Learn Gojuon: Hiragana, Katakana, and Japanese Pronunciation
Start Japanese with gojuon. OK Nihongo connects hiragana, katakana, pronunciation, and JLPT N5 beginner lessons in one path.
Hiragana
The basic Japanese script used in grammar, particles, and common words.
Katakana
Used for loanwords, names, sound effects, and emphasis.
Pronunciation
Build reliable sounds before moving into words and sentences.
Gojuon sample
What to learn first
Start with hiragana, compare katakana, then move into N5 vocabulary and short sentences. Kana is useful when it leads into reading, listening, and speaking. After learning one row, read example words right away.
A simple daily routine
Use 20 to 30 minutes per day: look at the characters, listen to pronunciation, read example words, then review the rows that felt slow yesterday. Small daily loops work better than one long cram session.
How OK Nihongo helps
Practice kana with pronunciation, example words, and review, then continue into N5 lessons, AI speaking, and JLPT practice. The goal is to use kana inside real words and sentences.
Common confusing points
Learners often mix up シ/ツ, ソ/ン, long vowels, small っ, and contracted sounds. Listening and repeating helps more than visual memorization alone.
Who it is for
Best for absolute beginners, JLPT N5 learners, and anyone rebuilding Japanese pronunciation basics.
How long does gojuon take?
With 20 to 30 minutes each day, many learners build basic recognition in 1 to 2 weeks, then reinforce it through vocabulary and sentences.
Can I learn only hiragana?
Not recommended. Katakana appears often in loanwords and JLPT beginner content.
What should I study after gojuon?
Move into JLPT N5 basics: greetings, self-introduction, numbers, time, places, and basic particles while continuing to read example words aloud.