The 10 best apps for learning Japanese

Here's a breakdown between free and paid apps to help you choose the best option.

➢ Free applications

1. Anki📱

Anki is an app that helps memorize information thanks to spaced repetition (SRS). This system optimizes revisions by making memory cards reappear at intervals suited to the difficulty of each item.
With Anki, you can create your own memory cards or download decks (sets of memory cards) already made. It's a very popular tool for learning vocabulary and kanji, as it allows you to revise efficiently at your own pace.

• Free version on PC and Android
• Paid iOS version (AnkiMobile)

2. LingoDeer 📱(partially free)

LingoDeer is an app designed to learn Japanese progressively, from beginner to intermediate level. It offers well-structured lessons, with clear grammatical explanations, interactive exercises and listening practice. Some lessons are free, but full access requires a subscription.

3. Takoboto📱

Takoboto is a comprehensive Japanese-English dictionary, ideal for enriching your vocabulary. It features example sentences, audio pronunciation and search by radical or kanji. Its simple, ad-free interface makes it an excellent tool for learners. What's more, it works offline, which is handy when you're on the move.

4. Kanji Study📱(partially free)

Kanji Study is an app dedicated to learning kanji, with interactive tools for reading, writing and memorizing. It features tracing exercises, quizzes and an organization of kanji by JLPT levels. The free version includes basic kanji, but you need to buy the full version to access advanced levels and additional features.

5. Jisho📱

Jisho is a very useful online dictionary for looking up words in romaji, kana or kanji. It offers detailed explanations, phrases in context and allows you toidentify kanji thanks to a drawing function. Thanks to its speed and accuracy, it is often used by students and translators to quickly check the meaning of a word or expression.

6. Tandem / HelloTalk📱(free with paid options)

These applications let youexchange with native Japanese speakers via messages, calls or voice notes. They promote immersive learning by connecting learners with language partners. Basic functions are free of charge, but some options such as unlimited translation or advanced search filters are not.

➢ Pay applications

7. Wanikani📱

Wanikani is one of the most effective apps for learning kanji thanks to its spaced repetition system and mnemonics. After a free trial period, a subscription is required to access advanced levels.
💰 Approximately $9 per month or $89 per year.

8. Bunpro📱

Bunpro is a tool dedicated to Japanese grammar, using spaced repetition to help memorize grammatical structures. The app offers a free trial, but a subscription is required for full access.
💰 About $5 per month.

9. Human Japanese📱

Human Japanese offers detailed, step-by-step learning with clear explanations of Japanese language and culture. This is a paid app with a one-time purchase.
💰 Around €10 for the beginner version and €15 for the intermediate version.

10. Pimsleur Japanese📱

Pimsleur is an audio method that focuses on oral learning and comprehension. It's a great option for those who want to speak Japanese right from the start.
💰 Approximately $15 per month.

Tips for making the most of Japanese learning apps