What is a Mandala Chart?
A Mandala Chart is a powerful goal-setting tool consisting of 81 squares in a 9×9 grid. In the very centre, you place your core objective. Surrounding it, you fill in the essential elements and sub-goals required to achieve that primary target.
This method helps you organise your thoughts, clarify your objectives, and break them down into actionable steps—all within a structured, holistic framework.
Inspired by the intricate geometric patterns used in various spiritual traditions to represent the universe, the Mandala Chart gained massive popularity in Japan after baseball superstar Shohei Ohtani used it to map out his professional dreams.
By systematically addressing each square, he turned those dreams into reality. This inspired me: why not apply the Mandala Chart to language learning?
Using this approach makes studying more engaging and goal-oriented. It allows you to visually map out your journey, clarify your priorities, and track your progress effectively. I’ve designed a Mandala Chart specifically for learning Japanese, and I’ll walk you through it step-by-step.
Let’s dive in!
OUR CORE GOAL: Master Japanese
Grammar
Verb Conjugation
Verb conjugations may seem a little daunting at first, but once you recognise the underlying patterns, they become much easier to grasp. In Japanese, verbs are categorised into three distinct groups, each with its own set of rules. Understanding these groups is the essential first step to mastering various verb forms with ease.
Adjective Conjugation
In Japanese, adjectives conjugate too! While this might be a new concept if you are coming from English, there are only a few patterns to memorise. To get started, take a look at the guide below to learn how to conjugate i-adjectives, na-adjectives, and no-adjectives. You will find it is much simpler than you might expect.
Word Order
Unlike the more rigid structure of English, Japanese offers a fair amount of flexibility in word order. As long as you follow the foundational structure of { Topic + Information + Verb }, you can often rearrange the details while remaining grammatically correct. This flexibility allows for a wonderful variety of expression, making the language both versatile and engaging.
Formality
It is vital to understand that Japanese employs distinct formal and informal styles in both speech and writing. The level of politeness shifts depending on the setting, the occasion, and your relationship with the person you are addressing. Mastering these nuances will help you communicate naturally and appropriately in any social context.
Particles
Particles play a pivotal role in Japanese—in fact, changing just one particle can completely alter the meaning of a sentence. By taking the time to learn each particle carefully and practising their use, you will soon find yourself using them with confidence and precision.
The JLPT
The Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) is a standardised exam used to certify the skills of non-native speakers. It evaluates your proficiency across several areas, including vocabulary, kanji, grammar, reading, and listening.
The test is divided into five levels:
- N5: The beginner level, covering basic Japanese.
- N1: The advanced level, demonstrating a high degree of fluency.
Recognised by employers and universities worldwide, the JLPT serves as an official benchmark for your progress. Whether you are seeking a career in Japan or setting personal milestones, achieving certification is a fantastic goal to work towards.
Keigo (Honorific Speech)
Keigo (敬語) is a sophisticated system comprising polite, humble, and honorific speech. In Japanese culture, it is essential to switch between these styles based on your relationship with your interlocutor or the person you are discussing. Mastering Keigo ensures you can communicate respectfully and professionally in any social or business environment.
A Note on Accuracy
While perfect accuracy isn’t always the highest priority when you are starting out, using correct grammar ensures your message is clear and prevents misunderstandings. Let’s continue to improve together—one step at a time!
I have been learning English for decades myself, so I truly understand the journey. Making mistakes is a natural part of the process; the real goal is becoming a better communicator, and you are already well on your way.
Listening
Flow and Pitch
When listening to native or fluent speakers, try to tune in to the natural flow of their speech. It is important to note that Japanese is a pitch-accented language; rather than the stress-based emphasis we use in English, Japanese words have specific high and low pitches. Getting the rhythm and pitch right is the secret to making your Japanese sound smooth and authentic.
Spoken Japanese
Spoken Japanese often differs significantly from the written form. You may have heard that speaking exactly like a textbook can make you sound a little robotic. One of the keys to sounding more natural in conversation is mastering sentence-ending particles such as 〜ね (ne) and 〜よ (yo), which add nuance and emotion to your words.
