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Are you dreaming of speaking Japanese? Stuck choosing the right Japanese learning app? Many students and language lovers face the same problem. You can explore the best Japanese learning apps that make the journey simple and fun.
Well, the internet is full of Japanese language learning apps, but not all of them help you learn fast or keep things simple.
You don’t need to sit in a boring class or carry heavy books anymore. With just your phone, you can practice words, grammar, and even speak with AI tutors.
If you are a student, traveler, anime lover, or professional, there is a perfect app waiting for you. These top apps to learn Japanese offer informative lessons, games, audio practice, and live tutors. You can study anytime, anywhere, at your own speed.
If you want to find the best apps to learn Japanese in 2025, you’re in the right place. We’ll help you. You can quickly search for a Japanese learning app that matches your needs. Get ready to learn Japanese the smart, simple, and fun way!
10 Best apps to Learn Japanese in 2025
Each app has its own unique features, so it’s important to pick the one that best matches your learning style and goals. See our top 10 Japanese language learning apps. Use these apps to learn Japanese vocabulary, grammar, speaking, listening, and more—all in easy steps.
Have a quick look at the 10 top apps to learn Japanese in 2025.
1. Duolingo
Duolingo is one of the most popular apps to learn Japanese. You can get short lessons, pictures, and quizzes. Moreover, you can practice new words, basic grammar, and simple sentences every day.
Pros
- You can use Duolingo for free, so you don’t need to pay to start learning.
- The app makes learning enjoyable with rewards for daily practice.
- The app is simple to use.
Cons
- There’s not much focus on helping you speak Japanese out loud.
- As you get better, the lessons may feel too easy and don’t go very deep.
Best for: Beginners and casual learners who want to start learning Japanese.
Features: Duolingo has a streak system, vocabulary practice, grammar basics, and listening exercises to help you improve.
Price: Free (Premium Plus costs $7–10 per month).
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.5/5)
In short, Duolingo is a fun way to start learning Japanese, especially for beginners. However, it may not be enough if you want to speak or learn more advanced Japanese.
2. LingoDeer
LingoDeer is a great choice if you’re serious about learning Japanese and want to understand more than just words and phrases. It teaches you how to build sentences, read Japanese scripts, and truly grasp the essence of the language.
It explains the rules clearly and simply, which helps you understand why the language works the way it does. You’ll also learn how to read and write in hiragana, katakana, and kanji—step by step.
Pros:
- LingoDeer breaks down grammar rules in a way that’s easy to understand.
- It is great for serious learners.
- Also, it covers writing systems
Cons:
- Some features cost more
- Not as interactive as Duolingo
Best suited for: Learners who want to build a strong foundation in grammar and understand how the language works.
Features: Grammar notes, offline lessons, native speaker audio, and step-by-step writing practice.
Price: $11.99/month or $59.99/year.
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.6/5)
3. Busuu
Busuu is a Japanese speaking practice app with interactive lessons. What makes it unique is its community. Apart from that, native speakers correct your writing and recordings.
Pros:
- Real feedback from Japanese speakers.
- Covers speaking, writing, listening, and reading.
- Professional lesson structure.
Cons:
- Some features are locked in a free plan.
- Works best with internet connection.
Best for: Learners who want feedback from natives.
Features: Conversation practice, vocabulary app tools, grammar training, AI study plan.
Price: Free basic, Premium $13/month.
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.5/5)
4. HelloTalk
HelloTalk is like a Japanese language tutor app in your pocket. You can chat directly with native speakers. Also, the app has translation and correction tools, so you can improve as you talk.
Pros:
- Talk to real people.
- Built-in grammar correction.
- Voice and video calls available.
Cons:
- Can be distracting like social media.
- No structured course.
Best for: Speaking practice and cultural exchange.
Features: Text chat, voice calls, translation tool, correction system.
Price: Free with ads, VIP $7–15/month.
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.4/5)
5. Rosetta Stone
It is one of the oldest Japanese language learning apps. It focuses on immersion. Instead of translating, you can learn by pictures, sounds, and repetition.
Pros:
- You will get strong listening and speaking practice.
- Long history of teaching success.
