【 Recommended apps, novels, and textbooks for studying 】 Japanese for foreigners

update date 2024/06/15

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Selecting effective learning methods and materials is a major challenge for foreign residents learning Japanese. With the vast number of resources available for learning Japanese, it is not easy to find the right one for you.

Learning Japanese requires a wide range of skills, including vocabulary, grammar, reading, listening, and conversation. In addition to improving your Japanese language skills, it is also important to deepen your understanding of Japanese culture and society.

Therefore, in this article, we have compiled a list of useful information for all learners of Japanese. We have carefully selected resources from a variety of genres, including apps, textbooks, websites, novels, and more.

We will feature recommended materials for each level, from beginner to advanced, as well as resources specific to a particular purpose, such as preparation for Business Japanese or the Japanese Language Proficiency Test.

Use the resources listed in this article to find the learning method that is right for you.

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Required before studying abroad! Goandup Nihongo+, an online Japanese language learning service
- This page introduces services for foreigners who wish to study in Japan or improve their Japanese language skills to learn Japanese online.
Goandup Salon" community for foreigners living in Japan
- We introduce an online community where foreigners living in Japan can exchange information and interact with each other to support their life in Japan.
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- This section introduces study abroad support services that provide comprehensive support to foreigners who wish to study in Japan, from preparation for study abroad to living in Japan.
Where can I buy a prepaid SIM in Japan? Recommended SIM cards for foreigners are also introduced.
- How to purchase a prepaid SIM and suitable SIM cards for foreigners.
The Complete Guide to Pocket Wi-Fi in Japan for Foreigners!
- We introduce how to select and recommend pocket Wi-Fi products that can be used conveniently in Japan.
The Complete Guide to Finding a Job in Japan! Finding a job, changing jobs, and part-time work for foreigners
- This site provides foreigners who want to work in Japan with comprehensive information on how to find a job, recommended job sites, and other information necessary to find a job.

【 Study by field of study 】 Recommended application for foreigners who want to study Japanese.

Although there are many Japanese language learning apps available, the best apps differ depending on the field of study. Here we introduce three recommended apps in each of the five areas of notation, grammar, reading/listening comprehension, vocabulary, and dictionary.

(1) Three applications to learn Japanese notation

Learning Japanese notation, especially hiragana, katakana, and kanji, is the foundation of learning Japanese. Here we have carefully selected three applications that are useful for learning notation.

Part 1: Dr. Moku's Hiragana and Katakana

Dr. Moku's Hiragana and Katakana" is an application specialized for learning hiragana and katakana. By associating letters with shapes, learning can be advanced visually. In addition, the simple structure and cute illustrations make learning fun.

For more information: ▶︎ Dr. Moku's Hiragana and Katakana

No.2 Kanji Senpai

Kanji Senpai" is an application for learning Japanese vocabulary and kanji. The app employs an iterative learning system (SRS), which allows the user to efficiently memorize the various elements of each vocabulary word (meaning, pronunciation, reading, listening, writing, etc.).

For more information: ▶︎ Kanji Senpai

No.3 Yomiwa JP Dictionary

Yomiwa JP Dictionary" is an application that displays the reading and English translation of a difficult kanji by simply photographing it using the camera. There is also a real-time translation function.

For more information: ▶︎ Yomiwa JP Dictionary

(2) Three recommended applications for learning Japanese grammar

Many people may find Japanese grammar complex and difficult to learn. However, with the right apps, you can learn grammar efficiently. Here we introduce three of the best apps for learning grammar.

No.1 Duolingo

is a very popular language learning application around the world and is useful for learning Japanese. It allows you to learn like a game and helps you to understand Japanese grammar.

For more information: ▶︎ Duolingo

No.2 Bunpro

Bunpro" is an application specialized for learning Japanese grammar using the Spacing Repetition System (SRS). It provides efficient learning functions such as explanations of grammar items, example sentences, word searches, and reading comprehension practice.

