Learn a language for free

You can start learning Japanese or Chinese on your own, for free, before any trip or application. Here is a simple plan and the official resources we trust.

A simple self-study plan

1
Start with sounds and writing
Japanese: learn hiragana and katakana in the first weeks. Chinese: learn pinyin and the four tones first.
2
Study a little every day
20–30 minutes a day beats long sessions once a week. Use short lessons, listening and speaking out loud.
3
Use official, free courses
Public broadcasters and national foundations publish free lessons. See the links below.
4
Aim at a test level
JLPT for Japanese and HSK for Chinese give you a clear goal and are accepted by universities.
5
Add real contact
Join a conversation group, watch shows with subtitles and, if you can, practise with a native speaker.

Japanese

JLPT levels in short

N5Basic phrases and simple sentences.
N4Everyday topics at a slow pace.
N3Follow most everyday situations.
N2Often needed for Japanese-taught university programmes.
N1Advanced; read and discuss complex topics.

Japanese

NHK WORLD-JAPAN: Easy Japanese

Free short video lessons and audio from Japan's public broadcaster.

Visit site Japanese

Minato (Japan Foundation)

Free Japanese-language courses online, from the Japan Foundation.

Visit site Japanese

Marugoto Plus (Japan Foundation)

Online Japanese courses and activities for beginners, from the Japan Foundation.

Visit site Japanese

The Japan Foundation

Japanese-language learning resources and programmes.

Visit site Japanese

JLPT

Official Japanese-Language Proficiency Test.

Visit site Japanese

EJU (JASSO)

Examination for Japanese University Admission for International Students.

Visit site

Chinese

HSK is the official Chinese proficiency test, from beginner to advanced levels. Many Chinese-taught programmes ask for a middle level; check each university.

Chinese