In today’s digital age, the ability to learn new languages has never been easier. The small device we carry in our pockets has transformed into a powerful tool that provides access to an almost infinite amount of knowledge, making learning more convenient than ever. That's why we call it the "Pocket Sensei," where "Sensei" is the Japanese word for "teacher."

The convenience of having learning tools on your mobile phone has revolutionized the way we approach language acquisition. No longer do you have to sit in a classroom or attend expensive courses to learn a language. 

Now, with just a few taps on your phone, you can begin your journey into mastering Japanese, whether you're a complete beginner or looking to improve your fluency.

Language learning apps have become immensely popular due to their accessibility and convenience. These apps allow learners to study Japanese from the comfort of their own homes, with many offering free content that can be accessed anytime and anywhere. 

Whether you're interested in learning basic vocabulary or aiming to achieve fluency, these apps cater to all levels of learners. Let's take a closer look at some of the top Japanese language learning apps that will make your mobile phone your pocket sensei:

Top 10 Best Japanese Language Learning Apps

1. WaniKani

WaniKani is a government-approved Japanese language learning app that helps you master over 2,000 kanji and 6,000 words based on the joyo kanji guide, a list established by the Japanese Ministry of Education. 

It offers self-paced lessons and is free to try for the first three levels. Afterward, a minimal monthly fee is charged for continued access. This app is great for mastering kanji and expanding your vocabulary.

2. LingoDeer

LingoDeer is a fun and engaging app designed to raise your fluency from day one. Its building-block approach makes learning feel like a game, which is especially helpful for mastering the complexities of Japanese. 

The app offers free lessons covering basics like hiragana, katakana, and essential phrases. For more advanced lessons, including preparation for N5-N3 grammar and vocabulary, a premium version is available.

3. Anki

Anki is a highly effective language learning tool that allows you to create flashcards for vocabulary, kanji, and more. It offers decks from top JLPT textbooks and converts them into flashcards for efficient learning. 

Anki can be used on both mobile devices and desktop, making it convenient for studying on the go. Although it is a paid app, it’s highly regarded for its effectiveness and versatility.

4. Obenkyo

Obenkyo is an excellent app for beginners to advanced learners, offering a comprehensive learning experience that includes quizzes and grammatical references. It covers everything from basic katakana and hiragana to kanji and vocabulary, and even integrates Tae Kim's Guide for grammar, making it a useful resource for learners at all stages.

5. Imiwa

Imiwa is an offline dictionary app that makes it easy to look up Japanese words. With multiple search methods, it also allows you to automatically look up words by copying them to the clipboard. 

This app supports definitions in multiple languages, so it's great for learners worldwide. Imiwa is ideal for expanding your vocabulary and understanding the nuances of the language.

6. Tae Kim’s Guide to Learning Japanese

Tae Kim's Guide is a comprehensive app that provides well-organized lessons on Japanese grammar, conjugation tables, and vocabulary. It also includes quizzes and practical examples for learners to practice their knowledge. 

This app is like having a personal sensei in your pocket, helping you understand the complexities of Japanese grammar.

7. Japanese by Renzo Inc.

This app offers audio clips for all entries and displays examples with hiragana above the kanji used. It also incorporates a study system similar to Anki, which helps reinforce what you've learned. Japanese by Renzo Inc. is particularly useful for learners who want to develop a deep understanding of kanji and its readings.

8. Kanji Recognizer

If you’re struggling to recognize kanji, Kanji Recognizer is a simple but powerful app that helps you identify handwritten kanji. By writing the kanji characters with your finger, the app shows you their readings, strokes, meanings, and radicals. It’s a great tool for reinforcing kanji recognition, especially when you need to practice handwriting.

9. Duolingo

Duolingo is one of the most popular language-learning apps worldwide, and it’s also perfect for beginners looking to start their Japanese journey. The app covers vocabulary and sentence structure and includes fun quizzes to help reinforce learning. 

Duolingo is especially good for learners starting from scratch, as it breaks down the language into digestible chunks.

10. HiNative-Language Learning

Developed by Lang-8, HiNative is a community-based language learning app where users can ask native speakers questions and get feedback on their Japanese. This app is great for learners who want to improve their conversational skills and learn practical language usage from native speakers. It’s available on both mobile and desktop versions.

The Role of Language Institutes in Japan Language Learning

While mobile apps are fantastic tools, there’s still a lot of value in enrolling in a Japanese language course at a reputable institute. Institutes across India and around the world offer both online and offline modes of learning, providing a structured curriculum, experienced instructors, and opportunities for immersion that apps alone may not offer. 

Learn Japanese Online with TLS – The Best Japanese Language Institute

If you're looking to learn Japanese online, TLS is one of the top institutes offering high-quality online Japanese courses. Whether you're aiming for basic language skills or preparing for the Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT), TLS offers a comprehensive range of courses to suit every learner’s needs.

At TLS, we understand that not everyone can attend offline classes due to various commitments such as jobs, personal responsibilities, or distance. That’s why we offer flexible online learning options that allow you to learn Japanese from the comfort of your home, at your own pace. 

Our online courses are designed to cater to both beginners and advanced learners, making it easy for anyone to start or continue their Japanese learning journey.

Click Here for any Query about Online Japanese Language Course 

Learn Japanese Online with TLS: Course Features

• Structured Lessons for beginners to advanced levels
• Access to Native Japanese Teachers for authentic language learning
• Personalized Doubt Classes to ensure clarity on every topic
• 24/7 Access to Course Materials, so you can learn at your own pace
• Practice Tests to help you get ready for the JLPT exams
• Interactive Sessions with regular assessments and feedback
• Affordable Course Options that fit your budget