What is a Mandala Chart?

A Mandala Chart is a powerful goal-setting tool made up of 81 squares (9×9 grid). At the center of each square, you write down a key goal you want to achieve. Surrounding it, you fill in the essential elements and ideas needed to reach that goal.

This method helps you organise your thoughts, set clear objectives, and break them down into actionable steps—all in a structured, holistic way.

The concept is inspired by mandalas, intricate geometric patterns used in various spiritual traditions to represent the universe.

The Mandala Chart gained popularity in Japan, especially after baseball superstar Shohei Ohtani used it to map out his dreams and goals. By systematically working through each objective, he turned those dreams into reality.

That got me thinking—why not apply the Mandala Chart to language learning?

Using this approach can make studying more engaging, structured, and goal-oriented. It allows you to visually map out your language-learning journey, clarify your priorities, and track your progress more effectively.

I’ve created a Mandala Chart specifically designed to help you learn Japanese, and I’ll walk you through it step by step.

Let’s dive in!

OUR GOAL – Master Japanese

Ideas and Elements

Grammar

Verb Conjugation

Verb conjugations might seem a bit overwhelming at first since there are quite a few, but once you recognise the patterns, they become much easier to grasp!

In Japanese, verbs are categorised into three groups, each with its own conjugation rules. Understanding these groups is the key to mastering verb forms effortlessly.

Adjective Conjugation

In Japanese, we also need to conjugate adjectives! But don’t worry—there aren’t too many patterns to memorise.

To get started, check out the post below to learn how to conjugate I-adjectives, NA-adjectives, and NO-adjectives. It’s simpler than you might think!

Word Order

Unlike English, Japanese has a more flexible word order. As long as you follow the basic structure of { Topic + Information + Verb }, you can rearrange the information in different ways while keeping the sentence grammatically correct.

This flexibility allows for natural variations in expression, making Japanese both interesting and versatile.

Formal / Informal

It’s important to understand that Japanese has distinct formal and informal styles in both writing and speaking. The level of politeness varies depending on the situation, the people you’re speaking to, and the occasion.

Mastering these differences will help you communicate more naturally and appropriately in various contexts.

Particles

Particles play a huge role in the Japanese language—just one particle can completely change the meaning of a sentence!

Take the time to learn each particle carefully, and with practice, you’ll be able to use them with confidence.

JLPT

The JLPT (Japanese Language Proficiency Test) is a standardised exam designed to assess and certify the Japanese language proficiency of non-native speakers.

It evaluates your skills in various areas, including vocabulary, kanji, grammar, reading comprehension, and listening comprehension.

The test is divided into five levels, from N5 (beginner) to N1 (advanced). N5 covers basic Japanese, while N1 demonstrates a high level of fluency. Each level increases in difficulty, testing more complex aspects of the language.

Recognised by educational institutions and employers worldwide, the JLPT serves as an official benchmark for Japanese language skills. Whether you’re applying for a job, planning to study in Japan, or simply working toward personal language goals, achieving a JLPT certification can be a valuable milestone!

Keigo

Keigo (敬語) consists of polite speech, humble speech, and honorific speech.

In Japanese, it’s important to switch between these speech styles depending on who you’re talking to and who you’re referring to in a conversation.

Mastering Keigo will help you communicate respectfully and appropriately in different social and professional settings.

Accuracy

While accuracy may not always be the top priority, using correct grammar does help ensure you’re understood clearly and prevents confusion. Let’s keep improving together—one step at a time!

I’ve been learning English for decades too, and I can totally relate! While making mistakes is part of the process, the key is getting better at communicating, and that’s exactly where you’re at.

Listening

Flow

When listening to a native (or fluent) speaker, try to catch the flow of their speech. I’ll explain this more later, but it’s important to note that Japanese is a pitch-accented language—each word has its own high and low pitch within it.

To sound more natural, it’s crucial to get the pitch and rhythm right. This will help your Japanese flow smoothly and sound authentic.

Spoken Japanese

Spoken Japanese can sound quite different from the written form. You’ve probably heard that speaking like a textbook can make you sound robotic.

One of the keys to sounding more natural in conversation is paying attention to sentence-ending particles such as 〜ね and 〜よ.

