For structured learning and comprehensive courses:
* Tae Kim's Guide to Learning Japanese: This is a free, incredibly detailed grammar guide often recommended as a foundational resource. It's not a class in the traditional sense, but its structured approach is excellent for self-learners. You'll need to supplement it with other resources for vocabulary and practice.
* Genki I & II: These textbooks are extremely popular and widely considered the gold standard for beginners. While not strictly online classes, many online resources and tutors use Genki as their curriculum. You can find supplementary materials and even online courses that utilize them.
* JapanesePod101: This offers a subscription-based service with various levels, lessons, and cultural insights. It combines audio lessons, vocabulary building, and cultural context. It's a good option for immersive learning.
* Memrise: While not solely focused on Japanese, Memrise offers engaging courses using flashcards and spaced repetition to build vocabulary. It’s a great supplement to structured learning.
* italki: This platform connects you with native Japanese tutors for one-on-one lessons. You can choose tutors based on their experience, price, and teaching style. It's great for personalized instruction but requires more self-discipline.
For immersion and cultural context:
* Wanikani: Specifically designed to teach kanji (Japanese characters), Wanikani uses mnemonics and spaced repetition to help learners remember characters efficiently. It’s excellent for visual learners and highly effective but focuses solely on kanji.
Things to Consider When Choosing:
* Your learning style: Are you self-motivated, or do you need structured lessons and feedback?
* Your budget: Free resources exist, but comprehensive courses can be costly.
* Your goals: Are you learning for travel, work, or personal enrichment? This will influence the type of class you need.
* Level: Are you a complete beginner, or do you have some prior knowledge?
Recommendation:
For complete beginners, starting with Tae Kim's Guide for grammar and supplementing it with Memrise for vocabulary, then progressing to a structured course like JapanesePod101 or finding a tutor on italki is a solid approach. If kanji is a priority, incorporate Wanikani early on.
Ultimately, the best online Japanese class is the one that best fits your individual needs and learning preferences. Try exploring free options or trial periods before committing to a paid subscription.