Paint the second eye.

In Japan, you paint one eye of a daruma when you set a goal, and the second when you reach it. Darumaji turns that ritual into the way you learn kanji.

Start for free

What awaits you in Darumaji

• Cards that are yours Meanings, kun’yomi, on’yomi, nanori, example words, personal notes: every kanji is a real card, filed in the folders you choose.
• Review that adapts Every answer moves the next review. Hard kanji come back often, the rest leave you alone.
• Stroke by stroke Watch every kanji being written in the right order, at your pace, one stroke at a time.
• Games that make reviewing fun Shoot kanji down before they land, match the pairs, train your ear: you review without noticing.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to know hiragana and katakana?

It helps, because readings are written in kana. If you start from scratch, learn them alongside: a few days are enough, and Darumaji always shows the reading with audio.

How much time per day?

Ten minutes is enough. The default goal is 20 reviews a day, and you can change it in the settings.

Is it really free?

Yes. All of N5, the first 20 N4 kanji, reviews, writing and Kanji Invasion are free with no time limit. The paid complete plan is coming soon.

Which JLPT levels are covered?

N5 and N4 are available today, with readings, example words, audio and stroke order. N3, N2 and N1 are in the works.

How is it different from Anki?

Nothing to set up: every kanji comes ready with its readings, examples, pronunciation and strokes. And you get games and a small daily ritual to keep going.

Does it work on my phone?

Yes, the site adapts to mobile and your progress syncs across devices. An Android app is on its way.

See every kanji