The 5 Most Effective Flash Card Programs for Learning Japanese

Over the past decade, I’ve used all kinds of flash cards (even the old-school paper ones) in my never-ending quest to learn Japanese

Everyone who studies Japanese uses different methods, techniques, and tools to achieve mastery. However, ask around, and you’ll find that most learners consistently recommend one tool in particular: digital flash cards-specifically software with an effective Spaced Repetition System (SRS).

Over the past decade, I’ve used all kinds of flash cards (even the old-school paper ones) in my never-ending quest to learn Japanese vocabulary, kanji characters, and grammar with maximum efficiency. What follows are the flash card applications, ranked in order of effectiveness, that have made the greatest impact on my studies.

Five Flash Card Programs to Rule Them All

1. Wanikani

• Platforms: web (unofficial apps available for iOS and Android)
• Pricing: $9/month, $89 annually, or $299 lifetime membership (free trial available)
• Best used for: vocabulary and kanji (meanings and readings)
• Pros: superb SRS algorithm, supportive…