Start with the writing basics
Japanese has three scripts: hiragana, katakana, and kanji. For beginners, focus on the basics first: learn hiragana, then katakana. Romaji (Latin letters) can help in the first week, but switch to kana quickly so your reading grows from day one.
Use free printable PDF charts with stroke order. Write each character three to five times while saying the sound out loud. This links your hand, eyes, and ears, and makes learning faster. Aim for 46 hiragana in one to two weeks, then repeat with katakana.
When you meet kanji, learn them slowly with meaning, reading, and a simple example word. Don’t rush. Even five kanji a week adds up.
- Free tools: printable hiragana/katakana PDF charts, stroke-order apps, kana quizzes
- Goal idea: 10 new kana per day + 5-minute review
- Tip: label objects at home with kana sticky notes
Build core vocab and grammar
Vocabulary gives you power to speak. Start with everyday words: numbers, time, food, family, places, and common verbs like “to eat,” “to go,” and “to see.” Use spaced repetition flashcards to review a little every day. Many online decks for beginners are free.
For grammar, learn the polite form first (desu/masu) and key particles: wa, ga, o, ni, de, no, and to. Read a short explanation, then make your own simple sentences. Writing one or two lines daily is better than a long session once a week.
Use a free online dictionary to check example sentences and audio. Save your favorite phrases to a PDF or notebook so you can review anywhere.
- Core topics: greetings, questions (what/where/when), days, directions, shopping
- Free resources: Anki or other SRS decks, beginner grammar guides, online dictionaries
- Practice: 10 new words + 2 grammar points per week
Train listening and speaking
Listening daily tunes your ear to rhythm and pitch. Choose short, slow audio made for beginners: easy podcasts, graded dialogues, and children’s songs. Shadowing (speaking along with the audio) improves pronunciation and confidence fast.
Speak out loud every day, even by yourself. Describe what you are doing: “I drink water,” “I go to the station,” “It is 7 o’clock.” If you feel shy, start with whispering, then increase volume. Record yourself to hear progress.
Join free online language exchanges. Prepare a simple script so you can relax: self-introduction, hobbies, and one question to ask your partner.
- Daily routine: 10–15 minutes of slow audio + shadowing
- Tools: beginner podcasts, YouTube lessons with subtitles, speech-to-text for feedback
- Speaking prompts: introduce yourself, order food, ask for prices, give directions
Read smart as a beginner
Reading builds vocabulary quickly if you choose the right level. Start with kana-only or kana + furigana texts so you don’t get stuck. Short dialogues and graded readers made for beginners are perfect. Many are available free online or as downloadable PDF samples.
Use a pop-up dictionary or a reading app that lets you tap a word for meaning and audio. Keep a small reading log: title, new words, one sentence you liked. This keeps your learning active, not passive.
Repeat readings. The second and third pass feel easier, and this confidence helps you keep going.
- Pick A1–A2 texts: simple dialogues, NHK-style easy news, kids’ stories
- Method: read once for gist, again for details, once more for pronunciation
- Create a mini PDF reader: copy short texts and add your notes
Make a free study plan you’ll keep
Consistency beats intensity. Build a plan that fits your life. Short daily sessions (15–30 minutes) are better than long weekend marathons. Mix skills: a little reading, a little listening, and a quick review of vocab and grammar.
Use simple goals: “I will study 20 minutes, 5 days a week,” “I will learn 50 new words this month,” “I will finish the hiragana chart by Friday.” Track with a calendar or habit app. Check off boxes to stay motivated.
Combine free online tools with printable PDFs to study anywhere. Keep materials light and simple so it’s easy to start every day.
- Weekly plan: M/W/F vocab + grammar, Tu/Th listening + speaking, weekend review
- Micro-goals: 1 dialogue, 1 grammar point, 10 words, 1 recording of yourself
- Review rule: yesterday’s material first, then new content
FAQ
- Can I learn Japanese for free by myself?
- Yes. Use free online courses, beginner podcasts, flashcard apps, and printable PDF charts. Make a simple plan, practice daily, and speak out loud to yourself.
- How long to reach A2 level?
- With 20–30 minutes a day, many learners reach A2 in 6–9 months. Progress depends on consistent review of basics: kana, core vocabulary, and polite-form grammar.
- Should beginners use romaji?
- Use romaji only in the first days. Switch to hiragana and katakana quickly so your reading and pronunciation improve from the start.
- What free PDFs are useful?
- Hiragana/katakana charts with stroke order, basic verb and particle summaries, common phrase lists, and printable graded readers or vocabulary decks.
- How do I practice speaking if I’m shy?
- Shadow audio, talk to yourself about daily actions, record short messages, then try short online exchanges with a script. Small steps build confidence.