Are you eager to learn Japanese but unsure Where To Start With Learning Japanese? This guide from LEARNS.EDU.VN will walk you through the essential steps, from mastering hiragana and katakana to understanding kanji and diving into grammar. We’ll provide the resources and techniques needed to build a solid foundation for Japanese fluency. By the end of this article, you’ll be equipped with the best way to learn Japanese and a clear roadmap for your language journey. Dive in and discover effective Japanese language learning strategies.
1. Zero Knowledge of Japanese: Building Your Foundation
If you’re starting with absolutely no prior knowledge of Japanese, don’t worry! This section is designed for true beginners. These initial steps are crucial as they lay the groundwork for your future progress. A deliberate and careful approach at this stage will make everything that follows much easier. This foundational work is necessary to avoid the “intermediate wall” that many learners encounter. While it may feel slow initially, taking your time now will lead to greater speed and efficiency later on.
1.1. Learn to Read Hiragana
Estimated Time: 1 day to 1 week
Hiragana is one of Japan’s alphabets. It’s one of the three Japanese writing systems you need to learn to read. While there’s also katakana and kanji, hiragana is the best place to start.
Most beginner Japanese textbooks and resources assume you can read hiragana. Traditionally, classrooms spend an entire month on it. But you can learn to read it faster using the guide below, which employs mnemonics and worksheets designed to accelerate your learning and recall.
Do it: Learn How to Read Hiragana
This guide emphasizes reading hiragana, not writing it. While handwriting is important, focusing on it now will slow you down considerably. Typing is more practical in modern contexts, so you’ll learn to type hiragana (as well as katakana and kanji) instead. This approach, combined with mnemonics and worksheets, can help you read hiragana in just a day or two, rather than a month.
To move on, ensure you can read all hiragana characters, including contractions, without assistance. Speed will come with practice.
Note: Before starting, read “Japanese Pronunciation, Part 1” (below).
1.2. Basic Japanese Pronunciation
Estimated Time: N/A
Good pronunciation begins with hiragana. While hiragana alone won’t teach you everything, it’s key to understanding how Japanese words sound. It also lays the foundation for a native-sounding accent, covering approximately 80% of what you need to know.
For the remaining 20%, consult a guide on the basics of Japanese pronunciation. Before learning hiragana, read up to the “Japanese Sounds and Your Mouth” section. After mastering hiragana reading, revisit the section to learn about “Important Differences.” This covers sounds that don’t exist in English. Ensure you can pronounce all hiragana characters correctly before proceeding.
Investing time in pronunciation at the beginning is crucial. Don’t avoid it because it’s difficult. Early work in speaking and hearing these sounds will help you navigate future complexities and exceptions.
1.3. Learning to Type Hiragana in Japanese
Estimated Time: 1-2 days (or less)
Prerequisite: Ability to read hiragana
Now that you can read and pronounce hiragana, it’s time to learn how to type it on your computer or smartphone.
Begin by installing a Japanese keyboard. You can do this using an IME (input method editor). Here’s how to add an IME to your devices:
Read: How to Install a Japanese Keyboard
Next, learn to type. Focus on the hiragana portion of this guide:
Read: How to Type in Japanese
Typing in hiragana is straightforward. Once you’re confident, including with contractions and small characters, move on to kanji.
1.4. Understanding the Concept of “Kanji”
Estimated Time: N/A
This Japanese learning method emphasizes learning to read kanji early, right after mastering hiragana.
Here’s why:
- Kanji is the most difficult aspect of learning Japanese. Postponing it doesn’t help. Kanji is used extensively, making it crucial. Ignoring it reduces your learning quality.
- Beginners spend much time looking up kanji and vocabulary, slowing down grammar learning. Learning some kanji and vocabulary first makes grammar faster and easier.
- Kanji leads to vocabulary, vocabulary aids communication, and grammar connects vocabulary. Without vocabulary, grammar becomes abstract and difficult.
