Coto Japanese Academy

Welcome to the ultimate guide to passing the JLPT N2 Exam!

The thought of taking JLPT is stressful, but what about preparing for them? With so many things to learn, it’s easy for anyone to feel completely disorganized.

Want to take your JLPT preparation to the next level? We have in-person and online JLPT courses taught by our experienced Japanese instructors to help you ace your next JLPT exam!

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 Exam!

Check out our guides for other JLPT levels as well:

Table of Contents

1. About the JLPT

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 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 test 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 test 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 Exam 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.

2. About the JLPT N2 Exam

What does the N2 Exam test on?

The JLPT N2 Exam 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

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.

SectionQuestion types
1. Language Knowledge(Vocabulary/Grammar) and Reading– Kanji reading
– Orthography
– Word formation
– Contextually-defined expressions
– Paraphrases
– Usage
– Sentential grammar 1 (selecting grammar form)
– Sentential grammar 2 (sentence composition)
– Comprehension (short passages)
– Comprehension (mid-size passages)
– Integrated comprehension
– Thematic comprehension (long passages)
– Information retrieval
2. Listening– 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 6000 vocabulary words and 1000 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 different test sections.

SectionTime
Language Knowledge (Vocabulary/Grammar) and Reading105 minutes
Listening50 minutes
Total Time155 minutes

You are given 155 minutes to complete the JLPT N2 Exam.

What is the scoring for the JLPT N2 like?

Although the N2 Exam contains two sections, the scoring is divided into three.

SectionRange of Scores
Language Knowledge (Vocabulary/Grammar) 0 – 60
Reading0 – 60
Listening0 – 60
Overall Score0 – 180

In total, your overall score can range from anywhere between 0 to 180.

For the N2 Exam, a 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.

For how long should I study to pass the N2?

how many hours does it take to pass jlpt - study hours N2

For students with kanji knowledge, 1475 hours of JLPT study is 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 2200 hours. As a reference, credentials for a USCPA (Certified Public Accountant) take 2000 hours. Have fun crunching numbers!

For more information on necessary study hours for all levels of the JLPT, check out this blog article How Many Hours Does it Take to Pass the JLPT – Illustrated Guide.

3. How to Prepare

Mastering Kanji and Vocabulary

As previously mentioned, the JLPT N2 Exam covers around 1000 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.)

We highly recommend you check out our JLPT N2 Kanji Self-Study Course (¥1,000) to learn the necessary N2 kanji.

Coto JLPT N2 Kanji Self-Study Course

This self-study course covers N2 kanji and contains a quiz for each kanji, a downloadable pdf workbook, and a printable cheat sheet to help you through kanji memorization.

Click on the image to check it out!

Additionally, you can check out our JLPT N2 Kanji Writing Workbook (¥1,500).

JLPT N2 Kanji Writing Workbook / Worksheets E-book

This downloadable and printable E-book aims to help you practice writing N2-level kanji and memorize them efficiently.

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.

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.

Mastering Grammar

Grammer

To learn grammar points covered on the N2 Exam, you can check out the below articles on basic Japanese grammar for free:

In addition, our YouTube Channel is also great for learning important N2 grammar points, as well as improving your Japanese listening skills. We offer useful videos on phrases and grammar points commonly featured on the JLPT N2 and include familiar examples to help you get a grasp of how they are often used in daily life.

Here’s an example of our grammar videos:

If you are a person who learns better through videos and audio, check out our JLPT N2 Playlist, which has compiled all of the N2 grammar videos for you.

If you prefer to work with textbooks and worksheets, we recommend another self-study course! Our JLPT N2 Grammar Self-Study Course (¥1,000) is a grammar course that you complete all on your own.

Coto JLPT N2 Grammar Course

This course includes 149 lessons and 149 quizzes on grammar points that will be featured on the JLPT N2 Exam. You will also receive a link to download our JLPT N2 Grammar PDF Workbook upon purchase.

The JLPT N2 Grammar Workbook can also be purchased independently for ¥1,300.

JLPT N2 Grammar Guide

This workbook includes 124 grammar points you need to pass the JLPT N3. Each grammar point has short explanations in English and in Japanese. The workbook includes practice exercises that you can do on your own!

Although self-studying is a great way to study at your own pace, textbooks, and worksheets may not perfectly prepare you for what’s to come on the JLPT Exam.

We recommend enrolling in offline or online courses at Coto to study for the N2.

4. Offline/Online Courses Offered at Coto

Coto Academy Staff

In addition to the resources mentioned above, Coto Academy offers offline and online classes to help you through your studies. (Offline classes are offered at our schools in Tokyo and Yokohama.)

Here is a list of lessons available at the JLPT N2 level. Click on your course of interest to find out more details about its contents, price, and schedule.

Coto Academy provides JLPT prep courses to help you ace your following JLPT exams; check the course information here and learn with us today!

Offline Courses (Tokyo/Yokohama)

  • Intensive Courses
    • Advanced Level 1-2 – an 8-week intensive course in a class of no more than 8 students, designed to train you to understand abstract Japanese content. You will also broaden your conversation to topics of interest and specialized fields and become able to express and defend your point of view. Classes take place every weekday, each lasting 3 hours.
    • Advanced Level 3-4-5 – a 12-week advanced intensive course in which you will learn more abstract contents that will allow you to carry on and hold sophisticated conversations. By the end of this course, your grammar and vocabulary will become proficient enough that you will be able to speak in-depth and objectively with native Japanese speakers. This course also meets every weekday, each class lasting 3 hours.
  • Part-time Lessons
    • Natural and Fluent Japanese Communication 2 – the goal of this course is to acquire a broad spectrum of vocabulary and freely use it in numerous sentence patterns during conversations, so you’ll be able to speak about general things in Japanese only.
    • Business Japanese – you will learn the etiquette and vernacular of doing business in Japan. The course will teach you basic formal expressions (basic keigo), setting-specific expressions on business situation in Japan.
    • Japanese Explanation Training – designed for anyone who can communicate using only Japanese but feels they have problems with detailed explanations. The course will improve your ability to speak about familiar topics in-depth.
    • Keigo Training – designed to hone your Keigo Japanese to improve your Japanese language in a professional setting.
  • Private Lessons – matched to our students’ Japanese study experience, comprehension, and needs 1-1 with a professional teacher. Instead of in small groups, you will meet privately with a professional instructor in-person and receive a lesson plan strictly designed to fit your needs and studying habits. Perfect for those wanting flexible scheduling to tackle their weaknesses in the language proactively.
  • JLPT Prep Courses – designed to prepare you for everything you will encounter on the JLPT, in small groups of no more than 8 students. With in-house materials and interactive classroom environment, you will work towards N2 certification alongside your peers.