Homophones
Japanese contains many homophones—words that sound identical but have entirely different meanings. While it is easy to distinguish them once you see the kanji, in conversation you will need to rely on context. Developing an ear for these subtle differences is a rewarding part of the learning journey.
Podcasts and Radio
Listening to podcasts or the radio is a fantastic way to sharpen your comprehension. There is a wealth of programmes available on almost any topic imaginable. Find a host whose voice you enjoy, listen to their episodes, and try following along with a transcript to bridge the gap between listening and reading.
Intonation and Regionality
Japan is comprised of 47 prefectures, each boasting its own unique dialect and intonation. While you might be most familiar with “Standard Japanese” (the Tokyo accent), the way people speak varies beautifully from region to region. While these variations can be a challenge at first, don’t let that deter you! When you travel, try striking up a conversation with the locals—you’ll likely discover something fascinating.
Films and Videos
Watching films is surely one of the most enjoyable ways to study, wouldn’t you agree? I recommend a three-step approach:
- Watch with subtitles in your native language to understand the plot.
- Watch again with Japanese subtitles.
- Finally, challenge yourself to watch without any subtitles at all. Pay attention to useful phrases and try incorporating them into your own speech—you’ll be surprised at how much sticks!
Japanese Music
If you are a music lover, songs are a brilliant tool for picking up vocabulary through rhythm. A small tip: while modern J-Pop is great, try exploring songs from the 80s, 90s, or early 2000s. Older lyrics often use more traditional Japanese, whereas contemporary tracks tend to lean heavily on English loanwords. Both are fun, but the classics are often better for pure language practice!
Dictation
To tie your listening and kanji skills together, why not try some dictation? Select a short audio clip and see if you can accurately transcribe every word and kanji. This is an excellent way to test your understanding of those tricky homophones and ensure you are grasping the full context of a conversation.
Vocabulary
Daily Vocabulary
To build your daily Japanese vocabulary effectively, try setting a routine of learning a specific number of new words each day. Using flashcards or language apps that feature spaced repetition is a brilliant way to reinforce your memory over time. To deepen your grasp of these new words, try incorporating them into short sentences or phrases; this helps you understand how they function in a real-world context rather than just in isolation.
Technical Terms
To master technical Japanese, it is best to focus on the specialised terms relevant to your specific field—be it engineering, medicine, or computer science. Consistently using textbooks and online resources will help build a strong foundation. You can further immerse yourself by reading technical articles, watching tutorials, and engaging in discussions with native professionals. Try breaking down complex terms into their individual kanji components to make them easier to memorise and apply.
Dialects
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 carries its own history and charm. Exploring these variations not only strengthens your language skills but also deepens your appreciation of Japan’s unique regional identities and traditions.
Slang
Mastering Japanese slang adds a layer of dynamism to your fluency, offering a window into contemporary culture and authentic everyday conversations. By exploring slang, you can tap into the lively essence of casual interactions, helping you connect more naturally with the evolving nuances of the language.
Idioms
Learning Japanese idioms is like discovering hidden gems; these concise expressions reveal profound cultural nuances and timeless wisdom. Often rooted in historical life and traditional beliefs, idioms add a sense of colour and sophistication to your speech. Mastering them not only enhances your vocabulary but also offers a bridge into the Japanese way of thinking.
I wrote a book about Japanese idioms:
Compound Words
Understanding Japanese compound words is essential for expanding your vocabulary efficiently. These terms, formed by combining two or more kanji characters, provide a deeper structural understanding of Japanese expression. By deconstructing the individual kanji within these compounds, you can uncover subtle layers of meaning and significantly broaden your linguistic range.
Onomatopoeia
Japanese onomatopoeia is a fascinating and indispensable part of the language. These words mimic the sounds of actions, objects, and even abstract emotions, making the language incredibly vivid. For instance, pika pika describes something sparkling, while doki doki conveys a racing heart. These are generally categorised into two types:
- Giongo and Giseigo: Imitating actual sounds.
- Gitaigo: Describing physical states or psychological feelings. Widely used in everything from manga to advertising, these words add expressive depth to any conversation.