- There’s an effective method for learning kanji beyond rote memorization.
Taking a kanji-vocabulary-first approach helps you use Japanese quickly. Though it may seem slow initially, you’ll progress faster, overcome the “intermediate wall,” and reduce burnout.
Understand what kanji is and how it’s used. Read this guide:
Read: On’yomi vs. Kun’yomi: What’s the Difference?
Once you understand Japanese kanji readings, you’ll be ready to learn kanji.
1.5. Beginning Kanji & Stockpiling Kanji Knowledge
Estimated Time: 1-3 months
Important note: Start learning katakana at the same time as this step.
When learning kanji, understand these points:
- “Learn kanji” means learning the kanji’s most important English meaning(s) and Japanese reading(s). Some kanji have many readings. English meanings are translations and don’t always match the Japanese meaning. Narrow down to the most important meanings and readings first—those used 80-90% of the time. The remaining meanings and readings will come via vocabulary and practice.
- As you learn kanji, learn vocabulary that uses those kanji. This solidifies kanji concepts and teaches you the remaining kanji readings.
- Aim to know around 2,000 of the most important kanji and 6-7,000 vocabulary words that use them. This groundwork will allow you to read almost anything or decipher the rest on your own.
Aim to learn 20-30 kanji and ~100 vocabulary words that use those kanji each week. Use the Radicals Mnemonic Method to speed up memorization.
Read: Learn kanji with the radicals mnemonic method
Learn how to narrow down kanji meanings and readings to the most important ones, use radicals and mnemonics, and create an effective routine.
Use these techniques to create a weekly study plan for free. Or, for a complete package, consider WaniKani.
When you begin learning vocabulary, read the Basic Japanese Pronunciation Guide from the Pronouncing Vocabulary section to the end. Learn about long and short vowel sounds, double consonants, dropping sounds, and pitch accent.
Read: Basic Japanese Pronunciation Guide
1.6. Learn to Read Katakana
Estimated Time: 2 days to 2 weeks
Prerequisite: Ability to read hiragana
Learning katakana is similar to learning hiragana. Use this mnemonic-based guide and you’ll likely be able to read katakana in a few days.
Aim to read all katakana by the time you start unlocking vocabulary. Use extra time while learning kanji to study katakana.
Do it: Learn to Read Katakana
Katakana tends to give learners more trouble than hiragana. However, simply being able to read katakana is enough. There will be plenty of opportunities to improve—just know that reading katakana may not come as quickly as hiragana. Focus your limited time and energy there.
1.7. Learning to Type Katakana
Estimated Time: 1-2 hours
Prerequisites: Ability to type hiragana, ability to read katakana
Katakana is similar to hiragana, making typing relatively easy. Refer to the katakana section of the typing guide and get started.
Read: How to Type Katakana
1.8. Learning to Type Kanji
Estimated Time: 1-2 hours
Prerequisite: Ability to read 20-30 kanji
Before starting, ensure you can read a handful of kanji. Then, learn how to type in kanji using the kanji section of this guide. Read to the end for additional tips and tricks.
Read: How to type kanji
Now you know how to type everything in Japanese! With practice, you’ll be able to type as naturally as you type in your native language.
To continue using this knowledge, you’ll need to know more kanji and vocabulary. Reach level 10 on WaniKani (or know around 300 kanji and 1,000 vocabulary words using your own method) before moving on.
Consciously mimic the vocabulary audio and think about pitch accent. This will prepare you for sentences later.
With this kanji knowledge (and good pronunciation), grammar will come quickly. The time you put into kanji, vocabulary, and pronunciation will pay off.
2. The Beginner of Japanese
At this point, you have a strong base of kanji and vocabulary. If you are using WaniKani, you should be at level 10 or above. If you are doing kanji on your own, or using another resource, you should know the most common meaning and reading of around 300 kanji and 1,000 vocabulary words. With this knowledge, you’re going to go through some options for how you can learn Japanese grammar. This includes using a textbook as well as creating your own grammar program from scratch.
