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Kaeru review

#49 of 63 in Japanese Learning Apps

A broad Japanese study app pairing JLPT reading with writing and pronunciation practice.

4.5/10Editor score
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Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026

Kaeru is a Japanese-learning app for learners progressing from kana and structured N5 lessons toward JLPT N1. Its combination of daily stories, flashcards, handwriting, pronunciation scoring, grammar explanations, and dictionary tools suits people who want to cover several study skills in one place. It is available on web and iOS, and the vendor describes offline-first lessons and study data, with account-based progress across the app and website. The scope makes it relevant to independent learners building a regular routine, rather than people looking only for a single-purpose speaking or reading tool.

The study path has a useful mix of structured and recurring practice. Kana and N5 lessons provide a beginner entry point, while daily stories for N4–N1 pair grammar with comprehension. Spaced-repetition flashcards and JLPT kanji and vocabulary decks support recall; handwriting practice includes stroke order, and learners can record pronunciation for scoring. A built-in dictionary supplies AI-generated example sentences, alongside grammar explanations and examples. This breadth is a fit for learners who want reading, vocabulary, writing, and speaking activities together. Someone primarily seeking live conversation instruction or a narrowly focused course may prefer a tool built around that specific need.

Kaeru is paid, with no permanent free plan; the vendor describes a free trial, after which subscription access applies. The listed plan names include weekly, monthly, and annual Kaeru Plus options, as well as Kaeru Annual and Kaeru Pay Once. The App Store listing has duplicate and misspelled plan labels, and prices vary by region, so buyers should check the current listing for their region before choosing. The website and app-store descriptions differ in how they characterize starting free access, so the practical choice is to evaluate the trial and paid terms shown at purchase. Kaeru makes most sense for self-directed JLPT learners who value handwriting and scored pronunciation practice; learners who need a lasting free tier should look elsewhere.

Kaeru pros and cons

  • Where it wins
    • Daily JLPT N4–N1 stories include grammar and comprehension.
    • Handwriting practice covers kana, kanji, and stroke order.
    • Pronunciation recording and scoring add speaking practice.
  • Where it doesn't
    • No permanent free plan; access is subscription-based after a free trial.
    • Available on web and iOS, with no Android platform listed.
    • Email is the listed support channel.

Kaeru fact sheet, pricing and score →

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