Overview

Kakimasu is a Japanese language learning application with a unique focus on writing skills, designed to make character acquisition intuitive and engaging. The app bridges the gap between traditional textbook-based learning and gamified language apps by providing a structured, writing-centric approach to Japanese.

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Timeline

3 months

Role

Product Designer

Tools

Figma, Miro, Swift, Notion

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Problem Statement

Learning Japanese presents unique challenges due to its three writing systems (hiragana, katakana, and kanji) and the precision required for proper character formation. Existing language apps often prioritize vocabulary and speech, neglecting the critical foundation of writing skills.

User Pain Points

My research identified four critical challenges faced by Japanese language learners:

• Disconnected Learning Experience: Most apps teach vocabulary and writing separately, creating a fragmented learning experience
• Limited Writing Practice: Few applications offer meaningful stroke-by-stroke guidance with proper feedback
• Overwhelming Progression: The path from basic hiragana to complex kanji often feels insurmountable to beginners
• Lack of Context: Characters are frequently taught in isolation without meaningful vocabulary context

"I've tried several apps, but they all focus on vocabulary cards. I never feel confident about my writing skills or stroke order." — Hannah Lobban