Learn to read and write Japanese かな, one stroke at a time.
KanaKuma is a free app for learning hiragana and katakana. Kuma the bear checks every stroke you write, so you learn the right shape, order and direction from day one.
No download. Works on phone, tablet and computer.
Everything you need to go from zero to reading kana
Short lessons, real handwriting practice and friendly competition, all in one cosy place.
Stroke-by-stroke writing
Watch Kuma write each kana, trace it, then write it from memory. Every stroke is checked for order, direction and shape, with a hanamaru when you get it right.
A clear path to follow
Hiragana and katakana each have their own lesson path, row by row, then the small ゃゅょ combinations like きゃ and しゅ. Earn stars and keep your streak going.
Games and live duels
Time Attack, Survival and Sprint 10 test your reading speed. Challenge a friend to a live Kana Duel and race to 10 correct answers.
Friends and leaderboards
Add friends with a code, keep a streak together, send paw high-fives and see who's leading the week, worldwide or just among friends.
Three steps for every kana
Watch
See the stroke order animated with numbered starting points.
Trace
Follow the guide with your finger, mouse or stylus.
Write from memory
Write it on a blank square. Kuma tells you exactly which stroke to fix.
The first row: あいうえお
Numbers show where each stroke starts and in what order. The full charts cover all 46 hiragana and katakana, plus combinations.
Good to know
Is KanaKuma free?
Yes. Every lesson, game and feature is free. There's an optional one-time purchase to remove ads.
Do I need an account?
No. You can start as a guest straight away. Create an account with Google or email later to keep your progress across devices.
What devices does it work on?
Phones, tablets and computers, right in the browser. You can add it to your home screen like an app, and it works great with Apple Pencil and other styluses.
How long does it take to learn hiragana?
With about 15 minutes a day, most learners can read all 46 basic hiragana in one to two weeks. Katakana usually goes a little faster once hiragana feels familiar.
Does it teach kanji?
Not yet. KanaKuma focuses on hiragana, katakana and the small ゃゅょ combinations, which are the foundation you need before kanji.