Basics of Japanese Language

In this series of Japanese learning we will be learning the Japanese scripts, stroke order for letters with the pronunciation and basic vocabulary.

In Japanese language there are three types of scripts.

1. Hiragana
2. Katakana
3. Kanji

We will first start with Hiragana script:
Hiragana is used in many cases, such as writing articles or miscellaneous words that have no kanji form:

Hiragana

あ series:

With the following visual stroke-by-stroke guide, you will learn to write hiragana characters あ、い、う、え、お (a, i, u, e, o).

A - あ

Follow the stroke order to write the hiragana character for "a". This hiragana character is used in words like あさ (asa), which translates to "morning".

Be sure to always use the proper stroke order when practicing. Not only is it correct, but it is also a great way to help you to remember how to draw the character.


I - い

This stroke-by-stroke guide will teach you how to write い. conveying the "i" syllable, い is also used in words like いぬ (inu), which means "dog".


U - う

One of the simpler hiragana characters, う is used in words like うみ (umi), which means "sea".


E - え

Be sure to follow the stroke numbers when writing え. え is used in words like えき (eki), which is the Japanese word for "station".


O - お

Learn how to write the hiragana character for "o" in this simple lesson. This character is used in words like おかね (okane), meaning "money".