Best JLPT Preparation Books and Online Resources for Each Level

Preparing for the Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) requires the right study materials tailored to your level, from N5 (beginner) to N1 (advanced). With so many resources available, choosing the right ones can be overwhelming. This guide presents a curated list of the best JLPT preparation books and online resources for each level, including free and English-friendly options.

Whether you're just starting out with JLPT N5 or aiming to master JLPT N1, these materials will help you study effectively and stay on track.

What is the JLPT?

The Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) is an internationally recognized exam that evaluates and certifies Japanese language proficiency for non-native speakers. It is divided into five levels: N5 (easiest) to N1 (most advanced). Each level assesses reading, listening, and language knowledge (grammar and vocabulary).

To succeed, choosing the right study material tailored for each level is essential. Below is a comprehensive list of books and online resources you can use based on your target level.

JLPT N5 – Absolute Beginner

JLPT N5 is the entry-level exam designed for those just beginning their Japanese language journey. It tests basic grammar, vocabulary (~800 words), around 100 kanji, and simple sentence structures used in daily life. Perfect for learners who are new to Japanese, this level builds a strong foundation for further study and helps develop essential reading and listening skills.

Recommended Books:

1.Genki I – An Integrated Course in Elementary Japanese 

• Why it’s effective: Genki I builds strong grammar and vocabulary foundations. It’s ideal for classroom and self-study learners. Comes with dialogues, cultural notes, and audio CDs.
• What it covers: ~800 vocabulary words, ~100 kanji, basic grammar, daily conversation.
• Usage Tip: Pair the textbook with its Workbook for practice.

Try! JLPT N5

• Why it’s effective: Clear, concise grammar explanations followed by JLPT-style reading and listening exercises.
• Good for: Understanding test format and practice with mock-style questions.

Nihongo Challenge Series (N5 Vocabulary / Kanji / Grammar)

• Why it’s effective: Easy-to-follow layout, progressive structure. Best for visual learners.
• Covers JLPT-focused vocabulary, grammar, and kanji in separate books.

Read More-: How to Pass the JLPT

Top Online Resources for N5:

• JLPT Sensei: Offers grammar lists, example sentences, and practice questions for free.
• JapaneseTest4You: Downloadable JLPT N5 Test PDFs with listening sections and answer keys.
• Tae Kim’s Guide: A popular free grammar guide that explains Japanese from scratch.
• JLPT Official Site: Free N5 sample tests https://www.jlpt.jp/e/samples/sampleindex.htm

JLPT N4 – Upper Beginner

JLPT N4 builds upon the basics of N5, focusing on more complex sentence structures, expanded vocabulary (~1,500 words), and around 300 kanji. It assesses your ability to understand everyday conversations and written passages. Ideal for learners who have a basic grasp of Japanese, N4 marks your transition from beginner to lower-intermediate proficiency.

Recommended Books:

Genki II

• Why it’s effective: Seamlessly builds upon Genki I, introducing ~1,200 vocabulary and ~300 kanji.
• Helps learners start reading passages and listening to intermediate dialogues.

Try! JLPT N4

• Combines grammar explanations, reading passages, and listening exercises.
• Simulates actual JLPT N4 sections with accompanying CDs.

Sou Matome N

• Divided by themes: Grammar, Kanji, Vocabulary, Listening, and Reading.
   
• Comes with a 6-week daily study plan.

Online Resources:

• JLPT Sensei (N4 Grammar List)
• JLPT N4 Practice Tests (PDF) from the JLPT website
• TLS YouTube Series – Animated grammar lessons with logical explanations.

JLPT N3 – Intermediate

JLPT N3 bridges the gap between basic and advanced Japanese. It tests your understanding of more natural conversations, intermediate grammar, and vocabulary (~3,750 words), with approximately 650 kanji. This level evaluates your ability to read and comprehend slightly complex texts and follow everyday spoken Japanese at a moderate speed. It's ideal for learners aiming for functional fluency in daily and workplace situations.

Recommended Books:

1. Shin Kanzen Master N3 Series
   
   
   • Widely considered the best N3 preparation series.
   • Each book (Grammar, Reading, Vocabulary, Listening) is filled with advanced exercises and explanations.
   • Helps you practice like the real test.
2. Try! JLPT N3
   
   
   • Easier than Kanzen Master; great for the transition from N4 to N3.
   • Uses real-world applications of grammar.
3. Sou Matome N3
   
   
   • Offers a daily schedule-based approach to mastering grammar, vocabulary, kanji, and more.

If you’re interested in essential Japanese grammar, check out our detailed Japanese Grammar Overview.