Expressions
Learning Japanese expressions opens the door to a world of cultural richness and emotional nuance. From the polite “Arigatou gozaimasu” to the heartfelt “Ganbatte,” every phrase is steeped in history. Exploring these expressions is like unravelling a beautiful tapestry where tradition meets modernity, and where language becomes intertwined with Japan’s rich heritage.
Reading
Mastering KANA characters
Mastering the kana characters is the absolute foundation of Japanese fluency. Hiragana and Katakana, with their specific stroke orders and distinct sounds, unlock the door to both reading and writing. Each character acts as a vital building block for navigating any Japanese text, from simple signs to complex literature.
Formal and Casual Styles
When reading Japanese, being able to distinguish between formal and casual styles is essential for understanding the relationship between characters or the tone of a text.
- Keigo (Formal Style): In text, you can identify this through the use of honorific prefixes (like o- or go-) and suffixes attached to verbs and nouns. You will often see longer, more complex verb endings. Recognising these markers helps you identify professional settings, news reports, or polite dialogue between strangers.
- Tameguchi (Casual Style): This style is common in manga, personal letters, and fiction. As a reader, look for the dictionary form of verbs and the absence of polite markers like ~masu. Sentences are often shorter and may omit certain particles, reflecting the relaxed rhythm of friends and family.
Manga
Learning Japanese through manga is a brilliant and immersive way to dive into the language! With vibrant illustrations, everyday expressions, and creative onomatopoeia, manga offers a unique glimpse into Japanese life. Each panel serves as a mini-lesson, allowing you to practise reading hiragana and katakana in speech bubbles or decoding kanji through context. It is a world where language, sound, and storytelling blend effortlessly.
Novels
Reading novels offers a captivating journey into both the Japanese language and its soul. Each page acts as a gateway to sophisticated vocabulary, advanced grammar, and the subtle nuances of literary expression. Beyond the language lessons, novels provide a window into Japan’s history and societal values, making every chapter a significant step closer to fluency.
News Articles
Using news articles is one of the most effective methods for language acquisition. This approach provides the dual benefit of expanding your vocabulary—particularly formal and technical terms—while keeping you informed about Japanese society and politics. With every headline and editorial, you gain a deeper appreciation for Japan’s current events and global perspectives.
Plain and Expository Forms
These foundational forms, stripped of the layers of politeness found in Desu/Masu speech, offer a direct line to communication. Used in casual conversations with friends or in expository writing (such as essays and news), mastering these structures is like unlocking a new level of fluency. They reveal the language’s straightforward yet nuanced essence.
Skimming Skills
Developing skimming skills for Japanese texts involves quickly scanning content to grasp the main ideas and key points. By focusing on headings, bolded text, and topic sentences, you can efficiently gain an overview without needing to translate every single word. This technique is particularly useful for the JLPT (N3–N1 levels), where reading comprehension passages tend to be quite lengthy.
Internet Slang
Exploring Japanese internet slang provides invaluable insight into contemporary online culture. From the ubiquitous (笑) to “w” or “草” (meaning “grass,” used to represent laughter), delving into this digital realm is a fun way to understand how modern Japanese society communicates in the 21st century.
Speaking
Fluency and Spontaneity
To improve fluency and spontaneity, consistent practice is the absolute key. Engaging in daily conversation—even if you are just talking to yourself—helps you develop a natural flow. Supplement this by listening to Japanese podcasts, music, or television shows to expose your ears to native speech patterns and real-time reactions.
Building Confidence
Start by conversing with native speakers or language exchange partners as often as possible. It is vital to embrace mistakes as a natural part of the learning process; every error is simply an opportunity to improve. Utilise language apps, consume Japanese media, and repeat phrases aloud to build muscle memory. Remember, confidence grows with every word spoken, so dive into conversations with enthusiasm!
The Importance of Regular Practice
Regularly speaking Japanese is crucial for anyone aiming for true proficiency. Just like any other skill, consistency helps maintain your level, improves your pronunciation, and builds lasting confidence. It is through active speech that you internalise grammar rules and expand your vocabulary. Whether through formal classes or casual language exchanges, the more you speak, the more instinctive the language becomes.
