Hello, Word Warriors! We are so excited to introduce the very first volume in our picture book series: Picture this Japanese words! Vol. あ-A, written by Shimachan.
This book was carefully crafted to help you practice the correct pronunciation of everyday Japanese words. Every page pairs a word with a reference picture, so the meaning clicks instantly, and every word comes with a pitch-accent diagram plus simple pronunciation tips a child (or a total beginner) can follow. It’s designed to be read together with friends, parents, or grandparents, and pairs perfectly with the companion website and YouTube videos for native audio practice.
Shimachan created this series after noticing how many language learners struggle with Japanese pitch accent — the subtle rise and fall in pitch that can completely change a word’s meaning. Rather than relying on romanized text alone, each page breaks the sound down visually, so you can see exactly where your voice should go up and where it should come down. Whether you’re a parent looking for a fun bedtime routine, a teacher building a classroom library, or an adult beginner starting from scratch, Vol. あ-A is a gentle, encouraging first step into spoken Japanese.
31 Useful Words Inside
Vol. あ-A collects 31 words that all begin with あ (A) — everyday vocabulary kids and adults can start using right away:
- Ashi (足) – Leg / Foot
- Ame (雨) – Rain
- Aka (赤) – Red
- Anpan (餡パン) – Sweet Bean Paste Bun
- Arigatou (有難う) – Thank You
- Ai (愛) – Love
- Ahiru (家鴨) – Duck
- Atsui (暑い) – Hot (temperature)
- Asa (朝) – Morning
- Amu (編む) – To Knit
- Ageru (あげる) – To Give
- Aki (秋) – Autumn / Fall
- Araiguma (浣熊) – Raccoon
- Aruku (歩く) – To Walk
- Akarui (明るい) – Bright
- Akeru (開ける) – To Open
- Asobu (遊ぶ) – To Play
- Ago (顎) – Chin
- Ao (青) – Blue
- Attakai (温かい) – Warm
- Ari (蟻) – Ant
- Atama (頭) – Head
- Arau (洗う) – Wash
- Akachan (赤ちゃん) – Baby
- Aji (鯵) – Horse Mackerel
- Azarashi (海豹) – Seal
- Ajisai (紫陽花) – Hydrangea
- Antena (アンテナ) – Antenna
- Airon (アイロン) – Clothes Iron
- Amefuto (アメフト) – American Football
- Awa (泡) – Bubble / Foam
A Peek Inside Picture this Japanese words!
Every word gets two pages: a big, beautiful illustration to picture the meaning, and a pronunciation page with a pitch-accent diagram and easy tips. Here’s a look at three of our favorites:
Where to Get Picture this Japanese words! Vol. あ-A
- Read the Adventure: Prefer a physical book? The paperback edition of Vol. あ-A is available now.
- Explore the Whole Series: See every volume in the Picture this: Japanese words! Paperback Series.
We hope Vol. あ-A becomes a favorite in your home — happy learning, and welcome to the Picture this Japanese words! family, Word Warriors!
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