If you’ve ever wanted to learn Japanese but didn’t know where to start—or you're heading to Japan and need quick travel phrases—this guide has you covered. We break down the 7 best apps to learn Japanese in 2025 based on real needs: speaking skills, grammar, travel scenarios, and writing. From LingoDeer for beginners to Pimsleur for practical conversations, there’s something here for everyone.
Ever thought about learning Japanese but instantly felt overwhelmed by kanji, grammar rules, and figuring out where to even begin? Or maybe you're planning a trip to Japan and just want to know how to say more than "Konnichiwa" and "Sushi." I’ve been there.
Whether you're prepping for a vacation, diving into anime with subs off, or trying to impress your Japanese coworkers, having the right app can make a huge difference.
So today, we’re walking through the 7 best apps to learn Japanese in 2025—tested, compared, and especially helpful for travelers.
Preview Table: Quick Comparison of the Best Apps to Learn Japanese
| App Name | Best For | Travel Readiness | Grammar & Writing | Speaking Practice | My Score (1-5) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| LingoDeer | Structured beginners | 🌟🌟🌟🌟 | 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 | 🌟🌟🌟 | 4.5 |
| Duolingo | Fun & casual learning | 🌟🌟🌟 | 🌟🌟🌟 | 🌟🌟 | 3.8 |
| Pimsleur | Audio-based learners | 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 | 🌟🌟 | 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 | 4.7 |
| HelloTalk | Talking with natives | 🌟🌟🌟🌟 | 🌟🌟 | 🌟🌟🌟🌟 | 4.6 |
| BunPro | Grammar geeks | 🌟🌟 | 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 | 🌟🌟 | 4.3 |
| Obenkyo | Writing & kanji drills | 🌟🌟 | 🌟🌟🌟🌟 | 🌟🌟 | 3.9 |
| Google Translate + Waygo | On-the-go travel use | 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 | 🌟🌟 | 🌟🌟 | 4.4 |
1. LingoDeer: Best App to Learn Japanese from Scratch
When people ask me "what is the best app to learn Japanese" if you’re starting at zero, LingoDeer is usually my go-to. Unlike Duolingo, LingoDeer was made specifically for Asian languages.
Why LingoDeer Works:
- Grammar is explained clearly (not just implied).
- Audio from native speakers.
- Travel vocab built-in (ordering food, asking directions, etc.)
LSI Keywords:
learn Japanese grammar app, Japanese for beginners app, offline Japanese learning
NearHub Tip:
If you're teaching or presenting Japanese lessons, a smart digital whiteboard can make those grammar lessons way more visual and fun!
2. Duolingo: Best Free Japanese Learning App
Duolingo's owl may haunt your dreams, but it makes daily practice super easy. It’s gamified, so it feels more like playing a game than studying.
Strengths:
- Great for vocab recall.
- Cute interface and fun reminders.
- Free (with ads).
Travel-Friendly?
Kinda. You’ll want a backup for grammar and survival phrases.
LSI Keywords:
free Japanese learning app, gamified language app, Duolingo Japanese review
Pro Tip:
Try using Duolingo alongside a camera whiteboard to draw kanji and practice visuals with friends.
3. Pimsleur: Best App to Learn Japanese for Travel
This is hands-down the best app to learn Japanese for travel. Pimsleur focuses on listening and speaking, exactly what you need on the ground in Tokyo or Osaka.
Why It Rocks:
- Audio-based. No screen needed.
- Lessons are practical and real-world.
- Built-in spaced repetition.
LSI Keywords:
Japanese travel phrases, Japanese conversation app, learn Japanese on the go
Extra Idea:
Use a meeting room smart board to run Pimsleur study groups or prep your team for business trips.
4. HelloTalk: Best App to Chat with Japanese Speakers
You learn fastest when you're actually talking to people. HelloTalk connects you with native speakers for real conversations.
Perks:
- Built-in corrections.
- You help them with English, they help you with Japanese.
- Feels like a social network.
Travel Use?
Yes! Practice phrases and culture tips before takeoff.
LSI Keywords:
language exchange app, talk to Japanese natives, Japanese speaking partner app
5. BunPro: Best App for Mastering Japanese Grammar
If you're serious about grammar, BunPro is your nerdy paradise. It breaks down every rule and reinforces it through smart spaced repetition.
Great For:
- JLPT prep
- Building sentence structure
- Real usage examples
Travel Application:
Indirect, but you'll sound more natural!
LSI Keywords:
JLPT grammar practice, grammar SRS, Japanese language rules app
6. Obenkyo: Best App to Learn Japanese Writing and Kanji
Obenkyo is all about the kanji, katakana, and hiragana. It’s not the flashiest app, but it does the job.
Highlights:
- Great writing practice.
- Customizable drills.
- Very lightweight and offline-friendly.
LSI Keywords:
learn kanji app, Japanese alphabet app, write Japanese characters app
7. Google Translate + Waygo: Best Combo App for Travel Survival
Not really "learning" apps, but lifesavers while traveling. Use Google Translate for conversations and Waygo to translate menus with your camera.
Perfect For:
- Restaurant survival
- Reading signs
- Casual convos
LSI Keywords:
Japanese travel translator app, menu reading app, instant Japanese translation
FAQs About the Best Apps to Learn Japanese
Q: What is the best app to learn Japanese for complete beginners?
A: LingoDeer or Duolingo are solid starts. LingoDeer offers more structure if you like clear grammar explanations.
Q: I’m traveling to Japan in 2 weeks. Which app should I use?
A: Pimsleur, hands down. Combine it with Google Translate + Waygo for emergency situations.
Q: Are these apps good enough to make me fluent?
A: They’ll take you far, but you’ll need real-world practice too. Apps are a starting point.
Q: Can I use these apps with my students or team?
A: Yes! Pair apps with a smart whiteboard to make interactive lessons or group sessions way more engaging.
Final Thoughts
So, what is the best app to learn Japanese? It really depends on your goal. For travel? Pimsleur. For deep grammar? BunPro. For free fun? Duolingo. For talking to real people? HelloTalk.
The good news: You don’t have to pick just one. Mix and match to fit your lifestyle.
Got a favorite that’s not on the list? I’d love to hear about it. And if you’re using these in a classroom or team setting, don’t forget how powerful a NearHub smart digital whiteboard can be to tie everything together.
🌟 Now go say "こんにちは" with confidence!
sales@nearhub.us
