5 Great Free Apps for Studying Japanese

5 Great Free Apps for Studying Japanese 

Recommedation Supplement your Japanese studies with these apps that don't cost a thing!

Studying Japanese doesn’t have to feel overwhelming, expensive, or time-consuming. As someone who’s been through the struggle of memorizing kanji and grammar for the JLPT N1, I, Nikhil Kun, know how important the right tools are.

Luckily, there are so many free language-learning apps that can help you review vocabulary, kanji, grammar, and listening right from your phone — anytime, anywhere. Whether you’re preparing for the JLPT (Japanese-Language Proficiency Test), planning a trip to Japan, or just want to improve your Japanese step by step, these are my top free app picks that I’ve personally tried and recommend.

Below, we’ve rounded up five of the best free apps for studying Japanese perfect for beginners and intermediate learners alike.

1. Duolingo :The Gamified Way to Build a Foundation

If you’ve ever learned a new language online, you’ve probably seen that green owl. 🦉 
Duolingo makes Japanese learning fun and addictive with mini-lessons, bright visuals, and daily streaks that keep you motivated.

I actually started using Duolingo when I was reviewing my basic kana and beginner grammar — it’s light, colorful, and perfect for daily bite-sized study sessions.

Nikhil Kun approves! It’s especially great if you’re just starting out.

Pros: 
✅ Fun and addictive learning format 
✅ Covers all major writing systems 
✅ Great for daily short practice

Cons: 
⚠️ Not ideal for advanced learners or in-depth grammar study

2. Anki : Master Kanji and Vocabulary Through Spaced Repetition

This is the app I always tell serious learners to use. As an N1-certified learner, I can confidently say that Anki changed the way I memorize vocabulary and kanji.

It uses spaced repetition! a science-backed method that helps your brain retain words long-term. 
You can either download community decks like “JLPT N5 Vocabulary” or make your own flashcards with example sentences and audio.

It’s not the prettiest app, but it’s one of the most effective.

Nikhil Kun’s tip: Start with Core 2000 or JLPT decks, and review a little every day.

Pros: 
✅ Super effective for memorization 
✅ 100% free and customizable 
✅ Perfect for JLPT prep

Cons: 
⚠️ Slight learning curve 
⚠️ Simple UI

3. LingoDeer: Structured Lessons for Asian Languages

Unlike some apps built for European languages, LingoDeer is made specifically for Japanese, Korean, and Chinese learners. 
That’s why I like it — the lessons are clear, grammar-focused, and backed by good explanations.

When I first used it, I loved how the grammar notes actually made sense in Japanese context. It also has native speaker audio, which helps with pronunciation and natural rhythm.

Pros: 
✅ Great grammar explanations 
✅ Native speaker audio 
✅ Designed for Asian languages

Cons: 
⚠️ Some content locked in premium version 
⚠️ Not very interactive

4. Tae Kim’s Guide to Learning Japanese : Free Grammar Goldmine

If grammar ever feels confusing, this app will save you. 
Tae Kim’s Guide is basically a free textbook in app form and I used it constantly when preparing for my JLPT N2 and N1 exams.

It teaches grammar naturally through examples, not robotic translations, so you really understand how Japanese works in context.

Nikhil Kun recommends this one for anyone who wants to understand “why” Japanese sentences are built a certain way.

Pros: 
✅ 100% free, no ads 
✅ Beginner to advanced grammar coverage 
✅ Great examples and structure

Cons: 
⚠️ No practice quizzes 
⚠️ Requires self-discipline

5. NHK World Easy Japanese & NHK Easy News: Learn from Real Japanese

Once you’ve got some basics down, start reading and listening to real Japanese. 
NHK World Easy Japanese offers short practical lessons with audio and cultural tips, while NHK Easy News gives you daily news articles in simple Japanese with furigana.

I used it when I was N3 student, NHK Easy News sometimes to warm up my reading, it’s perfect for intermediate learners.

Nikhil Kun’s advice: Use this together with Anki — add new words from news articles into your flashcards.

Pros: 
✅ Real Japanese content 
✅ Free, high-quality, and updated daily 
✅ Great for reading & listening

Cons: 
⚠️ Less structured lessons

Bonus: Mix and Match for the Best Results

No single app can teach you everything. For the best results, try combining them:

• For beginners: Duolingo + Tae Kim’s Guide
• For vocabulary: Anki + LingoDeer
• For reading: NHK Easy News + Anki

That’s how I studied for the JLPT N1 ,building habits, mixing apps, and reviewing daily.

Nikhil Kun Thoughts

Learning Japanese is a journey, not a race. But it doesn’t have to cost money! These five free apps will help you stay consistent, motivated, and confident in your studies.

I’ve personally used each of them at different stages, and if I had to start over, I’d use them all again.

So pick your favorite, set a small daily goal, and get ready to level up your Japanese, one app session at a time. 頑張ってね！✨