If you’re learning Japanese, you’re likely aware that kanji – the system of Chinese characters used in Japanese writing – is one of the most challenging aspects of the language. But fear not! There are numerous resources available to help you conquer kanji, from textbooks and flashcards to online platforms and apps. In this post, we’ll explore the top resources for mastering kanji.
Understanding Kanji
Kanji is one of the three scripts used in Japanese writing, the other two being hiragana and katakana. Each kanji character represents a concept and has its pronunciation(s) and meaning(s). There are over 2,000 kanji characters in regular use in Japan, and mastery of these characters is essential for fluency in Japanese.
Top Resources for Kanji Learning
The following resources cater to various learning styles and goals. They offer unique approaches to kanji learning, making the journey more engaging and effective.
- Remembering the Kanji by James Heisig
This renowned book takes a unique approach to kanji learning. It introduces the characters based on their meaning, not their phonetic readings. This method enables you to understand and write a significant number of kanji quickly.
This book is perfect for learners who appreciate a narrative approach. Heisig uses imaginative stories to help learners remember the shape and meaning of each kanji. - Kodansha’s Kanji Learner’s Course
This comprehensive textbook offers an innovative way to learn and remember kanji. It introduces the characters in a logical order, grouped by themes and complexity, and provides mnemonic hints for each kanji.
This textbook is suitable for learners who enjoy a structured and thematic approach to kanji learning. - Japanesepod101
Japanesepod101 offers a wealth of resources for kanji learning, including video lessons, kanji lists, and quizzes. Their lessons introduce kanji in context, which aids comprehension and retention.
According to an in-depth review by JLPT Tutor, Japanesepod101’s extensive resources and diverse content make it an excellent tool for learning kanji. This platform is ideal for learners who prefer a multimedia approach and a learning community. - WaniKani
WaniKani is a web-based kanji learning application that uses a spaced repetition system (SRS). It introduces radicals, kanji, and vocabulary progressively, ensuring you master the basics before moving onto more complex characters.
WaniKani suits learners who enjoy gamified learning and are focused on long-term memory retention. - Kanji Study App
This mobile application is a powerful tool for studying kanji. It provides various modes, such as flashcards, writing practice, and quizzes. Additionally, it offers detailed information on each kanji, including readings, meanings, stroke order, and example sentences.
This app is excellent for learners who appreciate mobile learning and require flexibility.
Conclusion
Kanji learning may seem daunting, but with the right resources, it becomes a manageable and fulfilling journey. Whether it’s the narrative approach of Remembering the Kanji, the thematic order of Kodansha’s Kanji Learner’s Course, the multimedia resources of Japanesepod101, the gamified experience of WaniKani, or the flexibility of the Kanji Study App, there’s a tool that aligns with your learning style and goals.
Keep in mind that consistent practice and review are crucial for mastering kanji. Try to expose yourself to kanji regularly – read Japanese texts, practice writing, and apply what you learn in real-life contexts. Ganbatte kudasai (Do your best)!
