Prepare for JLPT N4

Prove you master basic Japanese

The JLPT N4 is the second level of the Japanese Language Proficiency Test. This exam proves that you have the ability to speak and understand the basics of Japanese. People at this level are normally able to read extracts on everyday topics written with simple vocabulary and kanjis, as well as understand conversations about these topics if they are said slowly.

On this page, you will find the concepts you need to learn to pass this certification, as well as our selection of the best books for students wishing to obtain the JLPT N4.

See all books to prepare JLPT N4

Popular JLPT N4 book series

There are many book collections that allow you to learn the basics of the Japanese language. The Shin Kanzen Master and Nihongo So-Matome series have textbooks specifically designed to learn and practice all the essential points to pass the JLPT N4.

Minna no Nihongo is another option that should not be overlooked. The books in the Shokyu 2 series are perfect if you want to take the N4 exam and you have already started learning Japanese with Shokyu 1 books.

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What is in the JLPT N4

The JLPT N4 test has approximately the same structure as the other levels. This means that the exam tests students' skills in areas as varied as written comprehension, kanji, vocabulary, grammar and oral comprehension.

In this section, we will quantify the knowledge you will need to store in your brain in order to pass the N4 exam. We will also share a selection of adapted books for students who want to achieve this level in each of the areas tested by the JLPT.

~90

Grammar rules

The number of grammatical rules to know to be at the JLPT N4 level is more than twice that of the JLPT N5. You will need to spend a little more time to absorb all these new concepts.

It is essential to use a good Japanese grammar book not to miss any of JLPT N4 rules and find yourself in front of a sentence that you do not understand the meaning during the official exam. That's why we've selected three books that will help you put the odds on your side for the JLPT N4 test.

Books to learn JLPT N5 grammar

1500

Vocabulary words

The vocabulary to know to pass the JLPT N4 includes about 1500 words. This corpus will allow you to understand everyday situations in writing and speaking.

Books to learn JLPT N5 vocabulary

300

Kanji characters

You need to know about 300 kanji to pass the JLPT N4. That's three times more than what is necessary to learn for the JLPT N5. But it's relatively small when you consider all joyo kanji.

The first volume of Japanese Kanji Flashcards by White Rabbit Press contains all the characters to know for the JLPT N4. This makes it a great tool for people wanting to reach a good level in Kanji.

Books to learn and practice JLPT N5 kanji list

Reading Practice

The 300 kanji you need to know at JLPT N4 will allow you to read slightly more complex texts without having to use a dictionary on every sentence. This will increase your reading comfort even if you still will not be able to read newspapers or children's books.

The N4 level is a critical period in which you will have difficulty finding texts suitable for your skills. Fortunately, White Rabbit Press has created a mobile app that includes many Graded Readers in Japanese.

Reading practice books for the JLPT N5

Listening Practice

Oral comprehension is another important aspect that you must work on to get your JLPT N4 exam. We offer three books that will allow you to perfect your ear to better understand the conversations of everyday life in Japanese.

Listening practice books for the JLPT N5

Practice to get the JLPT N4

The mock tests offered in the books below are the best way to be certain that you have the required level to pass the JLPT N4 exam. By doing so, you can easily identify your shortcomings.