Homophones

Japanese has many homophones—words that sound the same but have different meanings. While it’s easier to distinguish them when you see the kanji, it’s important to understand their meaning through context when speaking.

Podcast / Radio

Listening to podcasts or the radio is a fantastic way to improve your listening skills! There are so many podcasts on a variety of topics in Japanese.

Find a podcaster you enjoy, listen to their episodes, and check out the transcripts for better understanding.

Intonation

Japan is made up of 47 prefectures, each with its own unique dialect, accent, and intonation.

You might be familiar with standard Japanese, often associated with the Tokyo accent, but the way people speak can vary greatly depending on the region.

It’s fascinating to hear how intonation shifts from place to place! If you’re not used to these variations, chatting with locals can sometimes be a challenge—but don’t let that stop you!

When you travel, give it a go and strike up a conversation—you might discover something new and interesting along the way.

Videos / Films

One of the most enjoyable ways to learn a language is by watching films, don’t you think? Choose a favourite movie and start by watching it with subtitles in your native language.

Then, watch it again with Japanese subtitles, and finally, challenge yourself to watch it without any subtitles at all!

Pay attention to useful phrases and try incorporating them into your daily conversations—you might be surprised at how much you pick up!

Watching from outside Japan? Use a VPN to unlock even more Japanese content!

Japanese Songs

Are you a music lover? Listening to Japanese songs is a great way to pick up new phrases and vocabulary through rhythm and melody.

I personally recommend exploring older songs—perhaps from the 80s, 90s, or even the early 2000s—in addition to modern Japanese music.

Older lyrics tend to use more authentic Japanese, whereas many contemporary songs incorporate English words. That’s perfectly fine, of course, but if your goal is language learning, this little tip might help you.

Dictation

I mentioned homophones earlier, didn’t I? To test both your listening and kanji skills, try doing some dictation!

Choose a short audio clip or video and see if you can accurately catch every word and kanji while understanding the overall context. It’s a great way to sharpen your comprehension skills.

Vocabulary

Daily Vocabulary

To build your daily Japanese vocabulary effectively, set yourself a routine of learning a fixed number of new words each day.

Use flashcards or language learning apps with spaced repetition to reinforce your memory.

To deepen your understanding, try incorporating these words into sentences or short phrases—it’ll help you grasp their meaning in context.

Technical Terms

To master technical Japanese vocabulary, concentrate on specialised terms relevant to your field, whether it’s engineering, medicine, or computer science.

Use textbooks, online resources, and flashcards to study consistently.

Immerse yourself by reading technical articles, watching tutorials, and engaging in conversations with native speakers.

Break down complex terms into smaller components to make them easier to remember, and apply them in real-life contexts to reinforce your understanding.

Dialect

Learning Japanese dialects unveils a rich tapestry of cultural nuances and linguistic diversity!

From the rhythmic flow of Kansai-ben to the distinctive melodies of Hiroshima-ben, each dialect has its own history and charm.

Exploring these variations not only strengthens your language skills but also deepens your appreciation of Japan’s regional identities and traditions.

Slang

Learning Japanese slang brings an extra layer of dynamism to your language skills, giving you insight into contemporary culture and everyday conversations.

Exploring slang reveals the lively essence of casual interactions, helping you connect more naturally with the nuances of the Japanese language.

Idioms

Learning Japanese idioms is like discovering hidden gems within the language, revealing cultural nuances and timeless wisdom.

Often rooted in everyday life and traditional beliefs, these concise expressions add richness and colour to conversations.

Mastering them not only enhances your language skills but also deepens your understanding of Japanese culture and way of thinking.

I wrote a book about Japanese idioms:

Compound Words

Learning Japanese compound words is crucial for mastering the language’s vocabulary efficiently.

These compounds, made by combining two or more kanji characters, provide a deeper understanding of Japanese culture and expression.

By breaking down the individual kanji within these compounds, learners can uncover subtle meanings and broaden their linguistic abilities.

Onomatopoeia

Japanese onomatopoeia is a fascinating and integral part of the language. These words mimic the sounds of actions, emotions, or objects, making the language more vivid and expressive.

For example, “pika pika” describes something shiny or sparkling, while “dokidoki” conveys the feeling of a racing heart.

There are two main types: giseigo (imitating real sounds) and gitaigo (describing states or feelings). These onomatopoeic words are often used in everyday conversation, manga, and even advertising, adding colour and depth to the language.

