Starting Japanese is easier than you think — if you begin in the right order. This hub is designed for complete beginners and returning learners who want a clear roadmap. Follow the steps below to go from zero to conversational.
Step 1: Learn Hiragana and Katakana First
Before anything else, learn the two phonetic scripts. Hiragana and katakana are the foundation of everything in Japanese — you’ll use them to read vocabulary, grammar notes, and eventually kanji readings. Most learners can master both in 2–4 weeks.
Step 2: Build Your First 500 Words
Once you can read kana, start building vocabulary. Focus on high-frequency words — the ones you’ll see and hear in every conversation. JLPT N5 vocabulary is the perfect starting set.
Step 3: Learn Essential Grammar Patterns
Japanese grammar is different from English — but it’s consistent. Learn particles first (they mark who does what), then basic verb conjugation, and the sentence patterns build naturally from there.
Step 4: Start Speaking with Everyday Phrases
Practical phrases help you apply what you’ve learned immediately. Start with greetings, basic questions, and expressions for daily situations.
- ありがとう vs どうも: How to Say Thank You
- ちょっと待って: Just a Moment
- 頑張る: Do Your Best!
- Full Conversation Phrases Hub →
Recommended Learning Path
- Week 1-4: Hiragana + Katakana
- Month 2-3: N5 Vocabulary + Essential Grammar
- Month 4-6: N4 Grammar + Conversation Phrases
- Month 7+: Kanji + JLPT N4 preparation
Explore more: Study Methods | JLPT Prep | Common Mistakes
Explore All Japanese Learning Hubs
Start Learning Japanese — Where to begin
Hiragana & Katakana — Master kana first
Kanji — 909 kanji articles from N5 to N2
Grammar — Particles, verb forms, sentence patterns
Vocabulary — Word lists from N5 to N1
Conversation Phrases — 360 practical daily phrases
JLPT Prep — Exam strategy and practice
Reading & Listening — Go beyond textbook Japanese
Common Mistakes — What English speakers get wrong
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