Tales of Old Japan
Read this book freeEvery sentence translated, natural audio, one-tap dictionary
This collection of Japanese folklore, legends, and historical anecdotes offers a vivid glimpse into the customs, rituals, and warrior ethos of old Japan. It includes ghost stories, tales of samurai honor, and accounts of ceremonial practices, all framed by the author's commentary. The prose is clear and narrative-driven, with plenty of dialogue and action, making it accessible for learners. Its episodic structure allows for easy reading in short sessions.
Learn English with Tales of Old Japan
- Suits learners around level C1: you read the original, not a simplified retelling.
- 10,058 distinct words, each one a tap away from your personal vocabulary list.
- Read in English, glance at the translation under any sentence you are unsure of, and listen to natural read-aloud voices to train your ear.
How it works
- Open the book: no installation, it reads in the browser on any device.
- Read a sentence in English. Its translation sits right under it, so you never lose the thread.
- Tap a word for its meaning and save it; listen to the chapter read aloud.
Create a free accountRead full books, save your progress and vocabulary, upload your own books.
Questions about this book
Can I read Tales of Old Japan in English for free?
Yes. The first chapters of Tales of Old Japan open without an account, with the translation, audio and dictionary included. A free account unlocks the rest of the book.
How much English do I need?
The text is estimated at level C1. Because every sentence has its translation underneath, lower levels can follow along too.
Is there audio?
Yes. Each chapter can be read aloud by a natural-sounding voice while the current sentence is highlighted.