Body Language
When speaking Japanese, body language plays a nuanced yet essential role.
- Bowing: A fundamental sign of respect used when greeting or thanking someone. The depth of the bow usually reflects the formality of the situation.
- Eye Contact: While polite, it is generally less prolonged than in Western cultures, serving as a subtle indicator of attentiveness.
- Hand Gestures: These are often minimal, focusing on subtle movements to emphasise a point or show agreement. Overall, Japanese body language values harmony (和 — wa), with gestures carefully chosen to convey politeness and understanding.
Speech Styles
Japanese speech styles are intricately tied to social hierarchy and the relationship between speakers.
- Keigo: The honorific style used in professional settings or with those of higher status.
- Teineigo: The polite “standard” form (using desu and masu) for everyday interactions with acquaintances.
- Tameguchi: Casual speech used among close friends and family. These styles are not just about grammar; they embody the social dynamics and cultural heart of Japan.
Shadowing
Shadowing is a powerful and effective method for honing your speaking skills—it is one of my personal favourite ways to practice! By closely mimicking native speakers in real-time, you immerse yourself in the rhythm and cadence of the language. This involves repeating sentences immediately after hearing them, focusing specifically on pronunciation, intonation, and pace. Over time, this builds the confidence to communicate naturally.
Mora and Beat
In the Japanese language, the concept of the “mora” (or beat) is fundamental. Unlike English, which is stress-timed, Japanese is mora-timed. A mora is a unit of sound that determines the rhythm of a word. Understanding this is vital for proper pronunciation and timing. This rhythmic precision influences everything from traditional haiku poetry to modern-day conversations, highlighting the inherent beauty of 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 (high or low) within words. For example, the word hashi can mean “bridge,” “chopsticks,” or “edge” depending on which syllable the pitch drops on. While it adds a layer of complexity to your studies, mastering pitch accent is a rewarding way to ensure clear and authentic communication.
Kanji
Kanji for Daily Use
To effectively study the kanji used in daily life, start by focusing on common characters encountered in your immediate surroundings—such as those on menus, street signs, and in newspapers. Begin with basic characters and gradually expand your vocabulary. Reading authentic Japanese texts and watching shows with subtitles will help you see kanji in a natural context. Additionally, practising kanji stroke by stroke aids significantly in memory retention. With persistence and regular practice, mastering daily kanji becomes a much more manageable task!
On-yomi
The On-yomi (音読み) reading of kanji plays a crucial role in the Japanese writing system. These readings, originally derived from Chinese pronunciation, provide a wealth of vocabulary, particularly in formal, academic, or technical contexts. When multiple kanji are combined to form compound words—known as jukugo—they often use their On-yomi readings to express complex ideas concisely. This linguistic bridge to Chinese adds a layer of depth and precision to the language.
Kun-yomi
In contrast, Kun-yomi (訓読み) refers to the readings based on native Japanese pronunciations. These readings usually represent the core meaning of the kanji when it stands alone as a word. Unlike On-yomi, Kun-yomi readings can be more versatile and often change depending on the surrounding characters (such as okurigana). Understanding Kun-yomi is essential for grasping the nuances of everyday vocabulary and native Japanese expressions.
Radicals
Understanding kanji radicals (部首 — bushu) is a brilliant shortcut for efficient language acquisition. Radicals serve as the fundamental building blocks of characters, often providing clues to the character’s meaning or pronunciation. For example, the “water” radical often appearing on the left side of a character suggests a meaning related to liquids. By grasping these components, you can decipher unfamiliar kanji more easily, which aids in reading comprehension and vocabulary expansion.
Idiomatic Kanji
In Japanese, idiomatic kanji combinations are known as jukugo. These create a new meaning that goes beyond the sum of their individual parts. For instance:
- 一石二鳥 (Isseki Nichou): “One stone, two birds” (Achieving two things at once).
- 花鳥風月 (Kachou Fuugetsu): “Flower, Bird, Wind, Moon” (The beauties of nature).
