learn basic japanese for travel app

TRAVEL JAPANESE APP

Learn the essentials of speaking Japanese for travel.

FOR IOS AND NOW ANDROID!

Short japanese lessons.

Short Japanese Lessons are a series of free Japanese video and podcast lessons brought to you by Travel Japanese App.

Got Questions? We’re Here to Help.

WHEN WILL TRAVEL JAPANESE APP BE AVAILABLE?

When? Its available on the Apple App Store  and Google Play now!

WHAT OTHER PLATFORMS WILL TRAVEL JAPANESE BE RELEASED ON?

Travel Japanese App is available for iPad, and iPhone and supports iOS 10 onwards and now Android. Work is now underway on MacOS and Windows versions!

DO I NEED ANY PRIOR EXPERIENCE SPEAKING JAPANESE?

Travel Japanese App is suitable for complete beginners with no prior experience.

WHO MAKES TRAVEL JAPANESE APP AND SHORT JAPANESE LESSONS?

Travel Japanese App and Short Japanese Lessons are made by an independent husband and wife team with extensive experience as well as post-graduate qualifications in instructional multimedia and teaching Japanese at University level.

ARE YOU GOING TO MAKE MORE SHORT JAPANESE LESSONS?

Yes, more Short Japanese Lessons are planned, sign up to our newsletter to keep informed.

WHERE CAN I PURCHASE THE APP?

Travel Japanese App is currently available for the iPhone and iPad from the Apple App Store and on Android from Google Play .

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Japanese Phrases for Tourists: 116 Essential Phrases for Your Japanese Vacation

Before I traveled to Japan for the first time, everyone assured me that “Everybody speaks English there,” and I wouldn’t need to use Japanese at all.

But in reality, most of the people I encountered in Japan had a fairly elementary level of spoken English .

For a better travel experience, you should learn some basic travel words and phrases in Japanese.

Greetings and Basic Japanese Phrases

Airport phrases you’ll hear, airport phrases you’ll use, asking for directions, receiving directions, transportation phrases, hotel phrases, eating and drinking in japan: what you’ll hear, eating and drinking in japan: what you’ll say, shopping in japan: phrases you’ll hear, shopping phrases you’ll use, number of items in japanese, tips to use your new phrases: politeness and pronunciation, how to study these japanese travel phrases.

Download: This blog post is available as a convenient and portable PDF that you can take anywhere. Click here to get a copy. (Download)

I’ll provide the hiragana, kanji and romaji for each word, and will explain the use of certain Japanese phrases for tourists in context.

1. Hello — konnichiwa

2. good morning — ohayou gozaimasu, 3. nice to meet you — hajimemashite, 4. goodbye — sayounara, 5. please — onegaishimasu, 6. thank yo u — arigatou gozaimasu, 7. you’re welcome — dou itashimashite, 8. excuse me/sorry — sumimasen.

This is definitely one to memorize. I say すみません at least 30 times a day in Japan. It’s a magical word.

It helps you push through a crowd, get attention from a waiter, ask for directions or be excused for basically any touristy blunder.

Simply saying すみません and gesturing is a pretty good way to express that you need help, but don’t speak Japanese.

9. Yes — hai

10. no — iie, 11. let’s eat/ “bon appetit” — itadakimasu .

Similar to the French “ bon appetit” , this is what Japanese people say before they eat. It doesn’t have a literal translation in English, but it’s a way to give thanks for a meal .

You should also remember this phrase’s pair: ごちそうさま (gochisousama) or ごちそうさまでした (gochisousama deshita). These phrases are used at the end of a meal and translate as “What a good meal,” or “Thank you for the meal,” the latter being the more polite form.

12. I don’t understand — wakarimasen 

13. i don’t speak japanese —   nihongo o hanashimasen, 14. do you speak english — eigo o hanashimasu ka , 15. can you please repeat that — mou ichido itte kudasai, 16. can you please speak slowly — yukkuri hanashite kudasai, 17. what is your name — onamae wa nan desu ka, 18. my name is… — watashi no namae wa…, 19. what is this — kore wa nan desu ka.

これ and それ literally just mean “this” and “that.”

20. How much does this cost? — kore wa ikura desu ka? 

If you’re pointing at something that you can’t reach, you say それは いくらですか？

21. Can you please help me? — tasukete moraemasuka ?

Japanese airports aren’t just places to land: they’re an entire cultural showcase on their own. For example, at the Narita Airport , you’ll see pet hotels , gacha machines , the (in)famous smart toilets and even a Pokémon Store !

22. Welcome, please come in — yokoso, o-hairi kudasai

23. please show your ticket — chiketto o misete kudasai, 24. please show your passport — pasupooto o misete kudasai, 25. what is your reservation name — yoyaku-mei wa nan desu ka, 26. the flight is delayed — furaito chien shiteimasu, 27. the flight has been canceled — furaito kyanseru saremashita, 28. baggage claim is this way — baggeji kureimu wa kochira desu, 29. we have arrived at … airport — … kuko ni tochaku shimashita, 30. we will depart for … airport — … kuko e shuppatsu shimasu, 31. there is a delay in the flight — furaito ni okure ga arimasu, 32. there are restrictions on carry-on baggage — kinai mochikomi no nimotsu niwa seigen ga arimasu.

33. Please tell me how to get to the airport — kuko e no ikikata o oshiete kudasai

34. is this a departure flight — korewa shuppatsu-bin desu ka, 35. is this an arrival flight — korewa tochaku-bin desu ka, 36. where is the boarding gate — tojyo-guchi wa doko desu ka, 37. i’ll check my baggage — tenimotsu azukemasu, 38. please call a taxi — takushii o yonde kudasai, 39. i’d like to rent a car — rentakaa o karitai desu, 40. where is the gate for the connecting flight — noritsugi-bin no geeto wa doko desu ka.

Asking for directions is sort of daunting, especially when the person answers in a whole stream of fast-paced Japanese.

But you’ll find that Japan is one of the best places to be a lost and hopeless tourist. There’s always someone nearby who’s more than happy to help. I’ve even had people take time out of their days to walk me where I needed to go!

Simply say wherever it is that you want to go followed by どこですか？ — doko desu ka? (Where is …?).

41. I want to go… (here) — (koko) ni ikitai desu 

Say ここ if you have an address written down or a point marked on a map of where you want to go.

If you know the name or address of the place where you want to go, simply say the place name followed by に行きたいです . For example, if you want to go to Shinjuku station, you simply say 新宿駅に行きたいです   — Shinjuku eki ni ikitai desu . (I want to go to Shinjuku station.)

42. Where is the…? — …wa doko desu ka?

43. can you please show me where we are on the map — watashitachi ga doko ni iru no ka, chizu de oshiete kudasai.

This might seem like an odd question (and a bit of a mouthful), but it can be a lot more helpful than asking for directions from someone who doesn’t know English.

44. Is it near? — chikai desu ka?

45. is it far — tooi desu ka.

46. Go straight ahead — massugu itte kudasai 

47. turn left — hidari ni magatte kudasai, 48. turn right — migi ni magatte kudasai.

In Japan, public transportation is how most people get around. If you’re not used to taking the bus, train or anything similar, better keep the following phrases handy!

49. Take me to this address, please — kono jyusho made tsureteitte kudasai

50. what is the fare — ryoukin wa ikura desu ka, 51. stop here, please — koko de tomatte kudasai, 52. does this bus go to (street name) — kono basu wa … ni ikimasu ka, 53. does that train stop at … — sono denshya wa … de tomarimasu ka, 54. a map, please — chizu o onegai shimasu, 55. this hotel — k ono hoteru, 56. the subway — chikatetsu , 57. the train station — denshya no eki, 58. the bus stop  — basutei, 59. the taxi stand — takushii noriba, 60. the exit — deguchi, 61. the entrance — iriguchi, 62. the bathroom — toire.

Like other service-oriented businesses in the country, Japanese hotels subscribe to the concept of omotenashi , which roughly translates to pouring your whole heart into service. That means you can expect employees at Japanese hotels to go above and beyond when it comes to making you feel welcome.

63. I have a reservation under the name of … — … no yoyaku o shiteimasu

64. i would like to check-in — chekkuin shitai desu, 65. what time is check-in — chekkuin wa nanji desu ka, 66. is breakfast included — choshoku wa fukumareteimasu ka, 67. where is my room — watashi no heya wa doko desu ka, 68. please give me a wake-up call at …  — … ni weikuappu kooru onegaishimasu., 69. where is the nearest convenience store — ichiban chikai konbini wa doko desu ka, 70. can you recommend a good restaurant nearby — chikaku no oishii resutoran o shokaishite moraemasu  ka, 71. what time is check-out — chekkuauto no jikan wa nanji desu ka, 72. where can i store my luggage — nimotsu wa dokoni azukeraremasu ka, 73. is there wi-fi in the hotel — hoteru ni wa wai-fai ga arimasu ka, 74. where is the nearest atm — ichi-ban chikai atm wa doko desu ka, 75. i’d like to have some extra towels, please — yobun no taoru o kudasai., 76. what time is breakfast served — choshoku wa nanji kara desu ka, 77. excuse me, i need an iron and ironing board — sumimasen, airon to iron-dai ga hitsuyo desu..

Like Japanese hotels, Japanese restaurants also practice omotenashi. Here are some of the more common phrases you’ll hear from Japanese restaurant staff.

78. Welcome — Irasshaimase

79. how many people in your party — nan mei sama desu ka, 80. this way, please — kochira e douzo, 81. certainly (in response to your order) — kashikomarimashita, 82. thank you for waiting — omatase itashimashita.

The best restaurants in Japan are the authentic ones that don’t cater to tourists. But these are also the places that have no English menus, and sometimes no English-speaking waitstaff.

Luckily, it’s very common for Japanese menus to feature photos of all the dishes. And many places have models of their dishes on display, so you likely won’t be going in completely blind.

Use these phrases , and you should be in and out of a restaurant without too many hiccups.

83. A table for two, please —  futari you no teeburu o onegai shimasu

You can also replace futari with the number of people who you need to have seated:

• one — hitori ( 一人 )
• three — sannin ( 三人 )
• four — yonin ( 四人 )

If you’re confused about Japanese numbers and counters, don’t despair. You can just do as the locals do and indicate the number of diners by holding up your fingers.

84. The menu, please — menyu o onegai shimasu

85. what are today’s recommendations — kyo no osusume wa.

If everything on the menu looks appetizing and you’re not quite sure what to order, use this phrase.

86. Water, please — mizu o onegai shimasu

87. two beers, please — biiru o nihai onegai shimasu, 88. can i please have (one, two) of this — kore o (hitotsu, futatsu) onegai でdekimasu, 89. do you have a vegetarian dish — bejitarian youno ryouri ga arimasu ka.

I’ve traveled in Japan with vegetarians twice, and this question usually draws quite strange looks. Vegetarianism basically doesn’t exist in Japan, although Japanese cuisine is generally quite vegetarian-friendly.

It might work better to say これは肉ですか？ — kore wa niku desu ka? , to say “is this meat?” Follow up with 私は肉を食べません — watashi wa niku o tabemasen,  which means “I don’t eat meat,” if you want to make yourself understood.

90. Is … in it? — … wa haitte imasu ka?

Alternatively, you can also ask if specific ingredients are included in your food, so you’ll know whether you should order it or not.

91. That’s okay — daijyoubu desu

You can also use this expression to ask someone if they’re okay. Just add the question particle  ka to the end: 大丈夫ですか ？ — daijyoubu desu ka? 

92. The check, please — okanjyou o onegai shimasu 

Say the above, or you can do as the locals do and catch the waiter’s eye (with a smile!) and draw a clockwise circle in the air with your index finger pointing towards the roof.

In some restaurants, you need to bring the check to the cash register which is usually located by the restaurant’s doorway.

93. Cheers! — kanpai!

94. it was delicious — oishikatta desu, 95. water — mizu, 96. wine — wain, 97. beer — biiru , 98. tea — ochya, 99. coffee — coohii, 100. juice — juusu, 101. meat — niku, 102. chicken — toriniku , 103. pork — butaniku, 104. beef  — gyuniku , 105. fish — sakana , 106. rice — gohan, 107. bread — pan , 108. vegetables — yasai  , 109. fruit — kudamono.

When you’re met with cries of いらっしゃいませ！, you’re not really expected to respond to this greeting. As for me, I just smile and say こんにちは which means, of course, “hello.”

Walking into a department store is particularly surreal, with each assistant taking cues from the others, so that every time a customer walks in, いらっしゃいませ bounces around the entire floor.

110. Are you looking for something? — nani ka osagashi desu ka?

111. is that all — ijyou de yoroshii desu ka, 112. here it is / here you go — hai, douzo.

113. I would like this — kore o onegai shimasu

114. i would like one of those — sore o hitotsu onegai shimasu, 115. i would like to pay in cash  — genkin de onegai shimasu, 116. i would like to pay by credit card — kurejitto kaado de onegai shimasu.

The only real challenge with ordering meals in Japanese is the use of counters.

We have counters in English, too (for example “sheets” of paper, “glasses” of water, “blades” of grass), but not as many or as complicated as in Japanese.

Luckily Japanese has a “universal” counter, つ ( tsu ), which you can use for anything, including food.

The numbers one to four as つ counters are pronounced 一つ ( hitotsu )、 二つ ( futatsu )、 三つ ( mittsu ) and 四つ ( yottsu ). You can use this counter for drinks too, and the waiter will understand you.

However, if you want to be a little more impressive, you can use the drinks counter: 杯 ( hai/bai/pai depending on the number used with it). The numbers one to four using this counter are 一杯 ( ippai )、 二杯 ( nihai ) 、 三杯 ( sanbai ) and 四杯 ( yonhai ).

If you want to learn more about counters, this post explains them  in more detail.

All the examples I’ve given are in the polite, neutral form of speech . You basically can’t go wrong speaking this way in Japan, so you don’t need to worry about making any social faux pas!

Some notes on pronunciation:

• Avoid turning vowels into dipthongs (vowel sounds that run into each other, like the oi in “coin”). Pronounce each vowel on its own even when there are two vowels next to each other. Onegai is read as “o-ne-ga-i,” not “o-ne-gai”
• The sound  ou and repeated vowels like ii and  ee are exceptions: they show an elongation of the sound.  Ohayou is read as “o-ha-yoh,” not “o-ha-yo-u.”
• Treat ん (n)  as its own syllable.   Konnichiwa is read “ko-n-ni-chi-wa,” not “ko-ni-chi-wa.” It’s subtle, but it makes a difference!
• Repeated consonants are pronounced. For an example of how to do this, just read the word “bookkeeper” out loud.
• The small kana っ like in いって signify a break between the sounds —”it-te,” not “i-te.”
• Small y- kana like ゃ in おちゃ add the  y sound to the preceding syllable —”o-chya,” not “o-chi-a.”
• は (ha)  as a particle is pronounced wa,  and を (wo)  as a particle is pronounced  o.

The beauty of Japanese is that it’s an extremely phonetic language, so if you say the words exactly as you read them, you can’t really get them wrong.

Having said that, people will probably struggle to understand you if you speak in a strong non-Japanese accent, so it might pay to listen to some spoken Japanese before you start practicing pronunciation.

The most important thing to remember is that, unlike English speakers, Japanese speakers don’t put emphasis on the second or third syllable of a word—there’s some emphasis on the first syllable, but it’s subtle.

Some ways that you can listen to Japanese being spoken is by watching Japanese films , television programs , anime or YouTube clips .

The Japanese language program FluentU has a little bit of everything in the media, with interactive subtitles and customizable flashcards for a well-rounded learning experience.

Maybe this seems like a lot, but learning Japanese travel phrases for tourists will make your trip run more smoothly, and the people you meet will appreciate your effort.

Speaking the local language tends to get people on your side. They’re less likely to try to rip you off, and often will want to become your best friend.

I like to make little phrasebooks for myself when I travel, so I can have these Japanese travel phrases and vocabulary always on hand.

I’ve been treated to tea and dinner in people’s homes, and once was driven around a city with a personal guide/impromptu friend all day, just because I struck up conversations in the local language.

Don’t be scared! Give it a try!

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Japaniverse Travel Guide

• Before you go
• Japan SIM Cards

Learn Japanese

6 useful japanese language apps that can make your trip easier.

Are you having second thoughts about going to Japan on your next vacation because you do not know a lick of Japanese? Does imagining yourself asking for directions to the train station or ordering a bowl of ramen at a restaurant using only gestures or the three Japanese words you managed to learn before you left give you anxiety? To have a fun and memorable trip to Japan, it is not necessary to master the Japanese language.  Many people who do not know the language from across the world have already been and managed to survive and have a blast.

To make things less stressful and worrying for you before flying out, you can look up what available language translation apps you can download to your smartphone to help you get by while exploring the country. Below are some of the most useful Japanese language tools and apps that can make your trip a bit easier:

Google Translate

Google Translate supports a long list of languages, including Japanese, and offers a variety of functions that are easy to use. It can translate Japanese texts to English (or other languages) and vice versa in different ways:

• You type the characters, words, or phrases into the input field. The translation is then displayed in the output field.
• You take a photo of the Japanese text, and use your finger to select and highlight specific words or sentences in the photo that you want to translate.
• You point your smartphone camera at a Japanese text, and get a live translation of it.

With these features, the Google Translate app is especially useful when ordering at restaurants with menus in Japanese. Even though you can just look at the pictures and plastic food displays to decide whether you want a particular food or not, you can utilize the app to get a good translation and avoid asking for something that you might not really want. It can also help you read signs when you are out on the streets, train stations, temples and shrines, malls and department stores, and other tourist attractions.

Download links: iOs (free) | Android (free)

Imiwa? Is an offline Japanese dictionary that has more than several thousands of Japanese words and foreign language translations in store, available for iOS users. It includes more than 170,000 English translations, over 94,000 German translations, around 15,000 French translations, and at least 7,000 Russian translations.

To look up words, you simply input the romaji, kana, or kanji characters, and then get the translation that you need. It is perfect for tourists who have zero or very little Japanese knowledge. Moreover, because it is accessible even if you are not connected to the web, it allows you to search for words even if you do not have a wi-fi SIM card or if you are in an area with weak or no internet connection.

Download link: iOS (free)

Akebi is another Japanese dictionary that boasts of a huge database comprised of over 320,000 sample phrases and sentences, 200,000 words, and more than 6,000 kanji. Once you download it, you can enjoy free and unlimited access to its catalogue wherever and whenever, as it is fully available even without internet access.

Its built-in Japanese keyboard lets you input words or phrases you want to translate right away, so you do not have to tinker with your phone’s keyboard settings. It also has handwriting recognition, stroke order, and kanji test features if you plan to venture beyond the basics of the Japanese language after your trip.

Download link: Android (free)

Learn Japanese is an easy-to-use Japanese phrasebook app that contains a thousand commonly used, essential Japanese words and phrases when visiting Japan.

Its collection is divided into 21 different categories, such as greetings, general conversation, numbers, time and date, directions and places, and transportation, to allow quick and convenient search.

Even better, it offers audio files for each entry to teach you the correct pronunciation of words and phrases, as demonstrated by native Japanese speakers.

It also lets you mark and save phrases that you expect to come in handy the most to your favourites. It is accessible even without internet connection, and provides free access to the first 200 words and phrases (the rest can be unlocked if you upgrade).

Obenkyo is a good app to have to start learning hiragana, katakana, and kanji. It helps you memorize Japanese characters efficiently, so that you can recognize and read simple Japanese texts without having to whip your smartphone out every single time you encounter Japanese signs while touring Japan.

With katakana and hiragana flashcards, kanji stroke animation and drawing games, quizzes, and other features, remembering as many Japanese characters as you can before you head out to your much-anticipated vacation should not be that much of a problem.

Yomiwa is a versatile app that offers a variety of functions that should help make you less anxious of your lack of Japanese language knowledge and skills.

Its dictionary contains thousands of entries that should be able to help you look up translations for words and phrases you can use when asking for directions, ordering at restaurants, greeting and meeting people, and shopping.

With its real-time camera translation ability, you can point your smartphone’s camera at a restaurant menu, a brochure, or a sign to get a live translation of any Japanese text. It also enables the upload of photos from your camera roll that you need translated.

Available for free and accessible offline, it also has a practice drawing kanji feature for those that want to take their Japanese learning to another level.

Download links: iOS (free) | Android (free)

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10 Best Apps for Learning Japanese for Beginners in 2024: Duolingo, LingoDeer, and More

• October 17, 2022

Japanese is one of the top ten most spoken languages in the world. Whether you are a tourist, a businessman, or a student, Japanese is an essential skill for many.

