Melissa Have you ever thought to yourself: “I would really love to learn Japanese, but classes are expensive and complicated”? Good news, there are tons of free resources to help you embark on this linguistic adventure. From apps to online courses and tips to progress, we will cover everything. So, get ready to dive into the fascinating world of the Japanese language without emptying your wallet!
Mobile apps that save your life
Let’s start with the most accessible: your phone. Dozens of awesome apps are here to help you learn Japanese. Here are my favorites:
Duolingo
The must-have. If you’re a beginner, it’s perfect. You learn the basics of hiragana, katakana, and some simple kanjis in a game format. But be careful, don’t limit yourself to Duolingo, as its courses remain quite basic. Consider combining it with other resources.
JA Sensei
If you want a comprehensive app, JA Sensei is a gem. You’ll find lessons, quizzes, grammar, and even explanations about Japanese culture. Ideal for progressing while having fun!
Drops
Want to learn vocabulary without stressing out? Drops offers you fun mini-sessions of 5 minutes a day. It’s quick, effective, and most importantly, free (as long as you don’t exceed the daily limit).
Free online courses, an unsuspected goldmine
Online courses are a jackpot for learning Japanese for free. They allow you to delve deeper without getting lost. Here are the best:
| Platform | What you find there | Recommended level |
|---|---|---|
| NHK World | Audio lessons, practical exercises, useful dialogues | Beginner to intermediate |
| Tae Kim’s Guide | Clear and concise grammar, tips for progress | All levels |
NHK World: Easy Japanese
Launched by Japanese television, this site is a treasure. The lessons are presented like short stories, easy to follow. And with audio files, you practice your pronunciation!
Tae Kim’s Guide to Learning Japanese
A classic for those who want to master grammar. It can be a bit dense at times, but the explanations are top-notch. And best of all, it’s all free.
YouTube, your best teacher
If you prefer learning with videos, YouTube is your playground. Specialized channels are full of free content. Two channels particularly stand out:
JapanesePod101
This channel is a true goldmine. The videos cover everything from the basics of the language to useful expressions for traveling in Japan. Special mention for their playlist “3 minutes of Japanese,” which teaches you simple phrases in a flash.
Learn Japanese with Misa
Misa is an adorable teacher who guides you with passion. Her videos are well-structured and very clear. She explains grammar, vocabulary, and even cultural nuances.
How to memorize kanjis effectively?
Kanjis are probably the most daunting aspect for beginners. But don’t panic, here are some tips that work:
- Use flashcards. With apps like Anki or Quizlet, you can create your own cards and review them anywhere.
- Associate kanjis with images or stories. For example, imagine that the kanji for mountain (山) looks like three pointed peaks. Your brain will remember it more easily.
- Learn the radicals (the “pieces” of kanjis). Once you master the basic elements, deciphering a kanji becomes child’s play.
Practical tips for quick progress
Even with the best resources, learning a language requires a bit of discipline. Here are some tips to maximize your efforts:
- Make a realistic study plan. Study a little every day, even if it’s just 10 minutes.
- Vary your methods. Alternate between writing, listening, and speaking practice to avoid boredom.
- Practice with natives. Use platforms like HelloTalk or Tandem to exchange with Japanese speakers. Not only do you practice, but you also learn natural expressions.
Comparative table of free resources
To help you choose what suits you best, here’s a summary of the main resources:
| Resource | Type | Strengths |
|---|---|---|
| Duolingo | Mobile app | Fun and accessible |
| JA Sensei | Mobile app | Diverse and comprehensive content |
| NHK World | Online course | Practical audio lessons |
| Tae Kim’s Guide | Online course | Clear and detailed explanations |
| JapanesePod101 | YouTube | Short and dynamic videos |
| Learn Japanese with Misa | YouTube | Educational and fun approach |
Ready to get started?
There you go, you now have everything you need to learn Japanese for free. It won’t always be easy, but with motivation and the right resources, you will succeed. Imagine yourself reading a manga in its original version or chatting with locals during your future trip to Japan. Exciting, right?
If this article helped you, feel free to share it with your friends who want to start learning Japanese. And if you want to go further, check out our advanced guide with brand new tips to progress even faster. Good luck and 頑張ってね (ganbatte ne)!
