Learning kanji is one of the first big steps in mastering Japanese, and numbers are a great place to start. This free JLPT N5 Kanji Worksheet (Unit 1: Numbers) focuses on essential number-related kanji you’ll encounter early in your studies — perfect for beginners preparing for the JLPT N5. Download the PDF, practice writing each character, and build a strong foundation for your Japanese journey!
Getting ready for the JLPT? Boost your chances of passing with Coto Academy’s JLPT Prep Course — designed for busy learners. This class is perfect for students who plan to take the JLPT exam and work optimally towards their objectives. It covers exam practices and explanations of essentials such as Japanese grammar, vocabulary, kanji, and more!
These are the most basic kanji in Japanese — and they’re also the easiest to learn! Mastering numbers 1 to 10 will help you with counting, dates, prices, time, and more.
Number
Kanji
Kana
Meaning
1
一
いち
One
2
二
に
Two
3
三
さん
Three
4
四
し / よん
Four
5
五
ご
Five
6
六
ろく
Six
7
七
しち / なな
Seven
8
八
はち
Eight
9
九
きゅう / く
Nine
10
十
じゅう
Ten
Free Kanji Number Worksheet
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If you are planning to work in Japan, or finding a part-time job during your time studying in Japan. The business level Japanese skills are required in most cases. Before you start job hunting in Japan, let’s learn some kanji with our Kanji worksheet.
Our Business Japanese course designed to help you reach Japanese business fluency with an eye towards career advancement.
It’s overwhelming to think about all the unique kanji you have to remember; however, there’s a little secret to making kanji much easier to remember called radicals. Let’s say it’s our radical solution to remembering kanji — no pun intended. Radicals are basically the building blocks of kanji; while there are seemingly endless amounts of unique characters, they are all combinations of radicals.
Just remembering some of the most common radicals will allow you to memorize — and understand — thousands of kanji with a fraction of the effort and time. So, let’s break down how radicals work and how you can use them to remember kanji.
What Are Kanji Radicals?
Kanji radicals, or bushu (部首・ぶしゅ), are essentially components that make up a single kanji character; they can be thought of as a smaller part of a whole. Some radicals are kanji on their own and can be used to form other kanji. For example, 木 (ki) means tree on its own, but can be used as a radical. When combined with another radical, say 一 (ichi), meaning one, you create the character 本 (hon), meaning book.
木 (ki) + 一 (ichi) = 本 (hon)
But many kanji radicals cannot be used by themselves and must be used in conjunction with other radicals to form a kanji. For example, the radical, 儿, interpreted as “legs”, is only used as a component. So, you can use this radical in conjunction with other radicals or kanji, like 口 (kuchi), meaning mouth, to make the character, 兄, meaning older brother.
儿 + 口 (kuchi) = 兄 (ani)
Radicals are the common parts you can find in different kanji. While every kanji is unique, generally, there are a limited number of common radicals that you can quickly start to recognize. So, they are convenient patterns you can use to remember different kanji.
Studying kanji radicals is helpful because radicals are like tiny building blocks that make up big kanji characters. When you learn the small pieces first, the big characters don’t feel so scary anymore. It’s easier to remember them because you can see how the parts fit together.
Radicals can also give you clues about what a kanji means, so you can sometimes guess the meaning even if you’ve never seen it before. Learning radicals makes reading and writing kanji much easier and a lot more fun.
Types of Kanji Radicals
There are 7 types of radicals categorized by their position, including left, right, upper left, bottom left, bottom, top, or middle.
1. へん: Left
へん (hen) are radicals positioned to the left of the character. Certain radicals have specific forms when placed to the left, such as 人 (hito), or person, written as 亻 when positioned to the left of other elements.
Example 1: 彳in 行く(iku): to go
Example 2: 亻(person) in 仕 (shi): official or civil service
2. つくり: Right
つくり (tsukuri) are radicals positioned to the right. Similar to left radicals, つくり radicals are often altered. For example, 刀 (katana), or sword, becomes 刂 when written to the right of other elements.
Example 1: 刂(sword) in 別 (betsu): another
Example 2: 月(moon) in 明 (mei or myou): bright
3. かんむり: Top
かんみり (kanmuri) are radicals positioned at the top.
Example 1: 宀 (roof) in 守る (mamoru): to protect
Example 2: 艹 (grass) in 花 (hana): flower
4. あし: Bottom
あし (ashi) are radicals positioned at the bottom.
Example 1: 儿 (legs) in 兄 (ani): older brother
Example 2: 心 (kokoro) in 急 (kyuu): sudden
4. にょう: Lower Left
にょう (nyou) are radicals positioned at the bottom left.
Example 1: ⻌ (walk) in 込む (komu): to crowd
Example 2: 廴 (long stride) in 建 (ken or tate): build
5. たれ: Upper Left
たれ (tare) are radicals located in the upper left.
Example 1: 厂 in 原 (hara): original
Example 2: 疒 in 病 (byou): sick
6. かまえ: Enclosure
かまえ are radicals that enclose other characters.
Example 1: 門 (gate) in 問 (toi): question
Example 2: 口 (mouth) in 国 (kuni) country
Understanding Radical Variants
As you may have noticed, many radicals transform based on their position in the kanji character. For example, 人 (hito) becomes 亻when placed to the left. This is so the kanji character can feel more balanced. Often, radicals are simplified so they can fit neatly into the kanji character.
It may be confusing at first, but don’t sweat! They are the same character, just with a simplified variation. Here is a table of some of the most common radical variations you will run into.
Radical (Full Form)
Variant
Meaning
Common Position
Example
水
氵
water
left
海, 洗
心
忄
heart/emotion
left
急, 性
心
⺗
heart
bottom
想
手
扌
hand
left
持, 打
言
訁
speech
left
話, 読
食
飠
food
left
飲, 館
金
釒
metal
left
鉄, 銀
糸
纟
thread
left
紙, 結
犬
犭
animal
left
独, 猫
示
礻
altar/spirit
left
社, 礼
衣
衤
clothing
left
被, 製
刀
刂
sword
right
別, 列
Strokes in Kanji vs Radicals
Kanji can get very complex, with many consisting of countless strokes. Strokes are counted by the number of times you have to lift your pen to complete writing a character. All Kanji follow a specific order of strokes, which generally go from left to right and top to bottom, and following the correct order will generally amount to a certain number of strokes. However, radicals are much simpler, consisting of fewer strokes. Which makes kanji a lot easier to remember.
For example, the kanji 忘れる (wasureru), or “to forget”, is 7 strokes, but it’s only 2 radicals: 亡 (na) or “gone” and 心 (kokoro) meaning “heart”. So, if you remember these radicals, the kanji will be much easier to remember:
亡 (na) + 心 (kokoro) = 忘 (bou/wasu)
亡 only has 3 strokes, and 心 has around 4, which makes these radicals much easier to remember than characters with 7 or even more strokes directly.