- It is good for pronunciation.
Cons:
- Expensive compared to others.
- Sometimes you can feel slow for fast learners.
Best for: Learners who want immersion like real life.
Features: Interactive lessons, speech recognition, offline use.
Price: $11.99/month or lifetime plan at $299.
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.3/5)
6. Tandem
Tandem is a Japanese speaking practice app that connects learners with tutors and language partners worldwide. You can practice with voice notes, calls, or text messages.
Pros:
- One-on-one practice with natives.
- Option to hire certified tutors.
- Flexible and fun.
Cons:
- Free version limited.
- You needs discipline to stay consistent.
Best for: Learners who love real conversations.
Features: Language partner search, AI correction, professional tutors.
Price: Free with ads, Premium $6.99/month.
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.5/5)
7. Memrise
Memrise is a Japanese vocabulary app that makes learning easy with flashcards, images, and videos. It uses spaced repetition so you remember words longer.
Pros:
- Great for memorizing vocabulary.
- Real videos from Japanese speakers.
- Fun daily practice.
Cons:
- Less focus on grammar.
- Needs extra resources for full learning.
Best for: Vocabulary building and listening practice.
Features: Flashcards, real-life videos, listening tests.
Price: Free basic, Premium $8.99/month.
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.6/5)
8. Mondly
Overview:
Mondly is a Japanese learning app with AI features. It offers daily lessons, chatbot conversations, and even AR/VR experiences.
Pros:
- You will get modern AI and chatbot learning.
- It is good for speaking and listening.
- Attractive design.
Cons:
- Short lessons only.
- Not deep for advanced learners.
Best for: Tech-savvy learners who like AI practice.
Features: Chatbot tutor, AR lessons, speech recognition.
Price: $9.99/month or $47.99/year.
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.4/5)
9. FluentU
FluentU uses real Japanese videos like news, music, and movies. It’s like learning Japanese while watching YouTube. Additionally, subtitles and definitions appear as you watch.
Pros:
- Real-world Japanese exposure.
- Great listening and reading practice.
- Fun and engaging.
Cons:
- The price is quite high.
- Not very structured.
Best for: Learners who love learning through media.
Features: Interactive subtitles, word lists, quizzes.
Price: $29.99/month.
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.5/5)
10. italki
italki is a Japanese language tutor app where you can book one-on-one classes. Tutors are available for all levels—from beginner to advanced.
Pros:
- Real human tutors.
- Flexible schedule.
- Wide range of prices.
Cons:
- No free version available.
- Quality depends on the tutor chosen.
Best for: Learners who want personal guidance.
Features: Video lessons, certified tutors, customized courses.
Price: $5–$20 per lesson.
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.7/5)
FAQ About Best Japanese Learning Apps
What is the best app to learn Japanese fast?
Duolingo is best for beginners, but italki is faster if you want real conversation practice.
Are there free Japanese learning apps?
Yes. Duolingo, HelloTalk, and Memrise have free versions. They are great for beginners.
Which apps are best for Japanese grammar?
LingoDeer and Busuu are excellent
Can I learn Japanese only with apps?
Apps can take you far. But for advanced levels, combine apps with books, tutors, and practice with natives.
What are the best apps for speaking Japanese?
HelloTalk, Tandem, and italki are the best Japanese speaking practice apps in 2025.
Conclusion
Nowadays, learning Japanese no longer feels impossible. With these best Japanese learning apps, you can start today, even if you are a beginner. Each app offers something unique—Duolingo for fun lessons, LingoDeer for grammar, HelloTalk for conversations, and italki for real tutors.
Choose the app that matches your goals.
- Do you want quick vocabulary? Try Memrise.
- Want AI support? Go for Mondly.
- Prefer full immersion? Rosetta Stone is your friend.
No matter your choice, the key is consistency. Practice every day, even if it’s just 10 minutes. Step by step, you’ll see progress in reading, writing, listening, and speaking.
So, pick one of these top apps to learn Japanese in 2025, download it today, and begin your journey.
In no time, you’ll be enjoying anime without subtitles, traveling in Japan with confidence, and even chatting with locals like a pro.