These idiomatic expressions enrich the language with layers of cultural and historical significance.
Stroke Order
The stroke order of kanji follows a specific sequence that ensures characters are written fluidly and correctly. Typically, characters are written from top to bottom and left to right, with horizontal lines usually preceding vertical ones. Following the correct order is not just about tradition; it helps maintain the balance, proportions, and readability of your handwriting.
Different Fonts and Calligraphy
The ability to read different fonts is a skill developed through familiarity with the structural essence of each character. From the elegant, fluid strokes of traditional calligraphy (書道 — shodo) to modern, blocky digital typefaces, each font conveys a different mood and style. Whether it is the artistic flair of a restaurant sign or the clean lines of a news report, adept readers learn to recognise the core “skeleton” of the kanji across these variations.
Exceptional Readings
Learning exceptional reading patterns is crucial for a deeper mastery of the language. These irregular readings, while challenging, offer fascinating insights into historical contexts and cultural subtleties. Some words use kanji purely for their sounds (当て字 — ateji), while others have readings that don’t match the individual characters at all. Mastering these exceptions will allow you to navigate a broader range of literature and names 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. In many interactions, meaning resides in subtleties rather than explicit words. Japanese society deeply values harmony (和 — wa), indirectness, and a keen awareness of others’ feelings—often referred to as kuuki o yomu (reading the air). Consequently, non-verbal communication, such as posture and facial expressions, is paramount.
Mentality
The Japanese mentality is characterised by a profound sense of respect, diligence, and harmony. Rooted in centuries of tradition, there is a strong emphasis on collective well-being, with individuals often valuing the group over the self. This is reflected in the meticulous attention to detail seen in Japanese craftsmanship (ものづくり — monozukuri), the pursuit of perfection in daily life, and a deep respect for social hierarchy. The concept of Wa (和), or harmony, is the central pillar that maintains balance and order across the nation.
Morality and Ethics
Japanese morality is deeply rooted in humility and perseverance. A central principle is Gaman (我慢), which emphasises enduring patience and dignity in the face of adversity. This ethos extends to a sense of duty (義理 — giri) toward one’s family, community, and society. Actions are often guided by an internalised sense of integrity and a commitment to maintaining collective well-being, reflecting a cultural heritage that prizes social responsibility over individual gain.
Society
Japanese society is a masterclass in the juxtaposition of ancient tradition and cutting-edge technology. It is a culture that prioritises group cohesion, which is evident in everything from the meticulous etiquette of social interactions to the world-renowned efficiency and punctuality of the public transport system. This “collectivist” approach ensures that society functions smoothly, creating a safe and highly organised environment.
History
Understanding Japanese history is a journey through a fascinating tapestry of feudalism, imperial rule, and rapid modernisation. From the era of the Samurai and Shogun to the transformative Meiji Restoration, Japan’s story is one of resilience. The nation moved from a period of isolation to becoming a global economic powerhouse in a remarkably short time, proving its unique ability to innovate while still honouring its traditional roots.
Customs and Etiquette
To truly understand Japanese customs, one must appreciate the reverence for social etiquette. Whether it is the graceful art of the tea ceremony or the precise rituals of sushi-making, every action is performed with intention.
- Bowing: A gesture symbolising respect and humility.
- Removing Shoes: A practice signifying cleanliness and respect for the home. Embracing these customs—whether enjoying a Zen garden or celebrating the cherry blossoms—is a gateway to understanding the soul of the culture.
Nature and the Seasons
As an island nation, Japan’s diverse landscapes have long been the primary source of inspiration for its people. The changing seasons are not merely weather patterns but cultural milestones. From the fleeting beauty of spring cherry blossoms to the iconic, snow-capped peak of Mount Fuji, nature is deeply woven into the fabric of Japanese art, from traditional ukiyo-e (浮世絵) prints to contemporary design.