For more information: ▶︎ Bunpro

No.3 Japanese Grammar

Japanese Grammar" is a grammar learning application for learners of Japanese, providing over 700 grammar points covering the JLPT levels (N5 to N1) from beginner to advanced.

For more information: ▶︎ Japanese Grammar

(3) Three recommended applications for learning Japanese reading and listening comprehension

Reading and listening comprehension in Japanese are essential skills for real communication. Here we have carefully selected three applications that will effectively improve your reading and listening comprehension skills.

No.1 NHK NEWS WEB EASY

provides news written in easy Japanese for beginner to intermediate level learners of Japanese. In addition to developing reading and listening comprehension skills in Japanese, students can also learn about the latest topics in Japan.

For more information: ▶︎ NHK NEWS WEB EASY

No.2 Todaii

Todaii" is an application that allows you to learn Japanese while reading news. News items are updated daily, ranging from simple to JLPT level-specific. Articles are accompanied by audio to help improve reading and listening comprehension.

For more information: ▶︎ Todaii

No.3 MONDO

provides information for Japanese language learners to gain an in-depth understanding of Japanese culture and society. All articles are written in Japanese and are suitable for intermediate to advanced level learners of Japanese.

For more information: ▶︎ MONDO

(4) Two recommended flashcard applications for learning Japanese words

Vocabulary has a significant impact on overall Japanese language proficiency. Here we introduce two flashcard applications that are ideal for learning Japanese vocabulary.

No.1 Anki

is a flashcard application for efficiently memorizing vocabulary, kanji, grammar, and more. You can also create your own flashcards to support your daily learning.

For more information: ▶︎ Anki.

No.2 Quizlet

allows students to learn Japanese vocabulary and grammar through flashcards, games, and other learning tools. You can even create your own cards to meet your individual learning needs.

For more information: ▶︎ Quizlet

(5) Three dictionary apps for learning Japanese

A dictionary is one of the indispensable tools for learning Japanese. Here we have carefully selected three dictionary applications that are ideal for learners of Japanese.

No.1 imiwa?

is a dictionary application with an English to Japanese translation function. It also explains the meaning of words and expressions in detail and provides example sentences.

For more information: ▶︎ imiwa?

No.2 Takoboto

Takoboto" is a dictionary application that supports both English-Japanese and Japanese-English directions. It offers multifunctional search options such as word search, kanji search, and grammar search.

For more information: ▶︎ Takoboto

No.3 Jsho Japanese Dictionary

Jsho Japanese Dictionary" is a dictionary application that provides English to Japanese translation, word meaning search, and kanji reading search. It also has a flashcard function to help you memorize words.

For more information: ▶︎ Jsho Japanese Dictionary

【 Textbooks and websites recommended for studying Japanese for foreigners by level and field 】

It is important to select appropriate textbooks and websites according to the level and objectives of the Japanese language learner. Here we introduce recommended textbooks and websites by level, from beginner to advanced, and by the fields of Business Japanese, Japanese Culture, and JLPT Preparation.

(1) Recommended textbooks for beginner-level learners of Japanese

For beginner learners of Japanese, an easy-to-understand, systematic textbook is essential. Here are two recommended textbooks for beginner-level Japanese language learners.

No.1 "Minna no Nihongo" series

Minna no Nihongo Series is a series of textbooks for beginner learners and is one of the most commonly used teaching materials in Japan. Students can learn basic Japanese expressions used in daily life and business situations.

For more information: ▶︎ Minna no Nihongo

No.2 "Genki" series

The Genki Series is the ideal textbook for beginning learners of Japanese to learn both conversation and grammar. Each lesson is based on a real life situation.

For more information: ▶︎ vigor

2. textbooks for intermediate and advanced learners

Intermediate to advanced learners of Japanese need to learn more advanced grammar, vocabulary, and expressions. Here we have carefully selected three textbooks recommended for intermediate and advanced students.