Ways to Remember Radicals & Kanji
While radicals don’t have the same stroke counts as full kanji characters, they can really add up, with some radicals having up to 12 strokes. This might make radicals, themselves, difficult to remember. But unlike kanji, where every unique “word” has its own character, radicals are commonly found in each kanji, almost like letters. While letters in English represent specific sounds, radicals are associated with different meanings or even pictographic images.
So, you can try to use the meanings or their associated images of radicals as mnemonic tricks to help you remember them!
1. Use The Meaning of Radicals to Remember Kanji
As we keep mentioning, radicals are the roots of kanji and so their meanings actually relate to the meaning of the kanji itself. Let’s take a look at a few examples to demonstrate what we mean.
Example 1:
水(mizu) also written as氵, meaning “water”, appears in:
海 (umi) meaning “the sea”
洗 (sen) meaning “wash”
Both of these kanji are related to water, therefore, the character 氵, is used.
Example 2:
心 (kokoro) also written as忄, meaning heart appears in:
急 (kyuu), which means “hurry”
感 (kan), or “feeling”
You can think of how your heart beats when you’re hurrying or how you feelings are felt in the heart.
Example 3:
手 (te) also written as 扌, meaning hand, appears in:
持つ (motsu) which means “to hold.”
Since you have to hold things with your hand, it’s obvious why 扌is present in this kanji.
Example 4:
金 (kin) also written as 釒, meaning “metal”, appears in:
鉄 (tetsu) which means “iron”
銀 (gin) which means “silver”
Both of these characters are words for elements involving metal.
2. Use Radicals to Create Simple Visual Stories
Most radicals, and by extension kanji, have their simplistic images, but many times it might be difficult to see how the current characters look anything like their associated meanings. So, it might help to create some stories based on the meanings and their symbols.
Example:
木 (ki) means tree, which looks like a trunk with branches, and 人 (hito) means person, so you can think of the kanji character, 休み (rest) as:
休 (rest) = person (亻) leaning on a tree (木)
3. Give Radicals Personality
Instead of thinking of radicals as abstract symbols, try treating them like characters to help you remember them.
Example 1:
女 (woman) + 子 (child) → 好 (woman + child), this character means “like,” so you can think of it as the “love” a woman has for her child.
Example 2:
立 (stand) + 木 (tree) + 見 (see) → 親 (parent). So, you can think of this character as concerned parents standing on top of a tree to watch their child.
4. Use Shape-Based Mnemonics (Not Just Meaning)
Some radicals are easier to remember by their shape rather than their meaning. This is especially true for kanji whose shapes have nothing to do with their meanings.
Example 1:
广 → looks somewhat like a roof hanging over something, think of a “building” such as in the kanji character 店 (mise) meaning store, which, of course, has a roof.
Example 2:
辶 → looks like someone walking, or just movement in general. This makes it easier to remember kanji characters like 込む (komu), meaning to crowd, or 逃げる (meaning to escape).
Whether or not the shapes and the actual meanings of the radical align does not matter. Just using any shape to help you remember them best is the goal!
The Most Common Radicals to Know
So, what are the most common radicals you should know? We provided a list of the most common radicals you will likely need to know for writing common kanji. We organized each table by the number of strokes of the radical.
Each table will show the different variants of each radical, their readings in furigana, romaji, position (left, right, top, bottom, bottom left, enclosure, or just single), and example kanjis the radicals are found.
Conclusion: Radicals Make it Easier to Remember Kanji
Kanji can feel endless and overwhelming, but radicals break them down into smaller parts that are easier to remember and are used in kanji repeatedly. While there still seems to be a lot to remember, they are still much fewer than kanji, but even radicals are made up of other radicals! As you start to remember them, you will start pick up on common patterns, how the same radicals are used in different characters.
If you really want to learn kanji with more structure to reach your goals, we highly recommend taking Japanese classes with trained instructors who can tailor to your needs at Coto Academy. We offer practical Japanese courses that teach how to read and write kanji as well as practical language in daily conversation.
We have a new campus opening in Shinjuku, in addition to our current campuses located in Shibuya, Iidabashi, Minato, and Yokohama! And if you’re not nearby, you can take classes online! We offer a variety of courses that can adapt to your schedule and level. So, what are you waiting for? Sign up below!
FAQ
What are kanji radicals?
Kanji radicals (部首・ぶしゅ・bushu) are the building blocks of kanji. A radical is a component inside a kanji that is traditionally used to classify the character in dictionaries. Radicals often give clues about meaning and sometimes hint at category (like water, hand, speech, etc.).
How many kanji radicals are there?
Traditionally, there are 214 classical radicals, based on the Kangxi dictionary system from China. However, not all 214 radicals are commonly used today, with most people typically encountering 100 or fewer regularly. So, while 214 is the official traditional number, you don’t need to memorize all of them to read Japanese.
Do radicals have meaning?
Yes, most radicals have meanings associated with them, especially since many of them stand as kanji on their own. For example, 木 (ki) means tree or even 氵(mizu) means water and is used with water-related kanji characters. However, not every radical clearly reflects modern meaning. Some serve more structural or historical roles.
How many radicals can a single kanji have?
Traditionally, each kanji is assigned one official radical for dictionary classification. However, a kanji visually contains multiple components that operate as radicals. For example: 語 contains 言 (speech) and 五 (five). From a learning perspective, it’s helpful to think of kanji as being made up of multiple meaningful parts, even if only one is technically the radical by dictionary standards.
Should I learn radicals before starting to learn kanji?
Learning radicals before kanji can definitely help, but we recommend learning them side by side. By learning radicals alongside your kanji studies, you will start to pick up on more characters more effortlessly. New kanji will feel less different since you will be accustomed to some of the radicals that make them up. Also, remember, many radicals are also kanji themselves.
Are you struggling with stroke order? You’re not alone. Some kanji have more than a few strokes to remember. That is why we are so happy to share about this! Kanjibro is a new tool for finding the stroke order of most common Kanji (Kanji that appear in open source Japanese dictionaries.) Using Kanjibro to find stroke order is simple:
Type your kanji in the search (You can also paste it)
The animated stroke order will pop up for each kanji.
It’s that simple. One great thing about this tool and one that we’re very proud of – is that Kanjibro is made by one of our students. Here is his message about the project:
When I started to learn Japanese a year and a half ago, the difficulty to take notes was the most frustrating bit while learning. (to take notes is probably the best way to process and retain information I think.) So after discussion with my Japanese pals and classmates, the idea of being able to take notes, and therefore writing kanji without making any mistakes, became a crucial need. We checked google but there was no “simple” solution allowing us to paste a sentence, check how to write it, and then proceed out conversation in Japanese. With this tool our classes or sessions started to be way much more productive. As we weren’t spending too much time trying to write kanji. Basically after class or a conversation session, we were able to study each kanji properly on our own. I’m glad to hear this tool is useful! 😀
If you’re looking to learn how to practice writing kanji – you may also be interested in our kanji writing worksheets. These worksheets provide an easy way to practice Japanese writing and also have stroke order diagrams that teach you the correct order of the strokes. If you’d like to see all of the available JLPT Kanji Writing Workbooks – please visit Coto Kanji Writing Workbooks
If you are interested in studying Japanese in Tokyo, find out more about our school by filling out the form below.
