Learning a new language can be a rewarding and fulfilling experience. In recent years, Japanese has become increasingly popular for various reasons, including business opportunities, cultural interests, and travel.
Online courses offer flexibility, accessibility, and a wide range of resources, making them an excellent choice for learning Japanese. In this article, we will explore the top 10 Japanese online courses available in 2023 and discuss the criteria used to select these courses.
Importance of Learning Japanese
Japanese is an essential language for global business, as Japan has the world’s third-largest economy. Moreover, the rich cultural heritage and unique art forms of Japan attract millions of tourists every year. Learning Japanese can help you communicate more effectively, understand the culture better, and open up new opportunities in your personal and professional life.
Benefits of Online Courses
Online courses offer several advantages over traditional classroom learning. They provide flexibility, allowing you to study at your own pace and on your own schedule. Additionally, online courses often provide access to a wider range of resources and expert instructors. This makes them an ideal choice for learning Japanese, especially for those with busy schedules or limited access to language schools.
In the following sections, we will introduce the top 10 Japanese online courses, considering factors such as course content, instructor qualifications, interactive learning opportunities, affordability, and progress tracking.
Criteria for Selecting the Best Courses
Quality of Course Content
The most important factor in selecting a Japanese online course is the quality of the course content. The curriculum should be comprehensive, covering all aspects of the language, including grammar, vocabulary, pronunciation, and conversation skills.
Instructor Qualifications
Qualified instructors with experience teaching Japanese are essential for a successful online course. A strong background in teaching the language and understanding of the unique challenges faced by learners can significantly impact the learning experience.
Interactive Learning Opportunities
Interactive learning opportunities, such as live classes, group discussions, and practice exercises, can greatly enhance the learning experience. These features help students practice their language skills, receive feedback, and interact with other learners.
Affordability
Affordability is an important consideration, as not everyone has the budget for expensive language courses. Many platforms, such as Udemy, Coursera, Skillshare, and EdX, offer affordable options without compromising on quality.
Progress Tracking and Support
An online course should provide tools to help learners track their progress and receive support when needed. This can include quizzes, progress reports, and access to instructors or tutors for guidance.
Top 10 Japanese Online Courses
Course 1. FluentU Japanese
Overview
FluentU Japanese is an innovative language-learning platform that focuses on teaching through real-world videos, such as movie clips, music videos, and news broadcasts. The platform aims to provide an immersive learning experience by exposing learners to authentic Japanese content.
Course Features
- Immersive learning with real-world videos
- Interactive quizzes and flashcards
- Personalized learning experience
- Access to a large library of content
Pricing
FluentU offers a monthly subscription plan with a free trial available for new users.
Course 2. Japanesepod101
Overview
Japanesepod101 is a popular online Japanese course that offers audio and video lessons, as well as supplementary learning materials. The platform is designed for learners of all levels, from beginners to advanced speakers.
Course Features
- Comprehensive audio and video lessons
- Interactive learning tools
- Customized learning paths
- Access to a community of learners and native speakers
Pricing
Japanesepod101 offers several subscription plans with different features and pricing tiers.
Course 3. Tofugu’s TextFugu
Overview
TextFugu is an online Japanese textbook created by Tofugu, a popular Japanese language and culture blog. The course is designed for self-learners, offering a structured approach to learning Japanese that focuses on building a strong foundation in grammar, vocabulary, and kanji.
Course Features
- Comprehensive online textbook format
- Interactive quizzes and exercises
- Self-paced learning
- Community forum for additional support
Pricing
TextFugu offers a one-time payment for lifetime access to their course material.
Course 4. Pimsleur Japanese
Overview
Pimsleur Japanese is an audio-based language learning course that focuses on teaching conversational Japanese through a scientifically-proven method. The course is suitable for learners at various levels and emphasizes listening and speaking skills.
Course Features
- Audio-based lessons
- Emphasis on conversational skills
- Scientifically-proven learning method
- Mobile app for on-the-go learning
Pricing
Pimsleur offers several purchasing options, including a subscription plan and individual course purchases.
Course 5. Nihongo Master
Overview
Nihongo Master is an online Japanese learning platform that offers a comprehensive curriculum with lessons, quizzes, and practice exercises. The course is designed to help learners become proficient in reading, writing, and speaking Japanese.
Course Features
- Comprehensive curriculum
- Interactive quizzes and exercises
- Customizable study plans
- Social features and community support
Pricing
Nihongo Master offers a subscription-based pricing model with a free trial available for new users.
Course 6. Lingoda Japanese
Overview
Lingoda Japanese is an online language school that offers live classes with qualified native-speaking teachers. The platform provides a structured curriculum and personalized learning experience for students of all levels.
Course Features
- Live classes with native-speaking teachers
- Structured curriculum
- Small group classes and private lessons
- 24/7 access to learning materials
Pricing
Lingoda offers a subscription-based pricing model with various plans to choose from, including group classes and private lessons.
Course 7. Udemy – Complete Japanese Course
Overview
The Complete Japanese Course on Udemy is an all-inclusive course designed for learners at various levels. The course provides a comprehensive curriculum that covers grammar, vocabulary, writing, and conversation skills.
