How to Install the Japanese Language Pack for Microsoft Office and Windows
Question details
The user needs to correctly install and configure the Japanese language pack for either Windows or Microsoft Office to enable Japanese input and display.
- Product
- Microsoft Office / Windows
- Device & OS
- Windows
- Scenario
- Adding Japanese language support to the operating system or specific Office applications.
- Observed behavior
- The language pack installation repeatedly switches between 'Download' and 'Installed' states without successfully applying the language settings.
Ensure you have a stable internet connection and administrative privileges on your computer to allow system-level language packages to download and install properly.
Install the Language Accessory Pack for Microsoft Office
Use this method if you need to change the display menus, help features, or authoring tools specifically within Microsoft Office applications.
Microsoft Office requires a specific Language Accessory Pack separate from the Windows operating system language settings. Installing this package will update your Word, Excel, and PowerPoint interfaces to Japanese.
Open your web browser, navigate to the official Microsoft Language Accessory Pack documentation page, and download the Japanese installer that matches your Office architecture (32-bit or 64-bit).
Double-click the downloaded executable file to begin the installation process and follow the on-screen prompts.
Once the setup wizard indicates the installation is finished, restart your computer to clear any lingering 'Download' or 'Installed' loop states.
Launch any Office application, go to File > Options > Language. Under 'Office display language' and 'Office authoring languages and proofing', select Japanese and set it as preferred. Restart the application.
Add Japanese via Windows Language Settings
Use this method to change the system-wide language interface or to enable the Japanese keyboard layout for all apps on Windows.
Switch to WPS Office for Built-in Multi-Language Support
If you are struggling with endless download loops while trying to install Microsoft 365 accessory packs, consider switching to WPS Office. It provides a lightweight, hassle-free alternative with native multi-language support built directly into a familiar interface.
- 1. Download WPS Office: Visit the official WPS website and download the free installation package.
- 2. Open Settings: Launch WPS Office, click the Global Settings icon in the top right corner, and choose 'Language'.
- 3. Select Your Language: Pick Japanese (or any other preferred language) from the list to apply it instantly to your workspace.

Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my Office language pack installation loop between 'Download' and 'Installed'?
This loop is typically caused by a corrupted download cache or conflicts with background Microsoft Office processes. Restarting your PC or running the Office Quick Repair tool before reinstalling the Language Accessory Pack usually resolves the glitch.
Is the Japanese language pack for Windows different from the Office language pack?
Yes. The Windows language pack changes the operating system interface and adds keyboard inputs system-wide. The Microsoft Office Language Accessory Pack specifically translates the menus, ribbons, and proofing tools (like spellcheck) within Office applications.
Do I need to pay for the Japanese Language Accessory Pack in Microsoft Office?
No, Microsoft provides Language Accessory Packs for free. You simply need a valid, activated version of Microsoft Office or Microsoft 365 to download and install them from the official documentation page.
Will installing the Japanese language pack change my current documents?
No, installing the language pack only changes the application's user interface and provides proofing tools. The actual content and formatting of your existing documents will remain exactly as you originally typed them.