How do you read Japanese food and nutrition labels? Imagine you’re shopping in Japan and suddenly you’re bombarded with food labeling words and information you can’t read. You take out your phone to translate the images, and sometimes it’s right and other times it’s…hardly comprehensible.
It might be scary to navigate the food aisles of Japanese supermarkets and convenience stores when you don’t know what’s in your food. You might have allergies and dietary restrictions (halal, vegan, etc.), or you just want to watch what you eat. So, maybe it might be nice to know what some of the food labels mean without stressing too much..
To understand Japanese ingredients, we are breaking Japanese food labeling standards piece by piece. Read until the end to see a full guide to an actual product food label!
Before you go: Want to learn Japanese for daily life? Practice with Coto Academy and start speaking and reading Japanese! Contact us and sign up for our Japanese courses!
Introduction to Japanese Nutrition & Ingredient Labels
Generally, ingredient information in Japan will be found under the label 原材料名 (genzai ryo mei). Nutrition information is labelled as 栄養成分表示 (eiyou seibun hyouji).
Like in most other countries, ingredients are usually listed from highest to lowest content by weight. For instance, if wheat is listed first, wheat would make up the largest concentration in the product.
Nutrition information, such as energy, protein, fat, and carbohydrates, is listed separately from ingredient information lists, such as meat, dairy, fruits, vegetables, additives, and artificial flavors.
The chart below shows ingredient labeling (原材料名) and nutrition labeling (栄養成分表示):
Key Nutritional Terms:
Japanese
Furigana
English
エネルギー enerugii
えねるぎー
Energy / Calories
蛋白質 tanpakushitsu
たんぱくしつ
Protein
脂質 shishitsu
ししつ
Fat
炭水化物 tansuikabutsu
たんすいかぶつ
Carbohydrate
糖質 toushitsu
とうしつ
Sugar
食物繊維 shokubutsuseni
しょくぶつせんい
Fiber
食塩 shokuen
しょくえん
Salt
低カロリー teikarorii
ていかろりー
Low Calorie
高たんぱく質 koutanpakushitsu
こうたんぱくしつ
High Protein
無糖 mutou
むとう
No sugar
低脂肪 teishibou
ていしぼう
Low Fat
香料 kouryou
こうりょう
Artificial Flavor / Smell
調味料 choumiryou
ちょうみりょう
Flavor/Taste
水分補給 suibun hokyuu
すいぶんほきゅう
Hydrating
Reading Ingredients And Nutrients On Japanese Labels
So, let’s take a look at an actual food label of a milk carton and see what information we can take away based on what we discussed:
It is always best to know exactly what is in anything you consume, especially in prepackaged or processed food items. Most products will have some form of Japanese labelling on the front of the package (where the brand is usually located).
These products might want to highlight ingredients or nutrients that consumers seek, such as high protein, low calories, or added vitamins.
There are also laws in Japan requiring that promotional nutrient labelling does not mislead consumers. For instance, if a product has a sugar-free label, then it must not contain any traceable amounts of sugar.
Check out the chart below for an easy guide to common labels on the front of packages:
The Essential Food Labelings To Know In Japanese
Expiration Dates and Best By Dates
You are probably wondering how “use-by” and “best by” dates are labeled on Japanese products. These must always be included on all products and are usually found separated from all other product information.
What are their differences?
消費期限 shouhi kigen: “Use By” Date
Meaning
This is the last safe date to consume the product. After this date, safety is not guaranteed.
Product Uses
Highly perishable foods that can spoil quickly even if stored properly.
Examples
Fresh bento boxes, sandwiches, raw meat or fish, fresh cream desserts, tofu, milk.
Label Format
Usually printed as 消費期限: YYYY年MM月DD日
Legal Requirement
Mandatory for perishable foods under Japan’s Food Labeling Standards.
賞味期限 shoumi kigen: “Best Before” Date
Meaning
Indicates the date until which the product retains its best quality, not safety. It may still be safe to eat after this date if unopened..
Product Uses
Products with longer shelf lives, where spoilage happens gradually.
Still safe after expiry if no obvious spoilage, but not guaranteed to taste as good.
Storing Information
Products are required by the Consumer Affairs Agency (CAA) to display best storage practices for perishable goods. All raw meat and fresh dairy products, for example, will need to include information on storing them in a fridge or freezer for the product to last until its “Use By” date.
Common storage labelling in Japanese:
Japanese
Furigana
English Meaning
保存方法 hozon houhou
ほぞんほうほう
Storage method/instructions
常温で保存 jouon de hozon
じょうおんでほぞん
Store at room temperature
直射日光、高温多湿を避けて保存 chokusha nikkou, kouon tashitsu o sakete hozon
ちょくしゃにっこう、こうおんたしつをさけてほぞん
Avoid direct sunlight, high temperature, and humidity
要冷蔵（10℃以下）youreizou (juudo ika)
ようれいぞう（10℃いか）
Keep refrigerated (below 10°C)
要冷凍（-18℃以下）youreitou (mainasu juuhachi-do ika)
ようれいとう（-18℃いか）
Keep frozen (below -18°C)
開封後は早めにお召し上がりくださいkaifuugo wa hayame ni omeshiagari kudasai
かいふうごははやめにおめしあがりください
Consume as soon as possible after opening
Certified Japanese Food Labels
Official government agencies such as the CAA or the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries (MAFF) established certified markings for products meeting certain standards.
These markings can indicate whether a product is certified to be “healthy”, for “special dietary needs,” “organic”, and much more.
There are quite a few governmental bodies granting different markers, so here is a non-exhaustive list of certified labels to keep an eye out for:
Tokutei hokenyou shokuhin (特定保健用食品)
Simply トクホ tokuho, it is a certified marking granted by the CAA. It indicates a product has been proven with rigorous scientific evidence to be safe and effective for specific health purposes.
Jouken tsuki tokutei hoken you shokuhin (条件付き特保健用食品)
The only difference is that products with this marker has some scientific evidence to be effective for certain health purposes, just not with the same rigor as theトクホ.
This marker indicates that an item has met the standards to be safe to consume for those with special dietary considerations, like milk formula or a diabetic-friendly menu.
The Fair Trade marker shows that products and producers align with fair competition rules. It can also signify that everything on the product’s packaging is indeed true. This marker is usually granted to items such as milk, edible salt, honey, eggs or cod roe.
Dietary Labels (Halal, Kosher, and Vegan) in Japan
You can find other labels for religious, ethical, or personal dietary restrictions, especially the common labels including halal, kosher, and vegan. They are not as widespread nor provided by the Japanese government, but they are granted by independent organizations and are found in most supermarkets.