Here are some of the best apps to learn Japanese for beginners starting their language-learning journey on their own and for those wanting to sharpen their Japanese skills.

Duolingo Japanese

Duolingo is one of this guide’s most popular free language learning apps. It has been in the language teaching market for years, but it wasn’t until a couple of years ago that the Duolingo team launched a Japanese course.

This course is designed to help you learn the basics of the Japanese language through several interactive lessons. Each lesson covers a different topic and introduces relevant Japanese vocabulary.

For those learners that already know some Japanese, you can take a proficiency test to jump ahead to later lessons.

This application offers different language practice exercises, varying from translating vocabulary or phrases from Japanese to English and vice versa, writing or rearranging sentences to filling in the blank activities.

The great thing about Duolingo is that the creators have ensured that with the Japanese course, you can obtain a basic Japanese vocabulary and grammar equivalent to an upper beginner level (JLPT N5).

• It starts teaching from the building blocks of the Japanese language; Hiragana and Katakana. In the beginning, romaji is mainly used, but as you progress more, Hiragana, Katakana and Kanji are introduced.
• The audio is clear. You can repeat it as often as you want, which makes for excellent shadowing practice.
• Topics introduce vocabulary. When learning a new language, the amount of vocabulary to learn can feel overwhelming. Duolingo teaches words and phrases based on a range of topics.
• Achieving streaks on the Duolingo app is a fun way to stay consistent with your learning. It encourages you to make language learning a daily habit! Setting aside 15 minutes a day for language learning is a much more effective way to study and retain new information.
• You can compete against friends or other learners on the Duolingo leaderboard. The competitive side of me loves this feature!
• Grammar explanations are lacking. Duolingo relies on an inference to learn grammar (by seeing a sentence pattern repeatedly, you will eventually determine what it means). This method does not work with Japanese grammar since it’s completely different from English. Full explanations are available on the Duolingo website but not on the app where it’s needed most.
• Regarding hiragana, katakana and kanji, the focus is on recognition. On top of that, most of the questions are multiple-choice, so it is easy to think that you have learned all the kana despite knowing it on a surface level.
• The introduction of katakana and kanji feels abrupt with the lack of explanation. This is confusing to learners without any background on how the various Japanese writing systems work.

Download Duolingo on  iOS  /  Android

Meet Duolingo’s lesser-known cousin, LingoDeer! LingoDeer is one of the newer language learning apps on the market and has taken the Duolingo model and enhanced it for Asian languages, specifically Mandarin, Korean and Japanese.

The interface of this application will feel familiar with Duolingo with its segmented and themed lessons. Like many other language learning apps, LingoDeer gamifies the learning experience.

Users receive experience points upon completing goals and lose turns for wrong answers during test portions. But that is where the similarities end. From there, this app only enhances what its competitors have on offer.

LingoDeer users can practice newly-learned Japanese vocabulary and grammar in a wider variety of exercises, from matching, fill-in-the-blanks, spelling, writing, listening, and speaking to much more.

Japanese grammar is explained far more thoroughly. Tips and notes can be found on the lesson’s plate and brought up in the middle of exercises by simply clicking on the Japanese particles.

This difference alone sets LingoDeer above the rest with almost textbook-like grammar explanations.

But the best feature of this app is its comprehensive lessons covering the 3 Japanese writing systems: Hiragana, katakana, and kanji.

The lessons go in-depth in pronunciation, including word stress, exceptions, and explanations on how to make the sound.

There are even words accompanying the Japanese characters where you can click to hear the pronunciation.

LingoDeer has taken the model of a successful language-learning app and brought it to another level. With its comprehensive content and numerous unique features for Japanese language beginners, this might be one of the best apps available.

• Clear Audio. Native Japanese speakers record the example sentences!
• It has a great review system. The application offers in-house flashcards to review Japanese vocabulary, grammar, and kanji that you encounter throughout the course. The flashcard system takes inspiration from Anki (one of the best SRS review systems available) in its design.
• Japanese grammar is explained well and in detail. Grammar is not treated as an afterthought. Compared to other competitors, LingoDeer excels at explaining clearly and concisely with many example sentences.
• There are different exercises and stories to practice reading, listening, and pronunciation. Variety is essential when it comes to studying a language!
• It also has a customizable interface. You can magnify or shrink text size, choose your background color, and toggle romanized script on/off.
• It costs money after the first half of the course. The price ranges from $3.49/mo to $8.99/mo, depending on how long you want to sign up. There is also a lifetime option for $69.99, which gives access to all language courses on the app.
• The order in which the topics are taught doesn’t make sense. For the most part, LingoDeer does an excellent job of teaching useful language and structuring Japanese lessons that build upon each other well. But sometimes, the lessons include language that’s not useful for their level.
• There are a few bugs in the app. While the app works well and looks great since it’s a new app, there are still some tiny kinks in the gameplay, such as lessons loading slowly or hearing random audio during another practice exercise.

Download LingoDeer on  iOS  /  Android

Kanji Study

Learning kanji is one of the most challenging aspects of studying Japanese. Not only are there thousands of characters, but each one often has more than reading, making it an overwhelming process for learners.

The Kanji Study app makes the Japanese alphabet learning process interactive and enjoyable!

Kanji Study breaks down the daunting task of learning over 2000 kanji into manageable chunks. There’s detailed information for each kanji, from its definition, readings, and Japanese vocabulary examples to small animations showing the correct stroke order and much more.

Kanji Study takes a more serious approach to learning through drilling practice exercises for optimal retention. Users can assign a rating to each character based on their knowledge, narrowing down the kanji they need to focus on. But the best feature of this app is the kanji writing exercises.

Japanese language learners can improve their kanji recognition by challenging themselves to recall and draw the characters. With this powerful feature, learners can not only use this app as a study tool for the  JLPT (Japanese Language Proficiency Test)  but also for the Kanji Kentei Test.

• Clean Design. This app is packed with valuable content, and its straightforward layout makes it easy to find what you are looking for.
• Customized learning. You can also make custom sets to match your textbooks or focus on the kanji you struggle with the most. You can also test yourself via adaptive quizzes that you can customize to your needs.
• Practice writing kanji. This app takes you beyond the recognition stage of learning, and you can practice the kanji you’ve learned by writing it out.
• Quick kanji lookup. You can search over 6000 kanji in one text field using readings, radicals, stroke counts, levels, and more.
• This is one of the most comprehensive kanji study tools available. Suitable for beginners to advanced learners. Because it is highly customizable to your learning needs, any Japanese learner, no matter their level, can take away something from this app.
• It is not free. Though the beginner level is free of charge, if you want access to the full content of the app (access to over 6,000 kanji), you’ll have to pay.

Download Kanji Study   on  iOS  /  Android

Imiwa has been the best free mobile dictionary app for Japanese learners for the past ten years, and it’s still going strong. If you haven’t been using this dictionary yet, download it immediately!

With over 170,000 Japanese-English entries, a variety of kanji resources, and a Japanese sentence analyzer, Imiwa is packed with valuable content.

You can also search by example sentences. Due to the many unique customs and Japanese culture , the Japanese language often uses concrete terms for specific situations, such as 三日坊主 (みっかぼうず). You are literally saying ‘a 3-day monk,’ but it means an unsteady worker who cannot stick to anything!

Imiwa has an excellent search system; both kanji and Japanese vocabulary can be searched via keyboard input, radicals search, or JLPT levels.

For those more advanced learners studying the JLPT, prepare to rejoice because, in this single app, you have access to all 5 JLPT levels of kanji.

No more hesitation with verbs and their irregular forms, such as 来る and 飲む. There are also Japanese verb and adjective conjugation tables.

Lastly, one of the best features of this app is a powerful tool that will help you with your translation work, the Analyse feature. Copy a Japanese text, open the app, and it will break down all the hiragana, katakana, and kanji into single dictionary entries.

Japanese becomes almost too easy.

• It’s 100% free. All features are free; there are no in-app purchases and no ads.
• Powerful Search Engine. Users can look up terms in English, Japanese, or romaji.
• Analyzer Feature. Analyze Japanese text and have it broken down into individual dictionary entries.
• Verb and adjective conjugation tables. Never doubt your conjugations again with these handy tables.
• Extensive kanji resources. Organizes kanji by JLPT, Jōyō Kanji list, and SKIP. There are also animations built into the app found in the kanji terms so you can learn the correct kanji stroke order.
• Multilingual support is also available. Definitions are available in English, French, German, Italian, Korean, Russian, and Spanish.
• Large size. Since the app can be used entirely offline, there’s a large size of 323 MB.
• It’s still only a dictionary. Though this app is handy, it can’t be used as a primary resource for Japanese study as it doesn’t fully cover grammar points.
• Imiwa has been on the market for years, and unfortunately, it doesn’t look like they will be making an Android version that you’ll find on the Play Store anytime soon. Imiwa is one of the few learning Japanese apps that has stayed with me throughout the years I’ve studied Japanese. It’s an oldie, but it’s a goodie! Not available for Android users.

Download on:  iOS

May IOS users have Imiwa? But Android users have the best range of Japanese-English dictionaries to choose from in Google Play, with gSho being one of the most reliable dictionary apps available.

Looking up terms and phrases is simple using gSho, featuring a search-as-you-type function, providing users with lightning-fast results. In just a couple of taps, gSho can provide definitions, conjugations, and examples of sentences.

Example sentences can also be broken down into detailed explanations by tapping on them. The key Japanese words in the sentence are highlighted and can be tapped to bring up information about that particular term instantly.

If this wasn’t enough, each kanji character is also broken down by its radical, difficulty, JLPT level, stroke count, and animated stroke order.

With its robust and fast search engine, gSho is a comprehensive and handy study tool for Japanese learners of all levels.

• Lightning-fast searches. With its search-as-you-type function, looking up terms take zero time and effort.
• Detailed entries. gSho displays clear explanations for terms and detailed kanji information and verb conjugations. All words have contextualized examples.
• Kanji stroke order diagrams. As well as breaking down the radicals that make up the kanji compounds, difficulty, and JLPT level, the app also displays animated stroke order diagrams for over 6,600 kanji!
• Kana Tables. This app includes comprehensive hiragana and katakana tables, which are great for Japanese beginners. With a tap, you can switch between either for a quick reminder on the difference between ソ and ン or whether you’re reading ぬ or ね.
• It is optimized for all devices. Tablets like the Nexus 7 and up will take advantage of the additional screen space with a two-column layout that doubles the number of visible search results.
• Advertisements in the app. You can upgrade to the No Ads version for $2.99 and never see an in-app ad again.
• Large size. Since the app can be used entirely offline, there’s a large size, 3.1 M.

Download on:  Android

This is where it all comes together. HelloTalk is a language exchange app that allows you to take everything you have studied and apply it to a real conversation with native Japanese speakers.

These native speakers will help correct and provide real-time feedback via text, voice, or video conversations.

HelloTalk has a very supportive community. You start by writing a summary about yourself on your profile, choose your native language, and select the language and level you’re currently learning.

After that, you can search for native language partners worldwide!

You can talk about the latest Makoto Shinkai film with other Japanese speakers, who will make sure to edit your messages and correct your Japanese grammar.

Another feature of this app is the ability to transcribe a voice message so that you can also practice speech and comprehension!

This app is highly recommended for intermediate to advanced learners that want to meet and have genuine interactions with native Japanese speakers to become better and more confident at speaking Japanese.

• The community is vast, meaning you’ll never have a problem finding someone to chat with.
• The interface is very intuitive. Despite being feature-rich, the app is straightforward to use. It provides a tutorial that you can revisit at any time. It has a very clean, uncluttered design.
• The app is free to use. It’s free. There are some in-app purchases, but the app is beneficial without them.
• It’s like having a Japanese teacher in your pocket. You can receive advice on your Japanese pronunciation and have a native correct your grammar!
• The number of messages can get overwhelming. Because it is such an active community, you may find yourself getting 20+ messages an hour when you are online.
• Using the condensed keyboard when writing long messages can be painful for some. The keyboard can’t be used in the landscape. The app doesn’t let you rotate to the landscape; instead, you’re stuck with portrait.
• Leaving the app running in the background does have a massive drain on the battery.

Download on  iOS  /  Android

Tsurukame for WaniKani

If you’re serious about learning Japanese, thoroughly learning kanji is one of the most valuable steps you can take toward fluency. Long-time learners of Japanese will know about Wanikani but may not be aware of the app Tsurukame.

Created by a long-time Wanikani user, Tsurukame is not the official Wanikani app, but it should be! With its simple and effective layout and user-friendly features, now it’s easier than ever to review kanji and Japanese vocabulary!

The app syncs up to your Wanikani account, and you can burn through your reviews and Japanese lessons in no time!

A subscription to Wanikani will set you back $9/month or $89/year (keep in mind that there’s an annual sale at the end of the year for lifetime access), but it will surprise you by the number of kanji you can learn over just a couple of weeks.

Based on a spaced repetition reviewing system, learners are motivated to depend on memory recall to ascend through the various levels.

As well as this, memorizing tricky characters is made a breeze by using mnemonics, making WaniKani an active learning process.

Offline reviews sync up when connected online. This is a fun, interactive, on-the-go review language learning app.

• Native speaker’s pronunciation. A native speaker has recorded vocabulary words and kanji, and there is the option to have them pronounced when reviewing them. The audio helps memorize the correct pronunciation.
• You can do reviews and lessons offline. Your progress will be synced when you’re online again.
• Easy to use interface. Much like the original Wanikani website, the app is user-friendly and colorful.
• See your progress with charts. The app displays a pie chart graph showing your progress on current-level radicals, kanji, and vocabulary.
• No more typos. You can turn on a feature on the app to ignore typos and synonyms during reviews.
• You need to have an account with Wanikani to use this app. The Tsurukame app is 100% free, but a Wanikani subscription will pay you back $9 monthly. However, you’ll be way ahead in the kanji game within a few weeks. You can go up to level 5 on the free version of Wanikani.
• You can’t begin on your desired level. This can be the most frustrating for intermediate to advanced learners of Wanikani and Tsurukame. Fingers crossed that the team at Wanikani deals with this issue soon!
• It’s not the official Wanikani app. This app was developed by a third party, a long-time user of Wanikani.
• Not available for Android users.

Download on iOS

Daily NHK Japanese News Reader

NHK (日本放送協会 Nippon Housou Kyoukai) is the national public broadcasting network in Japan and a leading news outlet.

They publish articles daily in Japanese on domestic and international issues. NHK Japanese is an excellent app for intermediate learners that seek to apply their knowledge to real-world situations.

Being able to read a Japanese newspaper is a goal many serious learners aim for as it’s one of the most challenging aspects of the language to learn.

However, NHK has done a fantastic job of simplifying articles to one or two paragraphs, allowing language learners to enjoy the latest news in Japan.

There’s the option to read the articles with furigana, or those that want to challenge their reading skills can turn off this feature.

More complex Japanese vocabulary is marked in green and underlined; if you click on this, the meaning is explained in Japanese (great for comprehension practice).

The names of cities, people, and institutions are also marked in pink so that you’re not constantly looking up terms in the dictionary.

To take advantage of this app, learners must have an excellent Japanese language base to read and understand the news.

• Short and simple Japanese news. Current affairs articles are short and straightforward, ideal for light and quick reading practice.
• Furigana Feature. There is the option to read the articles with furigana or without furigana.
• Vocabulary is marked. Each news article’s complex vocabulary is marked with an explanation of its meaning in Japanese.
• Integrated translator included. This is handy for searching for the meaning of specific Japanese words .
• Audio and video content are also available. Each news includes the audio of the text and a small related video, which is ideal for practicing our listening comprehension.
• Users must have a solid Japanese language foundation to make the most of this app. This app is not for beginners. It is recommended for intermediate to advanced learners, especially those studying at a language school .
• Limited content is available daily. One to three news articles are published daily, so the amount of new content is limited.
• Not available for IOS users.

Download on  Android

So, what is the best Japanese learning app?

Learning Japanese is a marathon, not a sprint, especially if you are learning on your own. There isn’t a single app out there that can overnight make you a better speaker of Japanese.

It’s about your effort, but fluency is within reach by using various Japanese learning apps!

Common Questions About Mobile Apps to Learn Japanese:

Duolingo is a great mobile app for learning Japanese, though, DuoLingo is really about vocabulary, so you would probably need other resources to learn grammar.

Yes, this is possible. Japanese language learners can find roughly everything you can find on the internet or in books on apps; it all depends on how you use them.

Duolingo might be a good one to start. It would be best if you read our guide to compare all the Japanese learning apps we reviewed so you can pick the right one.

Like Tsurukame for iOS, Flaming Durtles is the Android app for accessing your Wanikani lessons/reviews, and I’d highly recommend it.

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Learn Japanese

I want to learn Japanese!

If you follow the instructions in this over the top, step-by-step guide, you will reach your goal of Japanese fluency.

However, this journey is going to take a lot of effort and hard work on your part. Anyone who tells you learning a language is going to be easy is either misinformed or trying to sell you something. And eventually, after the honeymoon phase of learning wears off, progress feels slower. You burn out. Sh*t hits the fan. If you've ever tried learning something new, you know exactly what I'm talking about.

Instead, you need to do things the hard way (i.e. the correct way) right from the start.

Just because we're doing it right doesn't mean it has to be inefficient.

This method for learning Japanese starts at the very beginning. I assume you have zero knowledge of the Japanese language and guide you through each step. I'll cover reading, writing, speaking, and listening. And we explain what you should use, when, and why.

This should be everything you need to progress, that way you don't use all of that fresh enthusiasm you're feeling on planning how to learn, and instead spend it on actual learning.

Make like those famous shoes and just do it.

Our goal is to reach Japanese fluency as directly as possible. Unlike a teacher or a textbook, we have the freedom to be ruthless in the path we take to get there.

There are no tests or quizzes to take. You don't have to move at the speed of the slowest learner in your group. All you need to do is follow each step, do the work, and progress.

Just keep in mind that because of this, some steps may seem counterintuitive. They may even seem slow compared to other methods, but everything has been carefully selected to get you to the finish line faster and more efficiently. We'll talk more about that later.

A bit of housekeeping first: This is a living document, meaning it will be updated from time to time. Check back, subscribe to our email list , or follow us on Twitter to know when these updates happen. And, if you already have experience with Japanese, I still recommend you give it a read. There's a good chance you'll find something important to help you on your own Japanese language journey.

Table of Contents

Learn to read hiragana, basic japanese pronunciation, learning to type hiragana in japanese, understanding the concept of "kanji", beginning kanji & stockpiling kanji knowledge, learn to read katakana, learning to type katakana, learning to type kanji, 1. collecting vocabulary, 2. processing, 3. adding the words to your srs, beginning japanese grammar, a beginner's japanese textbook / program, answering your japanese language questions, order of learning, fact checking / cross referencing, do the work, sometimes, you'll just get stuck, optional: finding a japanese language tutor, suggested books and resources, intermediate level japanese, zero knowledge of japanese.

Welcome to learning Japanese! This section is for the true beginner. You know little-to-no Japanese. Maybe a "konnichiwa" here and a "baka" there. These first steps you take are especially important because they're going to set a foundation you can build off of.

The more deliberate your steps, the easier everything that follows will be.

Carefully completing this section is going to be necessary if you want to avoid the thing that takes down most learners: the intermediate wall. Instead, take your time on these foundational steps. What feels slow now is actually speed later on.

Estimated Time: 1 day to 1 week

Hiragana is Japan's version of the alphabet. It is one of three Japanese writing systems you need to learn to be able to read. The other two are katakana and kanji, but hiragana is where everything starts.

The ability to read hiragana is going to be a prerequisite for most beginner Japanese textbooks and resources. It's the first thing you learn in a traditional classroom. Surprisingly, I agree with everyone else. This is a good place to start.

Most Japanese classrooms spend an entire month learning how to read and write hiragana. That's too long! Instead of writing out each hiragana character over and over to memorize them, use the guide below and you may be reading hiragana later tonight. It uses mnemonics and worksheets that are designed to help you learn and be able to recall hiragana faster than you thought possible.

Do it: Learn How to Read Hiragana

It's important to note that this guide is going to teach you how to read hiragana and not how to write it. This has a purpose! While it is important to learn how to hand write Japanese eventually, right now it will slow you down immensely with very little payoff. Typing covers 99% of modern day writing so you will learn how to type hiragana (and katakana and kanji) instead.

This, in combination with mnemonics and worksheets, will allow you to learn how to read hiragana in a day or two instead of a month.