Online Courses

  • Private Lessons – matched to our students’ Japanese study experience, comprehension, and needs 1-1 with a professional teacher online. Instead of in small groups, you will meet privately with a professional instructor online via Zoom and receive a lesson plan strictly designed to fit your needs and studying habits. Perfect for those wanting flexible scheduling to tackle their weaknesses in the language proactively.
  • Group Lessons
    • Business Lite Intensive – designed to teach Japanese that is common in the workplace to prepare you for a job in Japan. A group of more than 8 students.
    • Business Japanese – dedicated to cover basic formal expressions (basic keigo) and setting-specific expressions in Japanese business scenes.
    • Natural and Fluent Japanese 2 – a grammar-focused course encouraging students to acquire a broad spectrum of vocabulary and freely use it in numerous sentence patterns during conversations.
    • Japanese Explanation Training – designed for anyone who can communicate using only Japanese, but feel they have problems with detailed explanations. The course will improve your ability to speak about familiar topics in-depth.
    • Read and Discuss Current Events – focused on improving the students’ ability to naturally talk about recent news and important topics in Japanese. You will read articles that are in current discussion in Japanese news and actively discuss over topics ranging from politics to environment to economics. Because the N2 includes many newspaper articles and critiques in its reading comprehension section, this course is recommended.
    • Advanced Japanese Explanation Training – designed to help each student develop the ability to explain topics using correct Japanese grammar. This course is conversational. You will learn how to talk about a variety of topics – hobbies, experiences, dream house, job, etc. – and strengthen the ability to proactively think in Japanese.
    • JLPT N2 Grammar – a year-long course that will prepare you for the JLPT N2 Exam. You will read passages common to the JLPT N2 Exam and learn how to use most of the grammar points covered on the N2.
    • JLPT N2 Reading – a 6 month course focusing on the key points of reading comprehension necessary for the JLPT N2 exam.
  • JLPT N2 Online Prep Lecture – designed for students wanting to study individually with the lesson material while listening to the lecture on the screen. It is an affordable and convenient option for those who are looking for a high-quality seminar-style classroom taught by a professional native. In this lecture, we utilize our in-house exercises and study materials specialized for JLPT preparation. You will be assigned materials each week on Google Classroom.

To sign up for and enroll in classes, visit this page and you will be directed to schedule a free interview!

5. Join our JLPT Prep Courses

Japanese teacher teaching Japanese to the students

For effective studying for the JLPT N2, we highly recommend our JLPT N2 Prep Course! This Japanese language course is available both online and offline and will prepare you to take and successfully pass the JLPT N2 with a mix of in-house materials and hand-selected materials trusted by our instructors. The course will strengthen your vocabulary, kanji, grammar, reading comprehension, and listening skills required to successfully obtain a N2 certification. By taking the JLPT N2 Prep Course, pass the exam and open more opportunities for your life in Japan!

For more information on JLPT Prep Courses, click here.

6. How to Register

Next Test Date: December 1st 2024

Application Period: Until September 12 (Thu), 17:00

Application Method: You must apply from the MyJLPT “JLPT Application” screen after registering with MyJLPT on the JLPT website of Japan Educational Exchanges and Services (JESS).

Test Fee: 7,500 yen (consumption tax included)

Payment Methods: Credit card, bank wire transfer (pay-easy), payment at a convenience store

Once registered, you will receive a test voucher around mid-November, indicating your test location and more details about the JLPT Exam.

For more information, visit the JLPT Official Website.

7. What Happens on Test Day

It’s your big test day!

Before heading out to your test center, make sure to bring your test voucher, writing utensils (mechanical pencils are accepted), and maybe some snacks and a watch to help you with time-management.

For examinees in Japan, your test will begin at 12:30, but the test center will be already open from 11:45. We recommend you to head out early to be safe.

Once you arrive at your test venue, you will be asked to show your test voucher to the staff. Examinees are split into different rooms based on their voucher numbers. You will be instructed to enter one of these rooms.

Once you have found and entered your room, you will find the desk that has your number on it. You will receive instructions from staff and begin your exam when it’s time.

The whole exam will take several hours to complete (in the case of the N2 Exam, 155 minutes) and you will get short breaks between each section. When the exam is finished, you will need to wait until all test papers have been collected before you can leave the room.

*Processes at overseas testing sites may differ.

You’ve reached the end of the ultimate guide to passing the JLPT N2 Exam. We hope this was helpful and wish you good luck on your studies!

Start taking Japanese lessons at Coto and pass the JLPT N2!

Welcome to the ultimate guide to passing the JLPT N3 Exam! The thought of taking the JLPT is stressful, but what about preparing for them? With so many things to learn, it’s easy for anyone to feel completely disorganized.

In this blog, we will cover everything you need to know about the JLPT N3 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.

1. About the JLPT

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 also available in certain other countries. JLPT Exams are often taken by Japanese learners planning a future in Japan!

If you are considering or planning to take the JLPT N3 Exam, keep scrolling!

Check out our guides for other JLPT levels as well:

What are the different levels of the JLPT?

The JLPT is divided into 5 different levels: N1, N2, N3, N4, and N5, with N1 being the most advanced level and N5 being the most basic.

  • The N4 and N5 test 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 test you on a more wider spectrum of Japanese knowledge used in various situations in everyday life

Who should take the JLPT? What are the advantages of taking the N3?

If you are looking for a job or planning to pursue education in Japan, then your JLPT scores will come in handy. JLPT certifications can also be advantageous when immigrating to Japan, as those who have passed the N2 and N1 qualify for preferential treatment.

However, JLPT is only really useful for employment or immigration when you have passed the N2 or N1. This guide focuses on JLPT N3, which does not have much real-life use other than to check and prove your personal improvement in Japanese.

Still, the JLPT N3 Exam can be a fitting goal for Japanese learners wanting to test their ability to fairly understand Japanese used in everyday situations. A N3 certification acts as a nice intermediate-level bridge between the easier levels and the harder levels of the JLPT. It will prepare you for the more difficult stuff covered in N2 and N1!

2. About the JLPT N3 Exam

What does the N3 Exam test on?

In general, the JLPT N3 Exam is an exam for intermediate-level speakers. The JLPT N3 tests you on the ability to understand Japanese used in everyday situations to a certain degree. This includes having no difficulty in:

  • Reading and understanding materials concerning specific everyday topics
  • Grasping summary information such as newspaper headlines
  • Reading and fairly understanding slightly difficult writings encountered in everyday situations
  • Listening and comprehending everyday conversations spoken at near-natural speed, following their contents, and grasping the relationships among the people involved

How many sections are are on the N3 Exam?

To study for the exam efficiently, it is important to be aware of the structure of the test. The JLPT N3 Exam consists of three main sections. Each of the three sections tests you on different aspects of the Japanese language.

SectionQuestion types
1. Language Knowledge (Vocabulary)– Kanji reading
– Orthography
– Contextually-defined expressions
– Paraphrases
– Usage
2. Language Knowledge (Grammar) and Reading– Sentential grammar 1 (selecting grammar form)
– Sentential grammar 2 (sentence composition)
– Text grammar
– Comprehension (short passages)
– Comprehension (mid-length passages)
– Comprehension (long passages)
3. Listening– Task-based comprehension
– Comprehension of key points
– Comprehension of general outline
– Verbal expressions
– Quick response

What is and is not covered in the JLPT N3 Exam?

For all of the above three sections, you must master approximately 3700 vocabulary words and 650 kanji. Although this may sound like a lot, you should already know around 1500 words and 300 kanji from N5 and N4, so you are actually already halfway there! The vocabulary words and kanji covered in the N3 Exam include basic nouns and verbs from N4 and N5, as well as more complex terms necessary to understand slightly difficult written materials such as newspaper headlines.

Furthermore, you must be familiar with typical grammar points such as particle usage, formal and casual conjugations of verbs and adjectives for past and present tenses, and sentence combinations. Before taking the test, you should be comfortable with reading and writing middle-length sentences and 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 N3 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 N3 Exam?

You are given different amounts of time for each of the three different test sections.

SectionTime
Language Knowledge (Vocabulary)30 minutes
Language Knowledge (Grammar) and Reading70 minutes
Listening40 minutes
Total Time140 minutes

In total, you are given 140 minutes to complete the JLPT N3 Exam.

What is the scoring for the JLPT N3 like?

Since the N3 Exam contains three sections, the scoring is divided into three as well.

SectionRange of Scores
Language Knowledge (Vocabulary/Grammar) 0 – 60
Reading0 – 60
Listening0 – 60
Overall Score0 – 180

In total, your overall score can range from anywhere between 0 to 180.

For the N3 Exam, a passing score is anything above an overall score of 95 points. However, in addition to 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 the Listening Section. This means that even if your overall score is above 95 points, if you do not meet the sectional pass marks for all three of the sections, you cannot pass. Thus, it is important to balance out your knowledge and avoid relying on one section for points.

For how long should I study to pass the N3?

how many hours does it take to pass jlpt - study hours N3

For students already with kanji knowledge, it takes 900 hours. This is about the same as a attaining a Spanish Food Le Cordon Bleu diploma.

For other students, it takes around 1325 hours of studying. With this amount of time, you can become an architect!

For more information on necessary study hours for all levels of the JLPT, check out this blog article How Many Hours Does it Take to Pass the JLPT – Illustrated Guide.

3. How to Prepare

Mastering Kanji and Vocabulary

As previously mentioned, the JLPT N3 Exam covers around 650 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.)

We highly recommend you to check out our JLPT N3 Kanji Self-Study Course (¥1,000) to learn the necessary N3 kanji.

Additionally, you can check out our JLPT N3 Kanji Writing Workbook (¥1,000).

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 that you will be tested on during the N3 exam. Click on the topic to download.

As you move on from N5 and N4 to N3-level kanji, it becomes important to learn about kanji radicals and know the meanings of individual parts of kanji. This will help you memorize each kanji more productively and recognize definitions of words better. When studying N3 kanji, we recommend you to study parts of each kanji as well.

Mastering Grammar

Although the JLPT N3 Exam scores vocabulary and grammar cumulatively, it is recommended that you study for them independently. To learn grammar points covered on the N3 Exam, you can check out the below articles on basic Japanese grammar for free:

We have also prepared for you a free, downloadable Japanese Particles Cheat Sheet & Guide.

It covers 17 common particles, its usages, meanings, and example sentences.

In addition, our YouTube Channel is also great for learning important N3 grammar points, as well as improving your Japanese listening skills. We offer useful videos on phrases and grammar points commonly featured on the JLPT N3 and include familiar examples to help you get a grasp of how they are often used in daily life.

Here’s an example of our grammar videos:

If you are a person who learns better through videos and audio, check out our JLPT N3 Playlist where we have compiled all of the N3 grammar videos for you.

If you prefer to work with textbooks and worksheets, we recommend you another self-study course! Our JLPT N3 Grammar Self-Study Course (¥1,000) is a grammar course that you complete all on your own.

The JLPT N3 Grammar Workbook can also be purchased independently for ¥1,300.

Although self-studying is a great way to study at your own pace, textbooks and worksheets may not perfectly prepare you for what’s to come on the JLPT Exam.

We recommend enrolling in offline or online courses at Coto to more efficiently study for the N3.

4. Offline/Online Courses Offered at Coto

In addition to resources mentioned above, Coto Academy offers offline and online classes to help you through your studies. (Offline classes are offered at our schools in Tokyo and Yokohama.)

Here is a list of lessons available at the JLPT N3 level. Click on your course of interest to find out more details on the contents, price, and schedule of the course.

Coto Academy provides JLPT prep courses to help you ace your following JLPT exams; check the course information here and learn with us today!

Offline Courses (Tokyo/Yokohama)

  • Intensive Courses
    • Intermediate Level 1-2 – an 8 week transition course to the intermediate level. You will review previously-learned expressions so that you can hold more “natural” conversations in Japanese. The course meets every weekday for 3 hours.
    • Intermediate Level 3-4-5 – a 12 week intensive course at the intermediate level. You will further develop your proficiency in the Japanese language and practice your knowledge with real world scenarios. The course meets every weekday, each lesson lasting 3 hours.
    • Advanced Level 1-2 – an 8 week intensive course in a class of no more than 8 students, designed to train you in understanding abstract contents in Japanese. You will also broaden your conversation to topics of interest and specialized fields and become able to express and defend your point of view. Classes take place every weekday, each lasting 3 hours.
  • Part-time Lessons
    • Bridge to Intermediate – serves as a “Bridge” to the intermediate level. The course focuses on the core basic sentence patterns, improving vocabulary for a variety of daily situations, and building more complex sentences.
    • Natural and Fluent Japanese Communication 1 – the goal of this course is to acquire a broad spectrum of vocabulary and freely use it in numerous sentence patterns during conversations, so you’ll be able to speak about general things in Japanese only.
    • Business Japanese – you will learn the etiquette and vernacular of doing business in Japan. The course will teach you basic formal expressions (basic keigo), setting-specific expressions on business situation in Japan.
    • Keigo Training – designed to hone in your Keigo Japanese to improve your Japanese language in a professional setting.
  • Private Lessons – matched to our students’ Japanese study experience, comprehension, and needs 1-1 with a professional teacher. Instead of in small groups, you will meet privately with a professional instructor in-person and receive a lesson plan strictly designed to fit your needs and studying habits. Perfect for those wanting flexible scheduling to tackle their weaknesses in the language proactively.
  • JLPT Prep Courses – designed to prepare you for everything you will encounter on the JLPT, in small groups of no more than 8 students. With in-house materials and interactive classroom environment, you will work towards N3 certification alongside your peers.

Online Courses

  • Private Lessons – matched to our students’ Japanese study experience, comprehension, and needs 1-1 with a professional teacher online. Instead of in small groups, you will meet privately with a professional instructor online via Zoom and receive a lesson plan strictly designed to fit your needs and studying habits. Perfect for those wanting flexible scheduling to tackle their weaknesses in the language proactively.
  • Group Lessons
    • Bridge to Intermediate – serves as a “Bridge” to the intermediate level. The course focuses on the core basic sentence patterns, improving vocabulary for a variety of daily situations, and building more complex sentences.
    • Natural and Fluent Japanese 1 – a grammar-focused course encouraging students to acquire a broad spectrum of vocabulary and freely use it in numerous sentence patterns during conversations.
    • Business Lite Intensive – designed to teach Japanese that is common in the workplace to prepare you for a job in Japan. A group of more than 8 students.
    • Business Japanese – dedicated to cover basic formal expressions (basic keigo) and setting-specific expressions in Japanese business scenes.
    • Japanese Explanation Training – designed for anyone who can communicate using only Japanese, but feel they have problems with detailed explanations. The course will improve your ability to speak about familiar topics in-depth.
    • Read and Discuss Current Events – focused on improving the students’ ability to naturally talk about recent news and important topics in Japanese. You will read articles that are in current discussion in Japanese news and actively discuss over topics ranging from politics to environment to economics.
  • JLPT N3 Online Prep Lecture – designed for students wanting to study individually with the lesson material while listening to the lecture on the screen. It is an affordable and convenient option for those who are looking for a high-quality seminar-style classroom taught by a professional native. In this lecture, we utilize our in-house exercises and study materials specialized for JLPT preparation. You will be assigned materials each week on Google Classroom.

To sign up for and enroll in classes, visit this page and you will be directed to schedule a free interview!

5. Join our JLPT Prep Courses

For effective studying for the JLPT N3, we highly recommend our JLPT N3 Prep Course! This Japanese language course is available both online and offline and will prepare you to take and successfully pass the JLPT N3 with a mix of in-house materials and hand-selected materials trusted by our instructors. The course will strengthen your vocabulary, kanji, grammar, reading comprehension, and listening skills required to successfully obtain a N3 certification. By taking the JLPT N3 Prep Course, pass the exam and open more opportunities for your life in Japan!

6. How to Register

Next Test Date: December 1st 2024

Application Period: Until September 12 (Thu), 17:00

Application Method: You must apply from the MyJLPT “JLPT Application” screen after registering with MyJLPT on the JLPT website of Japan Educational Exchanges and Services (JESS).

Test Fee: 7,500 yen (consumption tax included)

Payment Methods: Credit card, bank wire transfer (pay-easy), payment at a convenience store

Once registered, you will receive a test voucher around mid-November indicating your test location and more details about the JLPT Exam.

For more information, visit the JLPT Official Website.

7. What Happens on Test Day

It’s your big test day!

Before heading out to your test center, make sure to bring your test voucher, writing utensils (mechanical pencils are accepted), and maybe some snacks and a watch to help you with time-management.

For examinees in Japan, your test will begin at 12:30, but the test center will be already open from 11:45. We recommend you to head out early to be safe.

Once you arrive at your test venue, you will be asked to show your test voucher to the staff. Examinees are split into different rooms based on their voucher numbers. You will be instructed to enter one of these rooms.

Once you have found and entered your room, you will find the desk that has your number on it. You will receive instructions from staff and begin your exam when it’s time.

The whole exam will take several hours to complete (in the case of the N3 Exam, 140 minutes) and you will get short breaks between each section. When the exam is finished, you will need to wait until all test papers have been collected before you can leave the room.

*Processes at overseas testing sites may differ.

You’ve reached the end of the ultimate guide to passing the JLPT N3 Exam. We hope this was helpful and wish you good luck on your studies!

Start taking Japanese lessons at Coto and pass the JLPT N3!

Welcome to the ultimate guide to passing the JLPT N4 Exam!

The thought of taking JLPT is stressful, but what about preparing for them? With so many things to learn, it’s easy for anyone to feel completely disorganized.

Want to take your JLPT preparation to the next level? We have in-person and online JLPT courses taught by our experienced Japanese instructors to help you ace your next JLPT exam!

In this blog, we will cover everything you need to know about the JLPT N4 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.

If you are considering or planning to take the JLPT N4 Exam, keep scrolling!

Check out our guides for other JLPT levels as well:

1. About the JLPT

What 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 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, with N1 being the most advanced level and N5 being the most basic.

  • The N4 and N5 test 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 test 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 N4?

If you are looking for a job or planning to pursue education in Japan, your JLPT scores will be useful. JLPT certifications can also be advantageous when immigrating to Japan, as those who have passed the N2 and N1 qualify for preferential treatment.

However, JLPT is only really useful for employment or immigration when you have passed the N2 or N1. This guide focuses on JLPT N4, which does not have much real-life use other than to check your personal improvement and prove your interest in the Japanese language.

Still, the JLPT N4 Exam can be a fitting goal for Japanese learners wanting to test their comprehension skills and basic Japanese knowledge. By taking the N4 Exam, you may be able to discover your strengths and weaknesses and pursue your studies more efficiently after that. In addition, an N4 certification can prove your mastery of basic Japanese and prepare you for the more difficult stuff covered in higher JLPT levels.

2. About the JLPT N4 Exam

What does the N4 Exam test on?

The JLPT N4 Exam is an exam for upper beginners. Generally, the JLPT N4 tests you on the understanding of the core basics of Japanese, including your ability to read and comprehend passages on daily topics written in basic Japanese vocabulary and kanji. You also need to be able to listen and follow slow-spoken conversations in daily life situations. Vocabulary and expressions used in the N4 are slightly more advanced and complex compared to those featured in the N5. Like the N5, questions on the N4 are generally straightforward.

For more information on the JLPT N5 Exam, click here.

What are the different sections of the N4 Exam?

The JLPT N4 Exam consists of three main sections. Each of the three sections tests you on different aspects of the Japanese language.

SectionQuestion types
1. Language Knowledge (Vocabulary)– Kanji reading
– Orthography
– Contextually-defined expressions
– Paraphrases
– Usage
2. Language Knowledge (Grammar) and Reading– Sentential grammar 1 (selecting grammar form)
– Sentential grammar 2 (sentence composition)
– Text grammar
– Comprehension (short passages)
– Comprehension (mid-length passages)
3. Listening– Task-based comprehension
– Comprehension of key points
– Verbal expressions
– Quick response

What is and is not covered in the JLPT N4 Exam?

For all of the above three sections, you must master approximately 1500 vocabulary words and 300 kanji. This is 200 more kanji and 700 more vocabulary words compared to what you must know for the N5. The 1500 vocabulary words covered in the N4 Exam include basic nouns and verbs, as well as commonly used expressions, adjectives, adverbs, and some katakana words. In addition to the 100 N5 kanji that are naturally used in simple daily conversations (such as those related to numbers, time and days of the week, family members, and basic verbs), the N4 will cover kanji that are used in a wider variety of places such as restaurants and workplace. Once you’ve mastered the 300 N4 kanji, you may still have a difficult time reading native-level Japanese passages, but you will be able to survive in common situations.

Furthermore, you must be familiar with typical grammar points such as basic particle usage and formal and casual conjugations of verbs and adjectives for past and present tenses. Before taking the test, you should be comfortable with reading and writing simple sentences and expressing opinions.

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 N4 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 N4 Exam?

You are given different amounts of time for each of the three different test sections.

SectionTime
Language Knowledge (Vocabulary)25 minutes
Language Knowledge (Grammar) and Reading55 minutes
Listening35 minutes
Total Time95 minutes

In total, you are given 95 minutes to complete the JLPT N4 Exam.

What is the scoring for the JLPT N4 like?

Although the N4 Exam contains three sections, the scoring is divided into two.

SectionRange of Scores
Language Knowledge (Vocabulary/Grammar) and Reading0 – 120
Listening0 – 60
Overall Score0 – 180

Your overall score can range from anywhere between 0 to 180.

For the N4 Exam, a passing score is anything above an overall score of 90 points. However, in addition to meeting the overall score of 90 points, you must also meet sectional pass marks of 38 points in the Language Knowledge (Vocabulary/Grammar) and Reading Section and 19 points in the Listening Section. This means that even if your overall score is above 90 points, if you do not have meet the sectional pass marks for both of the sections, you cannot pass. Thus, it is important to balance out your knowledge and avoid relying on one section for points.

For how long should I study to pass the N4?

how many hours does it take to pass jlpt - study hours N4

For students with kanji knowledge, it takes 550 hours. That is the same as studying to improve your TOEIC score from 500 to 700.

For other students. It takes about 787 hours of studying to pass the N4. With this time, you can become a train driver in Japan.

For more information on necessary study hours for all levels of the JLPT, check out this blog article How Many Hours Does it Take to Pass the JLPT – Illustrated Guide.

3. How to Prepare

Mastering Kanji and Vocabulary

As previously mentioned, the JLPT N4 Exam covers around 300 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.)

We highly recommend you check out our JLPT N4 Kanji Self-Study Course (¥1,000) to learn the necessary N4 kanji.

JLPT N4 Kanji online self study course

This course covers N4 kanji and contains a quiz for each kanji, a downloadable pdf workbook, and a printable cheat sheet.

Additionally, you can check out our JLPT N4 Kanji Writing Workbook (¥500).

JLPT N4 Kanji Writing Workbook / Worksheets E-Book

This is a downloadable and printable E-book aimed to help you practice writing N4-level kanji and memorize them efficiently.

We have also provided samples of the worksheets free of charge at the below links! These are very useful as they cover many of the kanji that you will be tested on during the N4 exam.

As you move on from N5-level kanji to N4-level, it becomes important to learn about kanji radicals and know the meanings of individual parts of kanji. This will help you memorize each kanji more productively and recognize definitions of words better. When studying N4 kanji, we recommend you to study parts of each kanji as well.

Mastering Grammar

Although the JLPT N4 Exam scores vocabulary and grammar cumulatively, it is recommended that you study for them independently. The grammar section of the exam tests on basic particle usage (ha, ni, wo, etc.) and formal and casual conjugations of verbs and adjectives for past and present tenses.

To learn grammar points covered on the N4 Exam, you can check out the below articles on basic Japanese Grammar for free:

We have also prepared for you a free, downloadable Japanese Particles Cheat Sheet & Guide.

It covers 17 common particles, its usages, meanings, and example sentences.

Our YouTube Channel is also great for learning important N4 grammar points, as well as improving your Japanese listening skills. We offer useful videos on phrases and grammar points commonly featured on the JLPT N4 and include familiar examples to help you get a grasp of how they are often used in daily life.

Here’s an example of our grammar videos:

If you are a person who learns better through videos and audio, check out our JLPT N4 Playlist, which has compiled all of the N4 grammar videos for you.

Coto also offers a FREE JLPT N4 YouTube Video Grammar Course, which includes short quizzes testing you on each of the YouTube grammar videos. This free self-study course will help you understand the contents of the videos more clearly by testing and checking your understanding of the meaning and uses of every grammar point.

If you prefer to work with textbooks and worksheets, we recommend another self-study course! Our JLPT N4 Grammar Self-Study Course (¥1,000) is a 16-week course that you complete all on your own.

This course includes 68 lessons and 67 quizzes on grammar points that will be featured on the JLPT N4 Exam. Upon purchase, you will also receive a link to download our JLPT N4 Grammar PDF Workbook.

The JLPT N4 Grammar Workbook can also be purchased independently for ¥1,300.

JLPT N4 Grammar Guide

This workbook includes all 48 grammar points you need to pass the JLPT N4. Each grammar point has short explanations in English and in Japanese. The workbook includes practice exercises that you can do on your own!

Although self-studying is a great way to study at your own pace, textbooks and worksheets may not perfectly prepare you for what’s to come on the JLPT Exam.

We recommend enrolling in offline or online courses at Coto to more efficiently study for the N4.

4. Offline/Online Courses Offered at Coto

In addition to the resources mentioned above, Coto Academy offers offline and online classes to help you through your studies. (Offline classes are offered at our schools in Tokyo and Yokohama.)

Here is a list of lessons available at the JLPT N4 level. Click on your course of interest to learn more about the contents, price, and course schedule.

Coto Academy provides JLPT prep courses to help you ace your following JLPT exams; check the course information here and learn with us today!

Offline Courses (Tokyo/Yokohama)

  • Intensive Courses
    • Beginner Level 4-5-6 – a 12-week upper beginner course, perfect for students who want to start broadening their conversational Japanese. You will learn to express yourself with more complex phrases.
    • Intermediate Level 1-2 – an 8-week transition course to the intermediate level. You will review previously learned expressions so that you can hold more “natural” conversations in Japanese. The course meets every weekday for 3 hours.
  • Part-time Lessons
    • Effective Drill Training – aimed to help students improve their quick-response ability and build their confidence. You will use a series of specially designed drills and speaking training to improve your communication ability.
    • Conversation Level-up – focused on developing your ability to convey your wishes, ask for permission while giving a reason, study assumptive expressions, and express your feelings or things that happened more accurately.
    • Essential Grammar and Conversation – a part-time class dedicated to helping you practice making conversations about a variety of topics. You will improve your vocabulary and ability to converse smoothly throughout this course.
    • Bridge to Intermediate – serves as a “Bridge” to the intermediate level. The course focuses on the core basic sentence patterns, improving vocabulary for a variety of daily situations, and building more complex sentences.
  • Private Lessons – matched to our students’ Japanese study experience and comprehension, and needs 1-1 with a professional teacher. Instead of in small groups, you will privately meet a professional instructor and receive a lesson plan strictly designed to fit your needs and studying habits. Perfect for those wanting flexible scheduling to tackle their language weaknesses proactively.

Online Courses

  • Private Lessons – matched to our students’ Japanese study experience, comprehension, and needs 1-1 with a professional teacher online. Instead of in small groups, you will meet privately with a professional instructor online via Zoom and receive a lesson plan strictly designed to fit your needs and studying habits. Perfect for those wanting flexible scheduling to tackle their language weaknesses proactively.
  • Group Lessons
    • Essential Grammar & Conversation – an online part-time class dedicated to helping you practice making conversations about a variety of topics. You will improve your vocabulary and ability to converse smoothly throughout this course.
    • Bridge to Intermediate – serves as a “Bridge” to the intermediate level. The course focuses on the core basic sentence patterns, improving vocabulary for a variety of daily situations, and building more complex sentences.
    • Lite Intensive (Beginner 4) – an upper-beginner intensive course that uses the Genki textbook series and will cover ways to construct natural conversations. By the end of this course, you will be able to have more natural conversations and make long sentences.
  • JLPT N4 Online Prep Lecture – designed for students wanting to study individually with the lesson material while listening to the lecture on the screen. It is an affordable and convenient option for those seeking a high-quality seminar-style classroom taught by a professional native. We utilize our in-house exercises and study materials specialized for JLPT preparation in this lecture. You will be assigned materials each week on Google Classroom.

To sign up for and enroll in classes, visit this page and you will be directed to schedule a free interview!

5. How to Register

Next Test Date: December 1st 2024

Application Period: Until September 12 (Thu), 17:00

Application Method: You must apply from the MyJLPT “JLPT Application” screen after registering with MyJLPT on the JLPT website of Japan Educational Exchanges and Services (JESS).

Test Fee: 7,500 yen (consumption tax included)

Payment Methods: Credit card, bank wire transfer (pay-easy), payment at a convenience store

Once registered, you will receive a test voucher around mid-November indicating your test location and more details about the JLPT Exam.

For more information, visit the JLPT Official Website.

6. What Happens on Test Day

It’s your big test day!

Before heading out to your test center, bring your test voucher, writing utensils (mechanical pencils are accepted), and maybe some snacks and a watch to help you with time management.

For examinees in Japan, your test will begin at 12:30, but the test center will be open from 11:45. We recommend you head out early to be safe.

Once you arrive at your test venue, you will be asked to show your test voucher to the staff. Examinees are split into different rooms based on their voucher numbers. You will be instructed to enter one of these rooms.

You will find the desk with your number once you have found and entered your room. You will receive instructions from staff and begin your exam when it’s time.

The whole exam will take several hours (in the case of the N4 Exam, 95 minutes), and you will get short breaks between each section. When the exam is finished, you must wait until all test papers have been collected before leaving the room.

*Processes at overseas testing sites may differ.

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.

This article is part of our Ultimate Guide to Passing the JLPT N2.

Why I Took 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. 

Check out: 20 Must-Know Grammar Points for the JLPT N2!

Leaning JLPT N2 Vocabulary and Kanji

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.

JLPT N2 Reading and Listening

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.

Check out: 15 JLPT N2 Books for Advanced Japanese Learners

Other Resources for N2 Study

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!

Do you want to know how to pass the JLPT N5? Are you starting Japanese from zero as a complete beginner?

This guide will give you information about:

  • What is the JLPT N5?
  • Scoring sections for the JLPT N5 – What Sections is it divided into?
  • Registering for the JLPT N5
  • How to study to for the N5 Kanji and Vocabulary Section
  • How to study to for the N5 Grammar and Reading Section

What is the JLPT N5

The JLPT N5 is the first level of the Japanese Language Proficiency Test ( also known as the 日本語能力試験)

It is the standardized examination used by universities and employers inside and outside of Japan to test a persons Japanese language ability.

Recently – the JLPT N5 has become more necessary when applying for certain types of student visas to Japan – and in some cases it is actually required that you have a JLPT N5 passing certificate before you can apply.

As you can see from the graphic below (students who self reported their study hours) – it takes about 460 hours of study for a person to go from 0 – to passing the Jlpt N5 comfortably.

This should not scare you – that’s just around 2-3 hours a day of study for 6 months.

Important note: You should also keep in mind that studying for the N5 level includes learning the Japanese written alphabets of katakana and hiragana for the first time.

So it really depends whether or not you’re learning to actually write those characters by hand – or simply you just want to be able to read them for the purposes of passing the exam.

We definitely recommend that you learn to write them – as it also makes learning to read much easier – but if you have limited time before you need to pass the exam, you can consider that as a way to shorten the time it takes.

how many hours to pass jlpt study hours N5

How is the JLPT N5 Scored? What sections appear on the JLPT N5

Scoring for JLPT is divided into 2 sections, vocabulary,grammar,reading and listening.

When you take the JLPT N5 – the test will be divided into two testing sections. This means that you will have a cumulative score for the Kanji, Vocabulary, Reading and Grammar. And you will be tested separately with a listening section.

During this listening section you will listen to audio segments that they play and have to answer questions given to you in those audio segments.

How to Register for the JLPT N5

Registering for the JLPT will depend on your country of residence – to find out where you can take the JLPT and where you can register for it – you can consult our registration guide.

Learning the JLPT N5 Kanji & Vocabulary

The N5 Contains roughly 100 or so Kanji that you need to memorize and around 800 vocabulary words.

(Of course you can pass without fully knowing all of these – but there are no guarantees which words will be appearing on your exam.)

We have created a handy JLPT Mega list that you can download and track your progress with – it has all of the Kanji and Vocabulary that you will need to pass the exam.

We would also recommend you check out our list of the top 100 japanese words.

We also have a JLPT N5 Kanji writing workbook that you can buy online and print at home.

This workbook contains stroke order diagrams that will teach you the strokes that you need in order to learn how to write the characters properly.

We have also provided several of the worksheets free of charge at the below links!

These are very useful as they cover many of the Kanji that you will be tested on during the N5 exam.

Unit 1. JLPT N5 Kanji – Numbers
Unit 2. JLPT N5 Kanji – Time
Unit 3. JLPT N5 Kanji – People and Body
Unit 4. JLPT N5 Kanji – Nature
Unit 5. JLPT N5 Kanji – Direction

Learning Grammar for the JLPT N5

Although there is no separation between the points scoring for the vocabulary and the grammar section – we would recommend that you study for them differently.

A good way to get a head start on this grammar is to check out some of our handy basic grammar guides – as well as our te form conjugation guide.

How to conjugate te form
Basic Grammar Guides (1-4)

Feeling up for a challenge?  Check out our 30 Day JLPT N5 Grammar Listening Challenge!  It’s available here for free, and you are drilled on 2 phrases a day with flashcards and videos. 

JLPT Sensei also provides a handy n5 grammar list that you can use in your studies.

If you are studying for the JLPT N5 – we have online lessons that will help you to prepare!

Do not hesitate to get in touch and good luck with your learning.

Start taking Japanese lessons and pass JLPT N5!

This week we have a student story from Jeff, one of our Coto Online students that have been taking Online Lessons to prepare for the JLPT N2
Jeff was kind enough to share his study habits with us and his experience in passing the JLPT N2
So without further Ado here is what Jeff-san had to say when we asked him about his experiences passing the JLPT N2

What is your experience with learning Japanese, studying at coto and passing the JLPT N2?