Halal
This is one of the halal-certified markers. There are many organizations in Japan that provide a halal certification, including the Japan Halal Business Association. For the most part, in order to pass, ingredients and production must align with halal standards.
Kosher
Kosher certified marker provided by the Kosher Japan Company. They are the first organization in Japan to certify products and producers as Kosher. Products and production processes must pass examinations conducted by Kosher Japan to receive the certified label.
Vegan & Vegetarian
Vegan & Vegetarian certified labels which are provided by the NPO Vege Project. Their labels are the most widely used vegan and vegetarian markings in Japan. Products have to pass the organization’s standards of vegan or vegetarian in order to be certified.
Allergen Food Labels & Ingredients In Japanese
The CAA defined eight allergens that must be declared in the ingredient list (原材料名). These eight allergens include the following:
Japanese
Furigana
English
卵 tamago
たまご
Egg
乳 nyu
にゅう
Milk/Dairy
小麦 komugi
こむぎ
Wheat
海老 ebi
えび
Shrimp
カニ kani
かに
Crab
そば soba
そば
Buckwheat
落花生 / ピーナツ rakkasei/piinatsu
らっかせい / ぴーなつ
Peanuts
くるみ kurumi
くるみ
Walnuts
Oftentimes, allergens are included in other products, have been modified from its original form, or can consist of different variations. Here are some common labelling conventions:
乳等を主要原料 とする食品 chichito o shuyou genryou to suru shokuhin: Food product with milk products as the main ingredient
卵由来 tamago yurai: Products originating from eggs
乳製品 nyuu seihin: Dairy products
Ingredients used in products such as 醤油 shoyu, or soy sauce, contain allergens and may be labelled: 醤油(大豆・小麦を含む）
There is no set legal standard on how to label allergens in Japan. They are only required to list the 8 specific allergens in the ingredient list. But for better clarity, food products will sometimes list allergy-inducing contents separately with the following labels:
アレルゲン arerugen: allergens
アレルギー物質 arerugii busshitsu: allergy contents
含まれるアレルゲン fukumareru arerugen: included allergens
There are also times when the specific terms アレルゲン or アレルギー物質 are not used but allergens are still listed separately, often at the end of the ingredient list and in parentheses. For example:
(一部に乳成分・大豆・アーモンドを含む) ichibu ni chichiseibun, daizu, aamondo o fukumu: Contains some dairy, soy, and almonds
Other Allergens To Know
The 8 allergens listed above are the only ingredients required by Japanese law to be labelled on food packaging. However, the CAA has outlined 20 more allergens that they highly recommend to be included on product ingredient labeling.
As of 2025, this is the most up-to-date list:
Japanese
Furigana
English
大豆 daizu
だいず
Soybeans
ごま goma
ごま
Sesame
アーモンド aamondo
あーもんど
Almonds
カシューナッツ kashuunattsu
かしゅーなっつ
Cashew nuts
マカダミアナッツ makadamia nattsu
まかだみあなっつ
Macadamia nuts
いくら ikura
いくら
Salmon Roe
鮑 awabi
あわび
Abalone
いか ika
いか
Squid
鯖 saba
さば
Mackerel
鮭 / サーモン sake/saamon
さけ / さーもん
Salmon
鶏肉 toriniku
とりにく
Chicken
牛肉 gyuuniku
ぎゅうにく
Beef
豚肉 butaniku
ぶたにく
Pork
ゼラチン zerachin
ぜらちん
Gelatin
キウィ kiui
きうぃ
Kiwi
桃 momo
もも
Peach
りんご ringo
りんご
Apple
バナナ banana
ばなな
Banana
オレンジ orenji
おれんじ
Orange
山芋 yamaimo
やまいも
Wild Yam
How Agricultural Products And Perishables Are Labeled In Japanese
Fresh Vegetables And Fruit Products
How are vegetables and fruits labeled in Japan? Like many markets around the world, fresh fruits and vegetables are often not prepackaged, thus, information such as the item name and place of origin is displayed at the point of purchase.
And if any additives were used, they must also be displayed around the product as well. If the products are organic, you might find the JAS Organic label on the product signboard as well.
Japanese laws mandate that any products containing meat must be declared in the ingredient list.
When it comes to raw meat, the following rules apply:
All meat products from Japan must say its domestic (prefecture is optional)
Imported meat products must state their country of origin
For domestic beef, the cattle’s identification number needs to be included on the packaging.
If the meat is packaged, they must include the name of the product, net quantity, use-by date, storage information, and the producer’s name and address
Below are some typical labeling conventions for raw meat products:
Japanese
Furigana
English
豚バラ肉 butabara niku
ぶたばらにく
Pork belly meat
国産kokusan
こくさん
Domestic (often prefecture or town is stated instead if domestic)
Storing information (Must Refrigerate at 4°C or below)
消費期限 shouhi kigen 25. 1. 1.
しょうひきげん 25. 1. 1.
Use Before 1/1/2025
内容量 naiyouryou 800 g
ないようりょう 800 g
Weight Content: 800 g
Below is a graphic showing meat and certain meat products to be aware of:
Dairy Products
Fresh and processed dairy products are regulated by both the CAA and MAFF. All dairy products must clearly declare product contents such as milk fat, non-milk fat solids, ingredients, and any preservatives or additives.
Additionally, dairy products have unique labeling rules requiring them to declare product categories:
Category
Japanese
Requirements
Milk
牛乳 gyuunyuu
Unaltered raw milk, pasteurized; no additives. Must contain: ≥ 3.0% milk fat, ≥ 8.0% non-fat solids
Low-fat milk
低脂肪牛乳 teishibou gyuunyuu
Milk fat between 0.5% and 1.5%
Non-fat milk
無脂肪牛乳 mushibou gyuunyuu
Milk fat less than 0.5%
Processed milk
成分調整牛乳 seibun chousei gyuunyuu
Some milk components (fat, water, solids) adjusted, but no added ingredients
Milk drinks
乳飲料 nyuu inryou
Includes added ingredients (e.g., vitamins, calcium, sugar, flavoring)
Fermented milk
発酵乳 hakkounyuu
Includes yogurt; must declare presence of live bacteria
Lactic acid bacteria drinks
乳酸菌飲料 nyuusankin inryou
Lower milk content, more like Yakult-style drinks
Quick Tip: Notched Milk Cartons
So, pure milk cartons in Japan have a notched or small arc cut at the top of the carton’s flap. This is used to let people with poor eyesight know that the item is pure milk and not some other dairy product such as yogurt, non-fat milk, etc. No other diary product will have this marking unless it is pure whole milk.
Additive Ingredients In Japanese
Any additives in the product must be declared according to Japan’s Food Labelling Standards to protect consumers, especially those with allergies. However, food additives are highly regulated by the Ministry of Health, Labor, and Welfare (MHLW). Any additives that producers use in their products need to be approved according to Japan’s Food Safety and Hygiene Act.