Expressions

Learning Japanese expressions opens the door to a world of cultural richness and linguistic nuance.

From the polite “arigatou gozaimasu” to the heartfelt “ganbatte,” each phrase carries its own history and emotion. Exploring these expressions is like unravelling a beautiful tapestry, where tradition meets modernity, and language becomes intertwined with Japan’s rich heritage.

Reading

Master KANA characters

Mastering kana characters in Japanese is the foundation of language fluency. Hiragana and katakana, with their strokes and distinct sounds, unlock the door to reading and writing.

Each character is essential for navigating the Japanese texts.

Formal & Casual Styles

Japanese language has distinct formal and casual styles, reflecting the nuances of social hierarchy and relationships.

The formal style, known as “keigo,” is used in professional settings, ceremonies, and with those deserving respect, employing honorific prefixes and suffixes to verbs and nouns.

Conversely, the casual style, “tameguchi,” is used among friends, family, and in informal situations, often dropping honorific and employing more relaxed speech patterns.

These two styles showcase the intricate balance between formality and familiarity in Japanese communication.

Manga

Learning Japanese through manga is a fun and immersive way to dive into the language!

With vibrant illustrations, everyday expressions, and onomatopoeia, manga offers a unique glimpse into Japanese life and culture.

From practising hiragana and katakana through speech bubbles to decoding complex kanji, each panel is like a mini lesson.

Onomatopoeic words in manga, often used to convey sounds or emotions, add another layer of understanding and make the language even more engaging.

As characters embark on their adventures, learners do too, getting lost in a world where language, sound, and storytelling blend effortlessly.

Novels

Learning Japanese through reading novels offers a captivating journey into both language and culture.

Each page becomes a gateway to new vocabulary, grammar, and the subtle nuances of Japanese expressions.

Novels provide not just language lessons, but a glimpse into the soul of Japan, its history, and societal values. As characters unfold and stories weave, so does the reader’s understanding of this rich language, making every chapter a step closer to fluency.

News Articles

Using news articles as a learning material is one of my favourite methods of learning a language.

Learning Japanese through reading news articles offers a dual benefit of language acquisition and cultural insight. Each article becomes a doorway into the language’s nuances, from kanji characters to complex sentence structures.

As the news unfolds, so does your understanding of Japanese society, politics, and global perspectives! With each headline and editorial, learners not only grasp the language’s intricacies but also gain a deeper appreciation for Japan’s current events.

Plain & Expository Forms

These foundational forms, stripped of politeness layers, offer a direct line to communication.

From casual conversations with friends to writing informal notes, mastering these structures is like unlocking a new level of fluency in Japanese, revealing the language’s straightforward yet nuanced essence.

Skimming

Skimming skills for Japanese texts involve quickly scanning through the content to grasp the main ideas and key points.

By focusing on headings, bolded text, and topic sentences, skimming can efficiently provide an overview without reading every word.

This approach is particularly useful when faced with lengthy passages, allowing readers to save time while still understanding the core concepts of the text.

You can integrate this method when you take the JLPT, as the texts for reading comprehension tend to be long especially for N3 – N1 levels.

Internet Slang

Learning Japanese internet slang can provide invaluable insights into contemporary online culture and communication trends.

From ubiquitous abbreviations like (笑) to “w” or “草” for laughter as slang for something funny, delving into this linguistic realm offers a fun and immersive way to understand modern Japanese society and its digital landscape.

Speaking

Fluency and Spontaneity

To improve fluency and spontaneity in Japanese speaking, consistent practice is key.

Engaging in daily conversation, even if it’s just with yourself, helps develop natural flow.

Listening to Japanese podcasts, music, or shows exposes you to native speech patterns.

Confidence

Start by conversing with native speakers or language exchange partners regularly.

Embrace making mistakes as part of the learning process, as each error is an opportunity to improve.

Utilise language learning apps, watch Japanese media, and repeat phrases aloud to build fluency.

Remember, confidence grows with every word spoken, so dive into conversations with enthusiasm and a willingness to learn from each interaction!

Regular Practice

Regular practice of speaking Japanese is crucial for anyone aiming to become proficient in the language.