Remember: You're not in a class. You don't have to move at the speed of the slowest 10%. There is no speed limit .

In order to complete this section and move on, you need to get to the point where you can read all of the hiragana. Even if you're slow, as long as you can recall each character, as well as the contractions, without cheating, that's enough. You're about to get plenty of practice and your reading speed will naturally increase over time as you move on.

Note: Read "Japanese Pronunciation, Part 1" (below) before you start learning hiragana.

Estimated Time: n/a

Good pronunciation starts with hiragana. While hiragana alone won't teach you everything, it is the key to understanding how and why Japanese words sound the way they do. It will also help you get the foundation you need for a native-sounding accent. At the very least, hiragana will get you 80% of the way there.

For the remaining 20%, we wrote a guide covering the basics of Japanese pronunciation. Before you begin learning how to read hiragana, you should read up to the "Japanese Sounds and Your Mouth" section.

Once you've finished learning how to read hiragana, go though that section again, but this time read about "Important Differences" as well. This section will cover all of the sounds that don't exist in English, giving you a head start. Make sure you can pronounce all of the hiragana characters correctly before moving on.

Read: Basic Japanese Pronunciation Guide

With pronunciation, it's best to put the time and work in now, at the beginning. Don't ignore it because it's hard. When things get more difficult, it's very important that you've spent time speaking and hearing these sounds so that you can learn about all the differences and exceptions headed your way.

Okay, now go ahead and get back to learning how to read hiragana . Get to the point where you can read and recall everything, then move on to the next section.

Estimated Time: 1-2 days (or less) Prerequisite: Able to read hiragana

Now that you can read and pronounce hiragana (remember, slowly is okay!) it's time to learn how to type it on your computer or smartphone.

First, you need to install a Japanese keyboard. Luckily, you don't have to buy a special piece of hardware or computer to do this thanks to a type of software called an IME (input method editor). You can add an IME onto almost any kind of computer, phone, or operating system. Just follow the instructions in this guide to add them to your devices:

Read: How to Install a Japanese Keyboard

After you’re done installing, it’s time to learn how to actually type. Use the following guide, and only focus on the hiragana portion (since that’s all you know how to read right now):

Read: How to Type in Japanese

Assuming you are able to read hiragana, typing in hiragana is surprisingly straightforward. Once you feel confident in your typing abilities, including trickier things like contractions, small tsu, and dakuten, move on to the next section. It's time to talk about the elephant in every Japanese learner's room: kanji.

In our Japanese learning method, you're going to learn to read kanji characters very early. As soon as you can read and type hiragana it's time to start tackling kanji.

Here is our reasoning:

The most difficult thing about learning Japanese is kanji. At least, that's what people say. But trying to save it or brush it off until later isn't going to help you learn Japanese. Almost everything uses kanji, making it one of the most important aspects of learning this language. Your learning quality of life will drop drastically if you choose to ignore it.

A lot of a beginner’s time when using a textbook is spent looking up kanji and vocabulary. This takes your focus away from the grammar you're trying to learn and makes progression slow and frustrating. Learning (some) kanji and vocabulary first makes learning grammar a lot faster and, more importantly, easier. Think of it this way: you're losing a little time now to save a ton of time later.

Kanji leads to vocabulary, vocabulary aids communication, and grammar is like the glue that holds vocabulary together. Without vocabulary there's nothing for the grammar glue to stick to and everything gets messy. It makes grammar abstract and difficult to learn, when it doesn't have to be.

Like hiragana, we have a way for you to learn kanji that's way more effective than the traditional methodology (rote memorization). Thanks to that, it won't be as difficult as everyone says. It may even *gasp* be a pleasure to learn! Maybe.

This kanji-vocabulary-first route will get you to the point where you can use Japanese quickly. It feels slow at first, but soon you will rocket past your fellow Japanese learning compatriots. You'll also be able to get over that "intermediate wall" easier and quicker than if you were to use a traditional method. This lowers your chances of burnout and giving up all together.

If you're on board with this philosophy, you need to start at the very beginning: understanding what kanji is and how it's used. For that, we have another guide for you to read:

Read: On’yomi vs. Kun’yomi: What’s the Difference?

Once you understand how Japanese kanji readings work, you’ll be ready to learn some actual kanji.

Estimated Time: 1-3 months

Important note about this section: You should start to learn katakana (the next section) at the same time as this step. "Beginning Kanji & Stockpiling Kanji Knowledge" will take 1-3 months. In fact, you can complete all of the steps up to "The Beginner of Japanese" while you work on this one!

Okay, so it's time to actually learn kanji. Let's define what "learn kanji" means before you get started. That way you know what is expected of you.

When I say "learn kanji" I mean learn the kanji’s most important (English) meaning(s), and their most important (Japanese) reading(s). As you know from reading about on'yomi and kun'yomi, some kanji have a lot of readings. And, unfortunately, English meanings are just translations and can't always match the Japanese meaning one-to-one. That means there can be many correct English meanings for a single kanji that you'll need to deal with. We'll narrow those down so you only learn the most important meanings and readings first—the ones used 80-90% of the time. The remaining meanings and readings will come via vocabulary and other practice.

As you learn kanji you will also learn vocabulary that use those kanji. Not only will this help solidify those kanji concepts in your mind, but it will also be where you learn the remaining kanji readings. Plus, as you know, this vocabulary will be used to give you something to glue together with grammar later.

By the end of this guide, your goal is to know around 2,000 of the most important kanji as well as 6-7000 vocabulary words that use them. With this groundwork you should be able to read almost anything—or at least have the tools to easily decipher the rest on your own.

Your goal should be to learn 20-30 kanji and ~100 vocabulary words that use those kanji (and only those kanji) each week. If that seems like a lot, don't worry: there is a method for memorization that will speed things up considerably. Please read up on the Radicals Mnemonic Method. As a bonus, you will learn some important foundational knowledge about how kanji works in here as well.

Read: Learn kanji with the radicals mnemonic method

In this guide you will learn how to narrow down kanji meanings and readings to the most important ones. You will learn how to use radicals and mnemonics and how to create an effective routine.

You should be able to use these techniques to create a weekly study plan on your own for free, as long as you put in the work. But, if you would like all of the above (and then some) in one, complete package, we recommend the kanji learning program, WaniKani .

We'll be referencing it going forward, but just know that creating your own content and schedule is totally fine and doable. You'll just need to make sure you maintain your pace to keep up. Or, for some of you, make sure you slow down so you don't burn out!

Once you begin learning vocabulary in WaniKani (or your own system) read the Basic Japanese Pronunciation Guide from the Pronouncing Vocabulary section all the way through to the end. You will learn about long and short vowel sounds, double consonants, dropping sounds (all common stumbling blocks for beginners), and more. You will also learn about pitch accent. Although it may be difficult now, just knowing pitch accent exists and how it works in Japanese will give you a leg up.

Okay! Make sure you get started now. Do the work, don't just plan to do it! Sitting down and starting is the hardest part.

Estimated Time: 2 days to 2 weeks Prerequisite: Able to read hiragana

Learning katakana is about the same as learning hiragana, with a few Shyamalanian twists. We have yet another mnemonic-based guide for you, and chances are you'll be able to read katakana within the next few days if you're willing to put in the work.

You should get to the point where you can read all of the katakana, however slowly, by the time you start unlocking vocabulary in WaniKani (or by the time you start vocabulary in your own kanji method). Although katakana words won't show up a lot right from the start, there are enough to make it worthwhile. It's also a good way to spend your extra time while the number of kanji you're learning is still quite low.

Do it: Learn to Read Katakana

Note: Katakana tends to give learners more trouble than hiragana. This is because it seems to be used less than hiragana and kanji, especially at the beginning stages. Later on, katakana will appear more frequently, but for now simply being able to read katakana is enough. There will be plenty of opportunities to get better at it—just know that reading katakana may not come as quickly as it did with hiragana. And that's okay. Hiragana and kanji are just more useful right now, so spend your limited time and energy there.

Once you can read each katakana character—no matter how slowly—move on to the next section about typing katakana.

Estimated Time: 1-2 hours Prerequisites: Able to type hiragana, able to read katakana

Katakana is similar to hiragana in many ways, and thanks to this, learning how to type it should be fairly easy. There are a few differences to figure out, but you will be able to apply your hiragana knowledge to it and progress quickly. Jump to the katakana section of our typing guide and get started.

Read: How to Type Katakana

Note: Make sure you keep working on your kanji! If you’re using WaniKani, just do your reviews as they become available. It's important to make this a habit. Because WaniKani is a spaced repetition system there must be spaces between reviews. Longer and longer ones, in fact (though it will depend on how well you're doing). Do your reviews on time and you’ll get through this initial "slow" phase in a week or two. That's a drop in the bucket compared to your entire Japanese-learning career, so try to be patient. The waiting time is critical to testing your ability to recall information.

Estimated Time: 1-2 hours Prerequisite: Able to read 20-30 kanji

Before starting this step, make sure you can read a handful of kanji. Twenty or thirty will do just fine. If you're using WaniKani, this is when you start unlocking vocabulary or are around level 2.

Okay, are you done?

Typing in kanji is a little more complicated than typing in hiragana or katakana, but it still follows similar rules. Learn how to type in kanji using the kanji section of our guide then read to the end. There are some additional tips and tricks in there (punctuation, symbols, etc.) that may come in handy.

Read: How to type kanji

Now you know how to type everything there is to type in Japanese (that is, unless you count kaomoji )! If you can type in English, typing in Japanese is surprisingly easy. With practice, you'll be able to type it as naturally as you type in your native language.

To continue using this typing knowledge, you'll need to know more kanji and vocabulary. Once you get there though, you'll be ready for "The Beginner of Japanese" section!

Before moving on, you should reach level 10 on WaniKani (or around 300 kanji and 1,000 vocabulary words using your own method).

This is an important time in terms of pronunciation too. Make sure you consciously mimic the vocabulary audio. Think about pitch accent as you do it. This work will prepare you for sentences later.

With this kanji knowledge (and good pronunciation, to boot!), grammar is going to come quickly to you. You won't be spending your grammar study time looking up every other word. Instead, you'll be able to focus solely on grammar, and you'll know the contents of 80% of every sentence you see for the first time. When you say these sentences out loud, you won't be tripping over your tongue because you'll already be intimately familiar with Japanese sounds and pronunciation. The time you put into kanji, vocabulary, and pronunciation will begin to pay off.

Put your head down, trust in this, and do the work each day.

Go on, get to it, and come back here when you're done.

The Beginner of Japanese

Being a beginner of anything is great. Everything is new, everything feels like real, tangible progress, and even if you're bad at something, you can't really tell because you don't know enough yet anyway.

Enjoy it while it lasts.

At this point, you have a strong base of kanji and vocabulary. If you are using WaniKani , you should be at level 10 or above. If you are doing kanji on your own, or using another resource, you should know the most common meaning and reading of around 300 kanji and 1,000 vocabulary words. If you are using a resource that only teaches you the meaning of a kanji (and not how to read it), that doesn't count . You need to be able to do the whole thing, not just the easiest 20%.

With this assumption about your knowledge in place, we're going to go through some options for how you can learn Japanese grammar. This includes using a textbook as well as creating your own grammar program from scratch. We offer some of our own material as well. Most likely, you'll end up doing a hybrid of the above. No matter what you choose, your foundation of kanji, vocabulary, and pronunciation will make everything much easier. Without it, even the best Japanese textbook will be a frustrating experience.

Using a Spaced Repetition System For Vocabulary

Estimated Time: 2-4 hours + ongoing

You will learn a lot of vocabulary purely from your kanji studies. As long as you have a good kanji system in place, you shouldn't worry too much. However, you will definitely need to learn all of the words that do not use kanji too. In the beginning, this will largely be grammatical things, and words that don't use kanji, from your textbook. Later it will be vocabulary you pick up from signs, manga, and other real life sources.

It's time to learn how and when to introduce vocabulary words from outside your kanji studies into your study routine. The most important thing is to have a good system in place.

You need to be able to record and store these words so that you can study them later. You also need a good system to handle and process these words. It's a waste if you record them once and never look at them again.

At your currently level, most of the new words you encounter will probably be hiragana or katakana-only words. Once you start reading more and more Japanese, the number of new words you encounter will increase, so being able to keep track and add these to your routine becomes even more important. For now though, your goal is to develop a habit of collecting, processing, and studying vocabulary that is unfamiliar to you. This should become second nature.

Most likely, you will find most of the vocabulary that you want to learn in your Japanese textbook (we'll cover that really soon!). As I mentioned earlier, these might be words that don't have kanji, or maybe they're words that you didn't learn in WaniKani. There are a lot of words out there and no one resource will teach you all of them.

Once you've found some words that you want to learn you need to collect them. How you do this doesn't matter as much as actually doing it. Put them in a spreadsheet, a tool like Evernote or OneNote, or just write them down on a piece of paper. Make sure wherever you put these new words is easily accessible and make a trigger for yourself that essentially says " if I see a vocabulary word I want to learn, then I add it to my list."

There are plenty of list-apps and pieces of paper out there, so it's going to be difficult for me to say what you should use. I'm partial to Evernote and have my own processes built up there. And Airtable is a great spreadsheet app for people who don't think in math. But maybe you like physical pocket-sized notebooks, to-do lists, your smartphone camera (with a special folder for future processing), or something else.

Whatever you use, make sure it's easy for you . Figure out what makes sense and make it work. If this step doesn't happen, everything else will fall apart.

The next step is processing. I'd recommend you create a habit where every day, week, or month (it depends on how much new vocabulary you want to introduce to your routine) you go through this list and put them into your SRS of choice. What is an SRS? I'm glad you asked.

If you've been using WaniKani, you've been using a "Spaced Repetition System" (a.k.a. SRS) this whole time! But you'll want to use something else for the vocabulary you find out in the wild. For this, we wrote a guide. In it you'll learn how to collect vocabulary and add them to your SRS.

Read: Spaced Repetition and Japanese: The Definitive Guide

One additional piece of reading I'd recommend is this article on Keyword Mnemonics. For the non-kanji vocabulary you want to learn this is a surprisingly simple (and effective) mnemonic method which will allow you to learn more vocabulary in one sitting, and be able to recall it for longer.

Read: Keyword Mnemonic Method for Learning Japanese Vocabulary

As I said earlier, you won't be working with a ton of vocabulary at the start. For now, let your kanji studies give you most of your vocabulary. Then, when stray street vocabulary does start coming up, send it through the vocabulary process you've built.

Make this a habit.

Habit generally means 3-6 weeks of doing something regularly. And you should start now, because in six weeks you'll be needing to utilize this habit a lot more.

Estimated Time: It's a mystery

It’s (finally!) time to start learning grammar. If you followed this guide to the letter, you’re probably 2-4+ months into your Japanese studies. If it's more than that, don't worry about it. We all go at our own speeds and the important thing is that you kept moving forward. You should know around 300 kanji and 1,000 Japanese vocabulary words, and your pronunciation should be getting better, or at least you're being conscious about improving it. Now it’s time to kick Japanese grammar's butt.

Let's start by internalizing a philosophy. Carry this with you for the rest of your life:

When learning something new, you should already know 80% of it.

This means that each new thing you learn should be a 20% (or smaller) incremental step. A +1 from where you are, rather than a +20 or +100.

Most people go into a textbook with zero knowledge and wind up spending a large chunk of their time looking up words they don't know. How much of a sentence is vocabulary? Depending on the length, it's easy to answer "more than 80%."

So when you're learning grammar with a textbook, coming into it with prior vocabulary knowledge brings you to that 80%. Leaving you just the grammar, which you can then point your laser-like focus towards. Instead of constantly flipping to the index to look up a word or kanji and deal with context switching when you finally get back to the lesson, all you have to worry about is learning the grammar and nothing else.

That's the +1 we're talking about.

Let's assume for a moment that your Japanese vocabulary knowledge doesn't get you to 80% (or more). If that's the case, there are a few possible reasons:

You don't know enough vocabulary: If you don't know a lot of the words in a sentence before studying with it, then you don't understand 80% of the sentence before you start. In this case, go back to your kanji/vocabulary studies for a while and reconsider the level of the resource you're using. Another solution would be to pull the vocabulary from the resource, study them with your SRS method, and then come back once you've learned them.

You don't know enough grammar: Imagine you're looking at a sentence that contains three separate grammar points. If you're being taught one of the three, but you don't know the other two, you're dipping way below that ideal 80%.

The sentence is very short: If a phrase only has three parts (ex. "[vocabulary] + [particle] + [vocabulary]"), and you don't know one of them, you're going to be at 66%. In cases like this, you can make an exception. Knowing 66% of a three piece phrase, or 75% of a four piece phrase is acceptable. This will be very common in the beginning.

That's the philosophy we're working off of going forward, so double-check that you have that base of kanji and vocab before continuing with this guide. Your failure rate increases dramatically if this foundation is weak!

It's time to take our philosophy and apply it to a beginner textbook. All the things that would have normally tripped you up (the things teachers and textbooks have a tough time explaining, due to the curse of knowledge ) should now be less difficult to deal with. And with kanji and vocabulary already in your tool belt, learning grammar should be much more interesting. You won't be spending 90% of your time and energy on looking up kanji and vocabulary you don't know. Instead, you'll just be doing it.

With this base knowledge, choosing a specific textbook or program to follow becomes less important, but there are still many "good" textbooks and many "bad" textbooks out there. Most will teach you the same content one way or another, so pick one that you feel fits your learning style.

To help you with this choice, we wrote a guide:

Read: The Best Japanese Textbooks for Beginners

Whatever you end up choosing, get started right away. It's so easy for people to get trapped in a "preparation loop" where they spend all of their time planning and getting ready, only to stop before any actual work gets done.

At this point you will focus on working through your textbook of choice. Try to progress through the entire thing from beginning to end. Doing this will create a strong foundation of Japanese inside of you, something you can use to base other knowledge off of.

Once all of the basic, foundational grammar is in place you'll be able to really accelerate and work toward fluency.

It will take around 2-6 months to get through most beginner Japanese textbooks. Though, this does depend on how much time you have to spend on your studies and what grammar method you choose. You can even go through a couple different textbooks at the same time, if you want. What one textbook doesn't teach well, another probably does. That being said, if you don't feel like you understand a concept, or you want to know more, there's plenty of ways to get your questions answered. I recommend not skipping questions—instead, follow your curiosity! Learning is supposed to be fun, though school may have "taught" you otherwise.

Read the next section as you start your textbook studies. You'll eventually run into something you don't know that your textbook doesn't explain. You might as well be ready for it.

As you're going through your textbook, you're going to run into things you don't understand. Or, you'll find you don't know 80% anymore. It's not necessarily a failure of your textbook, it's just that many of them were designed for teachers to use in a classroom. They expect someone to be there to answer questions for you. Or, there just isn't enough paper in the world to cover everything.

Not to worry. When you run into something you don't understand you can look it up. No matter what kind of question you're asking or answer you're searching for, we wrote up a guide that will tell you how to find anything Japanese language related:

Read: How to Answer your Japanese Language Questions

Note: You should continue to use WaniKani (or whatever kanji learning method you chose) as you continue on. You should keep going until you finish, and/or you reach the end of this guide. It is important to keep your kanji-vocabulary knowledge ahead of your grammar knowledge at all times. If you don't, that 80% ratio will tick down until your studies no longer feel sustainable or fun.

Alternative: Learning Japanese Grammar On Your Own

By gathering all that kanji and vocabulary knowledge you’re making it possible to learn grammar on your own. Learning grammar is easy comparatively. That being said, if you decide not to use a Japanese textbook as your main resource, there are some things you'll want to consider:

This is a topic we'll be writing a big guide on. But, it's quite complicated so I haven't gotten around to it yet. We'll fill in this section with that guide in the near future, but for now don't use my slowness as an excuse. Just get started. If you do, ordering will, for the most part, naturally fall into place if you follow the "know 80% of all new things" philosophy.

Don't just trust any ol' thing you read on the internet. The same goes for textbooks and teachers, too. When you learn a new piece of Japanese grammar, make sure to read explanations from multiple sources. Some will be complicated with hard linguistic language while others will be overly simplified. And a few here and there will be just right! Making a habit out of using multiple explanations and resources for one thing will feel like it's slowing you down at first, but it's much faster overall. We'll list some really good reference books at the end of the Beginning Japanese section, so make sure to take a look.

If you're studying Japanese grammar on your own, it's even more important to do the work . It's not hard to study and use what you've learned. It's hard to sit down and start . Even more so than a class or textbook, you'll need to make sure you actually sit down and make progress. Measurable progress, preferably, though you'll have to figure out just how to measure it.

