📚 Frequently Asked Questions

Below you'll find the answers to the questions we hear most often.

Still stuck? E-mail us any time → support@vlogtube.app

1. Getting Started

1-1 What exactly is VlogTube?

VlogTube is a learning-platform that decodes real Japanese YouTube vlogs line-by-line. We add interactive subtitles, phonetic guides, vocabulary drills, and pronunciation challenges—so you can train with unscripted, up-to-date language instead of textbook dialogs.

1-2 Do I need to speak Japanese first?

No. Each video comes with:

  • JP / EN dual subtitles
  • romaji & furigana toggles
  • adjustable playback speed
  • side-by-side sentence translation

Beginners can shadow the romaji, intermediates can hide English, and advanced learners can switch to "Japanese-only" mode.

1-3 Is it free?

All users get a rotating set of free weekly videos (full feature access, no credit-card). Unlimited library, spaced-repetition word decks, and progress tracking are part of our Pro plan.

2. Content & Learning Flow

2-1 What are the five "Practice Steps" I see on each lesson?

  1. 1
    Listen to pure audio (ear-warm-up)
  2. 2
    Watch without subtitles (context & gestures)
  3. 3
    CN⇆JP or EN⇆JP line-by-line (deep dive)
  4. 4
    Watch with phonetic subtitles (shadowing)
  5. 5
    Vocabulary & phrase review (SRS flash cards)

Follow them top-to-bottom or mix as you like—consistency is key.

2-2 How often is new content added?

Every Tuesday & Friday we publish at least one fresh vlog plus its study pack.

We also rotate older lessons into the free tier so newcomers can taste before they upgrade.

2-3 Can I download subtitles or audio?

Yes—Pro members may export:

  • printable PDF transcripts
  • .srt subtitle files
  • Anki-ready vocab deck (.apkg)

Please keep them for personal study only (see Terms §5).

3. Billing & Account

3-1 Which payment methods do you accept?

We use Stripe—so any major credit/debit card, Apple Pay, Google Pay, or Alipay.

3-2 How do I cancel?

Profile → Settings → Plan & Billing → Cancel subscription. Your Pro benefits remain until the end of the current cycle; no hidden fees.

3-3 Do you offer refunds?

Yes. First-time subscribers can claim a full refund within 7 days—just email us.

4. Technical Issues

4-1 The video won't play!

  1. 1
    Check if the original YouTube video is restricted in your region.
  2. 2
    Disable VPN / ad-block temporarily.
  3. 3
    Clear browser cache or switch browsers.

If trouble persists, send us the lesson URL and a screenshot of the error message.

4-2 Do you have an iOS / Android app?

A mobile app is in closed beta. In the meantime, vlogtube.app is 100% PWA-ready—tap "Add to Home Screen" for an app-like shortcut with offline caching of your recent lessons.

5. Legal & Copyright

5-1 Who owns the videos?

The original YouTube creators retain full ownership. We embed their public uploads via the official YouTube API and add educational overlays (see Privacy & Content Policy).

5-2 I'm a creator—can I request removal?

Absolutely. Email copyright@vlogtube.app with the video URL; we'll remove or geo-block the embed within 48 hours.

6. Classrooms & Teams

6-1 Can teachers use VlogTube in class?

Yes! Many educators project our dual subtitles or assign a lesson link as homework.

For institutions we offer discounted Group seats with shared progress dashboards—contact edu@vlogtube.app.

7. Miscellaneous

7-1 Is VlogTube good for JLPT preparation?

While the videos aren't JLPT-aligned, each lesson's vocabulary card shows its JLPT level (N5-N1) when applicable. Learners report noticeable listening gains for N3-N1 after 4–6 months of regular practice.

7-2 Can I request a specific YouTuber?

Sure! Drop us a link in the in-app "Request" form. We prioritise channels that:

  • publish with Japanese audio,
  • allow embedding,
  • and provide cultural or everyday-life value.

🙋‍♀️ Didn't find your answer?

Send us a message → support@vlogtube.app or tweet @VlogTubeJP—we're happy to help!