Master Japanese basics with comprehensive practice tests and vocabulary
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!
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.
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.
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!
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.
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
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
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
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
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
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.
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 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.
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.
Happy studying, and thank you for visiting!
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.
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