With a textbook, you can just say, "I could answer all the questions," or, "I made it through twelve pages this week." Doing grammar on your own makes it harder to see and feel yourself moving forward. You are, but it's a bit hidden.

If this is happening a lot—and no amount of research gets you through it—you might want to consider finding a professional to help. Speaking of professionals…

This may be the time to consider finding a Japanese language tutor, especially if you feel like you're not able to answer your questions about Japanese on your own. With a foundation of kanji and vocabulary already in place, you will be able to focus on the things that a tutor can help you with the most: speaking, listening, and answering questions.

Keep in mind that focusing on kanji and vocabulary with a tutor tends to be a poor use of this time. Most teachers don't have any idea how to teach kanji (it's just, "go learn these kanji and vocab by next week") and many tutors try to promote rote memorization because that's how they learned as a child.

When using a tutor it's important to focus on things only a tutor will be able to help you with. Those include their ability to speak, think, and explain nuances that haven't been written about or studied (yet).

You're not required to get a tutor or a teacher at this point, but if you were really looking forward to this part, now is the appropriate time to do it. Everything from here on out won't rely on your having access to a teacher, tutor, or native speaker, so you can still progress without needing to complete this step.

As you're moving along, there's always going to be more to learn. Don't be afraid to stop moving forward to indulge your curiosity. These "slowdowns" will speed you up as you strengthen past knowledge and make connections between them.

For times like this, reference books are quite good. If you're only going to buy one, I'd recommend the "Basic" book from the Dictionary of Japanese Grammar series . It is the best Japanese language reference book out there, in my opinion.

Other than that, look through the "Reference Books" section of our Beginner Japanese Textbooks, Reference Books, and Dictionaries article. There are quite a few good ones!

Read: The Best Japanese Reference Books & Dictionaries

Note: With any skill, it's important that you focus on the things you're worst at. "Raise the floor, not the ceiling," so to speak. If you do that, you'll find everything else gets elevated, and you'll be less frustrated overall. You'll have more data to reference in your brain as more unknown ideas and concepts pop up. For example, if you're bad at verbs, pick up The Handbook of Japanese Verbs and just read through it. It might take you an afternoon, but every verb you see from that day on won't be a detriment to your progress. Instead, it will positively affect all other aspects of your Japanese.

Raise the floor, because no matter how high your ceiling, you'll still be down on the ground.

The "intermediate" level of Japanese is by far the worst. Most of the people who ultimately give up on learning do it here (assuming they made it past the first few weeks).

Available resources begin to dry up, in both number and quality, and learners get stuck or plateau. Without guidance, it can feel like progressing is an impossible task.

This is the intermediate wall.

The thing that makes the intermediate level the hardest, though, is what got you here: your competence.

The beginner section was your unconscious incompetence stage. That is, you didn't realize you were incompetent, so you never felt discouraged, overly embarrassed, or stupid. But now you know a thing or two, and it's just enough to know you're not actually amazing at this thing called the Japanese language. It hurts and it's because you are now consciously incompetent, which is no fun at all.

Thankfully, a lot of the pain most learners feel at this stage comes from poor learning or teaching methods from the beginner stages. Things that you, hopefully, avoided. And although everyone will experience conscious incompetence to some degree, some people can get through it quickly and some get trapped here for years. Most, unfortunately, can't make it through at all and give up.

Be the type of person that gets through this stage quickly.

The other side of this wall is extremely fun and rewarding, so don't give up and don't let your conscious incompetence get you down.

Here's how you do it:

Recognize this stage exists and know that you're supposed to feel these uncomfortable feelings. This helps a surprising amount. You don't have to feel dumb because you know that everyone goes through this exact same situation. It's all a part of the process and if other people made it out, you can too.

You've already been preparing for this moment. This guide has prepped you to get through this fairly quickly. You're at an advantage! Most people wallow in the conscious incompetence stage for a long time because they lack two things: kanji and vocabulary. But by this point, you know more kanji and vocabulary than any intermediate level Japanese language student ought to. This is why you spent so much time on WaniKani (or one of its alternatives). It slows you down in the beginning so that you can blast through this wall.

With all that in mind, it’s time to start on some intermediate material. Make sure you are good on 100% of the previous sections before moving on. This is, by far, the most difficult portion of your Japanese education. You must have a good foundation to jump off of. When you're ready, you can start browsing our Japanese articles and Grammar pages . Good luck! 💪🏻

Unconventional language hacking tips from Benny the Irish polyglot; travelling the world to learn languages to fluency and beyond!

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Home » Articles » Japanese Learning Apps: The 16 Best Apps to Learn Japanese on Your Smartphone

Full disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. ?

written by Caitlin Sacasas

Language: Japanese

Reading time: 9 minutes

Published: May 11, 2020

Updated: Dec 27, 2021

Japanese Learning Apps: The 16 Best Apps to Learn Japanese on Your Smartphone

When it comes to learning Japanese, every little bit counts. You need to make the most of your time and focus on immersing yourself in the language as often as possible. One way to do that is to use the power of apps on your smartphone! And there are many amazing Japanese learning apps out there.

In fact, there are so many… how do you even know where to begin? Because they aren’t all made equal.

In my experience, I’ve tried a lot of Japanese language learning apps, and some were just a flat out bust. They wasted my time and taught inaccurate info. Others didn’t progress much farther than basic phrases, and I wanted to learn much more than that.

So I’ve rounded up the very best apps to learn Japanese fast . They’re easy to use, make the most of your study time, and help you to cram in Japanese whenever you can.

Learn to Speak Japanese — Pro Tips

Before we get to the apps, let’s go over some pro tips on how to learn to speak Japanese.

If you’re an English speaker (and I’m assuming you at least speak it well, since you’re reading this), then you’ve probably heard how hard Japanese is. But I don’t believe Japanese is any harder than any other language. In fact, I think it all comes down to your interest in the language. If you’re passionate about Japanese, then it will come more naturally to you.

So when you’re learning Japanese, use these tips to improve your study strategy:

• Skip past what you already know. A lot of apps repeat the same information. If you’re not an absolute beginner, don’t keep repeating what you know in every app you start. If you already know hiragana and katakana , move on to kanji … don’t keep reviewing it. That said, reviewing is good, but not if you never progress.
• Stick with only one or two apps at a time. If you want to test out the apps below, that’s fine. Test them out and find what works for you. But then stick to one or two, and hold off on the rest. Dive deep into them and get through them, instead of jumping around when it gets hard.
• Make sure you’re well-rounded. Don’t pick two apps that only focus on writing, for example. You’ll be neglecting your other language learning skills. Focus on improving your speaking, reading, listening, and writing .
• Don’t only use apps. Apps are great, but they’re supplementary. Don’t use them as your exclusive practice! Find other resources, too.

For other resources, check out our Japanese language learning resources page . I also highly recommend finding a Japanese language exchange partner , and the Fluent in 3 Months Challenge to push your skills to the next level. (You can read my experience learning Japanese in the Fi3M Challenge here .)

The Best Apps to Learn Japanese

If you’re serious about learning Japanese, these are the places to start. These are the best apps to learn Japanese with extensive learning materials that cover all four language skills.

Innovative Language: JapanesePod101

Innovative Language is one of the best resources for learning any language, but especially Japanese.

These Japanese lessons are effective, accurate, and cover a wide variety of topics and skill levels.

You can learn Japanese slang , onomatopoeia , or prepare for the Japanese Language Proficiency Test. And they have lessons if you’re learning for travel, all the way to advanced lessons.

JapanesePod101 also has amazing culture lessons. Culture is a huge part of the Japanese language , and they offer several seasons of podcasts on all kinds of cultural insights.

JapanesePod101 is a podcast but also has video lessons, PDF notes, a word bank, and tutors. You’ll also select your Japanese level, and they’ll give you a “lesson plan” to progress through. The app is free to download but worth getting the premium package.

You can get JapanesePod101 here .

Mimic Method Japanese

Mimic Method is technically not an app, but I wanted to include it because it’s great for listening to on the go. It focuses on listening comprehension and speaking like a native.

By learning all the elemental sounds of Japanese, you start understanding faster because it won’t sound “foreign” anymore. It’s all about learning to mimic what you hear and focusing on the sounds so you can speak like a native. You’re learning “by ear”, the same way one might learn how to play an instrument.

You can learn the 31 elemental sounds of Japanese and master the pronunciation.

Read our review of the Mimic Method here .

LingQ is a vast library of audio, video, and written content to help you improve your Japanese language skills. It can be difficult and time-consuming to find native Japanese content at your skill level that you’re actually interested in … but LingQ does that for you. The premise is you learn best when you’re interested, so immerse yourself in interesting Japanese content.

It’s also a language learner community, where you can find a language exchange partner, as well.

Read our review of LingQ here .

Mondly is one of the best-known language learning apps out there, with a ton of different types of content. There’s mondlyVR for a virtual reality immersion experience. There’s mondlyKIDS to help your kids learn through play. Mondly for businesses, and so much more.

One of the coolest things about Mondly, though, is that you can learn Japanese… from any language. Meaning, if you’ve already learned Spanish, you can learn Japanese from Spanish. It doesn’t have to be English to Japanese! This is a handy feature for people who have learned more than one language. So, you keep up their other languages while learning Japanese.

This one is best if you’re a beginner to the language but it can work up to an intermediate level.

Drops is a free app with a paid upgrade option, and it’s absolutely worth the premium price. Drops helps you learn vocabulary fast on a wide range of topics. I’ve learned so many words I had never even thought of learning, but are helpful to know.

The free version allows you to study for five minutes per day, but the premium version gives you access to the Dojo for reviewing and unlimited study time. Plus, you can use your account to switch between languages. So if you decide to learn another (or Japanese is your newest language you’re picking up), it’s great for multilingual study.

They also have another app, Scripts, that’s specific for learning to write in another language, like Japanese.

Free Japanese Learning Apps

A fantastic app for absolute beginners to intermediate learners. LingoDeer has several courses of study based on the JLPT N5 – N3 levels. The format is like Rosetta Stone. You learn by trial-and-error and image association. Meaning, you see a picture with the Japanese word, instead of seeing the English and Japanese words side-by-side. The design of this app is super cute and easy to navigate.

There are a lot of free lessons to get you to an upper-beginner level. But the premium version would be needed for the intermediate lessons.

Beelingual is a reading app. It’s full of short stories, novels, children’s stories, and news in your target language. It ranks the stories by the level of difficulty and includes audio and the translation to guide you along.

While it does have quite a few pop-ups, it’s still a helpful app. And the unlimited version is only a couple of dollars a month, if you want more to read.

A classic. The app itself is simple with no fluff, but it’s efficient. You load in your flashcard decks (or make your own) and Anki uses spaced repetition to help you memorize it . This one is a must-have.

Read our guide on how to use Anki here .

NHK News Easy

From top Japanese news source NHK , this app helps beginners and intermediate Japanese learners improve reading comprehension. It takes real NHK news articles and simplifies them to shorter, easier to digest articles. The kanji and vocab are often more simple, and the articles will highlight new words. It links to a dictionary as well and often includes audio or video.

Bunpo , which means “grammar” in Japanese, helps you master Japanese grammar based on your level. It has 6 categories: the 5 JLPT levels and an absolute beginner category to learn kana and basic words.

The app has a clean design and explains all the important grammar to know in a clear and easy way. I was pleasantly surprised when I discovered this app. Grammar I had struggled with before was explained in a better way, with clear examples.

After it teaches you the grammar, it quizzes you on what you learned. As you progress, you can move up levels until you’ve mastered them all.

Takoboto Japanese Dictionary

It’s always a good idea to have a dictionary app, and Takoboto is one of the best. Search for the words in kana, kanji, romaji, or English, and it’ll pop up with all the answers you need. You can also see the kanji breakdown and stroke order, and example sentences.

Poro has three different Japanese apps. One for vocab, one for phrases, and one for kanji.

While the pop-up ads can get a bit annoying, it’s a good app. The kanji one, especially, can help you memorize it faster. It includes helpful mnemonics and a radical breakdown of the kanji. Poro is available for Android and Apple .

Japanese Learning Games

Why not make a game out of learning? These apps will help you learn Japanese while playing around. It won’t even feel like studying!

Learn Japanese with Bucha

Similar in style to Super Mario, you have to answer Japanese vocabulary questions fast to jump over goomba-like creatures, and collect sushi.

Get it on Android and Apple .

Learn Japanese with Yami

An RPG-style adventure game. You earn coins and materials for your character by correctly answering questions in Japanese. You can customize your character and their weapon, and fight creatures.

Japanese Dungeon

Like a Game Boy style quest (think like Dragon Quest). You travel through a dungeon defeating different bosses to earn coins so you can “travel to Japan.” Because the main dashing hero is broke. Relatable, right?

Find it for Android or Apple .

PokemonGo, Animal Crossing Pocket Camp, and any Nintendo game

If you change your language settings on your phone to Japanese, almost any game or app will change its language to Japanese. But the best, most fun way to use this?

With Nintendo gaming apps, for Android or Apple . Download your favorite, switch your language, and play away in Japanese! I especially like Animal Crossing for this.

Learn Japanese with Apps, Anytime, Any Place

Now no matter your learning style, you can master Japanese right on your smartphone. There are tons of great Japanese apps, making it easier than ever to learn Japanese.

Caitlin Sacasas

Content Writer, Fluent in 3 Months

Caitlin is a copywriter, content strategist, and language learner. Besides languages, her passions are fitness, books, and Star Wars. Connect with her: Twitter | LinkedIn

Speaks: English, Japanese, Korean, Spanish

Have a 15-minute conversation in your new language after 90 days

101 Basic Japanese Words and Basic Japanese Phrases for Travel in Japan

Elaina Robbins

Travel in Japan is the ultimate goal of many Japanese students. Not only is it a fascinating and eye-opening experience; it’s a great opportunity to practice using basic Japanese words and basic Japanese phrases in a setting other than the classroom.

Having a selection of basic Japanese phrases ready to use as you travel in Japan will help you get around and improve your pronunciation as you interact with native speakers. After all, there is no better way to learn any new language than practical application!

We have assembled a list of practical, basic Japanese phrases that will make your journey through this ancient culture even more educational and memorable. Speechling has many tools to help with comprehension and pronunciation as you prepare for your trip and commit these basic Japanese phrases and words to memory.

These basic Japanese words and phrases allow you to greet people and interact throughout the day. As you use them, remember what you’ve learned about the high premium placed on respect in this culture! When in doubt, err on the side of too much deference.

• Hello: Konnichiwa. こんにちは
• Good morning: Ohayo- gozaimasu. おはようございます
• Good afternoon: Konnichiwa. こんにちは (yes, this is the same as “hello”!)
• Good evening: Konbanwa. こんばんは
• Goodbye: Sayo-nara. さようなら
• Please: Kudasai. ください
• Thank you: Arigato- gozaimasu. ありがとうございます
• How are you?: Ogenki desu ka? お元気ですか?
• Yes: hai. はい
• No: EE-eh. いいえ
• My name is __ : Watashi no namae wa __ desu. 私の名前は __ です
• What’s your name?: Onamae wa nan desu ka? お名前は何ですか？ (おなまえは なんですか？)
• It’s nice to meet you: Hajimemashite. 始めまして (said at the beginning of a conversation, not when parting)
• Sorry: Gomen-nasai. 御免なさい
• Excuse me: Sumimasen. すみません
• Where is the?: __ wa doko desu ka? __ はどこですか？
• I don't understand. Wakarimasen. わかりません
• I do not speak Japanese: Nihongo o hanashimasen. 日本語を話しません (にほんごを はなしません)
• Do you speak English?: Ehgo o hanashimasu ka? 英語を話しますか？(えいごを はなしますか？)
• Please repeat that: Mo- ichido itte kudasai. もう一度言ってください (もういちど いってください)
• Please speak slowly: Yukkuri hanashite kudasai ゆっくり話してください (ゆっくり はなしてください)
• Would you please help me?: Tetsudatte moraemasuka? 手伝ってもらえますか？ (てつだって もらえますか？)
• I want to go: (Koko) ni ikitai no desu. (ここ)に行きたいのです ((ここ) に いきたいのです)

Transportation and Lodging

As in most countries, Japanese transit and hotel staff seem to have a language of their own. Do some reading online before your trip, just to acquaint yourself with some of the quirks you may encounter in Japanese hotels (for example, you’re expected to tidy your own hotel room). Here are some basic words and phrases that will be helpful.

• How much is a ticket to __ ?: ___ madeh ikura desu ka? ___ までいくらですか ?
• A ticket to__, please: ___ madeh ichimai onegaishimasu. __ まで一枚お願いします
• Where does the train/bus go?: Kono densha/basu wa doko yuki desuka? この(電車/バス)はどこ行きですか ?
• Where is the train/bus to (a location)?: ___ yuki no densha/basu wa doko desuka? ___ 行きの(電車/バス)はどこですか?
• Does this train/bus stop in __ ?: Kono densha/basu wa ___ ni tomarimasuka? この(電車/バス)は ___ に止まりますか ?
• When does the train/bus for ___ leave?: ___ yuki no densha/basu wa nanji ni shuppatsu shimasuka? ___ 行きの(電車/バス)は何時に出発しますか?
• When will the train/bus arrive in __ ?: Kono densha/basu wa nanji ni ___ ni tsukimasuka? この(電車/バス)は何時に _____ に着きますか?
• Do you have rooms available?: Aiteru heya arimasuka? 空いてる部屋ありますか?
• How much does lodging for one/two cost?: Hitori/futari-yō no heya wa ikura desuka?一人/二人用の部屋はいくらですか?
• Is the room Japanese/Western style?: Washitsu/yōshitsu desuka? 和室/洋室ですか？
• Does the room come with __ ?: Heya wa ___ tsuki desuka? 部屋は ... 付きですか?
• May I see a room first?: Heya o mitemo ii desuka? 部屋を見てもいいですか?
• I'll take it: Kore de ii desu. これで良いです
• I would like to stay for ___ night(s): ___ haku onegaishimasu. ___ 2泊お願いします
• Do you know another place to stay?: Hoka no yado wa gozonji desuka? 他の宿はご存知ですか?
• What time is breakfast/supper?: Chōshoku/yūshoku wa nanji desuka? 朝食/夕食は何時ですか?
• Please wake me at___: __ ni okoshite kudasai.__ に起こしてください
• I would like to check out: Chekku auto (check out) onegaishimasu. チェックアウトお願いします

As soon as you walk into a retail business or restaurant in Japan, you will be greeted with, “Irrashai maseh” (いっらしゃいませ)！ It is a general welcome by employees to all customers, so all you need to do is nod in acknowledgement, if anything. You’ll probably hear the following phrases from the store clerk as you shop:

• Are you looking for something?: Nani ka osagashi desu ka? 何かお探しですか？
• Is that everything?: Ijyou de yoroshii desu ka? 以上でよろしいですか？(いじょうで よろしいですか？)
• Here you go: Hai, douzo. はい、どうぞ

Your responses may include phrases such as: 45. I would like this item: Kore o onegai shimasu. これを おねがいします 46. I would like one of those: Sore o hitotsu onegai shimasu. それを一つお願いします (それを ひとつ おねがいします) 47. How much does it cost?: kore wa ikura desu ka?これは いくらですか？ 48. Do you accept a credit card?: Kureditto kaado (credit card) o tsukaemasuka? クレジットカードを使えますか?

Dining out provides lots of opportunity to practice your Japanese, but it is also an activity that can be quite different in Japan. Do some research before you go to learn as much as you can, and then enjoy Japan’s world-famous food!

• Space for one person/two people, please: Hitori/futari desu. 一人/二人です.
• Please bring a menu: Menu o kudasai. メニューを下さい。
• Is there a house specialty? O-susume wa arimasuka? お勧めはありますか？
• Fixed-price meal: Teishoku. 定食
• A la carte: Ippinryōri. 一品料理
• Breakfast: Chōshoku. 朝食
• Lunch: Chūshoku. 昼食
• Light meal: Keishoku. 軽食
• Supper: Yūshoku. 夕食
• Beverage: Nomimono. 飲み物
• I want a dish containing __ : __ ga haitteru mono o kudasai. __ が入ってるものを下さい。
• Chopsticks: ohashi. お箸
• It was delicious: Oishikatta desu. おいしかったです
• Excuse me: Sumimasen. 済みません
• May I have the check, please? Okaikeh onegai shimasu. お会計お願いします
• Do you serve alcohol? Osakeh arimasuka? お酒ありますか?
• Sake: Nihonshu. 日本酒
• Japanese liquor: Shōchū.焼酎
• Whiskey: Wiskii. ウイスキー
• Water: Mizu. 水
• Club soda: Sōda: ソーダ
• Coffee: Co-hii. コーヒー (こーひー)

Time and Numbers

You may encounter military time in Japan, or the terms “gozen” 午前 for a.m. and “gogo” 午後 for p.m. Check out this resource for some additional explanation; this topic can get tricky. Also, remember that the Japanese readings “yon” and “nana” are often used for 4 and 7 due to superstition about the translation (“shi,” used in another reading for both those numbers, translates as death).

