Learning and practicing your N4 Kanji? Do you know what kind of words to use to describe your favorite hobby? If you don’t, you will shortly after using our Kanji Worksheet
We have a new unit for you!
This is the third unit in the JLPT N4 series of free Kanji writing practice sheets that you can download and print.
You can check out our previously uploaded worksheets as well as look forward to more that we will update soon! Click here to download: FREE Kanji Writing Practice Sheet – JLPT N4 Hobbies – PDF
Want to learn and practice your JLPT N4 with a Kanji worksheet? Do you know what kind of words to use to describe the seasons, weather or animals in Japanese?
In This Article: Unit 2 JLPT N4 Kanji
We have a new unit for you!
This is the second unit in the JLPT N4 series of free Kanji writing practice sheets that you can download and print. You can check out our previously uploaded worksheets as well as look forward to more that we will update soon!
Click here to download: FREE Kanji Writing Practice Sheet – JLPT N4 Weather, Nature, Animal – PDF Check out these articles below to learn more about the seasons in Japan. https://cotoacademy.com/autumnal-equinox-day/ https://cotoacademy.com/support/free-jlpt-kanji-writing-worksheet-pdfs-for-jlpt/?preview_id=42594&preview_nonce=b293a95dac&preview=true
Do you know how to describe and write the position of something in Japanese using directions?
We have a new unit for your Kanji practice and studies! This features N5 Kanji that deal with directions such as up, down, north, south, etc.
This is the fifth unit in a series of free Kanji writing practice sheets that you can download and print. It features N5 Kanji that will appear on the JLPT N5, and mastering these kanji is an important step to passing the test!
This is the third in a series of free Kanji writing practice sheets that you can download and print.
This series deals with kanji related to the human body. If you want to learn Japanese Kanji that relates to the human body, then you can download these excerpts for free.
We will be releasing more over the coming weeks – so stay tuned to this page as we will update it with new links.
Start taking Japanese lessons and master Kanji skills with us!
Whether you’re just beginning your Japanese study or already at an advanced level, chances are you will still encounter unfamiliar words that leave you reaching for a Japanese dictionary. Whether it’s through an app or a traditional paper dictionary, having the right tool can make all the difference.
As interest in the Japanese language continues to grow, despite its reputation as one of the most challenging languages to learn does the number of available Japanese dictionaries. But with so many options out there, how do you choose the right one? In this article, we will be reviewing the most popular Japanese dictionaries across categories, from paper dictionaries to smartphone apps.
What Makes a Good Japanese Dictionary?
A good Japanese-to-English dictionary is a must-have tool for all Japanese learners. It helps us to learn Japanese faster and more efficiently. It must have 100% accuracy and be up-to-date, meaning that it must be updated every few years. Looking at the learner level the dictionary is at is also very important, as a beginner isn’t going to be using or learning the same words as someone getting ready to take the JLPT N1.
And lastly, having key features in the dictionary to help users retain more of what they are reading will be useful. This could include having some basic grammar worksheet usage. So, depending on what you are looking for, these key distinctions will help you in deciding which dictionary it is that you may need and can get the most use out of.
Traditional paper dictionaries have been used by people for many years. Because they are printed, they are a reliable source of the most accurate and detailed explanations for words and sentences. Here are our recommended paper dictionaries for Japanese learners.
Widely referenced as the most comprehensive English-Japanese dictionary available. It has an all-inclusive word bank of 22,000 words with the support of 190,000 sample questions. It includes Japanese translations for common words, technical terms, and even slang. Additionally, phrasal verbs, specific expressions, idioms, and related grammar points are also included. Most importantly, there is furigana to ensure users the ease of reading. In conclusion, this is a well-rounded paper dictionary suitable for all levels of Japanese learners.
2.Oxford Beginner’s Japanese Dictionary (Multilingual Edition)
This highly rated dictionary was designed to help English-speaking learners have a comprehensive and straightforward introduction to Japanese. It covers vocabulary needed within the first year of study, has notes on grammar, and overall helps guide readers on the culture of Japan. They provide clear examples to show how the language will be used in varying contexts, and is overall well-organized. One of its key features, too, is that the dictionary is split into two sections: The first, where words are organized alphabetically in Japanese, then the second part is organized alphabetically in English.
If you are an absolute beginner in Japanese and would like a dictionary that matches your beginner level. We recommend you use this. It is a basic English-Japanese and Japanese-English dictionary with 30,000 applicable basic Japanese words. As its name suggests, there is always furigana on top of every kanji in the dictionary to assist the user as they read. Despite having a smaller word bank, the explanations for each term are precise and comprehensive. For example, words are explained with thousands of examples of sentences. Differences in the usage of similar words are clarified in the dictionary. In conclusion, this is the first Japanese dictionary for beginners.
