Top 10 Free Resources to Learn Japanese Online
Learning Japanese doesn’t have to be expensive! Whether you're a beginner mastering Hiragana and Katakana or an advanced learner preparing for the JLPT (Japanese Language Proficiency Test), there are plenty of free Japanese resources available.
This guide highlights the best websites, apps, and free courses to help you learn Japanese online effectively.
Top 10 Free Resources to Learn Japanese Online
Looking to learn Japanese without spending a dime? Explore these top 10 free resources that offer grammar guides, vocabulary tools, kanji practice, and interactive lessons. Platforms like NHK World, Tae Kim’s Guide, and Duolingo make learning fun and accessible. Perfect for beginners and JLPT aspirants alike!
Candidates looking for result timelines and certificate details can refer to JLPT July 2025 Results Are Out for all essential information.
1. NHK World Easy Japanese
NHK provides free Japanese lessons for beginners, focusing on daily conversations and basic grammar.
✔ Audio-based lessons with dialogues for practical learning.
✔ Grammar explanations and cultural insights to understand context.
✔ Great for self-paced learners looking for structured lessons.
Website: NHK World Easy Japanese
2. Duolingo – Free Japanese App
Duolingo is one of the best free apps for learning Japanese, especially for beginners.
✔ Covers basic vocabulary, sentence structure, and writing.
✔ Uses gamified learning with streaks and rewards.
✔ Best for casual learners looking for a fun way to learn.
Website/App: Duolingo
3. Tae Kim’s Guide to Learning Japanese
Tae Kim’s website provides detailed Japanese grammar explanations, from beginner to advanced.
✔ Focuses on grammar and sentence structure for better comprehension.
✔ Covers all JLPT levels, making it ideal for test preparation.
✔ Includes practical example sentences to reinforce learning.
Website: Tae Kim’s Guide
4. JapanesePod101 (Free Plan)
JapanesePod101 offers audio and video lessons by native speakers.
✔ Covers listening, speaking, grammar, and vocabulary.
✔ The free tier includes beginner-level lessons.
✔ Great for improving pronunciation with native audio.
Website: JapanesePod101
5. LingoDeer (Free Sections Available)
LingoDeer is a structured language-learning app designed for serious learners.
✔ Focuses on grammar, sentence structure, and pronunciation.
✔ Some lessons are free, while advanced content is in the paid version.
✔ Better than Duolingo for structured learning.
Website/App: LingoDeer
Enhance your writing skills with our tips in Learning Kanji: Tips from the Best Japanese Language Institute in Delhi.
6. WaniKani (Free Kanji Lessons)
WaniKani is a Kanji learning platform that uses spaced repetition for memorization.
✔ First three levels are free, covering basic Kanji and vocabulary.
✔ Uses mnemonics and radicals for better retention.
✔ Perfect for learners struggling with Kanji.
Website: WaniKani
7. Tofugu – Japanese Learning Blog
Tofugu offers free Japanese learning guides in a blog-style format.
✔ Covers Kanji, grammar, and pronunciation.
✔ Engaging and easy-to-understand articles for beginners.
✔ Best for self-learners and travelers interested in the language and culture.
Website: Tofugu
8. Anki – Free Flashcard App
Anki is a spaced repetition software (SRS) ideal for memorizing vocabulary and Kanji.
✔ Allows custom flashcard creation for personalized study.
✔ Perfect for JLPT preparation and Kanji practice.
✔ Free on desktop, but the mobile version is paid.
Website: Anki
9. Marugoto Online Japanese Course
Created by the Japan Foundation, this online course follows CEFR standards.
✔ Covers reading, listening, speaking, and writing skills.
✔ Follows structured lessons from A1 to C1 levels.
✔ Great for serious learners looking for professional-level courses.
Website: Marugoto Online Course
10. Kanshudo – Kanji & Grammar Learning
Kanshudo is a Kanji and grammar learning platform using AI-powered personalized learning.
✔ Provides Kanji quizzes, grammar drills, and sentence analysis.
✔ Useful for JLPT preparation, especially for Kanji-heavy sections.
✔ Ideal for intermediate and advanced learners.
Website: Kanshudo
Enhance your writing skills with our tips in Learning Kanji: Tips from the Best Japanese Language Institute in Delhi.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I learn Japanese for free online?
Yes! There are plenty of free Japanese resources, including websites, apps, and YouTube channels.
2. What is the best free site for learning Japanese?
✔ For grammar: Tae Kim’s Guide, NHK World
✔ For Kanji: WaniKani (free levels), Kanshudo
✔ For vocabulary: Anki, Duolingo
3. How long does it take to learn Japanese fluently?
It depends on your dedication and study time:
✔ Basic fluency (N5-N4): 6 months – 1 year
✔ Intermediate level (N3): 1–2 years
✔ Advanced fluency (N2-N1): 2–5 years
4. Which free app is best for learning Japanese?
✔ For beginners: Duolingo, LingoDeer
✔ For Kanji: WaniKani (free levels), Anki
✔ For listening & speaking: JapanesePod101 (free plan), NHK World
5. How can I practice speaking Japanese for free?
✔ Use language exchange apps like HelloTalk or Tandem.
✔ Join Japanese learning communities on Reddit’s r/LearnJapanese.
✔ Watch Japanese content (Anime, J-dramas) and practice shadowing.
These Top 10 Free Resources to Learn Japanese Online provide excellent tools for beginners and advanced learners. Whether you’re interested in Japanese grammar, vocabulary, Kanji, or JLPT preparation, these free Japanese resources will help you stay on track.
💡 Start learning today and make steady progress toward fluency! 🚀
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