No.1 "Learning Japanese from the Intermediate Level

Designed for intermediate-level learners of Japanese, "Learning Japanese from the Intermediate Level" is an excellent resource for gaining an in-depth understanding of Japanese culture and society.

For more information: ▶︎ Japanese from intermediate level

No.2 "How to Use Japanese Expression Bunkei Jiten" (Dictionary of Japanese Expressions and Sentence Forms)

For advanced learners, the "Dictionary of Japanese Expressions and Sentence Patterns for Doubtful Occasions" is designed for more complex Japanese expressions and helps to further deepen one's Japanese language skills.

For more information: ▶︎ Japanese expression sentence pattern dictionary

No.3 "New Complete Mastery - Reading Comprehension Japanese Language Proficiency Test N1".

New Complete Master Reading Comprehension for the Japanese Language Proficiency Test N1 is a collection of reading comprehension training exercises for intermediate and advanced learners of Japanese, specifically designed to prepare students for the JLPT N1, but also useful for improving reading comprehension in general.

For more information: ▶︎ New Complete Mastery - Reading Comprehension Japanese Language Proficiency Test N1

(3) Recommended sites for studying Japanese online

With the proliferation of the Internet, there is a wealth of online resources for learning Japanese. Here we introduce two recommended websites for learning Japanese.

No.1 NHK World Japan

NHK World Japan's Japanese learning website offers reliable and practical learning materials. You can learn programs for learners of various levels, level-specific materials, basic character and grammar learning tools, conversational expressions and onomatopoeias, and easy Japanese for beginners.

For more information: ▶︎ Learn Japanese| NHK WORLD-JAPAN

No.2 JF Nihongo e-Learning Minato

JF Nihongo e-Learning Minato" is a Japanese language learning site provided by the Japan Foundation (JF). The site offers level-based learning courses, and video and manga-based teaching materials are also available. The site also has a community function where learners can interact with each other.

For more information: ▶︎ JF Nihongo e-Learning Minato

(4) Recommended books for studying business Japanese

To learn Japanese that can be used in business situations, you need specialized teaching materials. Here we have selected two books that we recommend for learning business Japanese.

No.1 "Working in Nihongo! 30 Hours of Business Japanese".

Working in Nihongo! 30 Hours of Business Japanese" is a book for learning Japanese for use in business situations. It includes content useful for communicating, building relationships, and performing tasks at work.

For more information: ▶︎ Working in Japanese! 30 Hours of Business Japanese

No. 2 "Intermediate Business Japanese for Foreigners through Case Studies

Business Japanese for Foreigners: Case Studies in Intermediate Level" is a book for foreigners who are seeking employment at Japanese companies. You can learn business customs and how to carry on a conversation based on the themes of situations that new employees may encounter.

For more information: ▶︎ Business Japanese for Foreigners - Case Studies in Intermediate Level

(5) Books to learn Japanese language and Japanese society and culture together

To deeply understand the Japanese language, knowledge of Japanese society and culture is also important. Here we introduce two books that allow you to learn Japanese language and culture at the same time.

No.1 "Japanese for the Japanese Mind".

Japanese for the Japanese Mind" is a book that explains commonly used Japanese words to deepen understanding of Japanese sensibilities and Japanese culture. You can learn about the values and beliefs behind the thoughts and actions of the Japanese people.

For more information: ▶︎ Japanese language to understand the heart of the Japanese people

No.2 "Marugoto: Japanese Language and Culture" series

The "Marugoto Japanese Language and Culture Series" focuses on communication in Japanese and cross-cultural understanding. The series is designed to familiarize students with the Japanese language and culture, allowing them to learn while having fun.

For more information: ▶︎ Marugoto: Japanese Language and Culture

(6) Recommended textbooks for JLPT preparation

Professional textbooks are essential for preparing for the Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT). Here we have carefully selected two textbooks that are ideal for JLPT preparation.