Online Resources:

• JLPT N3 Study Material Free Download – Available on JapaneseTest4You.
• Nihongo-Pro – Offers free online N3 quizzes and mock tests.
• NHK Web Easy – Helps practice reading simple news articles using intermediate grammar.

JLPT N2 – Upper Intermediate

JLPT N2 measures your ability to understand Japanese used in a wide range of everyday and professional contexts. It covers advanced grammar, around 6,000 vocabulary words, and approximately 1,000 kanji. At this level, you’re expected to comprehend complex written texts and follow fast-paced spoken Japanese, including news and business conversations. N2 is often a minimum requirement for employment or academic opportunities in Japan.

Recommended Books:

1. Shin Kanzen Master N2
   
   • The most recommended series for N2 aspirants.
   • Grammar book teaches nuance, usage, and error recognition.
   • Listening book mirrors JLPT listening audio in speed and tone.
2. Try! JLPT N2
   • Excellent for reviewing N2 grammar and getting comfortable with exam formats.
   • Reading and listening sections simulate test experience.
3. Sou Matome N2
   
   
   • Visually structured; easier to digest than Kanzen Master but slightly less intensive.

Online Resources:

• JLPT N2 Sample Tests (PDF) – Official site: https://www.jlpt.jp/e/samples/sampleindex.html
   
• WaniKani – Mnemonic-based kanji learning platform.
   
• JLPT Tanos – Download N2 vocabulary and kanji lists.

JLPT N1 – Advanced

JLPT N1 is the highest level of the Japanese Language Proficiency Test, designed for learners aiming for near-native fluency. It assesses the ability to understand complex texts, academic language, and fast, nuanced conversations. With over 10,000 vocabulary words and 2,000 kanji, N1 is essential for advanced academic or professional roles in Japan and demonstrates a deep, sophisticated command of the language.

Recommended Books:

1. Shin Kanzen Master N1
   
   • The most comprehensive and challenging series for N1 aspirants.
      
   • Explores complex academic-level texts and sophisticated vocabulary.
      
   • Grammar book covers nuance, idioms, and sentence logic.
2. Try! JLPT N1
   
   
   • Easier than Kanzen Master. Great for reviewing key concepts with English explanations.
3. Sou Matome N1
   
   
   • Uses daily themes and images to teach, which is helpful for visualization.

Many common phrases Japanese learners miss aren’t found in textbooks—learn them here.

Online Resources:

• NHK News (Regular) – Read and listen to daily Japanese news in native-level format.
• JLPT N1 Sample Test PDFs – Access via https://www.jlpt.jp/e/samples/sampleindex.html
• JLPT Listening Podcasts – Advanced learners can tune in to Japanese radio and podcasts like Nihongo con Teppei or Sakura Tips.

JLPT Scoring and Official Sections

For details on scoring, pass/fail marks, and the test composition, refer to the official JLPT website:

• Score Sheet and Pass/Fail Structure:
   https://www.jlpt.jp/e/guideline/results.html
   
• Test Sections (Vocabulary, Grammar, Reading, Listening):
   https://www.jlpt.jp/e/guideline/testsections.html

Study Strategy Tips

• Start with Your Goal: Know your target JLPT level and work backward.
• Schedule Daily Study: Create a balanced mix of grammar, vocabulary, reading, and listening each day.
• Use Anki or WaniKani: Spaced repetition helps memorize kanji and vocab.
• Take Mock Tests: Simulate the test environment to build stamina and time management.

FAQs

1. What is N1, N2, N3, N4, N5 in Japanese?

They are the 5 levels of JLPT. N5 is easiest, N1 is hardest. N5 & N4 are beginner; N3 is intermediate; N2 & N1 are advanced.

2.What is the difference between JLPT N5, N4, and N3?

N5 is basic communication, N4 covers more grammar and kanji, and N3 moves to intermediate fluency and comprehension.

3. Is N3 enough to live in Japan?

For daily life, yes. But for jobs or university, N2 or N1 is usually required.

4.Is N5 enough for Japan?

Only for survival phrases or short travel. It’s not sufficient for working or studying in Japan.

5.Which JLPT books are best overall?

For serious preparation: Shin Kanzen Master
For beginners: Genki Try!
For visual learners: Sou Matome Series

Final Thoughts

Your choice of JLPT preparation books and online resources plays a huge role in your success. Each JLPT level has its own challenges, and having the right study plan, books, and consistent practice is essential.

To accelerate your preparation, join expert-guided programs at TLS – The Japanese Language School, known for high success rates across JLPT N5 to N1 levels. They provide structured study plans, mock exams, and personalized coaching.