Products with the JAS organic label generally contain no additives and are certified to ensure the entire production process is free from chemical additives. While products without the label may also be additive-free, the certification offers greater assurance.
Here is a list of additives and processed product terms that are good to know:
Japanese
Furigana
English
添加 tenka
てんか
Additives
甘味料 kanmiryou
かんみりょう
Sweeteners (e.g., aspartame, sucralose)
着色料 chakushokuryou
ちゃくしょくりょう
Coloring agents (e.g., carmine, tartrazine)
保存料 hozonryou
ほぞんりょう
Preservatives (e.g., sodium benzoate)
増粘剤 zounenzai
ぞうねんざい
Thickeners (e.g., xanthan gum)
酸化防止剤 sanka boushizai
さんかぼうしざい
Antioxidants (e.g., BHA, BHT)
酸味料 sanmiryou
さんみりょう
Acidulants (e.g., citric acid)
香料 kouryou
こうりょう
Flavors or flavoring agents
調味料（アミノ酸等）choumiryou (amino-san tou)
ちょうみりょう （あみのさんとう）
Seasoning (e.g., MSG and other amino acids)
乳化剤 nyukazai
にゅうかざい
Emulsifiers
膨張剤 bouchouzai
ぼうちょうざい
Leavening agents (e.g., baking powder)
酵素 kouso
こうそ
Enzymes
光沢剤 koutakuzai
こうたくざい
Glazing agents
安定剤 anteizai
あんていざい
Stabilizers
pH調整剤 pH chouseizai
pHちょうせいざい
pH adjusters
発色剤 hasshokuzai
はっしょくざい
Curing agents (e.g., sodium nitrite)
防かび剤 boukabizai
ぼうかびざい
Antifungal agents (mainly for citrus and fruits)
漂白剤 hyouhakuzai
ひょうはくざい
Bleaching agents
苦味料 nigamiryou
にがみりょう
Bitterness agents (often in liqueurs or candy)
Additive Labeling Rules:
Additives must be listed by function + specific name, for example:
Group names like 調味料(アミノ酸等) choumiryou (amino santou) are allowed for additive mixtures, especially flavor enhancers
If a product has no additives, 無添加 mutenka (additive-free) or the JAS organic label may be used
Wrapping Up
It might seem overwhelming initially, but Japanese food and nutrition labels use consistent terminology and consumer protection is taken seriously in Japan, so common allergens, meat products, and additives are required to be listed on products.
Of course, we don’t expect you to remember every word listed in this article but try to remember a specific term you might want to ask the staff about (like タンパク質 or protein). We hope this guide gives you some tools to look out for what you need!
Want to learn more Japanese for daily life? Check out courses at Coto Academy, available in Tokyo and Yokohama!
Common Japanese ingredients include soy sauce, miso, rice wine, rice vinegar, salt, sugar, tofu, seasonal vegetables, different fish (tuna and mackerel are common), and much more.
What are some standard Japanese labeling practices?
Labelling practices in Japan largely consist of rules established by the Japanese government. As standard Japanese products list the following: allergens, ingredients, nutrient information, content weight/quantity, how to store, and best by/use by dates.
How are allergens labelled in Japanese?
The Japanese Consumer Affairs Agency (CAA) requires that eight specific allergens be clearly disclosed on any product containing them: peanuts, walnuts, eggs, milk, shrimp, crab, buckwheat, and wheat. Additionally, the CAA recommends labeling 20 other potential allergens.
Do Japanese foods have a lot of additives?
Additives are quite common in a lot of pre-packaged food items since preservatives are useful in preserving product shelf life, and additives are great for making things taste better. All additives must be listed in ingredient lists in Japan.
Does Japanese cuisine use MSG?
Yes, Japanese cuisine often uses MSG or 調味料 (アミノ酸) shoumiryou (amino san). They are commonly found in different common seasonings, restaurants, and pre-packaged foods. The Aji no Moto brand is the most common MSG producer and can be found in most super markets.
When I arrived in Japan in January 2019, I barely knew Japanese. However, I was determined to learn the language as I thought life would be so much fun and easier if I was able to do basic communication with the locals. I could order food by myself, I could ask for directions if I got lost or I could understand anime without subtitles.
I have read plenty of books, used different websites and applications, taken some classes, as well as used various methods to study Japanese. Fast forward to now, I have finally passed JLPT N2. Even though I still have much more to learn, I feel like I have more confidence to communicate in my daily life and I’m glad that I decided to take the exam last December.
In this article, I will write about how I prepared for the exam in the past year, how I did on the actual test day and what I (or anyone who plans to take an exam) can do to improve the chance of passing JLPT N2.
In the beginning, I tried to find the best motivation to learn Japanese and I decided to take the JLPT exam because I could study regularly, took the exam and saw the result of my hard work. By the time of December 2020, I passed N3. My kanji, vocabulary and grammar were okay, however, my listening and speaking skills didn’t reach the level I wanted them to be so I decided to put N2 on hold and focused on other skills instead.
I was constantly checking LinkedIn and realized that most Japanese companies require a minimum N2 level
By the end of 2021, I was working at home for 2 years due to the pandemic and I reached the point where I was so done with my repetitive life. I was constantly checking LinkedIn and realized that most companies require a minimum N2 level for jobs in Japan (check out other job-hunting websites here), so I decided it might be time to get back to studying for JLPT again.
How I Studied for JLPT N2
When I prepared for JLPT N2, I was mostly studying by myself at my own pace using different resources. I normally have different textbooks in one study session such as grammar, vocabulary, kanji and reading books. I usually read one chapter (which can be around 3-4 pages) of each book per day when I have free time during work or after work hours. For me, the weekend is my cheat day so I don’t really study Japanese because I think studying every day can be too tiring.
Learning JLPT N2 Grammar
My office has offered a Japanese class for one hour per week and we used TRY! JLPT N2 Grammar (TRY! 日本語能力試験 N2 文法から伸ばす日本語). I mainly use this book because the design of the book is simple and looks easy on the eyes. Each grammar point is separated nicely with an English explanation and some cute pictures. I didn’t feel overwhelmed when I read the book and it encouraged me to study the whole chapter outside of the class without feeling too tired. I also like this book because it contains a bit of everything. You can do some grammar, reading, and listening exercises at the end of each chapter.
On the other hand, I also used the famous New Kaizen Master Grammar JLPT N2 (新完全マスターN2文法). This book contains so many grammar points which probably cover everything you need to know for the exam. However, all the explanations are in Japanese and sometimes I even needed to use google translate to understand what they are saying in the book. It was very useful but it took a lot of time to study this book and I found it a little bit too intense.
I have been using Wanikani since the beginning of my Japanese learning. This app teaches kanji and vocabulary using repetitive and mnemonics methods. You learn the radicals, the kanji that use these radicals and the vocabulary that uses these kanji. Then, you review the lesson repetitively until you pass to the next level and the cycle continues.
