Here’s a list of some of my favorite Japanese learning apps… I’m going to keep updating this post as sort of a live blog, so please keep checking back — you also might want to follow this page or simply keep in touch with me on TWITTER!!!  (All apps reviewed here fall into the “well worth the purchase” category!)

Stickystudy — http://stickystudy.com/ — A serious JLPT flashcard study w/an algorhythm that let’s you tell it how well you know the card, & repeats the cards you need to learn the most w/ highest frequency. Intuitive design, well organized, thorough content. Also shows stroke order.  Light, Kanji & Kana versions also available.

JSensei — http://en.colezhu.com/jsensei/ —  Great for learning vocabulary as well as vocabulary in the context of sentences & has audio too!!! Another brilliantly designed app. Goes hand in hand with Stickystudy. — After it teaches you, its tests you, and things are broken down into lessons. You can also add words from the sample lessons to your list!!!

iKanji — http://www.thinkmac.co.uk/ikanji/ — for thoroughly studying for all levels of the JLPT as well as learning how to write (you trace the stroke order on the screen) this program is as intense as it gets!!!

jFlash — http://longweekendmobile.com/get-our-apps/ — This app has all the Japanese you need to know including stuff to make you sound like a real HENNA GAIJIN or TOTEMO SUKEBE NA KICHIGAI. — While the app also includes serious stuff (including keigo, older Japanese, and situation specific vocab & sentences) its also includes onomatopoeia, slang and stuff that… will get your lights knocked out if you were to use it around the wrong person. — Fans of MANGA and Japanese pop (youth) culture will REALLY like it.

Writing Hiragana/Katakana

Japanese Tracing — http://www.statix.co.jp/iapp.html Made for children, but a great way to learn Kana by tracing them. Emphasis on accuracy & learning proper stroke order. It also talks.

Let’s Write Japanese — http://www.interbots.com/games/ Another trace app geared for children, but great for adults. It talks to you and gives you pronunciation, mnemonic tips, and offers encouragement.

Hiragana/Katakana/Kanji 

Japanese My Way — http://www.rakudasoft.com/products.html This app doesn’t just let you trace, it let’s you write words as well and grades your writing, though its quite strict even on the tracing. It includes Kanji, a dictionary, sample sentences.  The app boasts a 160,000+ word and 6,500+ kanji dictionary from which you can build for own sets to dell, and let’s you play games to practice stroke order and accuracy.  Lacks the cuteness of some other apps, but quite thorough.

grammar

Gengo Grammar — Great for preparing for the JLPT. This app is tied in with http://www.JapanesePod101 Basically its a usage dictionary that also includes audio and covers all levels of the JLPT.

supplementary games:

Nihongo Up — You have to read the sentences as balooons with the correct answers ascend down the screen. Tap them before its too late. Great for preparing for the JLPT… includes kana, kanji, vocab and grammar. Considering the fact that its currently free, you definitely can’t go wrong.  Apparently a tool for use with the online Japanese learning service of the same name.

Kanji Search — http://www.kanjigames.com — A cute grid game that gives you the English word, you then have to connect the kanji (and kana) together that spell the word. Not for total beginners!!!

Kanji Pop — http://www.limasky.com — A game I’d recommend using with some of the apps above.  It has a grid & it gives you the English meaning & reading (in Kana) and you have to clear the grid before the timer runs out. Great for learning to discern & recognize kanji. 

What other apps and games do you recommend?

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