Japanese seems overwhelming, where do I start learning the language?

Question

Its difficult to find a good place to start learning Japanese.

Answer 1

Hello

Learning a new language can feel like a monumental task, and I understand that. I often reflect on my experience when I began learning English—it’s been so long that the initial struggles almost feel distant! Yet, I still feel lost whenever I embark on new endeavors.

Right now, I’m trying to learn bookkeeping as I just started my own business, and it’s a real headache. To tackle this challenge, I’ve dedicated one hour each morning to focus on bookkeeping. My brain works sharpest during those early hours, making it the perfect time to concentrate. I do not push too hard; if I start feeling overwhelmed—around an eight on a stress scale—I give myself permission to step back and take a breather. Or just quit for the say. This approach allows me to make bookkeeping a daily habit, and consistency has become key to my progress.

From my experience, patience and consistency pay off. I recommend selecting something you can engage with five days a week or more. Whether reading a book, watching YouTube tutorials, taking lessons with a tutor, or using an app like Duolingo, your chosen method should resonate with you. The time you dedicate doesn’t have to be extensive; what matters most is finding an approach you can commit to and then sticking with it.

I often tell myself that there are no shortcuts, especially when it comes to learning. However, maintaining consistency and putting in the effort day after day will lead to results. Trust the process, and good things will happen!!

Answer 2

1. Immerse yourself in Japanese media and (childrens) books to familiarize yourself.
2. Learn basic reading; Hiragana, Katakana, and simple Kanji through flashcards
3. Start learning basic words like colors, animals, family members and adjectives
4. Learn basic sentence structure (AはBです)

Answer 3

Let's start from learning Japanese culture.

At the same time, we could start from reading picture books.

Simple picture books help add vocabularies.

Japanese words have background meanings, so it'll be enjoyable learning our Language!

Answer 4

To answer that, first you need to think about why you want to learn the language. Is it for travel? Business/work? Communicating with friends/family?

After thinking about that, I would look at your community and see what options are available. Some places have programs/events that help people learn the language. In New York, for example, there is the Japan Society which can help you in your educational goals.

I also recommend you look at the various textbook systems: Genki, Japanese for Busy People, etc. I would try to see which one might work for you. Genki is a more focused and regimented textbook while Japanese for Busy People takes a more relaxed approach to learning. Of course, some people do not like to learn by textbook. Try to find a class or tutor that uses the approach you feel will work for you.

Lastly, but most importantly, try to immerse yourself in the language. True, at first, you will not understand much, but you will start to get a feel for the language (pace, patterns, repetition). I recommend watching or listening to media that interests you. For me, I watched horror movies in Japanese when I first got started in the language.

I hope this helps.