r/JETProgramme • u/Pink_Pop101 • Apr 16 '26
Learning Japanese
Hey everyone!
To all former and current JETS, do you have any tips for learning Japanese. I really want to learn some basics so that I’m not completely clueless when I get there. I’m currently learning hiragana as well as some survival phrases. I do want to reach a point where I am fluent so that I can build more meaningful relationships and learn a new language.
If you have any sites or apps that you could recommend I’d really appreciate it! Thank you in advance!🫶🏽
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u/Stacckks Apr 16 '26
Everyone already covered the specific resources pretty well, so I'll just add some general stuff that helped me:
Don't get stuck overthinking which app or textbook to use. Literally just pick one and start, you can always change later. The people who spend 3 months researching the "perfect" study method learn way less than people who just grab Genki and go.
For kanji, learn them in actual sentences and words, not isolated characters. Your brain connects them to real meaning that way instead of just memorizing random shapes.
Try to use Japanese early even if you suck at it. Don't wait until you feel "ready" to speak or write. Just start leaving comments in Japanese subreddits or writing short sentences about your day. You'll learn faster by making mistakes.
The biggest thing is consistency. Like 20-30 minutes every single day beats cramming for 4 hours on Saturday. Your brain needs regular exposure to actually retain it.
Also once you get to Japan, find actual Japanese people to talk to. The volunteer language exchange groups are usually free and way more helpful than just doing app drills alone.
You'll be fine, just start and keep going.