Hopefully you will find one of these work for you. I personally like using Quizlet, but I have to make each set myself.
- Flashcards: Create flashcards with the hiragana character on one side and the romaji on the other. Practice with these regularly, either alone or with a partner.
- Mnemonics: Use mnemonic devices to create associations with each character. For example, the character “あ” (a) can be remembered as an “antenna” on top of a radio.
- Writing Practice: Repeatedly write each character while saying its sound aloud. This reinforces both muscle memory and auditory learning.
- Hiragana Chart: Have a hiragana chart to refer to regularly. Fill in the chart from memory to see how much you remember.
- Games and Apps: Utilize educational games and apps designed to teach hiragana. These interactive tools can make learning more engaging.
- Quizlet
- Quizziz
- Gimkit
- Wordwall
- Bloomer
- Songs and Rhymes: Learn songs or rhymes that include the hiragana characters. Music can be a powerful memory aid.
- Pairing with Vocabulary: Introduce simple Japanese vocabulary that uses the hiragana characters. This helps you see the words written in hiragana in context.
- Storytelling: Create stories that incorporate the shapes of the characters. For instance, “く” (ku) can be remembered as looking like a “cuckoo” bird’s beak.
- Regular Quizzes: Take regular quizzes to test recall and identify characters that need more focus.
- Peer Teaching: Teach hiragana each other, if you have peers. Explaining concepts to peers can reinforce their own understanding.
By using a combination of these strategies, learners can build a strong foundation in recognizing and memorizing hiragana characters.

Leave a comment