Learning a new language can be a challenging yet rewarding experience. Japanese, in particular, is a language that has gained popularity through the years, not only because of the booming Japanese pop culture but also due to the increasing opportunities in Japan-related industries.

One of the most common methods of learning Japanese is through formal classes offered by language schools or universities. However, these classes can be costly, and schedules may not always fit your availability. This is where self-taught learning comes in. With the advancements in technology and the abundance of resources available online, self-taught learning has become a popular alternative to formal classes.

Here are some tips on how to start learning Japanese self-taught:

1. Start with Learning Hiragana and Katakana

Hiragana and Katakana are the two Japanese writing systems used for phonetic characters. These are essential building blocks to understanding and learning the Japanese language. Learning these two writing systems can be relatively easy compared to the Chinese characters (kanji), which will be discussed later.

Resources such as online apps, flashcards or worksheets allow you to practice writing and reading hiragana and katakana at your own pace.

2. Immerse Yourself in Japanese Media

Watching Japanese shows and listening to Japanese music can aid in improving your listening and comprehension skills. Even watching Japanese animation with subtitles can be a helpful supplement to your learning. The use of conversation-based language between characters in Japanese media allows listeners to grasp the natural sound and rhythm of the language.

There are also apps available where you can record yourself speaking and listen back during playback to analyze your pronunciation, allowing you to adjust until you get it right.

3. Utilize Online Resources

The internet is abundant with resources for self-taught Japanese learners. Online courses, paid or free, websites and forums, as well as multimedia apps, supply everything from the basics to the more advanced language learnings. One such resource is Duolingo, a popular language-learning app known for its gamified interface.

Reddit has a community dedicated to learning Japanese where users can seek advice, share resources and read about others’ experiences in learning the language. Some websites not only offer lessons but provide practice exercises complete with answer keys, such as the Japan Foundation’s Minna no Nihongo.

4. Practice Writing Kanji

Kanji is perhaps the most daunting aspect of learning Japanese, yet it is an essential part of the language. Kanji are Chinese characters that have been modified to suit the Japanese language. There are thousands of Kanji characters to learn, with each character representing a concept or idea.

To learn kanji, writing practice drills, flashcards and workbooks can be found online. Some resources include WaniKani, an online platform that uses a spaced repetition system to learn and memorize Kanji characters gradually.

5. Find a Language Exchange Partner

Having someone to practice Japanese with is a great way to improve your skills. A language exchange partner is someone who speaks the language you want to learn and wants to learn the language you already speak. Through conversation, both parties get to practice and improve their language skills.

Websites such as My Language Exchange and italki provide learners with the opportunity to connect with native speakers, ranging from one-on-one conversation to group meetups.

To Conclude

Learning Japanese is an exciting journey, but it requires dedication and patience. Self-taught learning provides flexibility and convenience to learners, but it also requires self-discipline and motivation. By following these tips, learners can navigate the challenges of self-teaching and gain a solid foundation in the Japanese language.

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