By the time I prepared for N2, I had already reached level 35 and luckily the kanji in these levels are in the N2 exam. The method they use is a great help for memorizing. The only downside of Wanikani is that you need to start from the beginner level because you can’t skip the level. So if you already know kanji, it won’t be fun to start learning from 一、ニ、三 again.
Besides the app, I also studied kanji from Kanji Master N2 (漢字 マスター N2). I like this book because the structure is simple. Each page is divided into categories and it has only 6 kanji with some vocabulary or simple example sentences so it was not too much to memorize in one day. The other book I used was 2500 Essential Vocabulary for JLPT N2 (はじめての日本語能力試験 N2単語2500). This book contains all the vocabulary you should know for the exam. Plus, I like the red sheet that you can put on the page to hide the vocabulary so you can review them later.
We have also provided samples of our N2 Kanji Worksheets at the below links! These are very useful as they give you an idea of some kanji that you will be tested on during the N2 exam. Click on the topic to download.
Reading and listening are always my weakest points when it comes to studying for JLPT N2. I had struggled to finish the reading section of N3 exam so I decided that I need to practice reading more and bought Nihongo So-matome JLPT N2: Reading Comprehension (日本語総まとめ N2 読解). The book is already designed for you to read 2 pages a day for 6 weeks. It has different types of reading you will see in the exam and also includes some points that you should be careful about. It’s easy to read with some explanation and strategy to tackle the articles.
As for listening, I didn’t buy any books but I mostly just browsed the “JLPT N2 listening test” on YouTube. There are plenty of videos of the past exams online that I could practice with so I tried to do at least one video per day.
After finishing the books for each skill set, I also review all my studies with Japanese Language Proficiency Test N2 Complete Strategy・Text & Practical Quest (一発合格！日本語能力試験Ｎ２完全攻略テキスト＆実践問題集). This book contains some explaining and practice for all of the skills so I could recap all of the vocabulary, and grammar as well as reading and listening comprehension one more time. I also bought some mock test books to prepare myself because it’s extremely important to be familiar with the test structure and time management.
Last month before the exam, I studied with Shin Nihongo 500 Mon (新にほんご500問). This book comes with 4-week study plans where you have to answer 3 sections (kanji reading, vocabulary and grammar) daily. On the 7th day of each week, you will have to answer the questions about what you have been learning so far that week. I felt like I could recap what I had learned and correct my mistakes. Moreover, the book is small and easy to carry anywhere.
Besides studying for JLPT, I also studied Japanese regularly with the Duolingo app. It is fun, easy and fast. It feels like I’m playing a game and learning something.
I also take Natural and Fluent Japanese Communication 1 and 2 as well as Japanese Explanation Training at Coto Academy. I would like to improve my speaking skill but the grammar points in these classes are around N2 and N3 levels so it felt like a recap for my JLPT preparation at the same time. Practicing them in conversation also helped me to remember easier which helped me quite a lot during the exam.
How I Did During the Exam
Even though you are well prepared for the exam, unexpected things can happen to throw you off and that was what happened to me on the actual exam day. I had arrived almost an hour before the exam time and there was a massive queue in front of the exam site. Due to some unknown issue, the examinees couldn’t enter the building and I was finally able to arrive at my seat 2 minutes before the exam started. Some people still entered the room 10 minutes after while the staff was explaining about the exam.
The N2 exam is divided into 2 sections: 105 minutes for language knowledge (vocabulary and grammar) and reading, and 50 minutes for listening. I started doing the exam while I was still kinda stressed out by the queuing situation. However, I did my best to calm down because I had no time to waste. During my N3 exam, I had barely finished the reading section so I knew that I had to power through the others as fast as I could.
My strategy was to answer what I knew. If I didn’t, I just let it go and I tried not to spend too much time thinking about it. Even if I don’t know, I would pick the answers that are most likely to be correct without leaving them blank because there was a chance that I didn’t have enough time to come back to answer them. I shaded the dubious answers lightly on the exam sheet so I could easily erase and change the answer later. If I didn’t have time to reread the questions, I could just easily shade them heavier in no time.
I was able to finish the vocabulary and grammar part within an hour. I couldn’t answer here and there but I just dove into the reading section. The first few parts were relatively short so I didn’t have much trouble. However the longer the articles were, the less concentration I had. By the end of the last few parts, I didn’t know what I was reading anymore. I tried to read the questions first and skim through the articles to find answers which saved me some time.
We had a short break so I rushed out of the room for a toilet as fast as I could to beat the long queue and came back for the listening section. The important thing is that they will play the audio one time only so you need to listen carefully and pick the answer right away because you won’t have time to come back as they will collect the answer sheet right after the audio ends.
The listening went well until some unexpected event occurred. During the part where I had to listen to short questions and 3 choices of responses. The audio played the question, then skipped the answer and played the next questions instead. The whole room was gasping and I assumed a lot of the examinees lost their concentration. The exam continued until the end but the staff decided to replay the missing answers and the next 2 questions. Once again, the answers to the second question were missing and they had to replay for the third round. By that time my brain didn’t function anymore and I was ready to prepare for another N2 exam.
My JLPT N2 Result
I took the exam in December so the result came back at the end of January. In order to pass N2, you must score more than 90 points overall and more than 19 points in each section (language knowledge, reading and listening).
I passed N2 with a few scores above the passing score. Surprisingly I had the best score from the listening section. I received A and B on vocabulary and grammar respectively. On the other hand, I got the lowest score in the reading section as I expected and the score was actually a bit below 50% (but still more than 19 points).
Advice to Myself and Others who Want to Take the Exam
Even though my score isn’t very good, I have learned so much from this test, especially, I should be calmer and more relaxed when unexpected events occur. Moreover, I have some tips which I think might be helpful for test preparation.
Pick your own books
It’s great to find reviews and comments on which books you should buy for exam preparation because there are plenty of books out there. However, I think it’s important to go check the bookstore or find a PDF example online before buying anything. Everyone has different preferences. Some people like to read texts with a lot of explanations while some like to see various example sentences. You should pick the books that suit your style and you don’t feel like giving up after a few pages.
Do a lot of mock tests
One of the hardest things in the JLPT exam is time management. Even though you know everything, you can fail the test if you can’t finish the exam in time. It’s important to do a lot of mock tests to be familiar with the test structure so you know how much time you should spend on each section. You can learn which part you aren’t good at or which part you take too much time to do.
Find your weak point
You can look at previous exams or mock tests and see which section you have the lowest score in. Then, you can focus on that particular section such as buying specific books that concentrate on that skill. My weakest point is reading so I try to focus on it. Besides reading more books, I also plan to take a News Reading class at Coto as well.
Conclusion
There is a big gap between N3 and N2 but nothing is impossible. How I prepared for JLPT N2 might be different from other people, but I hope you find this article useful and encourage you to prepare for the examination. It’s important to learn with your own style and at your own pace. I hope you can find your favorite books or any other methods to study and good luck with the upcoming exam!
