The word katakana means "fragmentary kana", as the katakana characters are derived from components or fragments of more complex kanji. Katakana and hiragana are both kana systems.

Learn to write and read Katakana, one of the basic Japanese syllabaries. Free download of PDF Katakana chart. Japan's public broadcaster, NHK, provides these reliable Japanese lessons.

Sep 3, 2014 · The sequel to our famously fast Learn Hiragana guide. Learn katakana quick, in hours or days (not months) using mnemonics and step-by-step worksheets.

What is Katakana? Katakana (カタカナ) is a Japanese syllabary system comprising 46 basic characters, just like Hiragana. Each character represents a specific sound or syllable. You'll see …

Discover all 104 katakana characters, the essentials of katakana script, how it's used, and start learning it with quiz games today!

Jan 8, 2026 · Learn basic Japanese writing with our free katakana chart! Includes pronunciation guides and tips to help beginners read and write katakana!

Basic introduction to Katakana, a syllable-based writing system of the Japanese language.