I've been learning Japanese off and on for over 20 years. After several starts and stops, it was only in 2024 that I forced myself to start reading novels in the language to boost my comprehension and acquisition.
I'll post my major milestones here.
Tools
Japanese novels
Currently reading Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone. This is my first Japanese novel and it's not an easy read (thought it might seem like it should be). This copy has been on my shelf since 2010 and I'm finally getting through it.
Using a mix of intensive and extensive reading, listening to the Japanese audiobook, and rereading the original English, I'm getting a lot of mileage from it.
WaniKani
This is my primary vocabulary engine and has been since 2023. It's a GRIND. We're talking Super Nintendo era JRPG random encounter frequency grind.
But it's highly effective. What I really like is how it incorporates writing into the app. You don't just select answers, you have to type them in. That's made writing in Japanese much easier over time
Japanese keyboard
I have Japanese keyboard I've been using since 2023. The learning curve was steep. Took me a year to get used where the keys were. But now things are much faster.
I also have a 12-key Japanese keyboard as well as a finger-stroke keyboard on my phone. Switching between desktop and mobile is essential for using real Japanese today.
YouTube
At my level I can watch or listen to pretty much any Japanese content. I tend to gravitate toward podcasts and longplays of video games I'm familiar with.
Video games
Gaming in Japanese is tough. But it's a great way to force myself to use the language in real time. Currently working my way through the first Phoenix Wright Ace Attorney game.
All the characters are quirky and exaggerated. So it's great for dialect practice and building fluency. Of course I always read aloud.
Log
2026-02-25
Harry Potter Ch. 7 Complete!
2026-02-17
Reached WaniKani Level 28!