If you feel that it is too troublesome flipping through thousands of pages on a paper dictionary, you may consider getting an electronic one. Electronic Japanese dictionaries are portable, fast and with useful features such as kanji writing recognition and integrated audio. Some may also have multiple dictionaries stored. This allows you to avoid the trouble of carrying a heavy book around.
Electronic dictionaries have one big weakness – most Japanese electronic dictionaries are built for Japanese English learners. Therefore, the user interface is in Japanese most of the time. If you are a beginner in Japanese, we do not recommend you to get one.
The price of an electronic dictionary depends on its features and the number of dictionaries stored. While older models with basic functions cost less than 40 US dollars, some newer models have more features and bigger word banks are priced up to $500.
Because of the convenient translation websites and apps today, it is almost pointless to spend money on simple electronic dictionaries. As such, we advise you to purchase a newer model with better features. Specific models we recommend is Casio’s ED 9800 Series. It is the comprehensive English-Japanese dictionary series with the latest features. The latest model has the largest word bank supported by 20 English-Japanese dictionaries and 11 Japanese-Japanese dictionaries. Some online dictionaries have audiobooks attached to them, so users are able to double-check what they are saying sounds the same (or similar) to native speakers.
Best Online Japanese Dictionaries and Apps
If you are looking for an easy solution that is also free, we recommend you use an online dictionary and ap dictionary. Online dictionaries and apps only require your phone or laptop and an internet connection (some are even available totally offline). They are extremely convenient, easily accessible, and suitable for most people. Here are our recommended online dictionaries and apps.
1. Weblio
Weblio
Weblio is the largest Japanese dictionary website with about 11,370,000 words recorded. You can simply search for the English explanation of a Japanese word or vice versa. Detailed explanations from different dictionaries will be listed with example sentences, phrases, and related words. However, because of the Japanese UI, this website is only recommended to upper beginners and above.
This is a powerful English Japanese online dictionary with a simple user interface and easy-to-use functions. Advanced search options allow you to search for Japanese translations, Kanji, example sentences, and names. You can also look for words by their radicals, drawings, and even voice input in both Japanese and English. And what is really great for Japanese learners is that you can identify words based on their JLPT level. Kanji from the words will also be listed on the right with their pronunciations and meanings. This online dictionary is extremely suitable for self-learners.
Rated the highest on Google Play, this is one of the best free offline Japanese dictionaries for Android. You can search for words using romaji, kana, kanji or alphabets. You can also search for the translation of complete sentences – just like jisho.org, you can search for kanji by their radicals. Other useful features, such as flashcards and custom word lists, make it even more convenient for use by learners. If you are using an Android device, we highly recommend this app.
A wordplay on the Japanese phrase, “What’s the meaning?” Imiwa is a popular free offline multilingual Japanese dictionary for iPhone. Like the one introduced above, this app also has a strong search engine that allows you to search by meaning, romaji, kanji or alphabet. Of course, you can also search for a kanji by radicals or by drawing it out. Animated stroke order diagrams, pronunciations, and definitions of the kanji will be shown in many languages. For revision, you can review the words in your search history and create your vocabulary lists. It is very highly rated and often suggested online.
“Japanese” is a comprehensive offline Japanese dictionary for both Android and iPhone. It compiles every useful feature you can find in other Japanese dictionary apps. There are over 175,000 entries and 58,000 example sentences in this app, covering every Japanese word you would see. Moreover, it is more than just a dictionary. For users sitting for the JLPT or the Kanji Kentei, it has ready-built study lists for each level, getting you prepared for the tests.
ALC is a well-established name in Japan’s language-learning world, known for its dependable and comprehensive resources. Its flagship online dictionary, Eijirou (英辞郎), is especially popular among professionals, including translators, thanks to its extensive database of example sentences, collocations, idiomatic phrases, and technical terms that are often missing from other dictionaries.
It’s particularly strong when you’re dealing with specialized vocabulary or need to understand how a term is used in different contexts.
If you’re learning Japanese and use a phone or iPad, Nihongo is one of the best dictionary apps you can get your hands on. Created by developer and Japanese learner Chris Vasselli, the app is designed with learners in mind.
What makes Nihongo stand out is its seamless mix of dictionary and study tools. It automatically creates flashcards from words you look up, lets you add photos to help with memory, and shows whether a word is common, uncommon, or rare.