• Six o'clock a.m.: Asa rokuji. 朝6時
• Noon: Shōgo. 正午
• One o'clock p.m.: Gogo ichiji. 午後1時
• Midnight: Yoru jūniji: 夜12時
• ___ minute(s): ___ foon or poon. 分
• ___ hour(s): ___ jikan. 時間
• ___ day(s): ___ nichi. 日
• ___ week(s): ___ shūkan. 週間
• ___ month(s): ___ kagetsu. ヶ月
• ___ year(s): ___ nen. 年
• 4: Yon or shi. 四
• 7: Nana or shichi. 七
• 8: Hachi. 八
• Now: Ima. 今
• Later: Atodeh. 後で
• Before: Maeh ni. 前に
• Morning: Asa. 朝
• Afternoon: Gogo. 午後
• Evening: Yūgata. 夕方
• Night: Yoru. 夜

Words or Phrases to Avoid

These phrases can convey disrespect. You don’t want to offend anyone, especially people you don’t know, so make sure to avoid these terms, even if you hear them being tossed around in your favorite anime.

• Doing something untimely: Manuke. まぬけ
• Drop dead!: Kutabare. くたばれ
• Move out of the way!: Doke. どけ
• Noisy!: Urusai.うるさい

Enjoy Your Trip!

As you prepare to travel in Japan, use Speechling’s pronunciation tools to master the phrases provided on this list. Review The Top 5 Pronunciation Mistakes English Speakers Make in Japanese Lessons , too, and then the Top 100 Basic Japanese Words for Beginners for additional words that weren’t included in this list. Native speakers will appreciate the effort you took to use Japanese words and phrases, even if they aren’t perfect!

Speechling is a nonprofit app and website that combines human coaching with technology to improve your foreign language speaking.

Boutique Japan

20 Essential Japanese Phrases for Travelers to Japan

If you’re visiting Japan and a little worried about the language barrier (or you simply love languages), we’ve got you covered with these essential Japanese phrases for travelers.

In our guide to what we believe are the most important Japanese phrases for travel, we’ll introduce you to a selection of key words and phrases — and explain why the Japanese language barrier is not as worrisome as you might think.

The truth is, you do not need to speak any Japanese to have a successful, wonderful trip to Japan (and if you’re looking for travel inspiration, check out our favorite destinations in Japan ). However, learning a few key Japanese phrases can make your trip just that much better. So let’s get into it!

Download our Free Japanese Phrasebook:

Originally written in 2014, this post was updated and republished on November 1, 2019.

The Most Essential Japanese Words & Phrases for Your Trip to Japan

Learning Japanese can seem daunting, but don’t worry. You don’t need to learn any of these words or phrases to have a great time (see why we love Japan ).

However, as any seasoned traveler knows, making a little linguistic effort can go a long way, and it can be helpful to learn even a little of the local language for your travels. We’ve narrowed it down to a small selection of key words and phrases, divided by category:

• The Basics: Key Japanese Words and Phrases
• Food and Drink: Eating Your Way Around Japan
• Now or Later: Time-Related Phrases in Japanese
• Getting Around Japan: Transportation-Related Phrases

Here is a quick look at the words and phrase you’ll find below:

Top 20 Essential Japanese Travel Phrases:

• Konnichiwa (こんにちは) – Hello
• Arigatou Gozaimasu (ありがとうございます) – Thank you
• Sumimasen (すみません) – Excuse me
• __ o Kudasai (__をください) – I would like __, please
• __ wa Doko Desu ka? (__はどこですか) – Where is __?
• Itadakimasu (いただきます) – An expression of gratitude for the meal you’re about to eat
• Omakase de (お任せで) – Used to order chef’s recommendation (often for sushi)
• O-sake (お酒) – General term for alcohol
• Nihonshu (日本酒) – Japanese sake
• Kinen Seki (禁煙席) – Non-smoking seat
• Ima Nanji Desu ka? (今何時ですか) – What time is it now?
• Nanji ni? (何時に？) – At what time?
• Asa (朝) – Morning
• Kyou (今日) – Today
• Ashita (明日) – Tomorrow
• __ ni Ikitai (__に行きたい) – I want to go to __
• Tomete Kudasai (止めてください) – Stop, please
• Kippu (切符) – Ticket
• Shinkansen (新幹線) – Bullet train
• Dono Densha? (どの電車？) – Which train?

If you’re concerned about memorizing all this Japanese, or want to learn even more words and phrases, download Boutique Japan’s Tiny Phrasebook for free.

And for an introduction to how to say these words and phrases, see our bonus video to help you practice your Japanese pronunciation .

Basic Japanese Words and Phrases

Let’s start with a few of the most basic-yet-essential Japanese words and phrases. Even if you only remember how to say hello or thank you , you’ll find that Japanese people will be appreciative of your efforts!

1. Konnichiwa (こんにちは) – Hello

Let’s start with one you’ve probably heard before: the word for hello is konnichiwa .

Konnichiwa is typically used during the day, and there are other phrases for good morning and good evening ( ohayou gozaimasu , and konbanwa , respectively). But when you’re starting out it’s best to keep things simple, and if you simply learn konnichiwa you can use it throughout the day to say hello !

2. Arigatou Gozaimasu (ありがとうございます) – Thank you

In Japan, etiquette is no joke, and chances are you’ll be saying thank you a lot (learn more in our guide to Japanese etiquette ).

The word for thank you in Japanese is arigatou gozaimasu (in Japanese, the u at the end of some words is barely pronounced to the point of being nearly silent). You can usually simply say arigatou , which is a little more casual but usually perfectly fine. In Japan, where politeness is such a key part of the culture, you’ll be saying arigatou gozaimasu a lot!

3. Sumimasen (すみません) – Excuse me

Excuse me is an important expression in any language, and Japanese is no exception.

The word for excuse me in Japanese is sumimasen . Chances are you’ll also be using this one quite a bit, so if you can try and memorize it! It’s a doubly useful word, as it can be used both to get a person’s attention, and also to apologize.

For example, use sumimasen at an izakaya (a Japanese-style gastropub) to get a waiter’s attention. At izakaya , it’s often called out as sumimaseeeeee~n ! On the other hand, if you accidentally walk onto a tatami floor with your shoes on (something you’re likely to do at some point) you can use sumimasen to say I’m sorry .

4. __ o Kudasai ( をください) – I would like , please

Now that we’ve covered three basic essentials, we can move onto two key sentences that will hopefully help you a lot.

First is I would like __, please . This is useful in a variety of situations: at restaurants, in stores, and on many other occasions you’ll encounter while traveling. In Japanese, it’s __ o kudasai (simply fill in the __ [blank] with the item of your choice).

To get the most out of this phrase, you may want to learn a few vocabulary words, such as water (mizu), beer (biiru) , sake , and others you think you may need.

5. __ wa Doko Desu ka? ( はどこですか) – Where is __?

Last but not least, we think it’s quite useful to be able to ask Where is the __? This is useful even if you can’t understand the answer, because once you ask, people will be able to point you in the right direction, or even help you get to where you’re going!

In Japanese, it’s __ wa doko desu ka? (simply fill in the __ [blank] with the place you’re trying to reach, such as the Ghibli Museum ). One key vocabulary word that often goes along with this phrase for travelers is eki , which means station (for example, Shinjuku eki is Shinjuku station ).

Eating Your Way Around Japan: Food and Drink Phrases

For many travelers, Japanese food is a top priority! From classic Tokyo sushi restaurants to the legendary food culture of Okinawa , there’s a lot to take in. For alcohol afficionados, Japan also offers sake , Japanese whisky , shochu , and other traditional beverages.

While you don’t need to speak any Japanese to enjoy eating and drinking in Japan, these key words and phrases will help you make the most of your culinary experiences.

6. Itadakimasu (いただきます) – An expression of gratitude for the meal you’re about to eat

Certainly not required, but if you say itadakimasu before you begin eating, whether in a restaurant or at a person’s home, they will surely be impressed with your manners.

Essentially, this phrase expresses humility and thanks for the meal you are about to enjoy. The website Tofugu does a very nice job of explaining the meaning of itadakimasu .

7. Omakase de (お任せで) – Used to order chef’s recommendation (often for sushi)

If you’re a passionate sushi enthusiast, you probably already know the meaning of omakase .

When you tell a chef omakase de , you’re letting them know that you’re placing the meal in their hands. Especially for travelers with adventurous palates, this is the best way to experience a meal at a Tokyo sushi shop , for example.

However, the phrase is not only used at sushi restaurants, and can often be used at other types of establishments as well.

8. O-sake (お酒) – General term for alcohol

Technically osake , this word has tripped many a non-Japanese speaker up! While in English the word sake means, well, sake , in Japanese the word sake — more politely, osake — refers to alcoholic beverages in general.

( Sake and osake are virtually interchangeable; the “o” is what is known as an honorific prefix, but unless you’re studying Japanese in more depth, you really don’t need to worry about this!)

So if you’re looking for sake (which in Japanese is called nihonshu) , it’s best to ask for nihonshu (see below). If you’re simply looking for an adult beverage (such as nihonshu , shochu , or Japanese whisky ), the catchall term sake will do the trick.

9. Nihonshu (日本酒) – Japanese sake

See above for the distinction between sake and nihonshu !

10. Kinen Seki (禁煙席) – Non-smoking seat

Encountering cigarette smoke is somewhat of an unavoidable aspect of traveling around Japan. This being said, most of our travelers are quite averse to smoke, and fortunately it’s possible to travel around Japan without smoke becoming too much of a nuisance.

In some places, such as restaurants, you may have a choice between the smoking and non-smoking sections. Kinen means non-smoking, and seki means seat : put them together and you’ve just conveyed that you’d like to be seated in the non-smoking area!

Time-Related Phrases in Japanese

Time-related phrases can be extremely helpful in certain travel situations, and below you’ll find a few of the most practical Japanese words and phrases on this topic.

11. Ima Nanji Desu ka? (今何時ですか) – What time is it now?

Chances are you’ll have a watch or cell phone on you, but once in a while you may need to ask a stranger for the time.

The basic phrase is simply nanji desu ka? which means, What time is it? People also commonly say ima nanji desu ka? which simply means, What time is it now? ( Ima means now.)

12. Nanji ni? (何時に？) – At what time?

This is a particularly useful phrase while traveling. It can be helpful when purchasing rail tickets (see more on getting around Japan below), making meal reservations, or arranging tickets to events.

Sure, you could just ask nanji? ( what time? ) and hope your point gets across, but by adding the preposition ni you can be assured of much more clarity!

13. Asa (朝) – Morning

This one is fairly self-explanatory: asa means morning . While it’s no surprise that a food-loving culture like Japan has multiple words for breakfast , one of the most common is asagohan ( gohan literally means rice , but is more generally used to mean food ).

14. Kyou (今日) – Today

Words like today and tomorrow can be particularly useful when buying train tickets, for example. For more on transport, see the transport-related phrases below.

15. Ashita (明日) – Tomorrow

When pronouncing the word for tomorrow, ashita , the i is virtually silent, so it ends up sounding more like ashta . If you need to express the day after tomorrow, the word is asatte .

Getting Around Japan: Transportation-Related Phrases for Travelers to Japan

For some travelers, one of the biggest concerns about not speaking the language is the prospect of getting around the country, navigating the trains, and trying to avoid getting lost.

Fortunately, Japan has an incredibly efficient and easy-to-use rail network, and you can read all about it in our guide to train travel and getting around Japan . And here are some key Japanese words and phrases to help you on your way.

16. __ ni Ikitai ( に行きたい) – I want to go to __

On its own, ikitai means, I want to go .

To express that you’d like to go somewhere, use the phrase __ ni ikitai (simply fill in the __ [blank] with the place you’re trying to reach). For example, Kyoto ni ikitai means, I want to go to Kyoto .

17. Tomete Kudasai (止めてください) – Stop, please

Tomete means stop , and is particularly useful in taxis. The kudasai here means please , and makes the phrase much more polite ( tomete on its own would come off as quite brusque).

18. Kippu (切符) – Ticket

Kippu means ticket (as in train tickets). As you can easily imagine, when purchasing rail tickets it can be very useful to be able to tell the ticket agent that you’d like a ticket to a certain place!

Made means until or to (in this case, to your destination). For example, Osaka made means to Osaka . Thus, Osaka made no kippu means ticket to Osaka . Put it all together with kudasai (for politeness) and you have Osaka made no kippu o kudasai .

19. Shinkansen (新幹線) – Bullet train

Ah, the shinkansen . One of the utter joys of traveling around Japan is the world-famous shinkansen (bullet train).

Whether you have the well-known Japan Rail Pass or not, if you’re doing any domestic travel within Japan, chances are you’ll end up on the incredible (and incredibly pleasant) shinkansen for at least one if not more of your journeys. Enjoy, and grab a bento and some nihonshu (see above) for the ride!

20. Dono Densha? (どの電車？) – Which train?

Wondering which train you need? Imagine you’re in Kyoto Station, headed for Tokyo. You’re on your shinkansen’s departure platform, but you see two trains.

You show your ticket to a friendly Japanese person, and ask, dono densha? They take a look at your ticket and the two trains, and point you to the right one. And you’re on your way – happy travels!

Download our Free Japanese Phrasebook PDF

For those of you who want to learn even more Japanese for travel, we’ve created the Boutique Japan Tiny Phrasebook.

Our Tiny Phrasebook features carefully selected Japanese words and phrases designed to help you get the most out of your trip to Japan. You’ll find all of the words and phrases featured above, and many more!

The phrasebook is a beautifully designed PDF (it may take a few moments to load depending on your internet speed).

Simply save it to your smartphone, tablet, or computer. We suggest using an app like iBooks (or another PDF reader) so you can search for words and navigate easily.

Bonus Video: Practice your Japanese Pronunciation

One of the best things about Japanese is that it’s surprisingly easy to pronounce. Unlike several other languages throughout Asia, Japanese is not a tonal language.

In the video below, we go over basic pronunciation for some of the most useful Japanese words and phrases for your trip to Japan.

Do you need to speak any Japanese to travel around Japan ?

Absolutely not. You can travel to Japan without learning any of these words and have a great time.

People ask us about the Japanese language barrier all the time, with common questions such as, Do Japanese people speak English? How much (or how little)? The language barrier is a common myth that shouldn’t get in your way. Most of our travelers don’t speak a single word of Japanese, yet come back with testimonials of how much they love Japan .

The truth is that most Japanese people speak at least a little bit of English. These days, all Japanese students study English for a minimum of six years in secondary school, and many students — as well as adults — also take English-language classes after school or on weekends.

English-language fluency is not widespread, so most people you meet probably won’t be fluent in English, but almost everyone you meet will know at least a few English words – and many will know anywhere from hundreds to thousands.

Sometimes you may find that the people you meet are hesitant to try their English on you, but you’ll likely find that you can communicate in basic English in a huge variety of situations while traveling around Japan.

The Japanese Written Language

You may also be worried about the written language. The good news is that you don’t need to be able to read or write Japanese to enjoy Japan.

Japanese people don’t expect you to be able to read the Japanese language, and you’ll find English-language signage throughout the country. This is especially true in places frequented by travelers, such as sightseeing spots, shopping areas, train stations, airports, and often even on the street.

As for at restaurants, though it’s not always the case, in some cases you will find English-language menus. When English-language menus are not available, photos are often included to make pointing and ordering possible.

Despite Japan’s travel-friendliness, every visitor to Japan at some point finds him or herself in a situation in which linguistic communication is simply not possible, and sign language and gesturing are required.

Getting lost in a foreign country where you don’t speak the language is a fear of many would-be travelers, but if you had to pick a country in which to get lost, you couldn’t do much better than Japan! Japan is by far one of the safest countries in the world, with crime rates that are astonishingly low compared to places like the US and most of Europe. And Japanese people will often go to surprising lengths to help tourists.

Back when I first moved to Japan I spoke very little Japanese, and on my first visit to Kyoto I accidentally took the wrong train and ended up wandering around a neighborhood with no idea how to get where I wanted to go. Luckily, an older gentleman with his wife spotted me looking confused and came up to me with perhaps one of the only English phrases he knew: “ Are you lost? ” I said yes and showed him the name of the place I wanted to go.

If he had simply pointed me in the right direction it would have been helpful, but instead he started walking me in the right direction. After a few minutes of walking his wife split off, presumably to go home, and we continued. After 15 minutes of walking he had dropped me off at exactly the spot I needed to be, and – as is typical in Japanese culture – expected nothing in return. I thanked him profusely and we had a good laugh despite our inability to communicate linguistically.

Why Learn Any Japanese if You Won’t Need it?

Almost everyone who has visited Japan has a similar story of a random act of kindness and generosity from a Japanese stranger (or a tale of a camera or passport left on a train being miraculously returned). So you can rest assured that even if you forget all of the words and phrases we’ve shown, you’ll be in good hands with the wonderful people of Japan.

But aside from the fact that it’s a rich and fascinating language, learning even just one or two Japanese words or phrases will help endear you to the Japanese people you meet during your trip, and enhance your overall travel experience.

Japanese people tend to be extremely appreciative of visitors who take the time to learn even just a word or phrase or two, and if you try then chances are you’ll be greeted with oohs and aahs of encouragement.

We hope you’ve found our guide to Japanese words and phrases for travelers helpful. Arigatou gozaimasu!

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1040b01b62 Learn Japanese - Phrasebook is one of the best and easy to use Japanese language learning apps that will help you speak and write in Japanese effectively. You want to travel Japan for pleasure or work but you can't really speak a Japanese word. What do you do in such situations? The best way to learn Japanese is to get started right away. And that's where this Japanese learning app comes in. our Japanese phrasebook is a simple, easy-to-use app that lets you learn Japanese on the go. It has carefully translated lists of essential phrases to help you communicate with locals, find your way around town, and get a good idea of what it's like to live in Japan. If you've ever tried to learn new languages, you know how frustrating it can be to try to find the right resources—and then even more frustrating when they aren't exactly what you expected. That's why we created this Japanese language app, an easy-to-use app that will help you learn Japanese quickly and effectively. Japanese is a language spoken by millions of people worldwide. It is one of the most difficult languages to learn, but with this app you can learn Japanese in no time at all. Japanese language learning app contains over 900 essential words and phrases spoken in native voice, making it perfect for travelers or anyone who wants to learn Japanese. The Japanese language app will allow you to learn the new language quickly and easily. This Japanese text app has 200+ words and phrases for free, then you can decide whether or not you want to upgrade for more content. You will be able to learn Japanese vocabulary, sentences and more using this fabulous language app. If you're wondering how to learn Japanese? Try our Japanese learning app and learn to speak Japanese within a very short time. ** KEY FEATURES of Learn Japanese – Phrasebook: *Make your Japan travel effortless and fun using the Japanese learning app. Carefully translated list of essential phrases will allow you to learn, speak and write Japanese. *200+free common words and phrases in this Japanese learning app will help you learn the language swiftly. *Upgrade and unlock all 900+ phrases in 21 categories in this fantastic Japanese learning free app. Important words are highlighted with tips to make you understand easily. *Audio, recorded by native speakers will help you learn the new language flawlessly. You can also playback audios at slower speed in this easy Japanese app. *The favorites list lets you store frequently used Japanese phrases so you can use them anytime you like. *This Japanese language app lets you search words inside it. * Start to learn Japanese free of cost and offline with this amazing Japanese dictionary & phrases app. Don't think of how to speak Japanese?! Simply install this language learning free app and learn Japanese writing and speaking. Easily pronounce Japanese words by listening to audios that are created by native speakers and make your Japan travel effortless! The days of using English to Japanese translator are long gone. With new and advanced Japanese writing & learning app, you will be able to learn perfect Japanese in a few days. Learn the basics of Japanese language, use different phrases and write Japanese seamlessly. Whether you are looking for learn Japanese for kids apps or simple Japanese language learning apps for adults, trying the Japanese phrasebook app will be worth the effort. ** FREE Categories: * Greetings * General conversation * Numbers * Directions and places & more **PRO Categories: * Time and date * Accommodation * Shopping * Colors & more Install Learn Japanese – Phrasebook app for free on your iOS devices and learn the most amazing language easily from the Native speakers. • WE READ EVERY E-MAIL. We're a small company, but we reply to every support request. Let us try to help at [email protected] and we will do our best to help in any way!

