New Year, New Motivation to Study Japanese Alongside taking Flexi Classes again, I want to find the best Japanese language learning apps to keep me motivated (and learning!). There are so many out there—Duolingo, Anki, Wanikani, LingoDeer, and more—and I’m not sure which one to focus on.
I’m particularly interested in:
Building a strong vocabulary base
Being able to practice simple grammar structures in different scenarios
Improving my listening and speaking skills
If you’ve used any apps that worked well for you, I’d love to hear your recommendations! Also, any tips on combining apps or other resources would be super helpful.
I’m also a beginner, but after a lot of research, I’ve settled on a structured approach to learning Japanese that I’m confident will help me pass the JLPT in the near future. Based on your goals, here are my app recommendations and how they fit into different aspects of learning:
Kanji
Kanji can be tricky since they have multiple readings (Kun’yomi and On’yomi) depending on the word. To build a strong Kanji foundation, I highly recommend WaniKani. It’s one of the most popular tools in the Japanese learning community because it uses an SRS (Spaced Repetition System) and flashcards to reinforce readings and meanings.
The first 10 levels are free, which cover most N5 Kanji.
The structured progression makes it easier to learn and retain characters.
Grammar
For grammar, I personally use BunPro, and I highly recommend it:
It provides detailed grammar explanations along with an SRS system to help with retention.
Unlike traditional flashcards, it requires user input, which prevents passive learning and reinforces memory better.
I personally use BunPro for vocabulary as well, since it integrates everything in one place.
Another option is Anki, but I find it less effective because it relies on self-assessment (“I know” / “I don’t know”), which can sometimes lead to overestimating what you actually remember.
BunPro, on the other hand, requires typing the answer, making it harder to “cheat” and improving retention.
Listening
For improving listening skills, I use a mix of structured and immersive content:
Over 1000 short episodes where he speaks slowly but naturally, making it perfect for beginners.
Immersive Listening (Fun & Natural Japanese): Terrace House (Netflix) – A Japanese reality show where six people live together.
Great for natural conversation exposure.
Unlike anime, the dialogue is realistic and polite, making it useful for practical learning.
Speaking
For speaking practice, I recommend Tandem (a mobile app):
You create a profile and match with native speakers who want to learn your language.
The app also has virtual conversation groups (salons) based on different languages, where you can practice speaking in beginner-friendly or native-level discussions.
Recap
Vocabulary: WaniKani for Kanji (free up to level 10). For general vocab, BunPro OR Anki—BunPro integrates with grammar and requires input, while Anki is free and customizable.
Grammar: BunPro (SRS + input-based) or Anki (free decks like Tae Kim’s).
Listening: Nihongo con Teppei (slow, beginner-friendly) or Terrace House (natural Japanese conversations).
Speaking: Tandem for language exchange and virtual conversation groups.
I hope this helps! Let me know if you have any questions.
Alongside taking Flexi Classes again, I want to find the best Japanese language learning apps to keep me motivated (and learning!). There are so many out there—Duolingo, Anki, Wanikani, LingoDeer, and more—and I’m not sure which one to focus on.
Beginner-Friendly Listening:
ありがとうございます 
