They say that Japanese is one of the most difficult languages to learn for English speakers. The sheer number of characters, complex grammar structures, and unfamiliar vocabulary to memorize may make the language seem intimidating. For those who speak other languages, Japanese may not be as difficult but learning it may still pose a challenge due its being highly contextual.
Fortunately, at this day and age, it is possible to study Japanese from home. Self-study is an option, but dedicated language classes provide an enhanced level of immersion.
Though convenient, taking online Japanese classes has its fair share of challenges, especially for those used to attending classes face-to-face. Read on to see our former students’ tips to effectively study Japanese remotely and advice based on strategies employed by our successful students.
Come to class with the right mind set!
4 tips for online classes from an Indonesian double major engineer:
- Be Active in Class “The Japanese Language Course was so exciting! Being highly motivated, I was active in the class. I was constantly interacting with the sensei, answering all the questions, and practising regularly. Sensei was kind and supportive, encouraging us to speak Japanese even when we made mistakes.”
- “Don’t be too serious. It is normal to be nervous and serious during interviews. But that does not mean learning Japanese has to be taken too seriously. Relax and approach learning with an open mind.”
- “Be playful. Have fun with learning Japanese and incorporate your interests, like J-pop music or pop culture in your study too.”
- “Don’t be scared to ask. As the Japanese idiom goes, 聞かぬは一生の恥 (kikanu wa isshō no haji) — if you don’t ask, you will always be embarrassed. Ask freely.”
Read More: How I Got A Job Offer In Japan As An Indonesian Engineer
Keep moving forward!
3 tips from a Thai Engineering and Design major:
- Have a clear goal “Luckily, my university professor introduced me to FAST OFFER International’s Japanese classes through a group chat, which gave me the opportunity to improve my Japanese with a clear goal.”
- Keep Your Momentum Going – Over a year and a half starting in 2022, I took three online courses: JLPT N4, N3, and Business Japanese.
- Read materials in advance “Thanks to these online Japanese classes, I was able to clarify the parts of Japanese I struggled with, as the teacher explained things in a way that made them easy to understand.”
Read more: How Online Japanese Classes Helped a Thai Engineer Secure a Career in Japan
Jump into Japanese culture!
2 tips from a Burmese electrical engineer:
- Consume Japanese Media “Listening to Japanese YouTube channels, podcasts, and movies helped improve my listening and comprehension skills. One anime that I really enjoyed is Jujutsu Kaisen. Bonus: it keeps learning fun!”
- Immerse in Japanese Culture beyond classes “Immersing myself in Japanese culture was also a good way to learn Japanese on a deeper level. It not only helped me understand Japan better but also made studying the language more meaningful.”
Read More: JLPT N2 Tips: From Learning Japanese To Job Offer
Practice makes perfect!
2 tips from an Indian mechanical engineer
- Engage in Conversational Practice “I found it important to talk to a lot of people, especially native Japanese speakers, to improve. Talking with my friends, senpai, and sensei helped me improve my vocabulary, learn new expressions, and enhance my language skills.”
- Practice Kanji through repetition “I also did my best to learn Kanji. As practice, I watched anime with subtitles in Japanese, and took note of the recurring kanji. I would then write them down at least ten times, practicing stroke order and the like.”
Read more: My Path to Becoming a Mechanical Engineering Graduate Working in Japan
Practical tips to apply ASAP!
4 Tips From Your Hirameki Sensei
As an instructor for the Hirameki classes, I also have a few tips to share to help you get the most out of your Japanese lessons.
- Log In early – A few minutes before the class, make sure to check your audio and video using the class’s prescribed video conferencing platform. This allows you to mentally prepare for the session ahead. It will also ensure that you are able to be present for the whole class, including pre-class announcements and reminders.
- Take notes during class – Make sure to take notes during the class. Keywords will do; what matters is that you have visual markers of each lesson. This will also help you with the following tip.
- Recall and write about your lesson after classes – Synthesize your notes or whatever you remember in class by writing them down in a more structured manner. In ASIA to JAPAN, students are required to submit reflections after each session. These assignments not only help students recall the lesson; they also help students practice their writing skills.
- Turn your camera on! – Simulate the experience of a face-to-face class by turning your camera on during class. It is a test of discipline as you practice staying put for the class duration. It also allows you to practice aizuchi (相槌) and maintaining a proper demeanor. These skills will come in handy during job interviews.
ASIA to JAPAN offers a variety of Japanese Language Classes. If you are an undergraduate or a fresh graduate, you are free to join any of the classes depending on where you live, and what your current Japanese Language skill level is. See more details at our dedicated Frequently Asked Questions section!
Other Lessons from Your AtoJ Hirameki Sensei
- CEFR vs JLPT: Comparing Japanese Proficiency Standards
- 10 Useful Tips on How to learn Kanji
- Helpful JLPT Tips to Pass the Exams Beyond Your Japanese Skills
- 5 Ways Japanese Is a High-Context Language
- 11 Apps to Practice Speaking Japanese Without Living in Japan
- 5 Creative Ways to Practice Speaking Japanese Without Living in Japan
Read tips from our success stories!
- Things You Need To Know About JLPT N1
- JLPT N1 Tips for Success
- Strategies Useful for JLPT N5 to N2 Preparation
About Your AtoJ Hirameki Sensei
Hello! My name is Amogh, and I’m a Japanese language Trainer at AtoJ Hirameki.
I have always enjoyed reading books and creating videos—both shooting and editing them. A few years ago, I decided to learn a language that did not use Roman characters. That curiosity led me to Japanese, and since then, I have stayed deeply connected with the language and culture.
At AtoJ Hirameki, we welcome students from across India who want to learn and explore Japanese. Our programs cover every level of proficiency, from JLPT N5 to JLPT N1, helping learners build strong language skills step by step.
We also offer special career-focused courses for qualified individuals who aspire to work in Japan. These programs are conducted in partnership with FAST OFFER International, providing students with guidance and opportunities to pursue professional careers in Japan.
Whether you are learning Japanese for personal interest, academic goals, or career opportunities, Hirameki and FAST OFFER are here to support your journey. Learn more about AtoJ Hirameki’s services here.
