What it does
WaniKani teaches Japanese radicals, kanji and vocabulary through mnemonic lessons and a spaced-repetition review system.
Radicals provide the building blocks before WaniKani introduces kanji and related words. Work through the lesson, then return for scheduled reviews rather than cramming a long list at once. Its scope is reading-related character and vocabulary study, so pair it with grammar, listening or conversation work when your broader Japanese goal requires those skills.
The first three levels are free; paid access is needed from Level 4. Reviews are scheduled for each item from previous performance, so the programme controls when material returns rather than presenting one unrestricted cram list.
Sources
- WaniKani, a kanji learning application by Tofugu (Oct 26, 2026)
- Is WaniKani Free? | WaniKani Knowledge (Oct 26, 2026)