1. Introduction | What This Article Solves
If you are new to Ubuntu or have recently switched from Windows, you may struggle with issues such as “Japanese input doesn’t work” or “I don’t know how to enable Mozc.”
This article provides a detailed, beginner-friendly walkthrough for setting up Japanese input on Ubuntu. It also explains the differences between Mozc and Fcitx 5 and includes troubleshooting tips, enabling you to build a smooth Japanese typing environment in Ubuntu.
2. How to Configure Japanese Input on Ubuntu [2025 Edition]
To type in Japanese on Ubuntu, you must install a suitable Input Method Editor (IME). The recommended standard IME for Ubuntu is Mozc.
2.1 What Is Mozc?
Mozc is the open-source version of Google Japanese Input and is commonly used as the standard Japanese IME on Ubuntu. It is lightweight, provides reliable conversion accuracy, and is recommended for beginners.
2.2 Installing Mozc
In many cases, Mozc is not preinstalled on Ubuntu. Follow the steps below to install it.
2.2.1 Install Mozc via the Terminal
Open the terminal and run the following commands:
sudo apt update
sudo apt install ibus-mozcThese commands update the package information and install Mozc.
2.2.2 Restart the System
Once the installation is complete, restart your system so Mozc can be properly applied.
sudo reboot2.3 Applying the IME Correctly
After restarting the system, configure the following settings:
- Open the Settings App
Open the “Settings” application and navigate to the “Region & Language” section. - Add Input Source
Click “Manage Installed Input Sources” and press the “+” button. Select “Japanese (Mozc)”. - Set Mozc as Default
Move Mozc to the top of the input list so it becomes the default input source.
Your Japanese input environment is now ready.
3. How to Configure Mozc on Ubuntu
3.1 Configuring Mozc Using the GUI
For users who prefer not to use the terminal, here is how to configure Mozc using the Graphical User Interface (GUI).
- Open the Settings App
- Open “Settings” from the application menu at the bottom-left corner of the screen.
- Select “Region & Language”.
- Add Input Source
- Press the “+” button.
- Search for and add “Japanese (Mozc)”.
- Change Input Source Priority
- Move “Mozc” to the top of the list.
This method allows you to configure Mozc without using the terminal.
4. Differences Between Mozc and Fcitx 5 | Which Should You Choose?
Ubuntu also supports Fcitx 5 as an alternative IME. Below is a comparison of Mozc vs. Fcitx 5.
4.1 Features of Mozc
- Ubuntu’s standard IME with stable performance.
- Moderate conversion accuracy, but dictionary expansion is not supported.
- Simple configuration, ideal for beginners.
4.2 Features of Fcitx 5
- Lightweight and fast.
- More customizable than Mozc.
- Used across many Linux systems, but may conflict with some applications.
In conclusion, Mozc is recommended for beginners, while users who need advanced customization may want to try Fcitx 5.
5. Troubleshooting Japanese Input Issues on Ubuntu
5.1 Mozc Does Not Respond
- Verify input source settings in System Settings.
- Restart Mozc using the command below:
ibus restart5.2 Candidate Window Does Not Appear
In the Mozc settings screen, ensure the “Input Mode” is set to “Hiragana”.
5.3 Japanese Input Does Not Work in Certain Apps (Firefox, LibreOffice, etc.)
- Close and restart the affected application.
- If the issue persists, try Fcitx 5.
5.4 Mozc Stops Working After Installing Fcitx 5
Fcitx 5 may conflict with Mozc. Remove unnecessary IMEs:
sudo apt remove fcitx
ibus restart6. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What should I do if Japanese input suddenly stops working?
A: Run the ibus restart command. If the issue persists, restart your PC.
Q2: Are there alternatives to Mozc?
A: Yes. You can use Fcitx 5 or Anthy as alternatives.
Q3: Are there differences depending on Ubuntu versions?
A: In newer versions (Ubuntu 24.04 and later), Fcitx 5 is becoming the default IME.
Q4: Can I make the Japanese input behave like Windows IME?
A: Yes. Adjust Mozc settings to mimic the typing experience of Windows IME.
