Lofi Japanese was created for learners who struggle with traditional language resources. Our goal was to remove obstacles from the learning process and create a Japanese course that would never feel like a chore. To this end, we focused on production quality, engaging examples, and a distinctly warm Japanese atmosphere. With Lofi Japanese, we aimed to make a resource learners would genuinely look forward to using.

No. The Lofi Japanese team—including Dogen—believes a solid foundation in Japanese requires constant native input. For that reason, every lesson is delivered by a native Japanese speaker. Lofi Japanese was directed by Dogen, filmed and edited by Skill Hunter, Inc., a small video production team based in Hiroshima, and presented by Karen Shidahara, a freelance model living in rural Hiroshima. The scripts were written by Skill Hunter with guidance from Dogen, revised by certified Japanese teacher Yotsuba Ikarashi for natural language and clarity, then finally refined to match the course’s lofi style.

In trying to create a practical, but also inviting Japanese resource, the Lofi Japanese team drew inspiration from the popular YouTube channel Lofi Girl. Our editors graded footage to emphasize the natural hues and textures of Karen’s home, and carefully curated fonts, sound effects, and music to match the aesthetic. Additionally, Karen chose outfits, makeup, and hairstyles to convey a relaxed yet professional atmosphere.

Before her involvement with Lofi Japanese, Karen Shidahara worked as a freelance model and as a waitress at her family’s restaurant in Saijo, Higashi-Hiroshima. She was chosen as course presenter from more than 100 applicants for her presentation abilities, professional work ethic, strong screen presence, and clear voice. For more information about Karen, please watch her introduction video.

To create an authentic atmosphere, the team filmed at Karen’s traditional Japanese home in rural Hiroshima. The production relied mainly on natural light, using a Sony FX30 for video and an Azden SGM-3500 shotgun mic for audio.

Lessons are approximately 30 minutes long, though length varies depending on subject matter. At the start of each lesson, Karen acts out a Dogen skit at a normal speed, as well as a slower, more deliberate speed. She then thoroughly breaks down one key grammar structure and three essential vocabulary points from the skit. Each lesson concludes with a review and a preview of the next lesson’s content.

During the beta launch, learners can purchase the full Lofi Japanese course at a significantly reduced, one-time price. They’ll receive access to the first 15 lessons upon purchase, with the remaining lessons released weekly until all 30 are available. Beta learners will retain full, lifetime course access and receive all future updates at no extra cost.

Lofi Japanese was created as an alternative to textbooks and more traditional video-based courses—it is not a shortcut to fluency. We encourage learners to consider their language goals and compare Lofi Japanese with other resources before making a purchase decision.

If you’re not happy with the course for any reason, let us know within 30 days and we will refund your payment. Please confirm our Refund Policy page for more information.