There are also some clever features that make learning smoother. The app includes a Safari extension that adds furigana to kanji on websites, a handwriting tool for when you don’t know a kanji’s reading, and a “Clippings” feature that lets you save real Japanese text and study it later. You can even trace words you’ve saved back to the original content they came from.
Kotobank is a Japanese-language online encyclopedia that lets you search across a wide range of dictionaries, encyclopedias, and databases.
It’s a go-to tool when you want quick, reliable definitions or need to better understand the deeper meaning of a Japanese term. The definitions often provide more nuance and cultural context than you’d get from a simple translation.
Linguee is a free online dictionary that supports multiple language pairs, including Japanese, German, Spanish, and more, translated from English. It’s easy to use and doesn’t require an account or login, which makes it a convenient tool for quick lookups.
What really sets Linguee apart is its vast number of example sentences. In addition to basic, tool-generated examples, it pulls real-world sentences from external sources like multilingual websites. These examples provide richer context and help you see how a word or phrase is actually used in natural writing. While not every translation is perfect—since most aren’t manually reviewed—it’s still an excellent resource for learners.
Tagaini Jisho is a free Japanese-English dictionary app available for both Mac and Windows. While its interface may look a bit old, it’s packed with features that are especially useful for serious learners. You can filter vocabulary by JLPT level, parts of speech, or kanji elements, making it great for targeted study. It even includes kanji stroke order animations to help with writing practice.
Other standout features include the ability to add custom tags and notes to entries, create flashcards, and even print out study booklets using foldable templates. These print-friendly sheets are perfect if you prefer offline learning or want something to carry around in your pocket.
“Shirabe Jisho” is owned by the same users who made Jisho.org, so now having a mobile interface that can be used in both Japanese-English or English-Japanese makes it all the better in our books. Its reliability stands out for users as well, with it having 4.9 stars out of 5 with over 7,500 ratings.
There are many ways to go about learning Japanese, let alone many options for dictionaries. Take time for yourself and think about what will work best for you and your learning needs before you purchase your next dictionary. What are some features that you think will help you better comprehend Japanese? You could maybe trial a few to see what works best for you before totally submitting to one!
If you’re looking for in-person practice or one-on-one help from a native speaker, Coto Academy may be what you need! With in-person classes or private online courses, Coto has a variety of options based on your needs to help you learn Japanese culture and language with ease!
If you are interested in studying Japanese in Tokyo, find out more about our school by filling out the form below. Courses can be found here.
FAQ
How do I translate Japanese words into English?
While it may vary dictionary-to-dictionary, most Japanese to English dictionaries have it so you can type or paste in the search box to be provided an instant search result. When it comes to physical dictionaries though, you can look it up alphabetically with the Japanese word.
How do I search for Japanese words and kanji?
There are many ways of doing this, especially depending on if it’s a physical or e-book. Sometimes you can look it up using a search box, by category, stroke count, or by radicals.
Should you take the JLPT N5 exam?
Through studying Japanese, taking the JLPT N5 exam may be a great way to stay motivated and see your hard work get good use. It is a good learning experience regardless of the score received, and helps to build structure in your learning goals and skills.
What is the Japanese word for dictionary?
The Japanese word for dictionary is 辞書（じしょ / jisho).
If you’re one of the lucky few in Japan whose job doesn’t require Japanese, you might manage just fine day-to-day. But eventually, you’ll realize how important the language really is. At first glance, learning Japanese looks hard. It takes time, energy, and consistent effort. And when you’re already juggling the demands of a full-time job, finding that kind of time can feel nearly impossible.
But don’t get discouraged! While you may feel a little lost on where to start, let this be the guide to get you started and achieve your goals of learning Japanese while managing a 9-to-5 job.
Want to fast-track your career in Japan? Coto Academy’s 3-month Business Japanese Course is designed to help you master keigo (business Japanese) and improve professional communication skills. Gain the confidence to speak with colleagues and clients, navigate meetings like a native, and open up new career opportunities!
Main Challenges of Studying Japanese for Working Professionals
Being a full-time employee can be hard enough without having to learn a language on top of that. For Japanese, known to be one of the hardest languages to learn, more time may be needed to give towards it, as well as energy. It may be hard to find time if there are other hobbies or family matters to attend to nightly.
Another potential issue that could arise is the cost of learning Japanese. Most classes are priced per week and are overall not the cheapest to come by. This can make it harder for potential Japanese language learners, especially when the options are bountiful and times for classes may vary. Don’t let this discourage you before you even start, as there are many options out there for whatever your needs may be!
Can I study Japanese while working?
