Kome tabe vs HajimeNow

Kome Tabe – Learn Japanese for free without the Internet. This is a Japanese learning app for beginners that helps you get familiar with the alphabet, vocabulary, and pronunciation—without needing an internet connection or an account. With a simple and intuitive interface, the app supports effective learning anytime, anywhere.

HajimeNow is a focused, distraction-free Japanese study app designed around the JLPT curriculum — from your very first hiragana stroke to advanced N1 kanji. WHAT YOU'LL STUDY • Hiragana & Katakana — learn every kana with mnemonics, stroke order, and audio pronunciation • Kanji — N5 through N1 characters with meanings, readings, stroke order animations, and spaced repetition • Vocabulary — thousands of JLPT-graded words with example sentences and native audio • Grammar — structured grammar points for every JLPT level with clear explanations and examples • Reading — graded reading passages with comprehension questions • Listening & Dictation — train your ear with native Japanese text-to-speech • Writing Practice — trace and free-draw characters on a canvas with adjustable brush thickness and ink color; supports Apple Pencil HOW IT WORKS HajimeNow uses a built-in spaced repetition system (SRS) that surfaces the cards you need to review most — so your study time is always efficient. Your streak and progress are tracked automatically, and your data syncs seamlessly across all your Apple devices via iCloud. TRACK YOUR JLPT JOURNEY Choose your target JLPT level (N5–N1) and the app counts down to the next exam date. Every module shows your completion percentage so you always know where you stand. BEAUTIFULLY DESIGNED Inspired by Japanese washi paper and traditional ink aesthetics. Supports dark mode, adjustable font size, furigana toggle, and TTS audio speed control. Designed for portrait use — clean, focused, and easy to navigate one-handed. NO SUBSCRIPTIONS. NO ACCOUNTS. Everything is included. No paywalls, no sign-in required. Your progress is yours.