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Used this to try and teach my best friend Japanese for our trip to Japan. I have been fluent in Japanese since I was maybe 7 so I didn’t need the help, but using this app with my friend to get her to understand the basics, was perfect (I helped her along the way, of course). By the time we went to Japan, she knew how to order food, ask where things were, and buy things on her own. I was really proud of her. She wasn’t able to have a full on conversation with a local, which is to be expected of course, but this app is perfect for learning basic phrases and words in the Japanese language. Totally recommend to anyone who’s willing to start the language and/or needs some basics for a business trip or personal trip. The app is completely free and works perfectly. Thank me later!

This app is completely worth it. It's really good and it's free. Some of it does cost money, but for all of the lessons, it's only 5 dollars. With this, it just shows the English word, the Japanese word, how to write it. It even says it. It's not like most language learning apps that have those lessons and you have to match the Japanese words to the English words. Instead, you just find your word and it will show you how to say it. I personally love it, and it's completely worth it.

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This game is great!👍👍 It helped me learn some basic Japanese words. I don't have any reason why I need to learn the Japanese language but I just really like Japanese things and I have always wished I could fluently speak the language. The only problems I had with this app was that not everything is free so I can't learn more words to build up my knowledge. I am a little confused about the word search part of the app. I would type a word (for example family) and nothing happens. I don't know if nothing happens because you have to purchase family related words or what. But other than those two little bugs in this app IT IS AWESOME 👏!!

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30+ Basic Japanese Phrases For Travelers

• , November 28, 2022

Are you looking forward to your long-awaited trip to Japan? Unfortunately, excitement comes with a bit of tension, too. You may be concerned about the inconveniences that may arise as a result of language differences. Don’t worry because we got you! The basic Japanese phrases for travelers that we will cover below will help you enjoy your trip to Japan stress-free. 

Let’s look at some basic terms that will help you navigate Japan and overcome any challenges you may encounter as a tourist. Are you interested? 始めましょう！

Basic Japanese Phrases For Travelers

In every interaction, a greeting is a sign of courtesy and respect. Japanese people appreciate the efforts of foreigners to communicate in their language. So, when you take the time to greet the locals in Japanese, you can open the door to their hearts that might otherwise remain closed.

Key Japanese Phrases And Vocabulary For The Airport

日本へようこそ！ (Welcome to Japan). If you arrive in a big city like Tokyo, it is almost certain that the signs will be translated into English, but what if they are not? You need to know what your next steps are going to be. Are you staying in the city? or do you have to take another flight? Are you going to pick up your bags? Perhaps you need to change money.

Let’s check out some words and phrases you might need to navigate and successfully exit a Japanese airport .

Japanese Phrases To Ask For Directions

やった! (Yay!) You are already out of the airport. Now you need to know how you will get to your destination. If this is your first time in Japan, you may find the transportation system confusing. So it would be helpful to ask Japanese people how to get to X place. Now we will look at some essential phrases for asking directions in Japanese.

Ordering Food In Japanese

What is a trip without food? And if you are in Japan, chances are you want to enjoy as many Japanese delicacies as possible. In a previous article, we covered all the details you need to know about ordering food in Japanese . So this time, we’ll look at a simple formula that will get you all you need in a Japanese restaurant.

( Dish/drink + quantity + please )

Phrases To Buy Gifts In Japanese

In Japan, it is customary to bring おみやげ(Omiyage- souvenirs) after a trip. It is a way to show others you thought of them during your vacation. The souvenir culture is so ingrained in Japanese culture that you can find stores that offer you the region’s specialty prepared to be gifted.

If you want to buy gifts for your loved ones, the following phrases will allow you to shop おみやげ and have them ready to hand out as soon as you meet your family or friends.

Enjoy Japan With Ling!

To enjoy your vacation in Japan to the fullest, you must understand the Japanese language . And what better way to learn than having fun? Ling offers you an interactive learning experience that will keep you wanting more. By signing up for a free account, you’ll have access to engaging activities (such as games and puzzles) that will help you intuitively learn and practice Japanese vocabulary. 

Don’t have much time? No problem! Ling also has bite-size lessons you can complete anywhere in 15 minutes. You can also combine your Ling lessons with our weekly blogs , where you will learn vocabulary, grammar, and everything you need to speak Japanese fluently.

So to put it simply, Ling will put the Japanese language at your fingertips! What are you waiting for? You can download it for free from the App Store or Play Store and start to level up your Japanese today!

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73+ Essential Japanese Travel Phrases for Tourists Visiting Japan & Free cheat sheet

Disclosure: This essential Japanese travel phrases for tourists article may contain affiliate links. If you click it and buy something you like, I’ll earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you! Read more in  Disclaimer .

Going to Japan? Searching for essential Japanese travel phrases for tourists ? Look no further! When in Japan, being familiar with common Japanese phrases for tourists will be beyond helpful! Trust me! I have been to Japan and knowing basic Japanese phrases helped me to enjoy exploring the vibrant streets of Tokyo , serene temples of Kyoto , or the natural beauty of Mount Fuji during sakura.

Before you travel to the land of the rising Sun, learn Japanese travel phrases which will help to order ramen, and to deepen your understanding of Japanese culture and their way of life. Curious, what are some common phrases I need to learn before my trip to Japan ?

🥘 If you have been wondering “What is Anja’s favorite Japanese food?”, you will find the answer hidden in the blog.

Japan is one of the most sought-after and visited countries in Asia, known for its fascinating blend of tradition and modernity, breathtaking landscapes, and renowned cuisine. Especially popular in Spring at sakura or in Autumn for fall foliage.   There are people in Japan, who speak English. But it is not as common as you would think. Thus, japanese phrases to know when traveling will come in handy. By knowing basic Japanese words you will also be able to show respect to the locals. In this common travel phrases Japanese language guide , you are going to find useful phrases in Japanese for tourists. From typical Japanese phrases for greetings, Japanese hotel phrases and Japanese words for simple conversation. Inside the post you will also find a FREE Japanese travel phrases pdf , that you can download and bring with you to Japan.   Let’s begin your Japanese adventure by learning essential Japanese phrases for travel .

for ESSENTIAL TRAVEL PHRASES: • 73+ Essential ENGLISH Travel Phrases and Words You Should Know • 73+ Essential ARABIC Travel Phrases for Tourists in Arab Countries & Free PDF • 73+ Essential GREEK Travel Phrases for Tourists on a Greek Holiday & Download • 73+ Essential JAPANESE Travel Phrases for Tourists Visiting Japan & Free cheat sheet • 73+ Essential SLOVENIAN Travel Phrases for your trip to Slovenia & Free Download • 73+ Essential SWAHILI Travel Phrases for Travelers to East Africa + Free Download for WORDS & PHRASES in 101 different languages: • How to say You have beautiful eyes in 101 different languages • How to say What is the WiFi password in 101 different languages • How to say Hello in 101 different languages spoken around the World • How to say Love in 101 different languages spoken around the World • How to say I love you in 101 different languages spoken around the World • How to say Thank you in 101 different languages spoken around the World • How to say Happy Birthday in 101 different languages spoken In the World • How to say Happy New Year in 101 different languages spoken around the World • How to say Friend in 101 different languages spoken around the World with Pronunciation

for general JAPAN TRAVEL TIPS: • GET OVER JET LAG WITH THESE 19 EASY-TO-FOLLOW TIPS • ULTIMATE TRAVELER SAFETY GUIDE: WHAT TO DO DURING AN EARTHQUAKE for JAPAN TIPS: • Ultimate List of 23 Best Apps for Travel to Japan • JAPAN COST OF TRAVEL AND DETAILED BUDGET BREAKDOWN • HOW TO SPEND SEVENTEEN DAYS IN JAPAN: FIRST TIME ITINERARY • 73+ Essential Japanese Travel Phrases for Tourists Visiting Japan & Free cheat sheet for best TOURS IN JAPAN: • TOP 5 RAMEN TOURS IN TOKYO TO UNLOCK YOUR TASTEBUDS • 10 STUNNING JAPAN CHERRY BLOSSOM TOURS THAT YOU WILL ABSOLUTELY LOVE for INSTAGRAM CAPTIONS about JAPAN: • 55 BEST KYOTO CAPTIONS FOR INSTAGRAM – GOLDEN AND KAWAII • 55 BEST TOKYO CAPTIONS FOR INSTAGRAM – KAWAII AND CUTE • 73 Best Ramen Captions for Instagram – Delicious Like Broth • 87 Simplistic Cherry Blossom Captions for Sakura – Sweet and Dreamy • 135 Best Japan Captions for Instagram – Puns, Quotes, Riddles & Jokes

Table of Contents

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1. Where is Japanese spoken?

Did you know that more than 125 million people speak Japanese? Japanese is primarily spoken in Japan. It is the official language of Japan and is spoken by the majority of the population there. Due to globalization and the popularity of Japanese culture, Japanese is studied and spoken by learners in many countries worldwide. There are Japanese-speaking communities in countries around the world, particularly in the United States, Brazil, Canada, Australia, and the Philippines. The best way to learn Japanese for travel is by using apps like Duolingo or Memrise. If your Japan itinerary is longer than 2 weeks, maybe sign up for a language course. To master the basic Japanese phrases for conversation the best way would be going on a language exchange but if you don’t have time, just download Japanese cheat sheet in this blog post.

2. Japanese language basics: alphabet and pronunciation

Before you start learning common Japanese phrases for tourists, you have to familiarize yourself with the basics of the Japanese language . The Japanese writing system consists of three alphabets: Hiragana, Katakana, and Kanji . Hiragana and Katakana are native to Japan. They both use 46 characters , each representing one syllable and a specific phonetic sound . Hiragana is used for native Japanese words and Katakana for words borrowed from foreign languages. Kanji is a writing system borrowed from China, where each ideogram stands for a certain meaning and can have multiple pronunciations.  Don’t get scared, let me tell you that Japanese alphabet has fewer letters than English alphabet, 21 in total. It uses the same sounds that you use in the English language. Each character represents a specific sound , and once you grasp the sounds, you will be able to read and pronounce Japanese with ease.   Below you will find a guide for Hiragana and Katakana symbols and a similar sound in English language.

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3. Essential Japanese travel phrases

3.1. basic japanese phrases for travelers.

Basic Japanese phrases for conversation that showcase politeness and cultural respect, encouraging positive interactions with locals and are a base for every communication. Those are basic phrases to know when visiting Japan.

ALSO READ: • HOW TO SPEND SEVENTEEN DAYS IN JAPAN: FIRST TIME ITINERARY

3.2. Essential Japanese phrases for greetings and introductions

Japanese words and phrases for greetings lay the foundation for any interaction, allowing you to initiate conversations and make a positive first impression. They are easy Japanese words to learn.

ALSO READ: • How to say You have beautiful eyes in 101 different languages around the World

3.3. Essential Japanese travel phrases for directions and getting around

Japanese travel phrases when asking for directions will enable you to navigate unfamiliar streets and find your way around.

ALSO READ: • Japan Cost of Travel and Detailed Budget Breakdown

3.4. Useful Japanese phrases for tourists when ordering food and drinks

Japanese language phrases for ordering meals, asking for recommendations, and specifying dietary preferences ensure enjoyable dining experiences and help you explore local cuisines.

3.5. Essential phrases in Japanese for shopping

Japanese basics terms for inquiring about prices, negotiating, and Japan tourist phrases for asking for sizes or colors are handy when exploring markets and boutiques.

ALSO READ: • Ultimate List of 23 Best Apps for Travel to Japan

🥘 “What is Anja’s favorite Japanese food?” It is ramen. I love ramen and could eat it every day.

3.6. Useful Japanese hotel phrases

Japanese language words and hotel phrases you will need when checking in a hotel, asking for towels, fixing air conditioning, enquiring what time is breakfast, and what is included in your room rate.

ALSO READ: • How to say Thank you in 101 different languages in the World

3.7. Survival Japanese phrases and Japanese travel terms in case of emergencies

Here you will find helpful Japanese travel terms in case of emergencies, natural disasters, or if you will be needing assistance in difficult or dangerous situations.

ALSO READ: • Best Japan Captions for Instagram – Puns, Quotes, Riddles & Jokes

3.8. Beyond tourist Japanese phrases

If you’re like me and really love learning a few phrases in new languages, expand your study beyond the essential travel phrases . I always learn how to say please and thank you, never visit a country without knowing the local word for “coffee” and never leave without knowing how to say;

4. Best language App for traveling abroad

Learning a language is a long process. If you think you won’t have time to learn basic Japanese phrases , or if the situations come your way when above mentioned Japanese travel phrases won’t be enough, use Google Translate. This is my favorite language app, that I use on (almost) every trip.

4.1. Google Translate

Google Translate is the most popular language travel app that can be used everywhere. I personally use it on all my travels, when going to Tanzania to learn what some Swahili words mean, when in Mexico to help with my not-the-best Spanish, when in Italy, in Japan and other places. I’m sure you are familiar with the language app already. The most obvious feature is it will help you translate the destination language into your own one. But the absolute best feature is that it can translate the text using ‘ camera translation ’. All you have to do is open the app, point your camera toward the text in a foreign language and Google Translate will do the rest. Perfect for menus! It also translates text from the photos on your camera roll. And it also works offline, when you download the language pair on your phone. Language: 133 languages Download: iOS | Android | Website Price: Free

5. Final Thoughts on Essential Japanese Travel Phrases for Tourists

Whether it’s a warm greeting, ordering a meal, or expressing gratitude, this travel japanese guide and Japanese for tourists not only open doors to easier communication, but also show respect and will help you to understand Japanese culture in a different way. Before traveling to Nippon, learn Japanese words for tourists that will help you to navigate through this modern but culturally entwined land, full of history, sushis, shrines, and geishas. How to say Hello in Japanese and how to say thank you in Japanese language. Basic Japanese phrases for directions, ordering food, and checking in a hotel. And don’t forget to download Japanese travel cheat sheet . Which of these must know Japanese phrases for travel have you managed to memorize so far? Let me know in the comments! Safe travels = 安全な旅行 [anzen’na ryokō], Anja

➤ What you should read next …

• How to spend 17 days in Japan • Japan Cost of Travel and Detailed Budget Breakdown • Ultimate List of 23 Best Apps for Travel to Japan • 135 Best Japan Captions for Instagram – Puns, Quotes, Riddles & Jokes • How to say Hello in 101 different languages

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✈ Travel like a PRO

Are you ready to travel like a PRO? Save time and money with these travel tips and resources . I personally use these companies to save time and money. They do the work by providing a list of options, prices, and reviews from actual guests, for anywhere I am traveling worldwide. ✈️ FLIGHTS: I use Skyscanner in combination with Google Flights to find amazing flight fares (try the Explore feature). I book directly with an airline or pair it with Iwantthatflight for the best deals. 🏨 ACCOMMODATION: Booking.com is my favorite site for finding great hotel deals. They return the best rates and reviews are from actual guests! 🚘 RENTAL CARS: Discover Cars are my go-to, when planning an epic road trip. 🗽 TOURS & ACTIVITIES: I like to wander around on my own, but when I want to explore with a group, skip the line with an entrance ticket, I book it with GetYourGuide or Viator . ❤️‍🩹 TRAVEL INSURANCE: I never, under any circumstances travel without insurance. In most cases, I use yearly global travel medical insurance. But, if you don’t have that and some impromptu travel plans occur, use SafetyWing . With them, you can buy travel insurance even when you are already abroad. Better be safe, than sorry! 📲 ONLINE SAFETY: NordVPN keeps your devices’ browsing safe and malware-free. Stream shows from around the world, access social media in countries where they are blocked and buy cheap flights by changing your virtual location. 🛜 STAY CONNECTED WITH eSIM: Ditch the plastic SIM cards and waiting in lines at the airport! Airalo eSIMs allow you to connect as soon as you land at your destination. They have eSIMs for over 190+ countries worldwide.

Where is Japanese spoken?

Japanese is an official language in Japan. There are some Japanese-speaking communities in various other countries around the world, like the United States, Brazil, Canada and Australia.

How to say Good Morning in Japanese?

おはようございます pronounced as “ohayou gozaimasu” Learn basic Japanese words and quick Japanese phrases easy on Anja On Adventure blog. Here you can also FREE DOWNLOAD Japanese phrases for travelers pdf and key Japanese phrases for tourists.

How to say Thank you in Japanese?

Thank you in Japanese is ありがとうございます, which is pronounced as “ arigatou gozaimasu”. Learn more Japanese language basics and easy Japanese phrases for tourists on Anja On Adventure blog. Here you can also FREE DOWNLOAD basic Japanese travel phrases pdf and coloring pages with Japanese words.

How to say Hello in Japanese?

こんにちは pronounced as “konnichiwa” Learn basic Japanese for tourists and important Japanese phrases for travel on Anja On Adventure blog. Here you can also FREE DOWNLOAD Japanese for travelers pdf and Japan basic words.

How to say My name is in Japanese?

わたしのなまえは …, pronounced as “ Watashi no namae wa …”. Learn Japan travel phrases and top Japanese phrases for tourists on Anja On Adventure blog. Here you can also FREE DOWNLOAD basic Japanese words pdf and Japanese phrases while travelling Japan.

How to say How are you in Japanese?

おげんきですか? , pronounced as “ Ogenki desu ka?” Learn more Japanese phrases to know and basic Japanese phrases for tourists on Anja On Adventure blog. Here you can also FREE DOWNLOAD Japanese phrase cheat sheet pdf and useful kanji for tourists.

How do you say Hi in Japanese?

Hi in Japanese language is やあ , pronounced as “ya”. Learn learn basic Japanese for travel and Japanese phrases for travelling on Anja On Adventure blog. Here you can also FREE DOWNLOAD japanese cheat sheet tourist pdf and Japan phrases for travelers.

❥ About Anja On Adventure

Anja On Adventure is a travel blog, a collection of insider tips and information on destinations, that I visited as a solo female traveler, tour guide, teacher, yacht stewardess, and Survivor challenge tester. Anja, is a thirty-something adventure-seeking, sun chasing, beach hopping, gin-loving, tropics enthusiast with a creative mind and sarcastic spirit, who loves coconut and mango but doesn’t like chocolate and sweets. I am passionate about all things travel, maps, and puzzles. Click here to learn more About me .

About the author: Anja

10 Useful Apps To Learn Japanese For Travel 2024

Discover the 10 best apps to learn Japanese for travel, navigate with ease, and unlock authentic experiences.

Prepare for your Japanese odyssey with indispensable apps designed to unravel the language barrier as you travel.

These user-friendly platforms offer practical vocabulary, essential phrases, and cultural etiquette tips to enhance your journey. Dive into the local scene with confidence and embrace the full vibrancy of Japan with every interaction.

Useful Apps To Learn Japanese For Travel

A quick glance at best apps To learn Japanese for travel:

Best Apps To Learn Japanese for Travel: Your Digital Language Toolkit

Duolingo: gamified learning for beginners.

Duolingo's playful approach makes learning Japanese fun and engaging, especially for beginners. Its bite-sized lessons and game-like elements keep motivation high, while its focus on basic vocabulary and everyday conversations aligns perfectly with travelers' needs.

• Free, accessible, and gamified approach
• Bite-sized lessons and focus on practical language skills
• Limited depth of instruction and lack of grammar explanations
• Limited speaking practice and repetitiveness of exercises

Related: Best Books To Learn Japanese for Beginners

Memrise: Memorization Made Easy

Memrise utilizes spaced repetition and mnemonic techniques to help you effectively memorize Japanese words and phrases. Its extensive vocabulary and phrase collection will equip you with the linguistic tools to navigate various travel scenarios.

• Effective memorization techniques and extensive vocabulary collection
• User-generated content and gamified elements for engaging learning
• Limited grammar instruction and quality concerns with user-generated content

LingoDeer: Structured Learning for Grammar Enthusiasts

LingoDeer offers a structured approach to learning Japanese, with a strong emphasis on grammar. Its comprehensive lessons cater to beginners and intermediate learners, providing a solid foundation in Japanese language structure.

• Structured approach with a strong emphasis on grammar
• Suitable for beginners and intermediate learners
• Variety of exercises to engage different learning styles
• Limited speaking practice and less emphasis on cultural context
• Limited free content and less gamified elements compared to other apps

Drops: Visual Vocabulary Building

Drops' visually appealing interface and gamified approach make vocabulary building a breeze. Its focus on visual cues and quick learning sessions is ideal for travelers seeking to expand their Japanese vocabulary on the go.