Yes, you can for sure study Japanese while working a full-time job in Japan, but you will need to be more flexible with your options. Studying as a working professional is different from being a full-time learner on a student visa, as your day isn’t entirely dedicated to learning the language. While it may not be able to be the priority of your day, as long as you stay organized and have a plan, you can most definitely find time to work on your language learning!
A majority of companies in Japan will want you to know some basic Japanese, even if you are working in a primarily English-speaking role, such as English teaching or recruitment. Sometimes, you need business-level Japanese prior to joining or as you work there.
You don’t need to be enrolled full-time to still get a good education. There are schools all over Japan made to help foreigners get adjusted to their life in Japan, focusing on more flexible, part-time courses on weekends or evenings. They are designed specifically for working professionals and expats, prioritizing practical Japanese language skills rather than theoretical elements such as kanji or the JLPT.
For example, Coto Academy’s part-time courses are available for part-time on weekdays in the evening and Saturdays, which vary between 50 to 100 minutes. They offer classes on weeknights to minimize disruptions to your work schedule and are ideal for learning business Japanese or any level you may need. You’ll be able to learn from teachers in classrooms of up to 8 other students who are at the same level as you!
If you’re looking for more one-on-one help or have an inconsistent schedule, a private tutor may be the path for you! The best part about being in Japan and trying to learn Japanese is that there are native speakers who are tutors all around you! You can find a tutor through online listings, schools like Coto Academy, or social media platforms like Facebook. Be sure to check more than 1 source, though, as prices can vary from teacher to teacher.
Interested in getting a private tutor? Check out Coto’s page about Private Japanese Lessons to see if this may be the right fit for you!
3. Practice with Native Speakers
Extroverts unite! Let’s put your knowledge to the test because practice truly makes progress! While stepping into this stage might feel intimidating, especially if it’s your first time, think of it as a valuable opportunity to learn and improve. Perfection isn’t the goal. Consistent effort is what truly matters.
There are many effective ways to practice speaking with native Japanese speakers. For example, enrolling in in-person classes, such as those offered by Coto Academy, allows you to work one-on-one with experienced instructors who can guide you step-by-step through real conversations.
Additionally, many online volunteer groups offer language exchange sessions where you can practice Japanese with native speakers while helping them with your own language in return. These sessions are often held regularly and are easy to join, creating a friendly, low-pressure environment for mutual learning.
And finally, don’t be afraid to engage in real-life experiences. Everyday interactions, especially in customer service settings, can provide meaningful opportunities to practice. If a staff member isn’t too busy, approach them with a warm smile and ask if they’d be open to a quick conversation. It’s a great way to apply what you’ve learned in a natural setting!
This may seem like the hard part, but it doesn’t have to be! With apps like Facebook having groups with similar interests (like foreigners learning Japanese in Japan), you can join, or websites like Meetup available, there are more opportunities to meet and study than you may realize! Just knowing where to look and what you are looking for is a must.
Now with this one, there are many angles you can start from. Regardless of where you start, watch or listen to some type of Japanese media with Japanese subtitles. This can include beginner-friendly anime, manga, or even your favorite Japanese Netflix shows.
Alongside your normal learning, you’ll slowly start to be able to pick up on keywords, then phrases, and beyond! It will improve your listening, contextual awareness of language usage, and Kanji recognition.
One of the most effective—and surprisingly fun—ways to start learning Japanese is by immersing yourself in children’s television shows. These programs are designed for young native speakers who are just beginning to understand the language themselves, making them perfect for beginners. Because they’re geared toward early learners, most shows use simple vocabulary and primarily feature hiragana, the first writing system you’ll want to master.
As you follow along, you’ll not only hear proper pronunciation but also start to see how hiragana is used in context. To reinforce your learning, consider visiting a public library and flipping through Japanese children’s books. They can be a great way to quiz yourself and build confidence in reading.
Don’t worry if it feels a bit silly—it’s actually a smart and proven way to build a strong foundation!
Once you’re more comfortable, try leveling up by reading manga. The combination of text and illustrations makes it easier to infer meaning, even when you come across unfamiliar words. From there, expand into Japanese dramas, variety shows, and news broadcasts to challenge yourself and continue improving.
If you’re curious to learn more about how children’s television can help you learn, or you’re just a fan of Peppa Pig, read How Peppa Pig Can Help You Learn Japanese.
6. Take Business Japanese Courses
If you’re looking for something more specific that might help with your career, like wanting to learn more for business-related Japanese, then these classes may be the right fit for you! Coto Academy has a 3-month business Japanese course happening at our Iidabashi school that has classes every Saturday, which is perfect for people who have to work full time.