Just like any skill, consistent practice helps maintain fluency, improves pronunciation, and builds confidence.

It’s through speaking that one internalises grammar rules, expands vocabulary, and develops a natural flow in conversation.

Whether through language exchanges, classes, or daily conversation, the more you speak Japanese, the more comfortable and skilled you become.

Body Language

When speaking Japanese, body language plays a nuanced yet essential role.

Bowing, a sign of respect, is common when greeting or thanking someone, with the depth of the bow reflecting the formality of the situation.

Eye contact is polite but not as prolonged as in Western cultures, often indicating attentiveness and respect.

Hand gestures are minimal compared to some cultures, with a focus on subtle movements to emphasise points or show agreement.

Japanese body language values harmony and respect, with gestures and postures carefully chosen to convey politeness and understanding.

Speech Styles

Japanese speech styles are intricately tied to social hierarchy and respect.

The language features different levels of formality, from casual to honorific, reflecting the speaker’s relationship with the listener.

As mentioned earlier, “keigo,” the formal speech, is used in professional settings and to show respect to superiors or strangers.

“Teineigo” is the polite form for everyday interactions, while “tameguchi” is casual speech among friends or family.

These speech styles embody the nuanced social dynamics of Japanese culture.

Shadowing

Shadowing is a powerful method for honing Japanese speaking skills. I love to practice shadowing!

By closely mimicking native speakers, you immerse yourself in the rhythm and cadence of the language. This technique involves repeating sentences immediately after hearing them, focusing on pronunciation, intonation, and pace.

Through consistent practice, you improve your fluency and gain confidence in your ability to communicate naturally in Japanese.

Mora / Beat

In Japanese language and poetry, the concept of “mora” and “beat” holds crucial significance.

A mora is a unit of sound that determines the rhythm of a word, while beat refers to the rhythmic pattern created by these morae.

Understanding mora and beat is vital in Japanese speech as it dictates proper pronunciation, timing, and flow.

This attention to rhythm is not just about linguistic correctness but also cultural expression, influencing everything from traditional haiku to modern-day conversations, emphasising the beauty and precision inherent in Japanese communication.

Pitch Accent

The pitch accent of the Japanese language plays a crucial role in distinguishing meanings.

It is characterised by variations in pitch within words, where different pitch patterns can change the entire meaning of a word.

This feature adds a layer of complexity to pronunciation, as the pitch can rise, fall, or remain level depending on the syllable.

Mastering pitch accent can help for clear communication in Japanese.

Kanji

Kanji for Daily Use

To effectively study the daily use of kanji in Japanese, start by focusing on common characters encountered in everyday life, such as those found in menus, signs, and newspapers.

Begin with basic kanji and gradually build your vocabulary. Reading Japanese texts and watching shows with subtitles can help you see Kanji in context. Also, writing kanji stroke by stroke aids in memory retention.

With persistence and regular practice, mastering daily kanji usage becomes more manageable!

On-yomi

On-yomi reading of kanji plays a crucial role in the Japanese writing system. These readings, derived from Chinese pronunciation, bring a wealth of vocabulary to Japanese, especially in formal or technical contexts.

When multiple kanji are combined, on-yomi readings often form compound words, known as jukugo, offering a concise way to express complex ideas.

This linguistic bridge to Chinese enriches Japanese with a layer of depth and precision, illustrating the interconnectedness of these East Asian languages.

Kun-yomi

In Japanese kanji, kun-yomi refers to the reading based on the native Japanese pronunciation of the characters. These readings often represent the meaning of the kanji itself or parts of compounds.

Unlike on-yomi, kun-yomi readings are more versatile and can vary depending on context.

Learners often find kun-yomi readings essential for understanding the nuances of vocabulary and expressions in Japanese.

Radicals

Understanding radicals of kanji in Japanese can be useful for efficient language acquisition and comprehension.

Radicals serve as building blocks, providing insight into the meaning, pronunciation, and even the stroke order of complex characters.

By grasping the fundamental radicals, you can decipher unfamiliar kanji more easily, aiding in vocabulary expansion and reading comprehension.

Recognising radicals enhances your ability to discern patterns and mnemonics, facilitating memorisation and retention.

Ultimately, a solid understanding of radicals lays a strong foundation for mastering the intricate system of kanji and navigating the rich tapestry of the Japanese language.

