Loading...

Apr 1, 2025

What is the most effective way to learn the Japanese language for you?

I wanted to learn Japanese what should I do first?

8 Answers



Best Answer

  • Try changing your phone and apps to Japanese so you start recognizing words. Watching Japanese TV, anime, or YouTube without subtitles first—and then with them—can help your listening skills. You can also listen to Japanese podcasts or radio while commuting. Even if you don’t understand everything, your brain will get used to the sounds. The more you hear and see Japanese in daily life, the easier it will be to learn.

    1
  • I think the best way to learn a language is to befriend locals. Just like learning English, you need authentic communication.

    1
  • amazingJAPAN

    on Apr 1

    Try to learn 10 Japanese words or phrases every day and use them daily with your Japanese friends.

    0
  • genkidesu

    on Apr 2

    I agree that trying to immerse yourself in it as much as possible is key. I like the idea that TheMuggleWriter1997 mentioned of changing your phone apps to Japanese, but that might be a little tricky if you don't yet read hiragana/katakana/kanji. If you're trying to learn the language I think starting with watching Japanese shows can be useful. The biggest thing I had to overcome was not being intimidated/shy to use it.

    1
  • TonetoEdo

    on Apr 3

    Are you a beginner? I'd say try a few apps and stick with them for a month at a time to see what suits you. Three things that helped me pass JLPT N2 - - Tae Kim's website for grammar and expression - https://guidetojapanese.org/learn/ - Duolingo for vocabulary, kanji, and syntax - A vocabulary app on my smartphone

    0
  • TonetoEdo

    on Apr 3

    @TheMuggleWriter1997 The firehose method, changing settings to Japanese, is going to work for a learner who can already read a lot. I suggest easing into Japanese media by searching for key words in Japanese for topics you're interested in, e.g. ファション or 折り紙. No shame in using your native language in the browser or mobile device settings. I use Tiktok this way - searching place names and topics I'm interested in to find Japanese language content that I'm likely to keep listening to and watching.

    0
  • genkidesu

    on Apr 8

    I've actually seen a number of Instagram accounts that do bite-sized Japanese lessons, too, with the option to sign up for longer, more involved paid programs. One is @japanesewithhikari if you want to follow along.

    0
  • BigfamJapan

    on Apr 13

    I learned Japanese in University, so I had good writing and reading skills when I came here, but I really didn't have good listening and speaking skills, although I had a good base of vocabulary. What worked best for me was hanging out with Japanese friends. And I also set up a language exchange with a Japanese friend, that really upped my practical use of vocabulary more than anything else.

    0

Awaiting More Answers

3 Answers

What is your favorite cherry blossom and flower combination?

What is your favorite "cherry blossom x " scene? Yesterday, I shared a photo of cherry blossoms with baby blue eyes and today, one of cherry blossoms, tulips and viola. I will also be sharing canola, hanadaikon, Torii etc. I'm just curious, what is your favorite combination?

BigfamJapan

on Apr 15

4 Answers

Dog ate my page responses?

Hi. I just wrote a post and when I went to publish it I got an error message. Then I went to report it on the form page that comes up when you click on report error and I got a "dog ate my page" response. Anyone else experiencing technical problems with the site right now? The photo is just for visibility!

BigfamJapan

on Apr 15

3 Answers

News outlets specific to your prefecture?

What news outlets provide news specific to your prefecture? Are there news outlets for your prefecture in languages besides Japanese?

TonetoEdo

on Mar 30

2 Answers

Quality Japan content Tiktok?

I have succumbed to Tiktok...Forgive me. When I first started engaging with Tiktok Lite, a lot of Japanese content was pushed to me by the algorythm. Some good, some junk. My favorite right now is こねこフィルム/ CONECO FILM, a producer of shorts that are absurd, funny, and touching. Have you found some excpeptional Japanese content on Tiktok? Especially content that provides you with Japanese listening comprehension, cultural insights, or off-the-beaten-path travel destinations?

TonetoEdo

on Mar 27