# Human Japanese Lite HD \| Learn Japanese with your personal sensei-in-a-box™ — user reviews

> 94 indexed App Store user reviews of Human Japanese Lite HD | Learn Japanese with your personal sensei by Brak Software, Inc., rated 4.90/5 from 216 ratings.

- Source: https://appshunter.io/ios/app/human-japanese-lite-hd-learn-japanese-with-your-personal-sensei-in-a-box/id419056221/reviews
- App overview in markdown: https://appshunter.io/ios/app/human-japanese-lite-hd-learn-japanese-with-your-personal-sensei-in-a-box/id419056221.md
- Rating breakdown: 5★ 201 · 4★ 13 · 3★ 1 · 2★ 1 · 1★ 0

## What do users think of Human Japanese Lite HD | Learn Japanese with your personal sensei?

Overall sentiment: positive

**Pros**

- 👨‍🏫 Excellent teaching methodology and explanations
- 😄 Engaging, humorous, and conversational tone
- 🎓 Comprehensive coverage of grammar, vocabulary, and culture
- 🔊 High-quality audio pronunciation guides
- ✍️ Interactive features including quizzes and stroke order animations
- 📚 Well-organized lesson progression and pacing
- 🎯 Effective for beginners and intermediate learners
- 💡 Explains the 'why' behind language concepts
- 🆓 Generous free version with substantial content
- 🎨 Beautiful, intuitive user interface design
- 📖 Includes cultural and geographical context
- 🏆 Consistently compared favorably to competing apps
- ⏱️ Self-paced learning without time pressure
- 🎪 Makes learning fun and less intimidating

**Cons**

- 🔄 No progress synchronization across devices
- 💰 Expensive full version pricing
- 🔊 Audio playback issues on some devices (iPad mini)
- 📱 Not a universal app (separate purchases for iPhone/iPad)
- 🔤 Font size options limited for accessibility
- 🎮 Limited variety in quiz types and games
- ⏰ Requires dedicated study time, not suitable for quick sessions
- 📝 No character writing practice feature in app
- 🖥️ Retina display optimization needed on older devices
- 🔐 No account system for cross-device syncing

**Commonly reported bugs**

- Audio/sound not working on iPad mini and some iPad 2 devices
- Kana memory matching game sluggish on iPad HD version
- Text highlighting appears unprofessional and distracting
- Limited iOS 5 support compatibility
- Retina display optimization issues on newer iPads

**Most requested features**

- Cross-device progress synchronization and cloud backup
- In-app character writing recognition and practice
- Larger font size options for accessibility
- More variety in quiz types and interactive games
- In-app purchase option for full version instead of separate download
- Character writing practice with feedback
- Additional kanji coverage and depth
- Account system for progress tracking across devices

## Newest reviews (19 of 94)

### 5/5 — Excellent app!

*2018-04-09*

The difference between the lite and heavy versions is that the heavy version has all 45 chapters, and the lite version has only the first 8. 

This is a good app with clear explanations of everything. I finished lesson 8 in the lite version, saw I couldn’t keep going without paying, and immediately bought the beginner/intermediate bundle. I like that the developer lets you get a good idea of how the app works so you can decide if you want to buy it. You do get to see the first page of chapters 9 through 45 so you know what you’re getting in the paid version.

### 5/5 — Superb

*2018-03-28, version 3.2.1*

A brilliant app that informs and educates simply and well. Japanese demystified.

### 5/5 — Extraordinary and Clear Instruction

*2018-03-11*

This app reads so intelligently, and with humor and heart that I feel I’m being spoken to in person by a caring teacher. Filled with history, clear descriptions and explanations and a real commitment that I know the relevance of what is being taught.  It has quizzes after each section and every written example has pronunciation and character spelling help animations.  Best language app I have ever used.

### 5/5 — Best AAP for Japanese

*2017-11-03, version 3.2.1*

After looking at many books and myriads of apps I have to say this is the best format and most user friendly app there is.  The learning curve is based upon your own learning and you pass to the next level through self examination.  You work at your own speed.
The way the lessons are arranged means that as you progress your confidence increases and you truly feel you are learning the language.  There is also detailed grammatical information in the lessons which is presented in a user friendly way.  I would recommend this app to anyone interested.  You can buy the beginners and intermediate level together at a good price.