Course Features
- Comprehensive curriculum
- Video lectures and practice exercises
- Lifetime access to course materials
- Self-paced learning
Pricing
Udemy offers a one-time payment for lifetime access to the course, with occasional promotions and discounts available.
Course 8. Rocket Japanese
Overview
Rocket Japanese is an online language course that uses a combination of audio lessons, interactive exercises, and cultural lessons to help learners become proficient in Japanese. The platform focuses on practical language skills and emphasizes speaking and listening.
Course Features
- Audio-based lessons
- Interactive exercises and quizzes
- Emphasis on speaking and listening
- Cultural lessons
Pricing
Rocket Japanese offers a one-time payment for lifetime access to their course materials.
Course 9. Coursera – Japanese for Beginners
Overview
Japanese for Beginners is a Coursera specialization offered by Saint Petersburg State University. The specialization consists of several courses that cover the basics of Japanese language and culture, aiming to provide a solid foundation for beginners.
Course Features
- Comprehensive beginner-level curriculum
- Video lectures and quizzes
- Interaction with instructors and peers
- Cultural insights
Pricing
Coursera offers a subscription-based pricing model, with a 7-day free trial available for new users. After the trial, a monthly subscription fee is charged for access to the specialization.
Course 10. Memrise – Japanese Courses
Overview
Memrise is a language-learning platform that offers various Japanese courses for learners at different levels. The platform focuses on teaching through spaced repetition and gamification, making the learning experience enjoyable and effective.
Course Features
- Spaced repetition learning method
- Gamified learning experience
- Customizable study plans
- Mobile app for on-the-go learning
Pricing
Memrise offers a subscription-based pricing model, with a free version available that includes limited access to course materials. The premium subscription unlocks additional features and content.
These top 10 Japanese online courses provide learners with a wide range of options to suit their learning preferences, goals, and budgets. Whether you’re just starting your journey or looking to advance your skills, these courses offer comprehensive curricula, expert instruction, and interactive learning opportunities to help you master the Japanese language in 2023.
Tips for Maximizing Success in Online Japanese Courses
Establishing a Regular Study Schedule
Like any new skill, learning a language requires consistency and dedication. Establishing a regular study schedule is crucial to learning Japanese effectively. Dedicate specific times during your day to studying and make it a non-negotiable part of your routine.
Engaging in Active Listening and Speaking Practice
Learning a language is more than just understanding grammar and vocabulary—it’s also about training your ears and mouth. Engage in active listening and speaking practice as much as possible. Many platforms like Udemy and Coursera offer exercises to help you with this.
Utilizing Flashcards and Spaced Repetition
Flashcards and spaced repetition are effective tools for learning vocabulary and kanji. Platforms like Memrise specialize in this method of learning, making vocabulary acquisition an enjoyable process.
Participating in Language Exchange Programs
Language exchange programs are a fantastic way to practice your speaking skills and learn from native speakers. You can find many such programs online or join communities on platforms like Skillshare.
Immersing Yourself in Japanese Culture
Language is deeply intertwined with culture. Immerse yourself in Japanese culture by watching Japanese movies, reading Japanese books, or even trying out Japanese cuisine. This will not only make learning more enjoyable but also provide context to the language and improve your understanding of Japanese society.
Advantages of Taking a Japanese Class
Taking an online Japanese class comes with a multitude of advantages, including:
- Convenience and Flexibility: Online courses allow you to learn at your own pace and on your own schedule. This flexibility makes learning Japanese more accessible to people with busy schedules or those who can’t commute to a language school.
- Cost-effectiveness: Online courses are typically more affordable than traditional classroom learning. Platforms like Udemy and Skillshare offer high-quality courses at a fraction of the cost of a traditional language school.
- Variety of Resources: Online courses provide access to a wide variety of resources, including video lectures, interactive exercises, and community forums. These resources can enhance your learning experience and help you master the Japanese language more effectively.
FAQs
1. How long does it take to learn Japanese?
The time it takes to learn Japanese varies depending on factors such as your learning method, consistency, and prior language experience. On average, it takes about 2,200 hours of study for an English speaker to become fluent in Japanese.
2. How many hours will you study each day?
The number of hours you should study each day depends on your personal schedule and goals. As a general rule, it’s better to study consistently for shorter periods, such as 30 minutes to an hour daily, rather than trying to cram long hours of study into a single session.
3. How do I choose the right Japanese online course for me?
When choosing a Japanese online course, consider factors such as course content, instructor qualifications, learning methods, interactivity, pricing, and support. Take advantage of free trials and introductory lessons to find a course that aligns with your learning preferences and goals.
4. Can I get certified for completing a Japanese online course?
Some online courses offer certificates of completion, while others don’t. If you’re interested in formal certification, consider taking the Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT), which is widely recognized and accepted by educational institutions and employers.
5. Are there any free Japanese online courses available?
Yes, there are free Japanese online courses available. Platforms like Coursera, Memrise, and Duolingo offer free access to their basic courses. However, additional features and content may require a subscription.
Conclusion
In this article, we’ve explored the top 10 Japanese online courses to help you master the language in 2023. These courses offer a variety of learning methods, interactive exercises, and expert instruction to cater to your unique learning preferences. With the right course and dedication, you can embark on a rewarding journey toward Japanese language proficiency. So, choose a course that resonates with your goals and start your Japanese language journey today!