Looking to enhance your career prospects and take your Japanese language proficiency to the next level? Look no further than Coto Academy’s JLPT N2 preparation course! Our comprehensive online program is specifically designed to help you master the essential elements of the JLPT N2 exam, ensuring you have the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed.
Our online seminar-style lectures are structured to provide you with personalized attention and support, allowing you to work through the material at your own pace while listening to the lecture on the screen. Plus, if you prefer in-person learning, we also offer a fantastic JLPT prep course that provides you with face-to-face instruction and practical support.
Sign up today and take the first step toward your language learning goals!
Welcome to the ultimate guide to passing the JLPT N2! If you’re already studying for it — or at least considering it — chances are you’re ready for a change. JLPT N2 is widely recognized as the practical benchmark for Japanese fluency. Employers in Japan frequently list it as a minimum requirement, and for many international students and professionals, it’s the credential that makes everything else possible. It’s also one of the most challenging standardized language exams in the world.
In this blog, we will cover everything you need to know about the JLPT N2 exam (test contents, length, scoring methods, etc.), how to register, how to prepare, what happens on test day, and some resources and lessons we offer at Coto Academy to help you through your studies.
Keep scrolling if you are considering or planning to take the JLPT N2!
What is the JLPT?
Before we get started, what exactly is the JLPT? JLPT stands for Japanese-Language Proficiency Test, also known as 日本語能力試験. As the name suggests, the exam measures and certifies the Japanese proficiency of non-native Japanese speakers and is used by universities and employees inside and outside Japan. It is normally carried out twice a year in Japan and is available in certain other countries. JLPT Exams are often taken by Japanese learners who are planning a future in Japan!
What are the different levels of the JLPT?
The JLPT is divided into five levels: N1, N2, N3, N4, and N5. N1 is the most advanced level, and N5 is the most basic.
The N4 and N5 tests you on basic Japanese that you can often learn in a classroom environment
The N3 acts as a bridge between N4/N5 and N2/N1
The N2 and N1 tests you on a wider spectrum of Japanese knowledge used in various situations in everyday life
Who should take the JLPT?What are the advantages of taking the N2?
Your JLPT scores will be useful if you are looking for a job or planning to pursue education in Japan. JLPT certifications can also be advantageous when immigrating to Japan, as those who have passed the N2 and N1 qualify for preferential treatment.
Additionally, passing the JLPT N2 can be a fitting goal for Japanese learners wanting to test their ability to understand Japanese used in everyday situations and in various circumstances to a certain degree.
The JLPT N2 is an exam for upper-intermediate/advanced-level speakers. The JLPT N2 tests your ability to understand Japanese used in everyday situations and various circumstances to a certain degree. This includes having no difficulty in:
Reading materials are written clearly on a variety of topics, such as articles and commentaries in newspapers and magazines, as well as simple critiques, and comprehending their contents
Reading written materials on general topics and following their narratives, as well as understanding the intent of the writers
Comprehending orally presented materials such as coherent conversations and news reports, spoken at nearly natural speed in everyday situations as well as in a variety of settings, and following their ideas and comprehending their contents
Understanding the relationships among the people involved and the essential points of the presented materials
What is the JLPT N2 used for?
There have been some major policy shifts in 2025–2026 that make N2 more relevant than ever.
1. For your visa application in Japan
Historically, JLPT N2 wasn’t a formal visa requirement for most categories but that’s changing significantly. In October 2025, the Business Manager visa now requires either the applicant or a full-time employee to have Japanese language ability at B2/JLPT N2 level or higher. Previously, there was no language requirement at all.
As of mid-April 2026, the Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services visa (Gijinkoku) now requires N2 or equivalent for roles that involve Japanese communication — meetings, client interaction, documentation, and similar duties. English-only roles at international companies may still be exempt if the job genuinely doesn’t require Japanese
Importantly, the revision mainly targets foreigners entering Japan for the first time and requiring a Certificate of Eligibility. It doesn’t apply to international students in Japan transitioning from a student visa to a work visa after graduation.
Even before these visa policy changes, N2 was already the de facto standard in the Japanese job market. Many employers prefer candidates with N2 or higher to ensure smooth workplace communication, even when it’s not legally required. Most office and business roles expect N2, while specialized fields like law or medicine typically expect N1.
N2 is generally considered the threshold for functioning professionally in Japanese — reading documents, participating in meetings, handling client communication, and navigating administrative tasks.
How many sections are on the N2 Exam?
It is important to be aware of the structure of the exam to study for it efficiently. The JLPT N2 Exam consists of two main sections. Each section tests you on different aspects of the Japanese language.
Section
Question types
1. Language Knowledge(Vocabulary/Grammar) and Reading
– Task-based comprehension – Comprehension of key points – Comprehension of general outline – Verbal expressions – Quick response – Integrated comprehension
What is and is not covered in the JLPT N2 Exam?
For the above three sections, you must master approximately 6,000 vocabulary words and 1,000 kanji. Although this may sound like a lot, you should already know around 3700 words and 650 kanji from N3-N5, so you are already halfway there! The vocabulary words and kanji covered in the N2 Exam include basic nouns and verbs from N4 and N5 and more complex terms necessary to understand difficult written materials such as newspapers, magazines, and simple critiques.
Furthermore, you must be familiar with grammar points such as particle usage, formal and casual conjugations of verbs and adjectives for past and present tenses, and sentence combinations. You must know around 200 more grammar points besides what you already know from the N3. Before taking the test, you should be comfortable reading and writing longer passages.
Because the JLPT Exam does not test on speaking, Japanese learners who are not comfortable speaking in Japanese can theoretically still pass, as long as they have mastered the vocabulary, kanji, and grammar covered on the N2 Exam. (However, you must keep in mind that Japanese speaking and conversational abilities are still necessary for life if you are seriously considering a future in Japan!)
How long is the N2 Exam?
You are given different amounts of time for each of the two test sections. You are given 155 minutes to complete the JLPT N2 Exam.
Section
Time
Language Knowledge (Vocabulary/Grammar) and Reading
105 minutes
Listening
50 minutes
Total Time
155 minutes
What is the scoring for the JLPT N2 like?
Although the N2 Exam contains two sections, the scoring is divided into three. In total, your overall score can range from anywhere between 0 to 180.
For JLPT N2, the passing score is anything above an overall score of 90 points. However, besides meeting the overall score of 95 points, you must also meet sectional pass marks of 19 points in the Language Knowledge (Vocabulary/Grammar) Section, Reading Section, and Listening Section. This means that even if your overall score is above 90 points, if you do not meet the sectional pass marks for all three of the sections, you cannot pass. Thus, balancing your knowledge and avoiding relying on one section for points is important.
Section
Range of Scores
Language Knowledge (Vocabulary/Grammar)
0 – 60
Reading
0 – 60
Listening
0 – 60
Overall Score
0 – 180
For how long should I study to pass the N2?
