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You Can Begin Before You Know a Single Character
A new writing system can make Japanese feel like several subjects at once. You do not have to figure out the order on your own.
No previous Japanese experience is required. Complete beginners are welcome, and all regular lessons are private and one-on-one.
In private beginner lessons, Mike helps you build a foundation in pronunciation, hiragana, katakana, and basic literacy. Grammar, vocabulary, listening, and speaking develop as you work through the learning pathway.
Every regular lesson is live, online, and 60 minutes, with your teacher's attention focused on you.
Learn to Read Japanese Early
Romaji can be useful as a temporary bridge for a brand-new learner, but it is not a substitute for learning to read Japanese. Simple Gaijin introduces hiragana and katakana from the beginning so students can develop Japanese literacy without becoming dependent on romaji.
You can take the time you need to recognize characters, connect them with sounds, and ask about the details that do not yet feel natural. Nobody arrives already knowing how to do this.
Understand What Your Sentences Are Doing
Memorizing an example is one thing. Knowing how to change it is another skill worth practicing.
Mike learned Japanese as an English speaker, so he can explain unfamiliar grammar from a learner's perspective. Lessons give you room to work through sentence structure, develop vocabulary, and practice using what you have learned.
The emphasis is on understanding Japanese well enough to build your own sentences, with direct correction when you need it.
A Structured Start That Can Grow With You
Beginner study is part of Simple Gaijin's twelve-stage curriculum, beginning with Japanese writing and fundamentals before progressing through Japanese I–III, Intermediate Japanese I–III, Advanced Japanese I–III, and a final Advanced Japanese Capstone. You have a direction beyond the first few lessons without being pushed through the material at someone else's pace.
If you have used apps, books, or a previous course, tell Mike. He can discuss that experience with you and recommend an appropriate starting point.
Choose a Starting Goal You Care About
You may want to read, speak with people in Japan, prepare for future study, or finally understand a language you have enjoyed hearing for years. Your reason gives lessons a useful point of reference.
If a trip is approaching and practical preparation is your immediate priority, look at travel Japanese as well. Mike can help you decide which approach fits the time you have.
Make the First Step a Conversation
Share what interests you about Japanese and your time zone. Review lesson pricing, then ask Mike about getting started.