### 5/5 — So friendly and helpful

*2017-10-15, version 3.2.1*

I spent a lot of timer researching apps and this seemed far and away the best - and I wasn’t disappointed when I started using it. It really does feel like having a tutor in the room with you. The layout is aesthetically appealing and the information is well paced.

### 5/5 — A must have

*2017-09-03, version 3.2.1*

For any Japanese learners! Many apps/books are extremely convoluted, confusing, and frankly intimidating. Terms like 'subject', 'object', 'particles' etc can be very confusing for English speakers. 

But this app explains things at the effect pace, includes audio, breakdowns of translations, common mistakes made by English speakers, quizzes, and it's fun to read! So glad I found this app, I've been struggling to understand most other apps but this one is PERFECT! I'll definitely be buying a full version soon!

### 5/5 — Pleasant all-round tutoring on Japan's language, geography & history

*2017-07-03*

This is a wonderful, un-hurried way to learn Japanese. When combined with cultural and geographical references, and having just enough history to clarify points without over-saturating your mind, this is without a doubt one of the best language tutoring apps I've used.

The writing hints have been very useful, and there are PDFs that can be downloaded and printed so you can practice your skills after a writing module is completed.

Even though I am still working my way through it, I'm pretty certain the rest of the modules will be crafted in the same thorough, meticulous fashion as the earlier modules.

On the whole, this is well researched and easy to use. Thumbs up to the writers and developers of this app!

### 5/5 — Vital to anyone learning Japanese

*2017-03-06, version 3.2.1*

I have used many apps and books and this one is the best. I don't want to name drop other apps or companies but I will say this one is better than the 'penguin' Japanese language app (starting with letter m), better than old mate 'Kim' app. In fact this one improves on that one greatly. 
There's also a particular 'pod' that is Japanese of which this app beats. 
The attention to detail is the clincher for me. And the interface is brilliant. Having experience points is important for motivation. The tips for pronunciation is crucial and the ability to click on words to have them sounded out audibly is genius and frankly, how do other apps not do this? 
One draw back if any is that this is a sit down, get a coffee and snack and delve into Japan app. Not one to just open for when you're lining up for movies or grocery shopping. Although thanks to review section it can be. But in saying that, anyone serious about learning Japanese will want to sit down and give the language the respect it deserves. (Like anything That's worth learning.)
Also emphasize that getting pencil and paper while learning this app is crucial. Write down everything you learn---but wait! This app even links you to pdf's you can download to help you do that. 
Taken years for me to stumble across this app. I hope you guys find it sooner.

### 5/5 — Suits my learning style

*2017-02-28, version 3.2.1*

I tried a few other 'learn Japanese'  apps and like this once best. It is easy to use, you can hear how the pronunciation works and the information is shown in a simple to grasp format.

### 5/5 — Like my own personal teacher!

*2017-02-11*

I love how this program is setup! I have only just started so I can't comment on future classes like grammar, but I really enjoy the style and pace of learning. There are chapters and within each chapter are examples and clickable words so you can hear how the Japanese words are correctly pronounced (and even videos of stroke order for the hiragana). It's presented in a way like someone is talking/teaching directly to you which I quite enjoy! There are also reviews/quizzes which help reaffirm that you've learned the material. Another nice thing is that there are other topics other than language that are included within the lessons, like culture and interesting facts with pictures. It's makes it less dense and text-heavy.

Overall I am very happy so far. If the grammar is easily explained with examples and interactive components I will definitely buy the full version!

### 5/5 — Very nice

*2017-02-06, version 3.2.1*

This is a very good app. Very helpful to hear spoken Japanese. I think this has helped me with a lot of beginning words.

### 5/5 — Amazing

*2016-11-07, version 3.2.1*

I'm not the sharpest tool in the shed but with this app I'm really learning something. I got to the end of the lite version and have bought the full version.

### 5/5 — Excellent tool for advanced beginners

*2016-11-06*

I already have a good foundation in Hiragana & vocabulary, but want to improve my reading. It is very easy to navigate and the quizzes and word pronunciation reinforce the lessons. Very happy with the lite version & considering purchasing the advanced.

### 5/5 — Love Love Love!

*2016-10-31, version 3.2.1*

I love this app. It has been more helpful than any of my other Japanese texts, even more so than Tae Kim's Guide or TextFugu.