For students with kanji knowledge, 1,475 hours of JLPT study are required. A restricted privileges ATP certificate allows a pilot to serve as a co-pilot until he or she obtains 1,500 hours. So you can become the co-pilot of an aircraft for this number of hours.
For other students, it takes about 2,200 hours. As a reference, credentials for a USCPA (Certified Public Accountant) take 2000 hours. Have fun crunching numbers!
As previously mentioned, the JLPT N2 Exam covers around 1,000 kanji. (Of course, you do not have to know all of them to pass, but it’s impossible to predict which ones will be on the exam.) The best way to master the vocabulary for N2 is to memorize the words along with their kanji. This will also help you retain all the kanji, so the vocabulary and kanji study reinforce each other.
Anki is one of the most effective tools for N2 vocab and kanji precisely because it fights forgetting rather than just building familiarity. The spaced repetition system surfaces cards right before you’d naturally forget them, which means you spend more time on weak items and less time reviewing things you already know.
For N2 specifically:
Use a pre-built deck like the Core 6000 or a dedicated JLPT N2 vocabulary deck rather than building from scratch — saves enormous time
Add example sentences to cards wherever possible so you’re learning words in context, not in isolation
Create cards that test you on kanji readings in compounds, not just the meaning alone
Review consistently in short daily sessions (15–20 min) rather than long cramming sessions
We have also provided samples of the worksheets free of charge at the below links! These are very useful as they give you an idea of some kanji you will be tested on during the N2 exam. Click on the topic to download.
N3 grammar is largely about building functional communication: expressing wants, reasons, conditions, and basic conjunctions. JLPT N2 grammar raises the bar considerably. The focus shifts toward nuance: understanding how similar expressions differ, using formal and written registers, and handling grammar that appears in news articles, formal writing, and professional speech rather than everyday conversation.
Alongside these, you’ll encounter conjunctions that link ideas with precision: ～にもかかわらず (despite), ～に反して (contrary to), and ～に加えて (in addition to). The volume is significant, but the bigger challenge is understanding how each form fits into a specific context or register.
What makes N2 grammar particularly demanding is the number of near-synonyms that are tested side by side. Pairs like ～かねる (unable to bring oneself to do something) and ～かねない (at risk of doing something) look almost identical but carry opposite implications. Similarly, ～ことから, ～ため, and ～結果 all express cause and result, but differ in nuance and formality. The exam regularly presents options that translate nearly the same way into English, so success depends on understanding the subtle distinctions.
The most effective way to study N2 grammar is to combine structured drilling with real reading. Kanzen Master N2 Grammar groups patterns by function and gives enough practice sentences to surface those nuances.
Here’s an example of our grammar videos:
3. Listening
The JLPT N2 listening section tests your ability to follow natural-paced Japanese across a range of situations, like workplace conversations, announcements, interviews, and informal exchanges. The difficulty is that speakers don’t slow down or simplify for learners, and questions often hinge on a single phrase, a speaker’s implied intention, or a detail buried in the middle of a longer exchange.
A common trap is that the audio will present multiple plausible-sounding options, and the correct answer often depends on nuance — what the speaker implies rather than what they say outright. Many learners who score well on grammar and vocabulary underperform on listening simply because they haven’t trained their ears enough to process spoken Japanese at speed.
The most effective preparation combines passive and active listening. Passive exposure like podcasts, Japanese drama, YouTube — builds familiarity with natural rhythm, intonation, and connected speech over time. But active listening practice is what actually moves the needle for exam performance: working through past JLPT papers under timed conditions, pausing to identify exactly where comprehension broke down, and drilling those weak points. Shadowing, hich is the process of repeating audio in real time to match pace and intonation, is particularly useful for closing the gap between recognition and real-time processing. The goal is to stop translating mentally and start understanding directly in Japanese.
4. Reading
N2 reading passages are longer, denser, and more abstract than anything at N3. You’ll encounter formal essays, opinion pieces, notices, and informational texts, often with embedded clauses, formal grammar structures, and vocabulary that doesn’t get simplified for the reader.
The section tests not just comprehension but interpretation: understanding the writer’s argument, identifying the main point of a paragraph, or inferring meaning from context. Time pressure is a real factor, and many test-takers run out of time not because they can’t understand the passages but because they read too slowly or get stuck on unfamiliar words.
Building reading speed and tolerance for ambiguity is as important as expanding vocabulary. Strong N2 readers develop the habit of moving forward through a passage even when a word or phrase is unclear, using context to approximate meaning rather than stopping to decode every sentence.
NHK Web Easy is a good bridge for upper-intermediate learners, while regular NHK News or editorial content better reflects the density and register of actual exam passages. The underlying skill the reading section rewards is the ability to follow a logical argument in formal Japanese, which ultimately comes from reading widely and consistently in the months leading up to the exam.
Should You Take JLPT N2 Lessons
Studying for the JLPT N2 on your own is possible, but it’s a significant undertaking. The jump from N3 to N2 is one of the steepest in the entire test series. Many learners who attempt N2 through self-study alone find themselves cycling through textbooks without a clear sense of where their weak points are or how to address them efficiently. Taking lessons with a qualified Japanese teacher changes the dynamic considerably. A good tutor can diagnose exactly where you’re losing points
For example, at Coto Academy, JLPT N2 preparation is something the teachers work on with students every day — whether through group courses structured around the exam syllabus or private lessons tailored to your specific weak points. If you’re based in Tokyo or prefer to study online, it’s worth exploring what a more guided approach could do for your preparation timeline.
The dedicated JLPT N2 Prep Course covers everything on the exam syllabus in small groups of no more than eight students.
If you prefer a more immersive pace, the Intensive Course runs every weekday and builds the kind of fluency with abstract and complex Japanese that N2 demands. For learners who want something tailored entirely to their weak points, Private Lessons offer a one-on-one plan built around your specific needs and schedule.
Ready to Pass the JLPT N2? Prepare with Coto Academy!
Whether you’re just starting your N2 journey or looking to close the gap before your next exam date, Coto Academy’s experienced teachers are here to help. Study in Tokyo or online, at a pace that works for you. You can explore our JLPT prep course or contact us right away for a free consultation and level check!
Check out our guides for other JLPT levels as well:
Whether you’re just beginning your Japanese studies or already at an advanced level, chances are you will still encounter unfamiliar words that leave you reaching for a 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 so 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 learners of the language. These dictionaries helps us 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.
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 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. The 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. Additionally, 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 are shown in many languages. For revision, you can review the words in your search history and create your vocabulary lists. Many users rate this dictionary highly and recommend it 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 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 to properly prepare.
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.
This dictionary helps learners understand specialized vocabulary and how people use it 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. The app was developed by Japanese learner Chris Vasselli and is designed for students and fellow learners.
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 words or phrase in natural writing. While not every translation is perfect due to the lack of manual review, this dictionary is still an excellent resource for learners.
Tagaini Jisho is a free Japanese-English dictionary app available for both Mac and Windows. While the interface may look dated, the platform offers a wide range of features that are 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).
