By Jouzu Juls (上手 ジューズ)
Learning to type in Japanese on your phone can be a game-changer for language learners—and this video by Jouzu Juls offers a clear, concise guide to mastering the flick input keyboard, a standard method used by native Japanese speakers on mobile devices. Whether you're on Android or iOS, he walks viewers through how to install and configure Google's GBoard or Google 日本語入力 (Google Japanese Input), ensuring you can immediately begin typing in kana and kanji with ease.
The video begins with a short introduction to the concept of the Flick Input keyboard. This input method relies on selecting base kana characters with a tap, then 'flicking' in different directions to choose variations. It's extremely effective once accustomed to it and is much faster than conventional keyboards for Japanese input. Jouzu Juls shows how to install GBoard from both the Android Play Store and iOS App Store, providing helpful links in the description.
Important setup details are shared next, such as enabling flick input mode and adjusting settings for optimal functionality. The video then demonstrates how to type a full Japanese sentence using kana and kanji, offering an excellent visual example for beginners to follow along. Juls also demonstrates how to enter special or less straightforward characters like づ, フォ, and ん.
For learners eager to build speed and proficiency, Juls recommends apps like フリックラーニング (Flick Learning), a typing trainer specifically tailored to help you improve at flick input. Moreover, he provides helpful tips on mastering typing habits and offers resources for continued practice, including his own classes and community Discord server aimed at Japanese learners.
If you're determined to become fluent and type like a native on your phone, this guide offers the perfect starting point. With detailed walkthroughs, practice suggestions, and helpful software recommendations, Jouzu Juls' video ensures you'll be messaging in Japanese in no time.