Why I Started Japanese

I started learning Japanese in 2020 and it’s become my favorite language.

As a kid, I was obsessed with Power Rangers. I would rush home from school just to catch the latest episode, fascinated by the colorful costumes, epic battles, and unique characters. But it wasn’t until I got a little older that I discovered the original source of the show — the Japanese Super Sentai and Kamen Rider series — and everything changed.

Watching these shows in their original Japanese, with their distinct style and storytelling, sparked a new kind of curiosity in me. I wanted to understand the language behind these amazing worlds. It felt like unlocking a secret door to a culture that was vibrant, exciting, and completely different from what I knew. Even as a teenager, I enjoyed the themes and light-heartedness of the show I grew up on. But listening in a different language was what kept a long-term interest.

That’s when I started learning Japanese.

The transition from watching dubbed Power Rangers to exploring Super Sentai and Kamen Rider in Japanese wasn’t just about the shows themselves — it was about connecting more deeply with the stories, the characters, and the culture. I realized that watching with subtitles or dubbing wasn’t enough. I wanted to hear and understand the language directly.

Why Japanese?

Japanese is more than just a language to me. It’s a way to experience an art form — whether it’s anime, music, or live-action series like Sentai and Rider — in its purest form. It’s about appreciating the nuances and expressions that get lost in translation. A lot of people asked “Why Japanese?” Several said that I should learn Spanish because it would be more useful in the South of the US, and more my future career. So I decided to change the trajectory of my career instead. Instead of conforming to what others thought would be good for me, I took what I wanted and made it useful. Yes, Japanese is much harder than Spanish to a native English speaker, but that’s what kept me coming back for more. I loved the challenge.

How I Keep Learning

Learning a language can feel overwhelming, but I’ve found that breaking it down into small, consistent steps makes all the difference. From tracking vocabulary in Notion to using Anki flashcards and watching Japanese shows with subtitles, I keep it fun and manageable. I try my best to integrate or IMMERSE myself in the language as much as possible. For example, I listen to Japanese music at work, or I talk to my Japanese friends. Finding way to connect more to the language, even if you don’t live that country will keep you motivated!

What’s Next?

I’m excited to keep sharing my journey and tips to help others who love Japanese culture — or who just want to learn a language in a way that feels natural and inspiring. Now, I go to Japan every year and I see myself living there in the future. All because of a kid’s show.

If you grew up loving Power Rangers or Sentai too, or if you’re just starting your Japanese journey, I’d love to hear from you!

T💜