Summary

Learning to write Japanese can be one of the more challenging parts of studying the language, especially once you move beyond hiragana and katakana into kanji. Nazoru is a Japanese learning tool that helps you practice writing kanji step by step. It works by first teaching you how to write each character with guided strokes, and as you practice, the guidance slowly fades until you can write the character on your own from memory. If you make a mistake, the hints come back so you can try again. Practice sessions are short, can be done offline, and accessible on almost any device. Nazoru also allows you to sync to Japanese resources like WaniKani, Bunpro, and MaruMori, so instead of creating new study lists, it can turn the kanji you are already reviewing into handwriting practice.
Another helpful feature of Nazoru is the ability to practice similar-looking characters side by side, which makes it easier to notice the small differences between them. What sets Nazoru apart is its simple approach to handwriting practice. While tools like Skritter, Ringotan, and Kanji Study provide effective handwriting practice and review through SRS, writing challenges, and review decks, Nazoru focuses on gradually building writing confidence through guided practice that fades over time.
Nazoru is best as a supplementary tool, not a full course. The free version is limited to two practice sessions per day, unlimited practice requires a subscription. But if writing kanji and kana is a particular pain point for you, Nazoru is a useful resource to try.