Free video course

Japanese writing from scratch

Two step-by-step playlists will help you learn hiragana and katakana at your own pace. Watch the lessons in order and revisit them whenever you like.

Part 1

ひらがな — Hiragana

あ

Start with the basic Japanese syllabary. Play the playlist and follow the videos in order.

Open playlist on YouTube ↗

Part 2

カタカナ — Katakana

ア

After hiragana, move on to katakana — the second Japanese syllabary, often used for foreign words.

Open playlist on YouTube ↗

Ready to practise your kana?

Try the interactive trainer with kana charts, flashcards, reading quizzes, and romaji typing practice.

Open the practice trainer →

How to study

Study hiragana first, then katakana. Take your time: pause the videos, repeat the characters aloud, and practise writing them by hand. Short, regular sessions work best.