• Visually appealing interface and gamified approach
• Focus on visual cues and quick learning sessions
• Limited grammar instruction and speaking practice
• Repetitive exercises and limited free content

Busuu: Interactive Conversations and Native Speaker Feedback

Busuu immerses you in real-life conversations, simulating the interactions you'll encounter during your travels. Its community features and feedback from native speakers provide valuable insights into authentic Japanese usage.

• Interactive approach with real-life conversations
• Community features and feedback from native speakers
• Structured lessons covering various language aspects
• Limited free content and quality concerns with community feedback
• Limited speaking practice and grammar explanations could be more in-depth

Pimsleur: Audio-Based Learning for Pronunciation Mastery

Pimsleur's audio-based approach hones in on pronunciation, a crucial aspect of Japanese communication. Its emphasis on listening and speaking skills makes it ideal for auditory learners.

• Emphasis on pronunciation and gradual progression
• Focus on listening and speaking skills, suitable for auditory learners
• Limited visual aids and grammar instruction

Rosetta Stone: Immersive Language Acquisition

Rosetta Stone replicates the natural language acquisition process, immersing you in Japanese through interactive exercises and real-world scenarios. Its comprehensiveness caters to dedicated learners seeking a deep dive into the language.

• Immersive language acquisition and comprehensive curriculum
• Variety of exercises and suitable for dedicated learners
• Limited free content and steep learning curve
• Limited grammar explanations and speaking practice

HelloTalk: Real-Time Conversations with Native Speakers

HelloTalk's language exchange feature connects you with native Japanese speakers for real-time conversations. This app is a gem for practicing speaking and improving fluency, allowing you to gain confidence in communicating with locals.

• Real-time conversations with native speakers and cultural exchange opportunities
• Community features and free to use
• Quality of language exchange partners can vary
• Limited structured lessons and potential for distractions
• Limited grammar instruction

italki: Personalized Lessons with Professional Tutors

italki offers personalized lessons with professional Japanese tutors, providing structured guidance and personalized feedback. This app is perfect for those seeking a more traditional learning approach with expert support.

• Personalized lessons with professional tutors and a wide range of tutor options
• Flexibility in scheduling and focus on conversational skills
• Cost and the need for careful tutor selection
• Limited structured lessons and requirement for self-discipline

JapanesePod101: Podcast-Style Lessons for Listening Comprehension

JapanesePod101 delivers podcast-style lessons, catering to those who prefer audio-based learning. Its focus on listening comprehension and natural conversation makes it ideal for improving your understanding of spoken Japanese.

• Podcast-style lessons and focus on listening comprehension
• Variety of lesson formats and structured learning paths
• Limited free content and limited speaking practice
• Grammar explanations could be more in-depth and mobile app limitations

What to look for in an app to learn Japanese for travel?

When choosing an app to learn Japanese for travel, consider these key factors:

• Focus on practical language skills: Prioritize apps that emphasize everyday phrases, travel vocabulary, and essential expressions for navigating common situations like ordering food, asking for directions, and making polite requests.
• Emphasis on pronunciation: Choose apps that provide clear audio examples and pronunciation guides to help you develop accurate and natural-sounding Japanese pronunciation.
• Cultural context: Look for apps that incorporate cultural insights and explanations to enhance your understanding of Japanese customs, etiquette, and social norms, making your interactions more respectful and enjoyable.
• Variety of learning methods: Opt for apps that offer a mix of learning methods, including interactive exercises, gamified elements, and engaging audio or video content to cater to different learning styles and keep you motivated.
• Offline accessibility: Choose apps that allow for offline access to lessons and practice materials, ensuring you can continue learning even without an internet connection during your travels.
• Travel-specific content: Prioritize apps that provide travel-specific content, such as phrasebooks, location-based vocabulary, and cultural tips tailored to travelers' needs.
• User-friendliness and interface: Consider the app's user interface and overall design. Choose an app that is easy to navigate, visually appealing, and provides a seamless learning experience.
• Cost and value: Evaluate the app's pricing model and compare it to your budget. Consider free trials or introductory offers to assess the app's value before committing to a paid subscription.
• Reviews and user feedback: Read reviews and user feedback to gauge the app's effectiveness, identify potential drawbacks, and determine if it aligns with your learning preferences.

Advantages of Japanese learning apps

• These Japanese apps are easy to use and learn the language. Most of the apps are free so if you’re keen on learning just for fun, you can do it easily. 
• Most Japanese learning apps include all three Japanese writing systems- Hiragana, Katakana as well as Kanji which is important to become fluent in the language. 
• You can use these apps to learn the Japanese language from anywhere and at any time. Most of the apps also have offline access which makes it a lot more convenient. 
• It will teach you grammar as well which is the most crucial part of learning a language.

Best Apps for Learning Japanese: FAQs

Are japanese learning apps good.

Japanese learning apps are an excellent way to up your grammar as well as language skills. Most of them are free and have a lot of features like pronunciation audios, free tests, and quizzes, etc.

Is Duolingo good for learning Japanese?

Duolingo is one of the best-rated free apps to learn Japanese for beginners. It makes learning fun by adding games and quizzes. However, if you’re an advanced learner, Duolingo might not be the best choice.

Which app is best for learning Japanese for free?

There are various apps to learn Japanese for free like Obenkyo, Duolingo, Lingodeer, HiNative, etc. However, some of the apps only have the basic version free and there’s a minimal fee for advanced learning.

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83 Must-Know Japanese Travel Phrases For Your Next Trip To Japan

If you're learning Japanese and considering a trip to Japan, you'll probably want to learn some Japanese travel phrases so you can make the most of your trip.

Getting a feel for which expressions will be most important to you can vary depending upon your specific interests and goals while traveling. But some vocab is particularly useful no matter what.

If you spend time learning any basic Japanese phrases and words, start with these 83 Japanese travel phrases so that you can head into Japan on the right foot!

Regardless of where you are or what you’re doing, two of the most important words you’ll need to know are arigatou gozaimasu and sumimasen .

Arigatou (gozaimasu ) means “thank you,” and it’s very polite; you can use it with anyone. Sumimasen means “excuse me” (when trying to get someone’s attention) or “I’m sorry” (if you’ve inconvenienced someone, such as by misunderstanding or taking up time).

Let's discover the other Japanese travel phrases that will be a must on your next trip to Japan.

By the way, if you want to learn Japanese fast and have fun while doing it, my top recommendation is  Japanese Uncovered  which teaches you through StoryLearning®. 

With  Japanese Uncovered  you’ll use my unique StoryLearning® method to learn Japanese naturally through story… not rules. It’s as fun as it is effective.

If you’re ready to get started,  click here for a 7-day FREE trial.

At The Airport

So you have arrived in Japan, and you’re in the airport. Depending on how your travels went and what you’re planning on doing next, you might have multiple places you need to visit.

To start, review your vocab and see if any of these locations apply to you for your next stop:

#1 currency exchange ( ryougaejo 両替所) #2 toilet ( toire トイレ) #3 customs ( zeikan 税関) #4 immigration ( nyuukoku shinsa 入国審査) #5 information ( desksougou annaijo 総合案内所) #6 souvenir shop ( omiyageya お土産屋) #7 Seat ( seki 席) #8 Train ( densha 電車) #9 Taxi ( takushi タクシー)

These are the most likely places you’ll need to stop next once you arrive. If you need to locate a certain establishment or find where to go, you can always ask someone:

#10 Where is the ______? (____ ha doko desu ka? ＿＿はどこですか。)

After you conclude your business wandering around the airport, you’ll probably be heading out into the city. In order to do that, you’ll most likely need to take a train out of the airport. If you feel confident using the airport’s self-service ticket machines, you can buy your own ticket.

However, if you have a JR Pass or need to use special train services, or if you don’t know how to use the machines, you can approach the manned ticket counter and ask:

#11 Can I have a ticket to _______ please? (____ made no chiketto wo kudasai. ＿＿までのチケットをください。)

If you are concerned that you may have to change trains during the process, you can ask about this too by saying:

#12 Is there a transfer? ( Norikae ha arimasu ka? 乗り換えはありますか。)

Taking A Taxi

Taxis in Japan are much more economical options than people give them credit for, so if you’re overwhelmed about navigating by yourself, a taxi can be a great option. The vocabulary for taking a taxi is simple, and drivers typically go above and beyond to help you.

#13 Taxi ( takushi タクシー)

When you have located the taxis, you will see that they typically drive up in a line. Wait your turn, and when one drives up, approach. Remember: do not open or close the taxi doors yourself; the driver has an automated button to do this for you.

#14 I’d like to go to _____, please. (____ made onegaishimasu ＿＿までお願いします) #15 How much does it cost? ( Ikura desu ka? いくらですか。)

One important thing to remember is that Japan is a very cash-centric society . The use of credit cards is much rarer than you may be used to, so you should plan to carry larger than normal amounts of cash with you in general. This also means that you should be prepared to ask your taxi driver if he or she accepts credit cards at all.

#16 Is paying by credit card okay? ( Kurejitto kaado de ii desu ka? クレジットカードでいいですか。)

Checking Into Your Hotel

So you have taken a taxi or train, and you’ve arrived at your hotel. Hotels have a wide array of commodities that you can take advantage of, which means that you’ll also get to use a lot of unique vocabulary.

Check out some of the words you’re most likely to use:

#17 Key ( kagi 鍵) #18 Front desk ( chouba (but furonto desuku is more common) 帳場 (フロントデスク)) #19 Lobby ( robii ロビー) #20 Dining room ( shokudou 食堂) #21 Hall ( rouka 廊下) #22 Towel ( taoru タオル) #23 Soap ( sekken 石鹸) #24 Toothbrush ( ha-burashi 歯ブラシ) #25 Toothpaste ( ha-migaki 歯磨き) #26 Razor ( kamisori かみそり) #27 Television ( terebi テレビ) #28 Housekeeping ( kaji-gakari かじがかり) #29 Laundry ( sentaku 選択)

If you are looking to do laundry at a hotel, be aware that Japanese dryers are not as powerful as most countries’, so you may need to run the dryer multiple times or simply hang your clothes to dry.

When you are ready to check in, you can approach the front desk. Depending on what you need to do next, you can use phrases such as:

#30 I’d like to check in. ( Chekku in wo onegaishimasu .チェックインをお願いします。) #31 My name is _______. ( Namae wa _____desu .名前あ＿＿＿です。) #32 I’d like to make a reservation. ( Yoyaku wo shitai desu .予約をしたいです。) #33 Is there wifi? ( Wi-Fi ga arimasu ka? WIFIがありますか。) #34 What time is checkout? ( Chekku auto wa nanji desu ka? チェックアウトは何時ですか。`) #35 Can you hold my luggage for me? ( Nimotsu wo koko ni oite itte mo ii desu ka? 荷物はここに置いていってもいいですか。)

Japanese Greetings

Now that you have settled into Japan a little bit, you’ll probably enjoy going for a walk to see the sights. As you interact with other people, the phrases you’re most likely to hear them say are:

#36 Ohayou/konnichiwa/konbanwa

These are the “daily” greetings that mean “hello.” Ohayou (good morning) is typically used until about 11:30 or noon, then people switch to konnichiwa (good afternoon). At about 5pm, most people will switch to konbanwa (good evening).

#37 Itterasshai/Okaeri

When you leave and return for the day, you may be greeted with unique phrases. Itterasshai means “have a safe trip” or simply “goodbye for the day,” said as you leave. Your hotel staff may say this to you. They may also greet you with okaeri (welcome back) when you return.

#38 Irasshaimase

Whenever you enter a business, you’ll likely be greeted with irasshaimase , a very formal welcome. You are not expected to say anything in response; it’s sort of like the staff saying hello while also thanking you for shopping or visiting.

Buying Coffee

If you can’t go a day without your morning brew, take heart—Japanese coffee shops are everywhere, and the vocabulary is actually almost identical to what you may be used to ordering.

#39 Coffee shop ( kissaten 喫茶店) #40 Hot coffee ( hotto kohi ホットコーヒー) #41 Iced coffee ( aisu kohi アイスコーヒー) #42 Cafe latte ( kafe rate カフェラテ) #43 Drip coffee ( dorippu kohi ドリップコーヒー) #44 Soy milk ( soi miruku ソイミルク)) #45 Espresso ( Esupuresso エスプレッソ)

When it comes time to order your drink, you can specify what you want via the following format:

#46 I’d like to order [number] of [item]. ([item] wo [number] onegaishimasu .[item] を [number]お願いします。)

The [item] can be kohi, mizu (water), or any other item you would like to order. If you don’t know how to say what you want to order, you can point to a menu and simply say “kore” (this) in the [item] place. You can fill the [number] slot with the quantity you would like; the words hitotsu, futatsu , and mitsu mean one, two, and three, respectively.

For example:

• I’d like one hot coffee, please. ( Hotto kohi wo hitotsu onegaishimasu. )

After this, the waitress may ask what size you would like. You can typically choose from small (S), medium (M), and large (L).

Use the letter to indicate which size you would like:

#47 Size ( saizu サイズ) #48 Medium M ( saizuM サイズ)

In A Japanese Restaurant

If you’ve decided to stop by a Japanese restaurant instead of a café, you might need a wider variety of words to make sure you can get by.

The good news is that many restaurants—especially in large cities—have pictures on their menus, and no one will be upset if you point and simply say “this, please.”

To start, the vocabulary you’re most likely to need include:

#49 Fish ( sakana 魚) #50 Meat ( niku 肉) #51 Vegetables ( yasai 野菜) #52 Vegetarian ( begitarian ベジタリアン) #53 Beer ( biiru ビール) #54 Water ( mizu 水) #55 Tea ( ocha お茶)

As you enter a restaurant, you will likely be asked how many people are in your party. Using basic Japanese numbers 1-10, you can create the following sentence:

#56 There are [number] people. ([number] mei desu .___名です)

Once you have been seated, you may need to use some of the following phrases:

#57 Do you have an English menu? ( Eigo no menyu arimasu ka? 英語のメニューありますか。) #58 What is this [while pointing]? ( Kore ha nan desu ka? これは何ですか。)

When you have decided what you would like to order, you can simply state:

#59 [item] please. (____ onegaishimasu .＿＿お願いします。)

If you do not know the name of the item and would like to order just by pointing at the menu, you can use:

#60 I’d like to order [number] of [item]. ([item] wo [number] onegaishimasu .[item] を [number]お願いします。)

When your meal is over, your next step is to pay. Important phrases that can get you through this phase of the interaction include:

#61 Could we have the bill, please? ( Okaikei kudasai. お会計ください。) #62 Can I pay with a credit card? ( Kurejitto kaado de daijoubu desu ka? クレジットカードで大丈夫ですか。)

In A Convenience Store

If you don’t feel like stopping by a restaurant, or if you’d just like a quick bite to eat or other item, the thousands of convenience stores (called konbini , short for konbiniensu sutoa , “convenience store”) that appear on nearly every street corner are ready to serve you.

The easiest meals in terms of simplicity will be bento boxes, or small boxes (in the cold section) that serve as a whole meal. If you pick one of those up and stand in line, you will almost always hear the following three phrases (to which you can answer yes or no, which keeps things simple):

#63 Next in line, please! ( Otsugi no kata douzo! お次の方どうぞ。) #64 Do you have a point card [a rewards card for the convenience store]? ( Pointo ka-do ha omochi desu ka? ポイントカードはお持ちですか。) #65 Would you like your bento warmed up? ( Obento atatamemasu ka? お弁当温めますか。)

Getting Directions And Getting Lost

Almost inevitably, you’ll find yourself turned around once you start exploring. That’s not such a bad thing! Japan is full of small, tucked away secrets, and the people are eager to help you get back to a familiar place much more often than not.

If you need to ask directions, the phrases that will serve you best are:

#66 Where is [place]?( ____ ha doko desu ka? ＿＿ はどこですか。) #67 Can I ask you for directions? ( Michi wo kiite mo ii desu ka? 道を聞いてもいいですか。) #68 Can you help me? ( Tasukete kudasaimasen ka? 助けてくださいませんか。)

In response, Japanese people are likely to use the following words:

#69 Next ( totonari となり) #70 In front of ( mae 前) #71 Behind ( ushiro 後ろ) #72 Nearby ( chikaku 近く) #73 North ( kita 北) #74 South ( minami 南) #75 East ( higashi 東) #76 West ( nishi 西) #77 Right ( migi 右) #78 Left ( hidari 左) #79 Street/road/path ( michi 道) #80 Bridge ( hashi 橋) #81 Corner ( kado 角)

Thanks to the consistent presence of trains and other forms of public transport, you should feel emboldened to explore as much as you like. There will always be a train station or bus nearby where you can ask directions or head back to a familiar place!

Japanese Travel Phrases

So there you have it – 83 Japanese travel phrases to hit the ground running on your next trip to Japan. From the airport to the convenience store and from the hotel to Japanese restaurants these knowing these Japanese travel phrases will help you feel less like a tourist.

And who knows, maybe getting started with these Japanese travel phrases will be your gateway into learning the language.

By the way, if you'd like to learn some more Japanese phrases before your trip, make sure you check out this post on basic conversational Japanese for your first chat with a native speaker. You might also like this list of Japanese conversation starters.

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Learn Japanese for Travel

Prepare for your next trip with busuu’s japanese travel course. learn essential japanese travel vocabulary and phrases to open new doors.

If you’re planning a trip to Japan, it’s smart to learn Japanese for travel. But where to start? It can be overwhelming to tackle a whole new language!

Fortunately, you’ve come to the right place. In this guide, we’ll take a closer look at why it’s important to learn basic Japanese for travel before you jet off to Tokyo, the best way to learn Japanese, and start to tackle some important Japanese words and phrases for travel.

How to learn Japanese for travel

Learning basic Japanese for travel is actually easier than you might think.

Sure, the language as a whole is considered one of the hardest languages for English speakers to learn, thanks to the three Japanese writing systems and the complexity of formal Japanese and honorifics . But if you’re simply heading to an onsen in Hokkaido for a week, you’re probably not looking to do business in Japanese or read entire novels.

Instead, you can focus on Japanese phrases for travelers and other elements of basic Japanese, which is not nearly as challenging.

Discover the best way to learn Japanese for your next trip

Lessons on your schedule

Learn at your own pace with Busuu! Whether you have a free hour to study or just a few minutes, you can make progress toward your goals with bite-sized lessons designed by experts.

Tackle basic Japanese for travel first

Start learning with Japanese basics in the Complete Japanese Course or focus on the Japanese travel vocabulary you’re most likely to need first with our Japanese Travel Course.

Learn Japanese from anywhere

Study on the go with the Busuu app, and download lessons to learn offline! With Busuu Premium , you can keep learning even when your adventures take you out of WiFi range.

Why learn Japanese before you travel to Japan?

Before taking a closer look at how to learn basic Japanese, you might want to know why you should! After all, learning a language can be tough. You might be wondering what the benefits are of learning Japanese at all and whether it’s worth the bother.

Well, there are many excellent reasons to learn Japanese if you’re heading off to Japan! Learning a language makes your travel experiences so much better. Here are our top 5 reasons you should learn Japanese for travel.

1. Simplify your trip

When you take a Japanese Travel Course ( like this one! ), you’ll learn essential Japanese phrases for travel. The ability to ask for directions, buy train tickets, find a restroom, or order at a restaurant in the local language can make a huge difference in your experience of Japan. When you understand more, you can navigate new places and experiences more smoothly and with less stress.

2. Take roads less traveled

Another good reason to learn Japanese for travel? Many Japanese people simply don’t speak English. It’s not as common to learn English in Japan as it is in other countries that rely more heavily on tourism or that have had long relationships with English-speaking nations. If you don’t speak any Japanese, it may be hard to navigate the country unless you stick to more touristy locations. And what fun is that?

3. Connect with locals

In Japan, a little politeness can go a long way. Even if mastering advanced Japanese grammar isn’t in the cards for you, a few basic Japanese travel phrases – like learning to say yes and no in Japanese or understanding Japanese table manners – can help you better connect with the people you meet on your travels. Learning basic Japanese can help you learn to introduce yourself, ask other people basic questions about themselves, and so much more.

4. Understand more

If you’re heading off to Japan, one of the best things you can do to prepare is learn hiragana and katakana – two of the three Japanese writing systems. While the third system, kanji , can take years to master, hiragana and katakana alone can give you a huge boost when it comes to navigating around Japan. Reading these two syllabaries can help you sound out Japanese menus, signage, and product labels, which can be a huge help when it comes to getting around day-to-day.