Out of all the options, downloading a Japanese learning app might be the most convenient way to squeeze in study time during a busy schedule. You can open the app during your morning commute on the train, lunch break, or any spare moment throughout the day.
Apps like Anki (for flashcards), Duolingo (for gamified learning), Bunpo (for grammar), and WaniKani (for kanji) are great for quick, focused practice sessions. While they can’t fully replace structured classes, they’re a powerful supplement to help you review, memorize, and stay engaged with the language on a daily basis.
You might be working in Tokyo, but time is still the one thing you don’t have enough of. Commuting to in-person classes can eat up precious hours, yet you want to study Japanese consistently, not just through self-study. What’s the best option?
For a more structured approach without the commute, online lessons are an excellent choice. Many language schools — including Coto Academy — offer live, interactive online classes, allowing you to learn from the comfort of your home or office. This way, you get the benefits of a guided class with a real instructor. Online classes can also be a more affordable option!
Setting clear and specific goals before you begin learning will help you feel less stressed. Through goal setting, both for your job and for learning, you’ll be better able to plan ahead of time for work. Students are often told to set S.M.A.R.T. goals: specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound goals. Making this clear from the beginning can help you to see what is most important in your journey to learning and perhaps what steps might be redundant or useless.
2. Create Structured Study Plans
No two people study the same. Knowing how you best learn may take some time to understand, but will help you for miles down the road. There are many resources on the internet to help you prepare for learning, including worksheets or online tutorials, but don’t just do it to do it. Do it because you know it will help! Here are just some questions to go through when finding your optimal study plan:
Do you work better alone, with another person, or in a group?
What setting helps you get into the mood for studying? Does staying home to study potentially set you up to get distracted with other tasks?
Do you memorize better by writing notes or typing them?
How much time do you want to put into it? How will you structure breaks?
What other material (like flash cards of hiragana) may help you?
When are your least busiest days?
Do you need silence to study? Or do you like background music?
Would it be easier to learn from textbooks, online videos, or a teacher?
3. Dive Into the Culture
Above all, keep your head up and look around. See what cuisine is around you, the words, how people are talking, and listen! Don’t stay stuck on Google Maps looking for recommendations for dinner, just walk around till you see something you may like. The more you go out to observe/listen, the more exposure you’re receiving. Maybe even try making some native speaker friends through sports games/clubs. Live in the moment and live within society! Listen to what others may be ordering, follow where the crowd is headed for lunch: we promise you won’t regret it!
4. Utilize Free Learning Resources
The internet is a beautiful place, so long as you know what you are looking for. You can find worksheets to print, online games to play that teach you Japanese, and other online resources to help deepen your understanding of Japanese. Mobile apps like Duolingo are also there to help you when you’re on the go, and for the most part, are free!
Learning a new language takes time, and not one person will learn the same way as another person. Remember to not give up on yourself, keep your head up, rehearse with others, and cut time out of your day to work on it.
If you want to join part-time Japanese lessons, consider Coto Academy! Coto Academy offers flexible short-term or long-term Japanese courses tailored for working professionals. Come meet some of the other students and get ready to speak Japanese together!
How much Japanese should I learn before coming to Japan?
When it comes to learning Japanese, at the very least, formal greetings, saying “thank you”, “excuse me”, and asking where the bathroom is are seen as most important. The more you know, the better!
What kind of jobs can foreigners get in Japan?
When it comes to finding a job in Japan, your Japanese proficiency will dictate what industries you can or cannot enter. One of the most common jobs for foreigners is English teachers, or Assistant Language Teachers (ALTs for short), which often just require a specific certification prior to applying. With Japan’s boom in technology and AI, IT, tech, and engineering jobs are more in demand than ever.
How much Japanese should I know to get a job in Japan?
Most jobs are going to ask that their employees be at level N2 or N1, although there are some jobs that do not require a high level of Japanese skill.
Is English common in Japan?
In Tokyo, English is fairly common. Especially when it comes to traveling on the subway or when ordering food electronically. But the further you go out from the city, the less English you will see.
What is the JLPT?
The Japanese Language Proficiency Test measures the test taker’s proficiency in Japanese vocabulary and grammar.
Can I learn Japanese while working full-time?
Yes, you can learn Japanese while working full-time. Use your commute and breaks to study with apps, take evening or weekend classes, and practice daily conversation. Consistent small efforts each day make a big difference.
How do I learn Japanese while working full-time?
You can study at part-time Japanese classes like Coto Academy, take online lessons, or self-study. Use your commute and breaks to study with apps like Anki or Duolingo, take evening or weekend classes, and practice speaking in daily life. Study a little every day. Consistency is key.
Want to work in Japan? Check out our work-related series:
