Author Archives: Kenneth

I’ve added a complete Hiragana chart (including voiced, combination, doubled sounds) and flashcard list (for computer flashcard programs) to Hiragana and Katakana, which is now top level lesson page. I’ll leave a link in the reference section of the intro … Continue reading →

As of today, the writing and pronunciation portion of the introduction is now complete. More on Pronunciation covers the last of what you need to know in order to start speaking Japanese. I’ve also updated the beginning of Hiragana and … Continue reading →

I’ve whipped up a couple charts for the basic Hiragana. You can download them from Hiragana and Katakana. Other Kana charts coming soon. I also found one good stroke order guide online. I’d make my own if my handwriting was better. … Continue reading →

Part 1 of Hiragana and the Japanese Sound System introduced the concept of the “mora” along with the basic characters and their pronunciations. Part 2 will teach you everything else you need to know at a high level in order … Continue reading →

Hiragana and the Japanese Sound System, part 1, covering syllable structure and the 46 basic characters, is now available. Part 2 will cover derived sounds, romanization, and rhythm and pitch.

I’ve decided to reorganize the introductory lessons. Up already is an overview of The Japanese Writing System, soon to be followed by a guide to Hiragana and the Japanese sound system. The phonetics article will work better as an in … Continue reading →

The first page in the Lessons section, The Language of Japan, is now complete. I’ll probably revise, and perhaps expand this and the rest of the Introduction to the Japanese Language series later on, but for now I’m just trying … Continue reading →