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?

6 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

    19 hours ago

    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

    13 hours ago

    @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

Awaiting More Answers

2 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

1 Answer

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

9 Answers

What are you doing without?

Ever heard of the saying "Use it up, wear it out, make do, or do without"? I feel like it's ever-appropriate these days. Are there things that you're trying (or having) to do without, given the cost of living increases? I haven't bought new clothes in quite a while, and I feel like when we first moved here that was something I often did, almost like a hobby. These days I might not be the trendiest, but I use the clothes I have, and I guess I'm more comfortable in my style.

genkidesu

on Mar 12

7 Answers

Family, friends -- how often (if at all) do they visit you here?

I'm from Australia originally, and I'm fortunate that we have budget airline carriers that fly direct to Japan, so it's relatively easy and not too expensive for family and friends to visit me here. How difficult is it for your loved ones from home to visit you here? Have you had many opportunities to show people around, or has it been fairly slim pickings in the visitors stakes for you?

genkidesu

on Feb 26