use Google Maps or Japan Travel by Navitime. 

What are the best free travel planning apps?

TripIt, Klook, and TripAdvisor have been known to be very easy planning apps. All three serve similar means, but make sure to check out each one as they have different abilities to make things happen.