An introduction to the Japanese writing system

-There was no writing system in Japan until the 5th century.
-The Japanese stole the Kanji from their chinese friends.
-There are three components: 1. optic signal 2. acustic signal 3. meaning
-2 different readings exist. 1. on-reading 2. kun-reading

• ON: Words derived from Chinese
• KUN: Japanese words

-Kana are simplified radicals derived from Kanji
-Hiragana and Kanji are used in sentences more often than ever together.
-Romaji (Latin Alphabet) are known in Japan since 16th century


Useful resources to learn Kanji:
Tips 1
Tips 2