### 5/5 — Beyond my wildest dreams

*2016-09-05*

I'm enjoying this app more than I ever imagined. I appreciate every nuance offered and the reviews and quizzes are just the right challenge. This app is far superior to any other app or method I've tried for learning Japanese. I'm thrilled with this app.

### 5/5 — Great! Very helpful!

*2016-07-30*

I have had an obsession over Japanese pop culture, but I wanted to go farther. I wanted to learn Japanese, and this app is helping me from writing characters, to phrases! Thank you!

### 5/5 — Excellent

*2016-07-04*

I am a beginner. This app has been a great help to me for learning the language as well understanding the Japanese culture.I enjoyed using it therefore I purchased the paid version.

### 5/5 — Good

*2016-06-05, version 3.2.1*

This app makes learning Japanese easier!

### 5/5 — Best lessons

*2016-04-29, version 3.2.1*

It is awesome and detailed for a novice or master

## Most critical reviews (10 lowest-rated)

### 2/5 — No sounds

*2013-02-24, version 2.0.2*

I haven't gotten very far yet and am very interested because this seems like an awesome app but none of the sounds are working. I'm using an iPad 2 and I haven't had any other problems with sound. I'm kind of confused trying to figure out how to use this app and turn on the sounds and is it possible to use it without the sounds? Cuz I'm really upset and confused :(

### 3/5 — Needs to be updated for retina display

*2012-08-05, version 2.0.2*

Like the title says, this app is sorely in need of updating for the new iPad's retina display.

### 3/5 — No universal app

*2012-06-24, version 2.0.2*

In my opinion, this is the best way to learn Japanese. It is complete in every sense. One thing though, it should be a universal app. I purchased the iPhone app but recently purchased the iPad. The iPad version of the app is available but you have to buy it again. I really don't like this, I doubt anybody would. That said, for those with iPhones that bought the app, five stars. But for me, I am taking away two stars until the app is made universal

### 3/5 — Really great app...sorta

*2011-11-16, version 2.0.2*

This is actually a great app and I would give it 5 stars if they would not have limited support of the new update to iOS 5 only.

### 4/5 — Good but no progress save

*2020-01-11*

Nice app but I wish I could transfer my progress instead of having to start over every time I get a new tablet.  I’ll never finish at this rate.

### 4/5 — Very helpful and well-made app

*2015-09-06*

I only have 2 small complaints. Firstly, it would be nice to have the option to increase the font size even further. I have an ipad mini, so even the largest text size is a strain on my eyes. Secondly, it would be much more convenient to be able to pay to unlock the latter chapters directly from this app instead of having to download the paid version. Right now I'm ready to move on to Chap 9, but I've been procrastinating on getting the full version because I don't want to lose all my notes and progress.

Overall, best app for learning Japanese that I've ever used!

### 4/5 — Excellent

*2013-09-09, version 2.0.2*

Surprisingly great. Well organized, easy to use, and makes learning relatively easy.

A few things that could improve it:
A way to write characters in the ipad and be tested on on.
More variety in the quizzes. 

Everything else is great!

### 4/5 — I loved it!

*2012-10-15, version 2.0.2*

Some of this was review for me but I loved it! I like how it's not just trying to memorize kanji before learning the language, but actually learning Japanese! I also liked the history and geography that was placed in between some of the lessons! The only thing I didn't like was the quizzes. For my often-wandering mind the quizzes were a little too repetitive. But that's the only bad thing I have to say about it, and the lessons were so good that I can easily overlook a little boredom for a few minutes of the quiz. As soon as I get an iTunes card I'm buying the full upgrade!

### 4/5 — Pretty cool...

*2011-12-15, version 2.0.2*

Good app. The interface is very easy to use. Everything is explained in a funny, friendly way. The quizzes are okay but I would have liked some more games... I still confuse the hiragana letters altogether but oh well, I need practice. I'm thinking of purchasing the full app...

### 4/5 — I have to buy it twice?

*2011-09-29, version 2.0.1*

I have HJ for the iPhone and think it is a beautiful app.  I downloaded this lite version to see what was different and the answer is the size of the screen.  There are some tools on the right where there is space for them but this is the same app I already paid money for.  I shouldn't have to pay it again to see it on a bigger screen, I will just use the iPhone version on my iPad.