I began learning Japanese 5 years ago. At the time I was in the US Navy and stationed in Japan, at the Yokosuka naval base near Yokohama. My wife is Japanese and it was always my goal to be able to talk to her and her family in Japanese rather than English, so I began taking evening courses at Coto, and after I separated from the Navy I was able to take the intensive course at Coto for 8 weeks prior to moving back to the US.
This gave me a good foundation to continue studying Japanese with Coto online courses. Back in the US, I have been taking online lessons with Uehara-sensei roughly once a week. After I passed the N3 level, the only grammar study I did was through Coto online classes with Uehara-sensei, learning grammar from the “Natural and Fluent” worksheets.
On my own I tried to read Japanese novels, looking up all the Kanji and words I didn’t know and making Anki flashcards from them, which in the beginning could be 10-20 words a page, so great for vocabulary building. I slowly worked through the novels of Tsujimura Mizuki such as Asa ga Kuru and Kagami no Kojo, the travel books by Murakami Haruki (I love his travel books but I don’t really care for his novels), as well as the crime novels by Miyabe Miyuki which were difficult but accessible after passing N3. Initially, I also read all the daily articles on NHK News Web Easy, and was able to gradually transition to regular NHK News Web stories.
For listening, I would listen to Mook Study which is a Japanese history podcast, and the absolutely fantastic YouTube channel by Nakata Atsuhiko, which covers history, literature and current events. And of course, watching any and every Japanese language program on Netflix with Japanese language subtitles if available. I have seen all 58 episodes of Shingeki no Kyojin more than a few times. I don’t think to study primarily from native materials is a good strategy to maximize your score on the JLPT, but it is much more enjoyable than spending your free time doing drills from grammar or test prep books.
Fortunately, the Natural and Fluent worksheets and online lessons from Coto combined with studying from real books, videos and podcasts was enough to pass N2, and more importantly, when visiting Japan, Japanese rarely respond in English anymore when I start a conversation. And I can communicate with my wife and her family in Japanese about most topics!
-Jeff , Coto Student
——-

Preparing for the JLPT N3? In this blog, we will be covering 20 essential JLPT N3 grammar points for the JLPT N3 test!
For those interested – we are currently offering a JLPT N3 Online Preparation Course – and you can also buy our JLPT N3 Kanji Writing Workbook

Want to study even more?


Here is the list of our

20 Must-Know Grammar Points:

jlpt n3 grammar point 代わりに
代わりに

Grammar Point 1: 代わりに　Kawari ni

This grammar point is used to express an alternative. It can be combined with a verb, い-adjective, な-adjective and noun!

jlpt n3 grammar point kiri　きり
きり

Grammar Point 2: きり　Kiri

This grammar point means ‘only’ or ‘just’, and is used with nouns.

jlpt n3 grammar point　っけ
っけ

Grammar Point 3: っけ　Kke

This grammar point is used during a conversation when the speaker is trying to recall some information. It is usually used when asking a question in order to confirm or affirm something.

jlpt n3 grammar point くらい　ぐらい
くらい　ぐらい

Grammar Point 4: くらい / ぐらい　Kurai / Gurai

This grammar point is used to express an approximation of things and can also mean ‘to the extent of …’.

jlpt n3 grammar point　くせに
くせに

Grammar Point 5: くせに　Kuseni

This grammar point is often used to express blame, anger or criticism.

jlpt n3 grammar point　ばかり
ばかり

Grammar Point 6: ばかり　Bakari

This grammar point is often used to express shock, surprise or negative judgment. The meaning is not always negative and will usually depend on the context. To get a more nuanced understanding of how ばかり is used, check out our Online JLPT N3 Prep Course! 

jlpt n3 grammar point べき
べき

Grammar Point 7: べき　Beki

This grammar point is used to say something we should or must do. It can be used as べき or べきだ.

jlpt n3 grammar point だらけ
だらけ

Grammar Point 8: だらけ　Darake

This grammar point means ‘full of’ or ‘covered with’, and is combined with nouns.

jlpt n3 grammar point ふりをする
ふりをする

Grammar Point 9: ふりをする　Furi o suru

This grammar point is used when someone is pretending to be or acting as something that is not true.

jlpt n3 grammar point gatai　がたい
がたい

Grammar Point 10: がたい　Gatai

This grammar point is used to express something that is so difficult to do, it may even be impossible and cannot be done. It is used by combining with a verb-ます form. When adding this grammar point to the verb, be sure to remove ます at the back.

jlpt n3 grammar point まま
まま

Grammar Point 11: まま　Mama

This grammar point expresses something as it is or that it has a lack of change.

jlpt n3 grammar point んだって
んだって

Grammar Point 12: んだって　Ndatte

This grammar point is a quoting particle used in conversations to express what you have heard other people say.

jlpt n3 grammar point moraitai　もらいたい
もらいたい

Grammar Point 13: もらいたい　Moraitai

This grammar point is used to express a want or desire for something, usually when asking for favors. It can be used by combining it with a verb-て form.

jlpt n3 grammar point nazenara　なぜなら
なぜなら

Grammar Point 14: なぜなら　Nazenara

This grammar point is usually used in formal situations, to express a reason or cause for something.

jlpt n3 grammar point　にかわって
にかわって

Grammar Point 15: にかわって　Ni kawatte

This grammar point is usually used when someone is replacing someone, or doing something on behalf of someone. Do note that this can only be used with people and not with objects!

jlpt n3 grammar point らしい
らしい

Grammar Point 16: らしい　Rashii

This grammar point is used to say ‘it seems like’, ‘I heard…’ or ”apparently…’.

jlpt n3 grammar point　その結果
その結果

Grammar Point 17: その結果　Sono kekka

This grammar point is used to express the result of something. These Kanji are covered in our JLPT N3 Kanji Writing Workbook!

jlpt n3 grammar point ことだ
ことだ

Grammar Point 18: ことだ　Kotoda

This grammar point is used when giving advice or suggestions to someone. It can mean either ‘should’ or ‘should not’ depending on the context.

jlpt n3 grammar point しかない
しかない

Grammar Point 19: しかない　Shikanai

This grammar point expresses that there is no choice but to do something. It can be used by adding it to verbs.

jlpt n3 grammar point たびに
たびに

Grammar Point 20: たびに　Tabini

This grammar point means ‘every time’ or ‘whenever something happens’.

Want to learn more N3 Grammar points?

Get access to our JLPT N3 Grammar Guidebook!
This Handy N3 Textbook will allow you to learn all of the important grammar points covered on the JLPT N3 exam.
This version includes all 127 grammar points you need to pass the JLPT N3!

 

Start taking Japanese lessons and pass JLPT N3 exam!

Studying for the JLPT N3?

After working through ‘Minna no Nihongo’, gloriously passing JLPT levels N5 or N4 and mastering the basic grammar needed to order your favourite sushi, your next step should be to level up to JLPT N3.

