📲 Why use apps to learn Japanese?
In 2025, learning Japanese is more flexible than ever. Whether you’re commuting, taking a break at work, or winding down in the evening, the best apps to learn Japanese allow you to study anytime, anywhere.
Here are our top picks for learners of all levels.
🏆 1. LingoDeer – Best for beginners
LingoDeer is made specifically for Asian languages, which makes it one of the best apps to learn Japanese from zero. Lessons are short but thorough, combining grammar, vocabulary, and sentence building.
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Teaches complete sentence structures
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Ideal for self-paced beginners
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Works offline
🎮 2. Duolingo – Best for gamified learning
Duolingo is perfect for those who want to keep things fun and consistent. It’s not a complete system, but it builds vocabulary fast.
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Game-style interface
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Daily practice keeps you engaged
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Best for casual learners
🎓 3. WaniKani – Best for learning Kanji
Kanji can be intimidating, but WaniKani makes it logical and addictive. Using spaced repetition, it helps you retain over 2,000 kanji and thousands of vocabulary words.
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Radical-based learning
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Excellent memory system
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Progress tracking included
💬 4. HelloTalk – Best for speaking with natives
This is one of the best apps to learn Japanese conversation skills. HelloTalk lets you chat with native Japanese speakers in real time, using text, voice, and corrections.
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Language exchange community
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Natural conversations
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Built-in translation tool
🧠 5. Anki – Best for custom flashcards
Anki is a flashcard powerhouse used by polyglots worldwide. You can download pre-made decks or create your own.
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Spaced repetition system
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Sync across devices
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Great for long-term memorization
🔥 BONUS: Google Meet + Private tutor
This might surprise you, but one of the best ways to learn is combining these apps with live conversation. We use Google Meet for our private 1-on-1 lessons, so students can practice listening, speaking, and thinking in real Japanese.
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Real-time corrections
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Personalized guidance
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Native teacher support
🚀 Want to Learn Japanese with a real teacher?
Apps are great — but when you combine them with personal lessons, your progress skyrockets. We offer 1-on-1 online lessons that are effective, fun, and adapted to your goals.
✅ Taught by native Japanese teachers
✅ Held on Google Meet from anywhere in the world
✅ Trial lesson costs just $15, and it’s free if you enroll in a monthly or 3-month plan
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📸 @worldwise.study