Trusted external resources

Recommended Japanese Learning Resources

A short, carefully selected collection of reliable places to continue learning Japanese and exploring Japan.

This is deliberately not an exhaustive link directory. It concentrates on resources maintained by established educational, research and public organisations, making the list more useful for learners and less likely to become outdated.

Courses and learning materials

The Japan Foundation

JF Japanese e-Learning Minato

Online Japanese courses covering language, writing systems and culture, with options for self-study and supported learning.

Visit Minato
The Japan Foundation

Irodori: Japanese for Life in Japan

Free practical coursebooks, audio and online learning for everyday communication, particularly useful for learners planning to live or work in Japan.

Explore Irodori
The Japan Foundation

Erin’s Challenge

Video-based lessons, downloadable materials and cultural content aimed mainly at learners beyond the absolute beginner stage.

Watch the lessons

Testing, dictionaries and research

Japan Foundation and JEES

Official JLPT Website

Authoritative information about Japanese-Language Proficiency Test levels, dates, registration, sample questions and official practice materials.

Visit the JLPT site
EDRDG

JMdict and KANJIDIC Projects

The dictionary and kanji data projects behind many Japanese-language tools—including data used by parts of this website.

Explore EDRDG
NINJAL

Japanese Language Corpora

Research-grade collections of contemporary written and spoken Japanese, useful for advanced learners, teachers and language researchers.

Open the corpus portal

Japan, travel and culture

Japan National Tourism Organization

Travel Japan

Japan’s official visitor guide, with practical travel information and reliable introductions to destinations, food, traditions and culture.

Visit Travel Japan

External websites can change over time. These links were selected for their authority, usefulness and likelihood of being maintained by the organisations responsible for them.