Shiritai — Furigana Reader for Japanese is a powerful Chrome extension designed to transform any standard web page into an interactive Japanese reading lesson. Whether you are browsing news sites, personal blogs, or social media platforms like X and Threads, Shiritai allows you to toggle furigana on so that phonetic readings appear instantly above every kanji.

Built specifically for intermediate and upper-beginner learners (N5–N2 level) who want to transition to reading authentic Japanese, the tool features a locally-running reading engine that ensures both high-speed performance and user privacy. Beyond just adding furigana, users can highlight any text and trigger an Explain function to generate comprehensive study cards. These cards include translations, grammar breakdowns, vocabulary notes, kanji details, JLPT levels, and the casual nuances often missed by traditional dictionaries. A companion web app is also available to analyze any pasted text using the exact same features.

Pros of Shiritai — Furigana Reader for Japanese

Turns any website, blog, or social media platform into a Japanese reading lesson
Locally-running reading engine ensures fast performance and strict data privacy
Instant study cards provide translations, grammar, vocabulary, kanji insights, and JLPT levels
Captures casual nuances that standard dictionaries frequently miss
Includes a companion web app for analyzing pasted text on the go

Cons of Shiritai — Furigana Reader for Japanese

Specifically targeted at N5–N2 learners, which may limit advanced users
Requires the Google Chrome browser to use the primary extension features
Relies on internet access for the companion web app and online AI explanations

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Shiritai do?

Shiritai is a Chrome extension and companion web app that adds furigana readings above kanji on any webpage, while also generating detailed study cards covering translation, grammar, vocabulary, kanji, JLPT levels, and casual nuances.