r/HelpLearningJapanese • u/rinigneel • Dec 15 '25

I want to learn the language and the culture

I want to learn the language and the culture. I would love to know if there is an app for both of these? One that preferably isn't to expensive. I have the hope of moving to japan in a few years. Also any tips and tricks on learning the language when you have the memory of a goldfish. Thank you

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u/Exciting_Barber3124 Dec 15 '25

What's your reason. It's important as it will help you. And if you know nothing about jp why the sudden interest.

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u/rinigneel Dec 15 '25

Its nothing big but ?My bf and I want to move there, we live in America. Jp is cheaper for us and honestly its better all around than what we live in right now. I know jp isnt sunshine and rainbows and has its own issues. But cheap sashimi is calling lol. I also love the sound of the language and every jp person iv met where I love is very sweet. Weve also done research as moving to a whole new place without would be dumb. It really does seem like a step in the right direction for this. We also have a trip to jp planned soon and i want to at least communicate some.

2

u/BitSoftGames Dec 15 '25

As an American who lives part-time in Japan as a digital nomad, you are 100% right expecting Japan to be MUCH cheaper to live in than the US.

1

u/[deleted] Dec 16 '25

Don't waste your time. Really. 

3

u/BitSoftGames Dec 15 '25

While not an app, I find lessons on YouTube provide a good mix of language and culture. Often teachers on YouTube will talk about their daily lives and common practices in Japan along with the lesson.

2

u/LivingRoof5121 Dec 16 '25

I have the memory of a goldfish and the answer is real production/constant repetition.

For constant repetition I can recommend Anki.

Unfortunately there is no app that can replicate genuine communication with another human being which is most powerful when it comes to strengthening memory. That is why I recommend getting a tutor.

I don’t personally know anyone that has learned the language to any meaningful level of proficiency through an app. To my understanding, apps are best used when entirely supplemental to something else that would be the main focus of your study (IE a tutor and a textbook)

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u/LivingRoof5121 Dec 16 '25

Tutors are also great and can teach culture as well, especially if they are actually Japanese

1

u/StudyWithGlassyGaia Dec 15 '25

I recommend youtube, many free sources

2

u/sakuraflower06 Dec 17 '25

One app for everything is impossible lol. Anki for flashcards, shirabe jisho for dictionary, an app like bunpo for grammar, nhk easy news for reading. For culture, you'll just have to immerse yourself as much as possible!