2.1. Using a Spaced Repetition System For Vocabulary
Estimated Time: 2-4 hours + ongoing
You’ll learn vocabulary from your kanji studies. Ensure you have a good system in place. You will also need to learn words that don’t use kanji, like grammatical terms. Learn how and when to introduce vocabulary words from outside your kanji studies into your routine. You need a good system in place to record, store, handle, and process these words.
2.1.1. Collecting Vocabulary
Find vocabulary in your Japanese textbook. These might be words without kanji or words you didn’t learn in WaniKani. Once you’ve found words that you want to learn, collect them. Put them in a spreadsheet, a tool like Evernote or OneNote, or write them down. Ensure these new words are easily accessible.
2.1.2. Processing
Create a habit to go through your list and put them into your SRS of choice daily, weekly, or monthly.
2.1.3. Adding the Words to Your SRS
If you’ve been using WaniKani, you’ve been using a “Spaced Repetition System” (a.k.a. SRS). In this guide, you’ll learn how to collect vocabulary and add them to your SRS.
Read: Spaced Repetition and Japanese: The Definitive Guide
For non-kanji vocabulary, use the Keyword Mnemonics method.
Read: Keyword Mnemonic Method for Learning Japanese Vocabulary
Let your kanji studies give you most of your vocabulary. When stray street vocabulary does start coming up, send it through the vocabulary process you’ve built.
2.2. Beginning Japanese Grammar
Estimated Time: Varies
It’s (finally!) time to start learning grammar. If you followed this guide, you’re likely 2-4+ months into your Japanese studies. You should know around 300 kanji and 1,000 Japanese vocabulary words, and your pronunciation should be improving.
When learning something new, you should already know 80% of it. Each new thing you learn should be a 20% (or smaller) incremental step. Most people spend much time looking up unfamiliar words.
When learning grammar with a textbook, prior vocabulary knowledge brings you to that 80%, leaving just the grammar to focus on.
If your Japanese vocabulary knowledge doesn’t get you to 80% (or more), there are a few possible reasons:
- You don’t know enough vocabulary: Go back to your kanji/vocabulary studies or pull the vocabulary from the resource, study them, and then come back.
- You don’t know enough grammar: If a sentence contains three separate grammar points and you don’t know two of them, you’re dipping way below that ideal 80%.
- The sentence is very short: Knowing 66% of a three-piece phrase or 75% of a four-piece phrase is acceptable.
2.3. A Beginner’s Japanese Textbook / Program
Estimated Time: 1-3 months
Apply the 80% philosophy to a beginner textbook. Select a textbook or program that fits your learning style.
Focus on working through the textbook from beginning to end. This will create a strong foundation of Japanese.
It will take around 2-6 months to get through most beginner Japanese textbooks, depending on time spent and grammar method. Go through multiple textbooks simultaneously, if you want. If you don’t understand a concept, find other ways to get your questions answered.
2.4. Answering Your Japanese Language Questions
As you go through your textbook, you’re going to run into things you don’t understand. When you do, you can look it up. This guide will tell you how to find anything Japanese language-related:
Continue to use WaniKani (or your chosen kanji learning method) and keep your kanji-vocabulary knowledge ahead of your grammar knowledge at all times.
2.5. Alternative: Learning Japanese Grammar On Your Own
Estimated Time: 1-3 months
By gathering all that kanji and vocabulary knowledge you’re making it possible to learn grammar on your own.
2.5.1. Order of Learning
Follow the “know 80% of all new things” philosophy.
2.5.2. Fact-Checking / Cross-Referencing
When you learn a new piece of Japanese grammar, read explanations from multiple sources.
2.5.3. Do the Work
If you’re studying Japanese grammar on your own, it’s even more important to do the work. Make measurable progress.
2.5.4. Sometimes, You’ll Just Get Stuck
If you get stuck, consider finding a professional to help.
