Learning a new language is always an exciting challenge, but mastering it can be challenging without consistent practice. However, language learners can stay motivated and engaged by
using real-world resources that align with their interests. One such resource is Japanese news websites and apps, which offer a wealth of current events, culture, and entertainment content.
These platforms not only provide language practice but also help learners stay up-to-date on the latest happenings in Japan.
In this article, we’ll explore some of the top Japanese news websites and apps that are ideal for language practice.
1.NHK News Web Easy
NHK News Web Easy is a popular news website that provides news articles written in simple Japanese. The site targets Japanese learners and includes furigana above kanji to make it easy to read. Additionally, NHK News Web Easy features audio recordings for each article, allowing learners to practice listening and speaking skills as well. The news articles cover a range of topics, including national and international news, culture, sports, and more.
2.NHK World Japan
NHK World Japan is the international arm of NHK, Japan’s national public broadcaster. The website and app offer a variety of news, culture, and lifestyle content, including articles, videos, and podcasts. NHK World Japan covers a broad range of topics, including business, science, technology, and politics, making it an ideal resource for learners who want to stay informed about Japan’s current events. The website and app also include language learning content, such as “Easy Japanese” lessons and “Japanology Plus,” a series that explores different aspects of Japanese culture.
3.Japan Times
The Japan Times is an English-language daily newspaper based in Tokyo that covers Japan’s current events, business news, and culture. The newspaper’s website and app offer a variety of content, including news articles, opinion pieces, and features on Japanese culture and lifestyle. The Japan Times also includes a section called “Language” that features articles about Japanese language and culture, as well as language learning resources.
4.Asahi Shimbun
Asahi Shimbun is one of Japan’s leading newspapers, and its website and app provide a wealth of news and current events content. Asahi Shimbun’s coverage includes national and international news, business, sports, and entertainment. The newspaper also features a section called “Easy Japanese” that provides news articles written in simplified Japanese with furigana, making it an ideal resource for Japanese learners.
5.Nikkei Asia
Nikkei Asia is a digital news platform that provides news and analysis on business, finance, and technology in the Asia-Pacific region, including Japan. The platform features articles, videos, and podcasts, making it an excellent resource for learners who want to stay informed about Japan’s economic and business landscape. Nikkei Asia also includes a section called “Nikkei Asia Insights” that features in-depth analysis and opinion pieces on topics related to the region.
6.Mainichi Shimbun
Mainichi Shimbun is another prominent Japanese newspaper that provides news and current events content. The newspaper’s website and app offer a variety of content, including news articles, opinion pieces, and features on Japanese culture and lifestyle. Mainichi Shimbun also includes a section called “Easy Japanese News” that provides news articles written in simplified Japanese with furigana.
7.Japan Today
Japan Today is an English-language news and entertainment website that covers Japan’s current events, business news, and culture. The website features a range of content, including news articles, opinion pieces, and features on Japanese lifestyle and culture. Japan Today also includes a section called “Language” that features articles about Japanese language and culture, as well as language learning resources.
8.SmartNews
SmartNews is a news aggregator that curates content from a variety of sources, including news websites and social media. The app uses machine learning algorithms to personalize content based on the user’s interests, making it an excellent resource for learners who want to stay informed about Japan’s current events. SmartNews includes a range of categories, including world news, business, politics, technology, and sports, and also includes a section specifically for Japanese news.
9.TBS News
TBS News is a news organization operated by Tokyo Broadcasting System Television, Inc. The organization provides news and current events coverage, including national and international news, business, and sports. TBS News also includes a section called “Easy News,” which features news articles written in simplified Japanese with furigana.
10.Abema News
Abema News is a digital news platform operated by AbemaTV, a Japanese streaming service. The platform provides news and current events coverage, including national and international news, entertainment, and sports. Abema News also includes a section called “Easy News,” which features news articles written in simplified Japanese with furigana.
Using Japanese news websites and apps is an excellent way for language learners to practice their skills and stay up-to-date on Japan’s current events. Here are some tips on how to make the most of these resources:
Set aside regular time to read or listen to news content. Consistency is key when it comes to language practice, so try to make a habit of consuming news content in Japanese every day or several times a week.
Start with simpler content and gradually work your way up. If you’re a beginner, start with websites and apps that provide news articles written in simplified Japanese with furigana. As you progress, you can challenge yourself with more complex content.
Use a dictionary or translation app to help you understand unfamiliar words and phrases. It’s okay if you don’t understand every word at first – use tools like a dictionary or translation app to help you understand the overall meaning of the content.
Practice reading, listening, and speaking skills. Many news websites and apps offer audio recordings or videos to accompany their articles. Take advantage of these resources to practice your listening and speaking skills as well.
Don’t get discouraged if you don’t understand everything. Language learning is a process, and it’s okay if you don’t understand everything at first. Keep practicing, and you’ll gradually improve your skills over time.
In conclusion, Japanese news websites and apps are a valuable resource for language learners who want to stay informed about Japan’s current events and practice their language skills. By incorporating these resources into your language learning routine, you can stay motivated and engaged while making progress towards your language learning goals.