Idiomatic Kanji

In Japanese, idiomatic kanji, known as “jukugo,” are combinations of kanji characters that create a new meaning beyond the sum of their parts.

These combinations often convey nuanced and idiomatic expressions. For example, “一石二鳥” (One stone, two birds) means to achieve two things at once, and “花見” (Flower viewing) refers to the traditional Japanese custom of enjoying cherry blossoms in spring.

These idiomatic kanji enrich the language with layers of cultural and historical significance.

Stroke Order

The stroke order of kanji characters in Japanese follows a specific sequence that aids in writing them fluidly and correctly.

Typically, characters are written from top to bottom and left to right, with horizontal lines before vertical ones, and centre strokes last.

This structured approach helps maintain balance and readability in written Japanese text.

Different Fonts

The ability to read different fonts in Japanese is a skill honed through familiarity with the intricate characters of the language.

From elegant calligraphy to modern digital typefaces, each font carries nuances that convey mood and style.

Whether it’s the traditional strokes of kanji or the curvatures of hiragana and katakana, adept readers navigate these variations effortlessly, adding depth to their understanding of written Japanese.

Exceptional Readings

Learning exceptional reading patterns of kanji in Japanese is crucial for a deeper understanding of the language.

These irregular readings are challenging but offer insights into historical contexts, nuanced meanings, and cultural subtleties.

Mastering these exceptions enhances fluency and comprehension, enabling readers to navigate a broader range of texts with confidence.

Culture

High-context Culture

Japan is renowned for its high-context culture, where unspoken cues and shared understandings play a significant role in communication—meaning often resides in subtleties rather than explicit words.

Japanese society values harmony, indirectness, and a deep awareness of others’ feelings.

Nonverbal communication, such as gestures and facial expressions, is paramount in conveying messages in Japanese.

Mentality

The Japanese mentality is often characterised by a deep sense of respect, harmony, and diligence.

Rooted in centuries of tradition, there is a strong emphasis on collective well-being, with individuals valuing the group over the self.

This is reflected in the meticulous attention to detail in craftsmanship, the pursuit of perfection in various aspects of life, and a profound respect for nature and hierarchy.

The concept of “wa (和),” or harmony, is central, fostering a society that aims for balance and order in all endeavours.

Moral

Japanese morality is deeply rooted in concepts like respect, humility, and harmony.

Central to their moral values is the principle of “gaman,” which emphasises enduring patience and perseverance in the face of adversity.

This ethos extends to their respect for nature and the importance of social harmony.

In Japanese morality, one’s actions are often guided by a sense of duty, whether to family, community, or the broader society, reflecting a rich cultural heritage that values integrity and collective well-being.

Society

Japanese society is known for its deep-rooted traditions, strong emphasis on harmony, and respect for hierarchy.

It values group cohesion and collectivism, often prioritising the needs of the community over individual desires. This is reflected in various aspects of daily life, from the meticulous etiquette in social interactions to the efficient and punctual public transportation system.

Japan’s culture is a blend of ancient customs and cutting-edge technology, creating a fascinating juxtaposition of the traditional and the modern within its society.

History

Understanding Japanese history is a journey through centuries marked by periods of feudalism, imperial rule, and modernisation.

From the ancient era of the samurai and shogun to the transformative Meiji Restoration, Japan’s history is a tapestry of tradition and innovation.

It’s a story of isolation and then rapid industrialisation, leading to its role as a global economic powerhouse.

Studying Japanese history unveils a culture shaped by both internal dynamics and external influences, offering insights into the nation’s resilience and evolution.

Custom

Understanding Japanese customs requires an appreciation for their deep-rooted traditions and respect for social etiquette.

From the graceful art of tea ceremony to the precise rituals of sushi-making, Japan’s customs reflect a profound reverence for history and harmony.

Bowing, an integral gesture, symbolises respect and humility, while removing shoes before entering homes or certain establishments signifies cleanliness and respect for space.

Whether savouring the tranquility of a zen garden or taking in the spirited celebration of cherry blossoms, embracing Japanese customs is a gateway to understanding the soul of its culture.

Nature

Japan, an island nation in East Asia, is a captivating blend of tradition and modernity.

