Top 5 Websites to Find an Online Tutor for Japanese
I have always wanted to learn Japanese, so I was fascinated to see how easy it is to learn. Learning Japanese online has never been easier, thanks to the many platforms available that connect students with native-speaking tutors. Whether you’re a beginner or looking to refine your skills, finding the right Japanese tutor is crucial to your language learning success. While many people are familiar with the larger platforms, there are also smaller websites offering great options for learners. Here’s a list of the top 5 websites to find an online tutor for Japanese.

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1. italki
Italki is arguably the most popular platform for learning Japanese online. Known for its wide selection of teachers, it allows students to connect with native speakers and professional instructors. You can take online Japanese lessons with tutors that cater to all types of learners, from formal, structured lessons to casual conversational practice. Italki offers a diverse range of teachers, making it easy to find someone who fits your learning goals. The platform also allows students to filter Japanese tutors based on their expertise, availability, and teaching style.
What sets italki apart is its affordability and flexibility. With teachers from all over the world, prices vary, so you can find someone within your budget. Plus, the ability to book lessons at times that suit you, along with the vast range of available teachers, makes it a fantastic choice for anyone looking to learn Japanese.
2. Verbling
Verbling offers high-quality language lessons, including Japanese, with native speakers. While it’s a smaller platform than italki, Verbling’s tutors are highly qualified, many holding certifications in teaching Japanese as a foreign language. Verbling’s video-based platform is user-friendly, making the experience smooth and interactive.
What makes Verbling stand out is the focus on professional Japanese tutors who offer structured lessons. The platform also boasts a wide variety of teaching materials, helping students reach their language goals efficiently. Pricing is transparent, and you can view tutor profiles, reviews, and availability before booking.

3. Preply
Preply is another popular option for finding an online Japanese tutor, although it is often overshadowed by the bigger players in the industry. It offers a wide variety of tutors with different expertise and experience levels, allowing learners to find someone who meets their specific needs. The platform is easy to navigate, and teachers are available for lessons at different price points, so you can choose one that fits your budget.
One notable feature of Preply is its learning plans. These plans offer a more structured approach to learning Japanese, which can be particularly helpful for beginners who need guidance in developing a consistent study routine. Additionally, you can book trial lessons to get a feel for the teaching style before committing.
4. Live Lingua
Live Lingua is a lesser-known platform that offers Japanese lessons with native speakers. What makes this platform unique is its extensive database of free learning resources, such as textbooks, audio courses, and video lessons. It provides both one-on-one sessions with tutors and group lessons, which can be more affordable for learners on a budget.
Live Lingua stands out because of its personalised approach. Tutors work with you to set goals and create a custom lesson plan. The platform’s tutors come from various backgrounds, and the website offers both casual conversational lessons and more academic, structured lessons depending on your needs.
5. Tora Japanese
Tora Japanese is a small, niche site focused exclusively on Japanese language learning. It offers personalised online tutoring with a select group of highly experienced tutors. The website is simple and straightforward, with fewer options than the larger platforms, but this allows for a more intimate and personalised experience.
What sets Tora Japanese apart is its focus on grammar and pronunciation, making it a great choice for students who want to dive deeper into the structure of the language. On Tora, Japanese tutors often have extensive experience teaching beginners, so it’s an ideal platform for those starting their language journey.
Conclusion
While there are many websites out there for finding a Japanese tutor, it’s important to choose one that aligns with your goals, budget, and learning style. Whether you’re looking for flexibility, professional lessons, or a more intimate tutoring experience, the websites listed above offer excellent choices for learners at all levels. From italki’s vast tutor network to the personalised, niche experiences of Tora Japanese, each platform has its strengths, helping you find the perfect Japanese tutor to guide you on your journey.