No. 1 "Best Comprehensive Collection of Questions for the JLPT Japanese-Language Proficiency Test".

JLPT Best Comprehensive Question Book is a comprehensive collection of questions from all subjects of the JLPT in one volume. The book contains a full range of questions (five times the test) with explanations on how to solve them, allowing students to steadily develop the skills necessary to pass the test.

For more information: ▶︎ JLPT Japanese Language Proficiency Test Best Comprehensive Questions

No.2 "JLPT Question Book Speed Master" series

JLPT Speed Master covers all levels of the JLPT, allowing you to prepare for the test in a short period of time. For each level, you can learn the grammar and vocabulary that appear frequently on the test.

For more information: ▶︎ JLPT Questions Speed Master

【5 novels for foreigners 】5 novels for studying Japanese

Reading Japanese novels is a wonderful way to not only improve your Japanese language skills, but also to deepen your understanding of Japanese culture. Here we have carefully selected five novels that we recommend to students of Japanese. These are excellent works, both in terms of language and content, that foreigners can enjoy while learning about the Japanese language and culture.

(1) Shinichi Hoshi, Bokko-chan

."Bokko-chan" is a collection of short stories by Shinichi Hoshi. Shinichi Hoshi is known as a science fiction writer, and his works are full of unique storytelling and surprises. Bokko-chan" is no exception. Although this collection of stories contains elements of science fiction and fantasy, some of the stories are set in contemporary Japanese society. This makes them interesting for foreign readers as well.

For more information: ▶︎ Bokko.

(2) Kenji Miyazawa, "The Restaurant of Many Orders

Kenji Miyazawa's "The Restaurant of Many Orders" is known for its fantastic story. The novel tells the story of a restaurant that cooks dishes ordered by customers. However, the order is very strange, and the cooks continue to make the ordered dishes despite their worries. This novel is one of the most famous in Japanese literature, and one can enjoy Kenji's unique writing style.

For more information: ▶︎ restaurant serving a variety of food to order

(3) Hiroshi Arikawa, Hankyu Train

Hankyu Train" by Hiroshi Arikawa is a coming-of-age novel about love. The story takes place on the Hankyu Railway, and the main character, a high school student, grows up while struggling with love. The novel realistically depicts contemporary Japanese society and the emotions of young people, making it a work that resonates with foreign readers as well.

For more information: ▶︎ Hankyu Railway

(4) Yuta Yokoyama, "Mr. Novel Miller.

Yuta Yokoyama's "Novel Mr. Miller" is a story with mystery elements. The main character, Mr. Miller, has a special ability to know people's secrets. As the incidents and mysteries he is involved in unfold, readers can solve the mysteries along with him. The novel is suspenseful and will be enjoyed by foreign readers.

For more information: ▶︎ Novel Miller.

(5) Haruki Murakami, Norwegian Wood

Haruki Murakami's "Norwegian Wood" is considered a masterpiece of contemporary Japanese literature. The novel follows the main character, a college student, as he grows up while dealing with friendship, love, and death. Haruki Murakami's unique writing style and philosophical themes are intertwined and deeply moving. Norwegian Wood" is also available as a beautiful paperback book.

For more information: ▶︎ Norwegian Forest

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summary

In this article, we have introduced a diverse range of resources useful to all learners of Japanese.

By utilizing carefully selected materials from various genres, including apps, textbooks, websites, and novels, you will be able to improve your Japanese language skills efficiently. From beginner to advanced levels, there is a learning tool for each level.

There are also resources that specialize in specific objectives, such as business Japanese or preparation for the Japanese Language Proficiency Test, so it is important to choose the one that best suits your learning goals.

The key to learning Japanese is to find the right materials and to work on them continuously. Please use the resources listed in this article to improve your Japanese language skills while having fun. We are rooting for you!

Also, please check out the following articles for a variety of learning resources, including YouTube channels, dramas, anime, manga, and more.