Factors influencing the length of time it takes to learn Japanese

Understanding the fundamentals of learning Japanese

Le japonais est composé de trois systèmes d'écriture principaux : Hiragana, Katakana et Kanji. Hiragana et Katakana sont des alphabets syllabiques relativement simples à apprendre, tandis que les Kanji, empruntés au chinois, représentent un défi plus important en raison de leur nombre et de leur complexité. La Japanese grammar , although different from European languages, it is very logical and structured, with conjugation rules that are less complicated than in other languages. So it's a lot more accessible than you might think.

We keep saying it, but the Japanese language requires constant practice. Especially to memorise Kanji and develop your listening and speaking skills. Immersion is a key factor Regular exposure to the language through films, TV series, music or conversations with native speakers.

Here are some estimates of how long it takes to learn Japanese

According to official estimates, it takes around 2,200 hours of study to reach an advanced level of Japanese, equivalent to levels N2 or N1 of the Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT). The JLPT, which consists of five levels from N5 to N1, is an excellent way of assessing your Japanese language skills.

It's important to remember that each JLPT session only allows you to progress one level. Reaching a higher level will therefore take longer. On the other hand, if your aim is to acquire a basic level of in Japanese, the process will be shorter. Here is an estimate of the time needed for each level of the JLPT:

Estimated time

for each JLPT level

N5 : entre 325 et 600 heures

N4 : entre 575 et 1000 heures

N3 : entre 950 et 1700 heures

N2 : entre 1600 et 2800 heures

N1 : entre 3000 et 4800 heures

However, these times are indicative and vary from person to person. It is also possible that your progress will be faster or slower than these estimates.

For beginners

Download the best application for studying Japanese

Put an end to learning at school and get good at foreign languages in just a few weeks with the best application on the French market.

For intermediate learners

For advanced levels: becoming bilingual

Points to remember about how long it takes to learn Japanese

In a nutshell

• For beginners, reaching a basic level can take around 6 à 12 mois of regular practice.
• Consistency in learning is crucial to progress. A pratique quotidienne ou hebdomadaire accelerates learning.
• The use of a combinaison de méthodes , formal study, immersion and conversational practice is essential for effective learning.
• Se fixer des objectifs clairs helps you stay motivated and measure progress.
• Becoming bilingual generally requires a longer study period, often several years, depending on the intensity of the learning.
• Apprendre les kanjis essentiels can take 6 mois à 3 ans , depending on the study method and frequency of use.
• Fluency can be achieved with a limited vocabulary and regular practice, without perfect mastery of grammar.