The country’s diverse landscapes, from the tranquil cherry blossoms in spring to the snow-capped peaks of Mount Fuji, have long been a source of inspiration for artists throughout history.

The changing seasons—each with its unique beauty—have often served as a prominent theme in Japanese artwork. From traditional ukiyo-e prints to contemporary pieces, nature’s influence is deeply woven into the fabric of Japanese art, reflecting the profound connection between the land and the people.

Religion

Shintoism, deeply rooted in Japan’s history, venerates kami (or spirits) in nature and ancestors.

Buddhism, introduced in the 6th century, coexists harmoniously, influencing art, culture, and rituals.

These two major faiths often intertwine in the daily lives of Japanese people, shaping festivals, customs, and spiritual practices.

Additionally, small communities of Christians and followers of other faiths contribute to Japan’s diverse religious landscape.

Writing

Structure

The Japanese writing structure combines three scripts: Kanji, Hiragana, and Katakana.

Kanji are characters borrowed from Chinese, representing meaning, while hiragana and katakana are phonetic scripts.

Hiragana is used for native Japanese words and grammatical elements, while katakana is for foreign loanwords and emphasis.

This intricate system allows for a blend of meaning, pronunciation, and style in Japanese writing.

Business Writing

Japanese business writing is characterised by its formal and respectful tone, often employing honorific language to show deference.

Documents are typically structured with a clear hierarchy of information, starting with the main point followed by supporting details.

Precision and clarity are highly valued, with a focus on avoiding ambiguity.

Japanese business writing reflects the culture’s emphasis on respect, attention to detail, and clear communication.

Letter

Writing letters in Japanese involves a graceful artistry, reflecting the writer’s respect and sincerity.

Express your feelings with phrases like “最近どうですか (saikin doo desu ka)” for asking about their well-being. End with “よろしくお願いします (yoroshiku onegaishimasu)” to convey gratitude and respect.

The beauty of Japanese letters lies in the balance of polite language and heartfelt sentiments, creating a connection that transcends mere words.

E-mails

Writing Japanese emails requires attention to etiquette and formality.

Begin with a polite greeting, such as “お世話になっております” (Osewa ni natte orimasu) to show appreciation.

Clearly state the purpose of the email, using formal language like “お願い申し上げます” (Onegai moushiagemasu) for requests or “ご連絡させていただきます” (Go-renraku sasete itadakimasu) for updates. End with “よろしくお願いします” (Yoroshiku onegai shimasu) to express gratitude and politeness.

Keep sentences concise and avoid overly casual language for a professional tone.

Typing

Typing Japanese on computers involves using an input method editor (IME) to convert Roman characters into Japanese characters.

By activating the IME, users can type phonetically, and the software offers suggestions for the desired kanji characters. This method streamlines the process of writing in Japanese, allowing for efficient communication through hiragana, katakana, and kanji characters.

Texting

Texting Japanese on smartphones involves using the Japanese keyboard, which typically offers two input methods: Romaji and Kana.

Romaji allows users to type phonetically using the Roman alphabet, which the keyboard then converts to hiragana or katakana characters.

Kana input directly involves tapping on the kana characters to form words.

Additionally, predictive text and kanji conversion help streamline the process, making it efficient for users to compose messages in Japanese on their smartphones.

Handwriting

Japanese handwriting, known as “tegaki,” holds a profound cultural significance.

With meticulous care and precision, each stroke conveys not just characters but also the writer’s spirit!

Handwriting embodies a balance of grace and discipline, reflecting Japan’s rich history of calligraphy. From the elegant curves of hiragana to the bold lines of kanji, handwriting is a deeply personal art form that speaks volumes in the subtlety of its ink.

Academic Writing

Scholars often emphasise clarity and precision in their research, with a focus on thoroughness rather than brevity.

Academic papers typically follow a rigid format, including a clear introduction, detailed methodology section, comprehensive analysis, and a conclusive summary.

Additionally, Japanese academic writing is characterised by a formal and precise tone, often emphasising clarity and objectivity.

Authors typically avoid personal pronouns and instead focus on the subject matter, presenting information in a systematic and logical manner.

This style aims to convey a sense of authority and expertise while maintaining a respectful tone towards the reader.

Well done!

You don’t need to tackle everything at once, of course, focus on a few points that are necessary to you first. Good luck! ☺︎