2.6. Optional: Finding A Japanese Language Tutor
Estimated Time: N/A
Consider finding a Japanese language tutor, especially if you can’t answer your questions on your own. With a foundation of kanji and vocabulary, you can focus on speaking, listening, and getting answers.
Focus on things only a tutor can help you with, like speaking, thinking, and explaining nuances.
2.7. Suggested Books and Resources
Estimated Time: N/A
As you’re moving along, there’s always going to be more to learn. Reference books are helpful. If you’re only going to buy one, consider the “Basic” book from the Dictionary of Japanese Grammar series.
Read: The Best Japanese Reference Books & Dictionaries
With any skill, focus on the things you’re worst at.
3. Intermediate Level Japanese
The “intermediate” level of Japanese is the worst. Most people give up here due to drying resources and plateaus. Without guidance, it feels impossible to progress.
The thing that makes the intermediate level the hardest is your competence. This is the consciously incompetent stage.
Here’s how to get through it:
- Recognize this stage exists and know that you’re supposed to feel these uncomfortable feelings.
- You’ve already been preparing for this moment. This guide has prepped you to get through this fairly quickly. You know more kanji and vocabulary than any intermediate-level Japanese language student ought to. This slows you down in the beginning so that you can blast through this wall.
Start on some intermediate material and ensure you’re good on 100% of the previous sections. You must have a good foundation to jump off of.
FAQ: Your Questions About Learning Japanese Answered
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What is the first step in learning Japanese?
- The first step is to learn hiragana, one of the three Japanese writing systems. This will lay the foundation for reading and pronunciation. LEARNS.EDU.VN offers a comprehensive guide to help you master hiragana quickly.
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How long does it take to become fluent in Japanese?
- Fluency varies, but it generally takes between 600 to 2200 hours of study. Factors include your native language, study methods, and dedication. Consistent practice and immersion are key.
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Is Japanese hard to learn for English speakers?
- Japanese can be challenging due to its different writing system, grammar, and pronunciation. However, with the right resources and a structured approach, it’s definitely achievable. LEARNS.EDU.VN provides resources to make the process smoother.
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What are the best resources for learning Japanese?
- The best resources include textbooks, language learning apps, online courses, and immersion experiences. WaniKani is great for kanji, and various apps can aid with vocabulary and grammar.
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How can I improve my Japanese listening skills?
- Improve listening skills by watching Japanese movies and TV shows, listening to podcasts, and practicing with native speakers. Start with subtitles and gradually reduce your reliance on them.
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Should I learn kanji or vocabulary first?
- This guide recommends learning kanji early. Kanji leads to vocabulary, aids communication, and makes grammar easier.
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How important is pronunciation in learning Japanese?
- Pronunciation is crucial. Start with hiragana and focus on the basics of Japanese pronunciation early on to avoid developing bad habits.
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What is the best way to memorize kanji?
- Use the Radicals Mnemonic Method. Break down kanji into smaller components and create memorable stories or associations.
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How do I find a good Japanese tutor?
- Look for tutors with experience in teaching Japanese to foreigners, positive reviews, and a structured teaching approach. Focus on speaking, listening, and answering questions rather than rote memorization.
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What should I do if I get stuck at the intermediate level?
- Recognize that the intermediate level is challenging and ensure you have a strong foundation in kanji and vocabulary. Explore new learning resources and consider seeking guidance from a tutor or language partner.
Ready to Embark on Your Japanese Learning Journey?
Learning Japanese can be a rewarding experience, opening doors to new cultural understanding and personal growth. Whether you’re interested in mastering the basics or achieving fluency, LEARNS.EDU.VN is here to support you every step of the way.
Discover more valuable resources and in-depth courses at LEARNS.EDU.VN to enhance your learning experience.
For further assistance, feel free to contact us:
- Address: 123 Education Way, Learnville, CA 90210, United States
- WhatsApp: +1 555-555-1212
- Website: learns.edu.vn
Start your Japanese adventure today and unlock a world of new opportunities!
