Choose the conversation setting

FormatChoose it whenWhat to check
HanashiYou want a one-to-one conversation with a Japanese host around a shared interest, with help from captions and translation.Learner signup is open in early access. Check current host and booking availability before making plans.
Interest groupYou want to hear different perspectives and can attend at a set time.Topic, group size and how beginners take a turn.
Tandem peer exchangeYou want a regular partner and are happy to help them learn your language.Whether both of you can keep the same schedule and agree on a fair split.
Preply tutorYou want the other person to give feedback or teach toward a goal.Subject expertise, rates and terms for ongoing lessons.

Why choose Hanashi?

A profile gives you a better opening than a generic introduction. If a Japanese host mentions that they’re into film photography, ask where they like to take their camera. If they love old records, ask what they’d play for someone new to jazz. Hanashi is designed to help you pick the person whose answer you actually want to hear.

Caption and translation support can keep that conversation going when you run up against a language gap. For group discussion, choose a group with a posted topic. For skill corrections and homework, book a tutor.

Look for signs of a good fit

  • Something to talk about: Pick a person or event whose description gives you a real question. If they list film photography, you could ask how they choose a subject.
  • A compatible pace: Ask whether you can speak slowly, use captions or switch to text when needed. Confirm this before reserving time.
  • Clear participation rules: For groups, check whether you can listen before you speak. For paid sessions, check the time zone, duration, price and cancellation terms before committing.
  • Control over what you share: Use platform messaging while you get to know the other person and decide together whether to exchange contact information later.

Send an invitation someone can answer

For an interest-based chat, try “You mentioned you collect old records. I’d love to hear which record you’d play for someone new to jazz. Would you be up for a 15-minute chat this weekend?” Make the request easy to decline.

For an exchange, include what you can offer and how you’d split the call. In a hosted session, share the topic when booking or open the call by asking what they enjoy talking about.

Try the conversation finder for a recommendation based on your interests and what you want from the call.

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