Religion and Spirituality
Spirituality in Japan is a harmonious blend of traditions. Shintoism, the indigenous faith, focuses on the veneration of kami (神 — spirits) found in nature and ancestors. Buddhism, introduced in the 6th century, coexists alongside it, heavily influencing art, architecture, and funerary rituals. Most Japanese people participate in both Shinto and Buddhist practices, illustrating a unique religious landscape where different faiths intertwine to shape daily life and festivals.
Writing
Writing Structure
The Japanese writing system is a unique combination of three distinct scripts: Kanji, Hiragana, and Katakana.
- Kanji: Logographic characters borrowed from Chinese that represent specific meanings or concepts.
- Hiragana: A phonetic script used for native Japanese words, verb endings, and grammatical particles.
- Katakana: A phonetic script primarily used for foreign loanwords, technical terms, and emphasis. This intricate blend allows writers to convey meaning, pronunciation, and stylistic nuance all within a single sentence.
Business Writing
Japanese business writing is characterised by a highly formal and respectful tone. It frequently employs Keigo to show appropriate deference to the reader. Documents are typically structured with a clear hierarchy: the main point is presented clearly, followed by supporting details. Precision is highly valued, as the goal is to eliminate any ambiguity. Ultimately, business correspondence reflects the broader cultural emphasis on respect and meticulous attention to detail.
Letter Writing
Writing a letter in Japanese is considered a graceful art form that reflects the writer’s sincerity. Letters often begin with seasonal references or inquiries into the recipient’s well-being, such as “Saikin dou desu ka?” (How have you been lately?). A common way to conclude is with the versatile phrase “Yoroshiku onegaishimasu,” which conveys both gratitude and a desire for a continued good relationship. The beauty of a Japanese letter lies in this delicate balance of formal etiquette and heartfelt sentiment.
E-mails
Writing professional emails requires strict adherence to digital etiquette.
- The Opening: Always start with a set phrase like “Osewa ni natte orimasu,” which acknowledges your ongoing relationship with the recipient.
- The Body: Clearly state your purpose using humble forms, such as “Onegai moushiagemasu” for requests.
- The Closing: End with a polite sign-off to ensure a professional impression. Keep your sentences concise and avoid overly casual language to maintain the necessary professional distance.
Typing on a Computer
Typing in Japanese involves an Input Method Editor (IME). You type phonetically using Roman characters (Romaji), and the IME provides a list of suggested Kanji or Katakana options. By pressing the spacebar, you can scroll through these suggestions to select the correct character. This system makes it remarkably efficient to switch between the three scripts while using a standard QWERTY keyboard.
Texting on Smartphones
On smartphones, users generally choose between two input methods:
- Romaji Input: Similar to a computer, you type using the Roman alphabet.
- Flick Input (Kana): A unique and highly efficient method where you tap a “base” kana (like ‘A’) and flick in a specific direction to select the related sounds (‘I’, ‘U’, ‘E’, or ‘O’). Predictive text and smart Kanji conversion make texting incredibly fast, allowing for seamless communication on the go.
Handwriting
Japanese handwriting, known as tegaki, holds profound cultural significance. Each stroke is executed with meticulous care and precision, conveying not just characters, but the very spirit of the writer. Handwriting embodies a delicate balance of grace and discipline, echoing Japan’s rich history of calligraphy (書道 — shodo). From the elegant, flowing curves of hiragana to the bold, structured lines of kanji, handwriting is a deeply personal art form where the subtlety of the ink speaks volumes.
Academic Writing
In the world of Japanese academia, scholars place a heavy emphasis on clarity and precision, often prioritising thoroughness over brevity. Academic papers typically follow a rigid, formal structure: a clear introduction, a detailed methodology, comprehensive analysis, and a conclusive summary.
A hallmark of Japanese academic writing is its objective and authoritative tone. Authors generally avoid personal pronouns, focusing instead on the subject matter to present information in a systematic and logical manner. This style conveys expertise and professionalism while maintaining a respectful distance from the reader.
Well Done!
You have reached the end of this guide! You don’t need to tackle everything at once, of course—simply focus on the few points that are most relevant to your current goals. Every small step forward is a victory in your language-learning journey.
Good luck! ☺︎
Photo by Swati H. Das on Unsplash
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