JLPT N5 Study Center

Start Your JLPT Journey With Us

Master Japanese basics with comprehensive practice tests and vocabulary

JLPT Study Image

Welcome

Welcome to our Japanese Learning Hub, your starting point for mastering the JLPT N5 level! Whether you're a complete beginner or reviewing the basics, this site offers everything you need to succeed—from essential grammar explanations and kanji practice to listening exercises, quizzes, and vocabulary drills. We've designed each section to help you learn effectively and gain confidence step by step, all at your own pace.

This N5 guide is the first in our complete JLPT series. In shortly, we'll be expanding to cover levels N4, N3, N2, and N1—helping you progress smoothly from beginner to advanced. So whether you're preparing for the JLPT exam or just passionate about learning Japanese, you're in the right place.

Let's get started on your language journey today!

Understanding the JLPT Exam

The Japanese-Language Proficiency Test, commonly known as JLPT, is the world's most recognized certification for non-native Japanese speakers. Since its launch in 1984, this standardized exam has become the gold standard for measuring Japanese language proficiency globally.

What Makes JLPT Important?

The JLPT is jointly administered by the Japan Foundation and Japan Educational Exchanges and Services. Your test results are recognized internationally by universities, employers, and immigration authorities as legitimate proof of your Japanese language abilities.

Career Benefits: Many Japanese companies require N1 or N2 certification for positions in healthcare, education, and customer-facing roles.

Immigration Advantages: Achieving N1 or N2 can boost your application under Japan's points-based immigration system, giving you preferential treatment for residency and work opportunities.

Who Should Take the JLPT?

Test Schedule and Locations

The JLPT is offered twice yearly in July and December across most countries, though some locations host it only once annually in December. Tests are available in over 80 countries worldwide, with specific cities varying by region.

Registration Timeline: Applications typically open 3-4 months before test day. For July exams, register in March-April; for December exams, register in August-September. Deadlines close 1-2 months before the test, so don't delay!

The Five Levels Explained

JLPT offers five proficiency levels from N5 (beginner) to N1 (advanced). You can take any level that matches your current ability—there's no requirement to pass lower levels first or take them in sequence.

N5 - Beginning Your Journey

What You'll Master: Basic everyday Japanese phrases and simple conversations

Reading Skills: Hiragana, katakana, and approximately 100 basic kanji characters

Listening Skills: Short, clearly spoken conversations at slower speeds

N4 - Building Foundations

What You'll Master: Basic Japanese used in everyday situations with greater breadth

Reading Skills: Short passages on familiar topics with around 300 kanji

Listening Skills: Daily conversations at near-normal speaking pace

N3 - Reaching Intermediate

What You'll Master: Japanese used in everyday contexts with reasonable complexity

Reading Skills: News headlines, instructions, and moderately complex texts

Listening Skills: Conversations in various daily settings, including some abstract topics

N2 - Advanced Competence

What You'll Master: Japanese used across diverse situations and contexts

Reading Skills: Articles, essays, and complex grammatical structures

Listening Skills: Natural-speed conversations on general and professional subjects

N1 - Expert Proficiency

What You'll Master: Comprehensive Japanese across all contexts and materials

Reading Skills: Logical, abstract, and academic texts with deep comprehension

Listening Skills: News broadcasts, lectures, and complex discussions without difficulty

Exam Structure

Every JLPT level uses multiple-choice questions to assess your reading, listening, vocabulary, and grammar knowledge. There are no speaking or writing components in the exam.

For N5, N4, and N3: The test divides into three sections covering Language Knowledge (Vocabulary), Language Knowledge (Grammar and Reading), and Listening comprehension.

For N2 and N1: The exam combines vocabulary, grammar, and reading into one comprehensive section, followed by a separate listening section.

Question Types Include: Kanji readings, contextual vocabulary usage, sentence completion, grammar pattern identification, passage comprehension, and audio-based problem solving.

Time Allocations by Level

N5: 20 minutes vocabulary, 40 minutes grammar/reading, 30 minutes listening

N4: 25 minutes vocabulary, 55 minutes grammar/reading, 35 minutes listening

N3: 30 minutes vocabulary/grammar, 70 minutes reading, 40 minutes listening

N2: 105 minutes combined vocabulary/grammar/reading, 50 minutes listening

N1: 110 minutes combined vocabulary/grammar/reading, 55 minutes listening

Note: Listening section times may vary based on audio recording lengths. Always check official timing guidelines before your test.

Registration Process

Registration is handled locally in each country or region through designated test organizers. In Japan, candidates register via the MyJLPT online system through the JEES website. For other countries, check your regional JLPT website for specific registration procedures.

Pro Tip: Registration deadlines arrive quickly! Mark your calendar 4 months before your desired test date to ensure you don't miss the registration window.

Japanese Martial Arts

About The Developer

Hi, my name is Steve Joseph and I am from London UK.

I'm a Computer Specialist, Web Developer, and JuJutsu Instructor. I came to Japan in 2019, with little Japanese Language ability. While settling in Japan it's been challenging to find work in the I.T industry due to my limited Japanese speaking ability.

I began studying Japanese earnestly but felt I was not getting anywhere. Studying from books alone felt isolating and, at times, discouraging. I needed a fresh, engaging approach that made learning fun again. To stay motivated and keep up with my web development and programming skills, I created this website based on the JLPT N5, with plans to expand to higher levels in the near future.

Building this site has helped me rediscover the joy of studying Japanese while staying active in my professional skill set. I update all the exercises and quiz every 3 months to keep things exciting and support your motivation too. I hope this platform helps you on your language journey as much as it's helped me.


The following books are strongly recommended:
JAPAN LIFE: Your N5 Journey
Is scenario-based learning: Each chapter drops you into authentic situations (ordering at cafés, taking trains, visiting doctors, making friends)

JAPAN LIFE: Your Japanese N4 Journey - Volume 2A is the first in 2 parts with Volume 2B to follow ( on sale by the time you're reading this) Volune 2A teaches you when and why Japanese speakers use specific patterns. You'll understand the cultural context behind conditionals, learn to express abilities with appropriate humility, and master the subtle art of giving explanations without over-explaining.

I strongly recomend buying each book.


We also have a design shop featuring T-shirts, hoodies, caps, and more—all themed around Japanese culture, a country I truly love. Feel free to browse our collection and show your passion for Japan.

Happy studying, and thank you for visiting!

JLPT - Japanese Learning Books

Enhance your JLPT preparation with these carefully selected Japanese learning books. Perfect companions to our online exercises, these books provide structured lessons, additional practice, and deeper insights into Japanese language and culture.

Japanese T.Shirts, Hoodies, BaseBall Caps, Mugs, Cups, etc. to Buy

Our online shop is a celebration of everything Japan, offering a wide variety of unique and culturally inspired items. From stylish clothing such as T-shirts, hoodies, and vests to everyday essentials like baseball caps, mugs, and more, each product is thoughtfully designed to reflect the beauty and spirit of Japanese culture.

Whether you're looking for a meaningful gift, something special for yourself, or simply love Japanese aesthetics, there's something here for everyone. By shopping with us, you're not only getting quality merchandise but also helping to support our ongoing work in sharing and promoting the richness of Japanese culture through this site.

We truly appreciate your support and look forward to bringing you more exciting designs and products in the future.