5. Get a sense of accomplishment!

The simple truth is, learning to speak a new language and putting it to use can be fun!

Even if your Japanese isn’t perfect by the time the plane lands, it’s thrilling to buy a snack or check into a hotel in a new language and be understood.

Everyone needs a win sometimes! And the local Japanese folks you encounter will likely appreciate the effort you made in learning.

Pro tip : When you go into a store in Japan, you’re likely to hear someone call out, “Irasshaimase!” Find out what it means – along with 17 other Japanese greetings – right here .

In short? Learning to speak Japanese before traveling to Japan is sure to improve your experience!

There are tons of good reasons to learn a little Japanese before you go, and – since you can start learning with Busuu for free – it’s hard to find a reason not to.

Best of all? When you learn with Busuu, you can focus on learning the Japanese travel phrases you’ll need most, right from day one.

Why is Busuu the best app to learn Japanese for travel?

Busuu’s Complete Japanese Course is the perfect entry point to start learning Japanese. When you supplement it with Busuu’s Japanese Travel Course, you’ll learn the basics you need plus most useful Japanese phrases for travel. And if you want to keep learning, once the Travel Course is through, you can work on learning hiragana and katakana, or continue at your own pace from the basics all the way up to Upper Intermediate (B2) Japanese.

Actually speaking a new language out loud in the real world can be daunting! That’s why Busuu’s courses encourage you to practice speaking Japanese out loud from the first lessons. In Busuu’s Japanese courses, you’ll get exercises that challenge you not just to listen and repeat but to come up with your own answers to prompts based on what you’ve learned. That means you won’t just learn Japanese for travel – you’ll practice actually putting what you’ve learned to use.

One of the things that makes Busuu the absolute best app to learn Japanese for travel? The Conversations feature! You’ll share some of your exercises with native Japanese speakers on the app for encouragement and feedback. Learning from native speakers can help with your pronunciation, show you how the language is actually used in practice, and lift your confidence so you’re ready to say "konnichiwa" from the moment you land.

Learn Japanese phrases for travelers

Why not get started right now? Let’s take a look at some of the vocabulary and phrases you’ll learn in your first few lessons with Busuu’s Travel Course!

Pro Tip : There are many different ways to say no in Japanese – learn which one to use and when right here .

10 Essential Japanese words for travel

Learn more japanese for travel with busuu premium.

With Busuu Premium, you can set goals with a Study Plan, connect with Japanese speakers through Conversations, and so much more. Premium makes learning to use Japanese travel vocabulary a breeze, so you’ll be saying, Konnichiwa / こんにちは– “Hello!” with confidence to the people you meet on your travels!

3 Basic Japanese phrases for travel

1. Hajimemashite

Hajimemashite (始めまして) is a Japanese greeting that means “Nice to meet you”. We say this phrase when we meet someone for the first time.

2. Itadakimasu

Taken literally, itadakimasu (いただきます) means, “I humbly receive.” It’s good manners to say this before you eat and is a way to say thank you for the whole preparation of the meal.

3. Onegai shimasu

Onegai shimasu (お願いします) is a polite Japanese phrase that translates to "please" or "I humbly request." It is commonly used in various contexts to make a request or ask for a favor politely.

And now you’ve learned a few handy Japanese phrases to know when traveling!

Of course, you’ll need to learn a bit more Japanese before you can strike up a conversation in an izakaya or seamlessly order gyoza – but don’t worry, you’ll learn all that and more when you learn via Busuu’s Japanese Travel Course.

Start learning with Busuu

Don’t wait, start to learn Japanese for travel now and discover all the doors that learning Japanese can open for you.

Japanese for Beginners

• Japanese alphabet: The 3 writing systems explained
• Japanese numbers
• Time in Japanese: Your guide to telling time

Japanese Grammar Topics

• Japanese verb conjugation made easy
• 14 Useful Japanese phrases you need to know
• Japanese pronunciation for beginners

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Free Online Resources for Learning Japanese: A Comprehensive Guide

Learning Japanese can be a fun and exciting journey. It helps you understand a rich culture, connect with people from Japan, and enjoy a language with unique characters. The best part is you don’t have to spend much money to get started. Many free online resources exist for all levels, from beginners to advanced learners. Here’s a guide to some of the best free tools.

Coto Academy is a Japanese language school located in Tokyo and Yokohama . With its small class sizes and flexible course schedule , we ensure the students find their community here in Japan and learn practical and useful daily-life Japanese by focusing on conversational practice.

A Quick Jump To…

Nhk world easy japanese, japanesepod101, tae kim’s guide to learning japanese, youtube channels.

Duolingo is a popular language-learning app that offers a comprehensive course in Japanese. The app uses a gamified approach, making learning fun and engaging through interactive lessons, quizzes, and daily challenges.

Duolingo is perfect for beginners , providing a solid foundation in vocabulary, grammar, and basic sentence structure.

Duolingo motivates learners to study regularly by encouraging them to maintain their ‘streaks’. The app sends reminders if you haven’t finished your daily lessons and offers rewards for maintaining long streaks. This feature helps in developing a consistent language-learning routine. Check out our complete review of learning Japanese with Duolingo here .

NHK World offers a series called Easy Japanese, designed for beginners. It includes 48 audio and text lessons covering basic conversations and grammar.

Anna, a fictional character who guides learners through various scenarios, presents the lessons. This resource is handy for improving listening skills and understanding everyday Japanese.

WaniKani is a unique tool that teaches kanji and vocabulary through mnemonics and spaced repetition.

The free version includes access to the first three levels, providing a solid introduction to kanji and critical vocabulary. It’s an excellent resource for learners who want to build a strong foundation in reading and writing.

JapanesePod101 offers a wealth of audio and video lessons for all levels of learners. While there is a premium subscription option, the free version includes significant content, including lessons on vocabulary, grammar, listening, and cultural insights.

The lessons are engaging and taught by native speakers, helping learners improve their listening and speaking skills.

Anki is a powerful flashcard app that uses spaced repetition to help learners memorize vocabulary and kanji efficiently.

Numerous pre-made decks are available for Japanese learners, covering everything from basic vocabulary to advanced kanji. Anki is highly customizable, allowing learners to tailor their study sessions to their needs.

Memorization is essential in your learning journey; find Easy Ways to Remember Japanese here , and make your learning simple with Anki.

Tofugu offers various free resources, including guides on learning hiragana and katakana, comprehensive articles on Japanese culture and language, and tips for effective learning.

Tofugu’s content is well-researched and presented humorously and engagingly, making it a great resource for learners looking for information and entertainment.

Memrise is another language-learning app that offers courses in Japanese. The app helps learners retain information by combining video clips featuring native speakers, interactive quizzes, and mnemonic devices.

The free version includes access to substantial content, making it a valuable tool for vocabulary building and listening practice.

Imabi is an extensive resource that offers detailed lessons on Japanese grammar, vocabulary, and writing.

The site is well-organized, with lessons categorized by difficulty level. Imabi is particularly useful for intermediate and advanced learners seeking in-depth explanations and examples.

Tae Kim’s Guide is a thorough and detailed resource covering all aspects of Japanese grammar. The guide is well-structured, starting with basic grammar and progressing to more complex topics.

It’s an excellent resource for learners who prefer a structured approach and want to explore the intricacies of Japanese.

In Additional, YouTube channels provide free Japanese lessons, including:

• Learn Japanese – Coto Japanese Academy : This channel provides practical lessons on Japanese language and culture, catering to beginners and advanced learners.
• Japanese Ammo with Misa: Misa offers detailed grammar, vocabulary, and conversational Japanese lessons.
• That Japanese Man Yuta: Yuta’s videos focus on real-life Japanese and cultural insights.
• Learn Japanese with JapanesePod101: The channel offers a wide range of video lessons for learners at all levels.

Extra Tips!!

Click here for extra recommendations for free resources for learning Japanese.

With the abundance of free online resources, learning Japanese has never been more accessible. Whether you prefer structured courses, interactive apps, or in-depth guides, there’s something for everyone. Start exploring these resources today and embark on your journey to mastering the Japanese language. Happy learning!

You Might Be Wondering …

How long does it take to learn japanese.

The time it takes to learn Japanese varies depending on your study habits, prior language experience, and the level of proficiency you wish to achieve. Consistent daily practice can lead to basic conversational skills in a few months, but fluency can take several years.

Which resource is best for beginners?

For beginners, Duolingo and NHK World Easy Japanese are highly recommended. Duolingo provides a gamified learning experience, while NHK offers structured lessons with audio and text.

Can I learn Japanese just by using YouTube?

Yes, YouTube can be a valuable resource for learning Japanese. Channels like Learn Japanese- Coto Japanese Academy and more offer comprehensive lessons on grammar, vocabulary, and culture.

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Best Japan Travel Apps – Directions, Food, & More

I’ll be the first to admit that I have no idea how to read a traditional paper map. There’s no point when I can have all the same information and more in the palm of my hand! If you are planning on traveling to Japan, there are a lot of apps out there that can help you not only navigate the train system , but also find where to eat, learn some survival phrases, and more! Before you go, make sure you download these essential japan travel apps for your trip!

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. Find more information about affiliate links on our policy page .

Best Japan Travel Apps

In a hurry and just want to know which apps made the top of the list? Check out my recommended Japan travel apps!

Want to know why these apps made the top of the list and other apps I considered? Keep reading!

• Food and Drink
• Guides to Japan
• Japanese Language
• Miscellaneous

JAPAN NAVIGATION APPS

My recommendation:  navitime.

I’m a big fan of NAVITIME. It’s main purpose is to help you navigate Japan’s extensive train system , but it also provides blog articles about recent news as well as recommended things to do in Japan. However, that’s just a bonus feature for me. I really like the app because it has a lot of features to make sure that you find the best train to take from point A to point B.

When you start typing in your originating or destination train station, it starts provides suggestions of train stations in English AND Japanese. It was one of the few apps I saw that offered both. Having both the English and Japanese name for a station is convenient if you need to ask for directions or help.

It also easily allows you to select your departure time, so you can plan out route in advance. You’ll find that some trains run at different times depend on the time of day or day of the week. Next to the departure time is a button for the JR Rail pass . When turned on, it will prioritize JR rail lines that way you can get the most out of your rail pass.

Once you hit search, it will give multiple different route options. There are times when rain lines get delayed, so having the multiple route options is convenient if you are trying to avoid a particular rail line. For each route option, it also displays the total amount of time taken, the ticket price (with and without an IC card ), and what stops are in between. If they next station you arrive at isn’t listed as one of the stops, you’re on the wrong train.

It also has some additional bonus features such as finding free wifi, the nearest ATM, the nearest station, and Japan travel hacks .

A Close Second: Japan Transit Planner

If you don’t need all the “touristy” features such as guides for things to do and finding local ATMs, I would actually recommend Japan Transit Planner over NAVITIME. In terms of navigation it has even more features than NAVITIME, including optimizing your route for the subway pass as well as the JR Rail Pass , whether you prefer to use local or express trains, seeing time tables for all trains at a particular station, create routes with multiple destinations, and more.

However, some of the above mention features are “Premium” only. When I downloaded the app, I was automatically given premium mode for 60 days (which would cover most people’s trips to Japan). After 60 days, you have to purchase a “premium ticket” in order to continue using all of the features.

The Gap Filler: Google Maps

The one and only feature that I feel like is lacking from NAVITIME and Japan Transit is the ability to find directions for more than just station to station. For example, if I am at my hotel and trying to go to a nearby tourist attraction, I can’t just type my hotel name into NAVITIME. I would have to find the station nearest me and the station nearest the attraction I am trying to visit. While NAVITIME does have a feature that allows you to find the nearest station, I still might have to figure out how to get to that station, so Google Maps helps fill this gap.

You’ll also find that in Japan, you’ll probably do a lot of walking, meaning you may not even need to take a train to get to where you are going. Google Maps is great for when you’re walking to your destination. It even has a little arrow that indicates which direction you are currently facing. It seems trivial, but this little arrow is super helpful when trying to orient yourself in the middle of a big city.

Other Navigation Apps

I tried a lot of apps to find which one I felt would be best to help people navigate in Japan. However, what is best may differ from person to person depending on their situation, so I thought I’d briefly mention some of the other apps I tried and my thoughts on them.

乗換 案内 (Norikae Annai)

Norikae Annai is actually the app that I used while in Japan and is made by the same company who made Japan Transit Planner (Japan Transit Planner is considered the English version of Norikae Annai). It’s designed more for those living in Japan as opposed to tourists. I chose to use Norikae Annai while in Japan because it somewhat has the ability to do point-to-point directions. I couldn’t type in the name of my hotel, but I could type in the name of major attractions, meaning I would haven’t to research what stations were nearest to my destination. The main reason I didn’t list Norikae Annai as my main recommendation is because the app is entirely in Japanese, meaning you have to have a decent understanding of Japanese in order to be able to use the app.

It has a lot of the same features as the ones mentioned above (multiple route options, optimize for the JR rail pass , etc). However, I felt like the interface was very clunky and not nearly as friendly as other apps. It also didn’t have any of the additional features such as guides for things to do or finding nearby ATMs.

Tokyo Metro Subway

Despite the name, it will actually give routes for many of the rail lines in Tokyo (not just the subway). However, it is limited to the Tokyo area.

Metro Tokyo Subway

Gives detailed information about routes and stations, but is limited to the Tokyo area.

The idea behind this app is that you can download full maps, that way you would have it even if you didn’t have internet. However, I felt like it wasn’t real intuitive. Since I wasn’t physically in Japan when I tested this app, I couldn’t figure out how to download a map for an area I wasn’t already in. Maybe you can do that and I just couldn’t figure it out. If you can’t then, personally, I feel like that defeats the purpose of the app. If I’m going to Japan and won’t have a phone with data or wifi, I would like to download the map before I even get to Japan.

Kyoto Maps and Walk

Great way to find things to do in Kyoto and how to get there, but is limited to Kyoto. If you want to get directions to a certain place, you have to have the premium version

JAPAN FOOD AND DRINK APPS

My recommendation: gurunavi.

This app is great if you’re either looking for places to eat nearby, or trying to plan out what restaurants to visit during your trip. It allows you to specify a location, what kind of food you are interested in (sushi, ramen, etc), and your price range. Additional search options include searching for places with English speaking staff, accepts debit/credit cards, and more.

Other Food and Drink Apps

GURUNAVI was the only app I was able to find that was specifically for finding food and drinks in Japan. However, a lot of other travel guides provide food and drink suggestions.

COMPLETE GUIDES TO JAPAN

Find places: tripadvisor.

Probably an obvious pick, but I like TripAdvisor simply for the sheer amount of information it contains. It’s great for finding things to do in a particular area. It also gives detailed information about the various places, such as hours of operation and reviews. The app also allows you to create your own trips and build itineraries, allowing you to keep all the necessary trip information in one convenient location.

Learn About Japan: Ms. Green

I have heard other people speak highly of this app, and I can see why. It has several different manga (comic stories) that help you learn about Japan, whether it be the food, culture, or trending topics. The stories are relatively short, meaning you don’t have to devote a lot of time to it at once, and they’re lighthearted. It’s a very entertaining way to familiarize yourself with the country before going on your trip.

However, I did notice that at times the app could be a bit glitchy, and didn’t always respond right away to some of my taps. Hopefully this will be fixed in future updates.

Other Guides:

Japan travel guide.

While this app gave good suggestions of places to go and allowed you to create an itinerary, I felt like the app wasn’t as user friendly and did not have nearly as many locations as TripAdvisor

This app is basically a collection of articles and videos about Japan. Articles include itinerary suggestions, tours, and more. It also allows you to save destinations so you can look at them again later. While they have some interesting articles, I feel like this app could have been robust with features.

Good Luck Trip Japan

This app was basically a collection of blog articles about various attractions, food, shopping, and more. Similar to Planetyze, I feel like it falls short in comparison to some other Japan travel guides .

This app gives recommendations for things to do in Japan, but I feel as though there database of things to do is severely lacking.

JAPANESE LANGUAGE APPS

Survival japanese: learn japanese by bravolol.

This app is great for a basic introduction to Japanese. It gives basic survival phrases such as greeting, dining, shopping, and more. It also has an easy to use interface so you can quickly find what you need.

Translate Anything: Google Translate

This is another obvious choice, but I relied on Google Translate quite a bit during my trip to Japan. It was good for on-the-fly translations. With it’s ability to translate from text, voice, and pictures, it really seems capable of translating anything you might need.

Other Apps for Japanese

This app is highly recommended by other people, and I think this app is great. Actually, I think it’s actually a little too robust, at least for the purpose of this article. Imiwa? is a very comprehensive Japanese-English dictionary, however, I think it is better for those who actually intend on learning the language as a whole, as opposed to just wanted to know enough to survive. Some of the search functionality requires at least a basic understanding of the language, and is probably a bit more than a tourist would need.

Sushi Dictionary

Great app if you are a sushi lover, as it provides the English and Japanese names for various types of sushi. However, it can’t do anything beyond sushi and is thus limited in functionality.

Good English-Japanese dictionary, but is limited to voice only. You cannot enter text to translate or translate from pictures.

MISCELLANEOUS APPS FOR JAPAN

Emergency notifications: yurekuru call.

Japanese cell phones and foreign cell phones with Japanese SIM cards are connected to Japan’s alert system, meaning that they will make a loud noise when there is a notification such as an earthquake alert. If you use an internal phone plan or portable wifi, you may not receive this alerts. Yurekuru Call allows you to go in an configure the settings to give you an alert if an earthquake with a specified seismic level is detected.

Communicate: LINE

I don’t think I ever met a native Japanese person who didn’t have this app installed. It is the primary app used for texting and calling. If you intend on making any Japanese friends, you’ll want to install this app in order to easily stay in contact with them.

Make New Friends: HelloTalk

This app pairs you with native speakers of the foreign language you are trying to learn. For example, if I wanted to learn Japanese, I would be paired with a native Japanese speaker who wanted to learn English. It’s a great way to not only learn and practice Japanese, but also make new friends before your trip even begins!

Exchange Rates: XE Currency

Exchange rates are always fluctuating. This app helps you figure out currency conversions whenever you might need them.

News: NHK World Radio Japan

NHK is Japan’s largest broadcasting organization and provides broadcast in multiple languages about current events, cultural information, language learning, and more. It’s a great way to get familiar with the country before actually visiting.

Free Wifi: Japan Connected

If you plan on going without an international phone plan, JapaneseSIM card,  or portable wifi pack, knowing where there is free wifi is really convenient. Free wifi isn’t as common in Japan as it is in the United States, but it’s growing.

Have you used any of these apps? What were your experiences with them? Are there any apps you feel like I missed? Feel free to let me know in the comments below!

Are you ready to start planning your trip to Japan?

Get a FREE copy of A Dreamer’s Guide to Trip Planning to get started!

Further Reading

• Navigating Japan’s Train System: Tips for Traveling Japan by Train
• Is the Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass) Worth It

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8 thoughts on “Best Japan Travel Apps – Directions, Food, & More”

This is an impressive list. well done on that job like. seriously. really cool. will come back to this when i am off to japan for sure.

Glad it was useful! And I’ll be doing my best to keep this list updated so that when you come back to it for your trip, it will still be just as useful as it was now!

This guide to useful apps in Japan is super helpful! I’m going next year for the first time, so I’ll be sure to download some of these apps. I have maps.me and find it incredibly useful, especially when you don’t have data!

Data can be so hard to come by when traveling, so having an app that doesn’t require it is always SUPER convenient. If only all of the convenient things about each of the apps could be combined into one big app!

Found your blog through your Rikkyo articles(preparing for my own study abroad experience) and every post has been IMMENSELY helpful. Thank you so much!

Not a problem! I know my university didn’t really provide me with a whole lot of information when planning my study abroad trip to Rikkyo University. I actually started this blog out of my frustration with them. I wanted to document everything I learned so that future Rikkyo University international students hopefully wouldn’t have as many issues as I did. Glad you found it helpful! Feel free to let me know if you have any additional questions about studying abroad at Rikkyo. I hope you enjoy your time there!

Hello, and thank you for your suggestions! Is the GURUNAVI app still available in English or does it somehow need to be translated into English from the downloaded version? I can only seem to find/get it in Japanese! Thank you!

No problem! I just took a look, and it looks like there is no longer an English version of the app (at least that I could find). However, they at least still have an English version of the website that you could potentially use: https://gurunavi.com/

Thanks, Kiyoko

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