How to Learn Japanese from Scratch for Beginners?
Learning Japanese may look difficult at first, but if you follow the right steps, it becomes simple and enjoyable. If you are a beginner and wondering how to learn Japanese from scratch for beginners, this guide will help you start the right way.
Whether your goal is to pass JLPT, watch anime without subtitles, or build a career using Japanese, starting with a clear plan is the key.
Many beginners think Japanese is too complex because of alphabets and grammar. The truth is, Japanese has a logical structure, clear pronunciation, and step-by-step learning levels.
If you learn Japanese from zero using a structured approach, you can make steady progress without confusion.
Step 1: Understand Japanese Basics for Beginners
Before jumping into grammar or speaking, you need to understand the foundation.
Japanese Writing System Explained
Japanese uses three writing systems:
Hiragana
- Used for basic grammar and native Japanese words
- First alphabet every beginner should learn
Katakana
- Used for foreign words like coffee, hotel, taxi
Kanji
- Chinese characters used for meaning
- You don’t need to master Kanji immediately
Start with Hiragana, then move to Katakana, and slowly introduce Kanji.
This Hiragana Katakana Kanji explained approach makes learning stress-free.
Step 2: Learn Japanese from Zero with Daily Practice
Consistency matters more than long study hours.
Japanese Daily Practice Routine (Beginner Friendly)
- 15 minutes: Hiragana or vocabulary
- 15 minutes: Grammar basics
- 10 minutes: Listening practice
- 10 minutes: Reading simple sentences
This routine is one of the best ways to learn Japanese online without burnout.
Step 3: Learn Basic Japanese Grammar First
Japanese grammar is different from English but very systematic.
Important Grammar Points for Beginners
- Sentence order (Subject–Object–Verb)
- Particles like は, が, を, に
- Polite form (です / ます)
Focus on understanding meaning, not memorising rules blindly. This helps beginners avoid confusion early on.
Step 4: Build Vocabulary the Smart Way
Instead of random words, learn vocabulary based on daily use.
What Vocabulary Should Beginners Learn?
- Greetings and self-introduction
- Numbers, time, and days
- Daily actions and common verbs
This method strengthens Japanese language for beginners and improves speaking confidence.
Step 5: Practice Listening and Speaking Early
Many learners delay speaking, which slows progress.
How to Start Speaking Japanese
- Repeat words loudly
- Practice simple sentences
- Listen to slow Japanese audio
Even if you make mistakes, speaking daily improves fluency faster than silent study.
Step 6: Follow a Structured Learning Path
If you are serious about learning Japanese from scratch, following a structured path like JLPT levels (N5 to N1) helps you track progress.
At Nihon Path, we teach Japanese step by step from beginner (N5) to advanced (N1) with full guidance, books, and personal support for every student.
Learn more or start your journey here
Why Choose Nihon Path as the Best Japanese Language Course in India
At Nihon Path, we focus on making Japanese language learning simple, affordable, and effective for every student — from absolute beginners to advanced JLPT levels.
Here’s why students choose Nihon Path:
- Most Affordable Japanese Language Course in India :- We believe quality education should be accessible. Our course fees are structured to be budget-friendly without compromising on teaching quality.
- Free Study Books & Learning Resources :- We provide free books, notes, and structured study material aligned with JLPT levels (N5 to N1), so students don’t need to spend extra.
- Trained 2000+ Students Successfully :- with a strong track record of 2000+ students trained, we know exactly what works for JLPT preparation and real-world Japanese usage.
- 4+ Years of Teaching Experience :- Our trainers bring over 4 years of experience in teaching Japanese, JLPT exam strategy, and student-focused learning methods.
- Complete Support at Every Level (N5 to N1) :- From grammar explanations to mock tests, doubt sessions, and exam tips — we support students at every stage of their Japanese learning journey.
If you’re looking for a trusted, affordable, and results-driven Japanese language institute in India, Nihon Path is the right place to start or call us at +91 93116 88893 to know more
FAQs: Learning Japanese from Scratch
How to start learning Japanese as a beginner?
Start with Hiragana, learn basic grammar, practice daily, and follow a structured beginner-level course like JLPT N5.
Is Japanese language difficult for beginners?
Japanese looks difficult at first, but with step-by-step learning and regular practice, beginners can learn it easily.
How many hours should beginners study Japanese daily?
Beginners should study at least 45–60 minutes daily for steady progress.
What are the best online resources for learning Japanese?
The best way is to combine self-practice with a guided online course that covers speaking, listening, grammar, and JLPT preparation.
Should beginners learn Kanji first?
No. Beginners should start with Hiragana and Katakana. Kanji should be introduced slowly after basics are clear.