## Most praised reviews (10 highest-rated)

### 5/5 — Absolutely brilliant...

*2023-10-28, version 3.2.1*

I have loved learning with this app - I have it on another OS (which I won't name), and have loved it so much, I'm getting it on my ipad as well, so I can keep up with my learning, wherever I am.

Well laid out, informative, and interesting, be prepared to work, hard, and regularly, as you go forwards, but also to be rewarded with a growing knowledge, and not just of the language, but of the geography, customs, culture, food, and daily life of Nihon...

Thank you so much for such a great companion on my "learning japanese" journey.

### 5/5 — Really enjoyable and interesting

*2023-04-08, version 3.2.1*

Downloaded the free version to test it out and was pleasantly surprised at how enjoyable it is to learn with. It’s written with jokes and fun and easy to understand comparisons. Found a lot of context for basics that i hadn’t found in other programs! Looking forward to buying the full version, it’s worth it.

### 5/5 — Remember Greek and Latin in English

*2021-07-09, version 3.2.1*

I was cursing the day I started learning the real language because I got into it through the numbers. I wrote an app that takes orders and reads back the invoice in Japanese. I had to learn how to put the numbers together to form sums. I found this very interesting because I did in French and German and it wasn’t that hard. So doing it in Japanese led me to the language but until I read the explanation in this app (Human Japanese) I cursed the language for the difficult reading of kanji in ON and KUN yomi. This app has answered some of the questions why we have to learn 3 writing systems and kanji having more than one reading when used alone or as part of a word.

### 5/5 — By far the best app for learning Japanese

*2021-02-09, version 3.2.1*

I love this app, I started using it in Sept. 2020, and several months down the line I can 100% say it’s the best app for learning Japanese. The content is easy to understand but really informative, it also has great reviews and mini quizzes to refresh your knowledge. I bought the bundle, so I’m as I’m reaching the end of this app, I’m looking forward to trying the intermediate version! Thanks HJ!

### 5/5 — Excellent!

*2021-01-29, version 3.2.1*

I’ve been using the trial version of the app and I love it. It’s flawlessly written, gently humorous, insightful and makes perfect sense on all levels. It’s highly user friendly and helpful. Definitely my favourite Japanese-learning app, and I love logging in to do my lessons because I never feel as if I’m getting lost. I haven’t yet checked the name of the author/creator of this book/app, but whoever it is, he/she is a gifted teacher. Will definitely buy the full version of the product.

### 5/5 — Phenomenally well written and designed! Wow.

*2020-02-01*

I’ve gradually been learning Japanese over several years, this app is perhaps the most concise and brilliant introduction to the language I’ve ever seen. It presumes you’re native English speaking and explains/relates important concepts as well as nuances in plain easy to understand terms. 
 Brilliant! 
I wish I had taken a closer look years ago (I lived in Japan teaching English several years and learned basics) but look forward to the intermediate level after completing this basic curriculum. 
Being an “App Store cheap-skate” I rarely pay for an app when the free version will suffice but HJ lite (free) provides plenty to learn with and I’m willing (happy to) to pay them at this point even though nothing in particular is ‘locked out’ or noticeably missing with free version.
Bravo to creators (linguist expertise clearly) for superb crafting of this product. Otskare sama deshta!!  Thanks so much!
 I’ll leave it at that.
LKB

### 5/5 — Amazing

*2019-01-04*

Amazing app with good free content. I will be buying the full version once I complete chapter 8. I’ve spent a solid week on the first half of hiragana and am now on the second half. The matching game is an excellent resource as well. I’m loving this content as my quest to learn Japanese has truly begun!

### 5/5 — Impressive

*2018-09-22, version 3.2.1*

I love the way the background of the language is explained as we go along and the culture. It is really interesting and not too overwhelming.

### 5/5 — Phil h

*2018-08-27, version 3.2.1*

Great app very informative

### 5/5 — Human Japanese

*2018-05-26, version 3.2.1*

Excellently planned, written and presented!

Great job

L S Collins

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*Data collected daily from the US App Store and indexed by [AppsHunter](https://appshunter.io/). User reviews are verbatim App Store reviews. Ratings, prices and chart positions refresh continuously; this snapshot is from 2026-06-10.*