This level is described as ‘the ability to understand Japanese used in everyday situations. Looking to pass the easy way? Learn how to pass the JLPT N3 with our JLPT N3 Online Course!

Let’s take a look at what skills are needed to do well on each part, and get some useful tips on how to ace the test!
Kanji
Vocabulary
Grammar
Reading
Listening

Note: Finding the right JLPT N3 textbook is just as important as studying the subject. That’s why we recommend you check our JLPT N3 textbook recommendations before you continue.

1. Kanji

Bad news: You must know approximately 650 kanji in order to pass.
Good news: You should already know around 300 of them, from N5 and N4. You are already halfway there!
The kanji is getting progressively more difficult. However, what works best is studying the most common radicals first, as it is easier to find meaning in each kanji.
Most importantly, practice, practice practice!
A website extremely useful is NHK’s New Web EASY. It is not always easy studying for N3, and I usually need a dictionary, but it is great reading practice.
The thing that makes it easier, is that most topics will be familiar to you as they would be news articles. As texts on familiar topics are a lot easier to understand, I’m less likely to give up quickly.
Another useful N3 Kanji resource is our JLPT N3 Kanji Writing Workbook! This do-it-yourself PDF workbook is downloadable and will help you master the 369 kanji gap between N4 and N3.

2. Vocabulary

For me, the most difficult part of studying Japanese is expanding my vocabulary. Especially at the beginning, all words sounded very similar to me. It’s getting better, but it is still hard.
There was one website that greatly helped me expand my vocabulary, and that is renshuu.org. It is free, and one of the best resources for vocabulary cramming out there.
I use it on the train, when waiting in line, and even before going to bed. The words are grouped by JLPT level, and I recommend studying N1 or N2, to be well prepared for N3.

3. Grammar

When it comes to grammar, I prefer books over websites. One book I particularly like is ‘An Integrated Approach to Intermediate Japanese’. This book is not just dry grammar, as it contains interesting information about Japanese culture too.
If you understand the grammar in the book, you should already be well prepared to take the JLPT N3 test.
Another piece of advice I would like to give is to do mock tests online. Whatever you don’t understand you can look up and include in your studies. However, after studying the book mentioned above there shouldn’t be many unknown words or structures in the test anymore.  For reference, the official website has a few practice questions.

4. Reading

For the reading portion of the JLPT test, it should not be too difficult after you followed the advice above. Texts in the tests follow a very similar format every time it is conducted, and the subjects of the texts are never too surprising.
Even the kanji mostly have furigana to help you. Common themes are emails from a boss/co-worker, a trip (travel), someone talking about a memory they have, a bulletin with date/time information.

5. Listening

The JLPT N3 listening test is something you can’t learn from books only. The age-old adagio of conversation practice wherever you go comes into play here, and the TV can also be a useful study mate in this case.
Listening to comedians making fun of each other can help you get used to the flow and sound of the language, but keep in mind that it will be very different from what you will actually hear during the test.
What you will hear during the test is usually spoken quite slowly and clearly, so if you are used to people speaking at a natural speed you may be pleasantly surprised.
One of the best ways to practice conversation and work on your specific language issues is to go to a language school. At Coto Japanese Academy, the small class size and professional teachers will help you reach your Japanese language goals, not only to pass the JLPT but also to use in your daily life and work!
If being too busy is an excuse for you to skip out on your Japanese learning, then we have some advice for how you can learn Japanese on the go! Find out more here. If learning Japanese through the conventional textbook way is too boring, how about learning through some games instead? Find out more here!

Official JLPT N3 Exam Questions – Vocabulary

Try these offical JLPT exam vocabulary questions to test your n3 vocabulary!
Official JLPT N3 Exam Questions – Vocabulary

Coto Japanese Academy is a unique Japanese Language School in Iidabashi Tokyo, we offer relaxed and fun conversational lessons for all levels of Japanese learner. Coto Japanese Academy prides itself on its community atmosphere and fun lessons that focus on creation of opportunities to speak and learn Japanese. If you are interested in studying Japanese in Tokyo – please visit our contact page here.
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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.

Looking for apps to learn Japanese? Check out these 30 apps for Japanese learning!

best japanese dictionary

Best Japanese Paper Dictionaries

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.

1. Kodansha’s Communicative English-Japanese Dictionary

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.

Buy Kodansha’s Communicative English-Japanese Dictionary on Amazon.

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.

Buy Oxford’s Beginner Japanese Dictionary on Amazon.

3. Kodansha’s Furigana Dictionary

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.

Buy Kodansha’s Furigana Dictionary on Amazon.

Electronic Japanese Dictionaries

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 japanese dictionary

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, image, photo, picture, illustration
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.

Check out Weblio.

2. Jisho.org

Jisho, image, photo, picture, illustration
Jisho

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.

Check out Jisho.org.

3. Japanese Dictionary Takoboto (Android)

Japanese Dictionary Takoboto, image, photo, pictures, illustration
Japanese Dictionary Takoboto

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.

Check out Takaboto on Android.

4. Imiwa? (iOS)

Imiwa?, image, photo, picture, illustration
Imiwa?

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.

Check out Imiwa on iOS.

5. Japanese(iOS/Android)

Japanese, image, photo, picture, illustration
Japanese

“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.

Check out Japanese in iOS.

6. ALC

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. 

Check out ALC.

7. Nihongo

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. 

Check out Nihongo.

8. Kotobank

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. 

Check out Kotobank.

9. Linguee

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. 

Check out Linguee.

10. Tagaini Jisho

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.

Check out Tagaini Jisho.

11. Shirabe Jisho (iOS)  

“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. 

Check out Shirabe Jisho.

Ready to Learn Japanese? Join Coto Academy!

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).

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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.

And who knows, maybe afterwards you can start preparing for the JLPT! 

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!

Join 3-month Business Japanese Course

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. 

Check out: 11 Jobs Besides English Teaching in Japan with Low Japanese Requirements

How to Study Japanese While Working Full-time

1. Enroll in Part-Time Japanese Classes 

coto academy part-time course

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 curious for more information about Coto’s part-time courses, you can read here Coto Academy’s Part-time Classes in Tokyo and Yokohama. 

2. Get a Private Japanese Tutor   

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!

Read More: Where to Find Language Exchange Events in Japan

4. Join Language Study Groups

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. 

Read More: Where to Make Friends in Japan

5. Watch and Read Japanese Anime or Manga

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. 

If this is something you may be interested in, check out Coto Academy’s Business Japanese Course.  

7. Self-study with a Japanese Learning App

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.

Read our review on:

8. Consider Taking Online Courses

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!

Check out Coto Academy Online and create a free account! 

Tips to Learn Japanese While Working in Japan

1. Set S.M.A.R.T. Goals 

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!  

If you need some help getting started looking for resources, check out The Ultimate Guide to Learning Japanese Online: Apps, courses, and Resources.   

Conclusion: Stay Persistent! 

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! 

Want to study Japanese with us?

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FAQ

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: