JLPT N5 Guide: Everything You Need to Know to Pass the Japanese Language Proficiency Test

The JLPT N5 is the entry-level exam in the Japanese Language Proficiency Test series. It’s the most accessible test in the JLPT framework, aimed at learners who have a basic understanding of Japanese. While it’s the easiest level, it still requires focused preparation.

This guide breaks down everything you need to know about JLPT N5: what’s covered, what you’re tested on, how to study effectively, and what successful learners do to pass confidently.

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What Is JLPT N5?

The JLPT N5 is designed for beginners. It tests your ability to understand basic Japanese used in everyday situations. Passing N5 proves that you can:

• Read and write hiragana and katakana
• Understand around 100 kanji
• Recognize basic vocabulary (~800 words)
• Grasp simple sentence structures and grammar
• Understand short, slow, spoken conversations

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JLPT N5 Test Format

The JLPT N5 exam is divided into three sections:

1. Language Knowledge (Vocabulary)

• Reading hiragana, katakana, and basic kanji
• Choosing correct readings and meanings of words
• Vocabulary usage in context

2. Language Knowledge (Grammar) & Reading

• Sentence structure
• Grammar patterns
• Reading short paragraphs and choosing correct responses

3. Listening

• Understanding short spoken phrases
• Answering questions about daily scenarios
• Requires picking up cues from tone and context

Scoring System

• Each section is scored out of 60 points
• Total score is 180
• Passing score: 80/180, with minimum sectional scores required

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What You Need to Know for JLPT N5

Here’s a breakdown of the core material covered at the N5 level:

Vocabulary

• Approx. 800 words
• Focus on everyday topics: family, weather, shopping, time, directions

Kanji

• Around 100 essential characters
• Includes simple characters such as 日 (day), 本 (book/origin), 人 (person), 月 (month/moon)

Grammar

• Verb tenses: Present, past, negative
• Basic conjugations: て-form, polite form (-ます), plain form
• Sentence structures: Questions, commands, comparisons, likes/dislikes

Particles

Particles are one of the most important foundational aspects of Japanese grammar and are heavily tested on the JLPT N5. They mark the grammatical function of words within a sentence. Below is an overview of the core particles you must know:

は (wa) – Topic Marker

Indicates the topic of the sentence. It tells the listener what the sentence is about.

• Example: わたしは学生です。(“As for me, I am a student.”)

が (ga) – Subject Marker

Emphasizes or introduces the subject, especially when identifying something or someone for the first time.

• Example: だれが来ますか？(“Who is coming?”)

を (wo/o) – Object Marker

Marks the direct object of an action.

• Example: パンを食べます。(“I eat bread.”)

に (ni) – Time/Direction/Indirect Object Marker

Used for time, destination, or indirect objects.

• Example: 学校に行きます。(“I go to school.”)
• Example: 三時に会います。(“I will meet at 3 o’clock.”)

で (de) – Location/Means Marker

Indicates the place where an action happens or means of an action.

• Example: 図書館で本を読みます。(“I read books at the library.”)

へ (e) – Directional Particle

Shows direction toward a place (interchangeable with に in some cases).

• Example: 日本へ行きます。(“I am going to Japan.”)

から (kara) – Starting Point

Means from (time or place).

• Example: 東京から来ました。(“I came from Tokyo.”)

まで (made) – Ending Point

Means until or to.

• Example: 九時まで勉強します。(“I will study until 9 o’clock.”)

と (to) – And/With

Used to link nouns or indicate accompaniment.

• Example: 友だちと映画を見ます。(“I watch a movie with a friend.”)

の (no) – Possession or Description

Indicates possession or acts as a noun modifier.

• Example: 田中さんの本。(“Tanaka’s book.”)

も (mo) – Also/Too

Adds the meaning of “also” or “too.”

• Example: 私も学生です。(“I am also a student.”)

Tip:

Practice particle usage in short sentences daily. Many JLPT N5 questions test whether you can select the correct particle based on context.

Listening

• Understand basic greetings, directions, prices
• Follow simple instructions and questions

Tip:

Use slow, clear audio designed for beginners. Shadowing helps with retention.

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What Successful Test-Takers Do to Pass JLPT N5

1. Start With a Solid Foundation

• Master hiragana and katakana first
• Find a good set of flashcards to memorize hiragana and katakana syllabary
• Learn basic kanji early, even if just recognition

2. Use a Structured Study Routine

• 30–60 minutes per day, 4–6 days a week
• Mix reading, grammar, listening, and vocab drills

3. Choose the Right Materials

• Textbooks: Genki I, Minna no Nihongo I, JLPT N5 Official Workbook
• Apps: Anki (SRS), BunPro (grammar), JLPT N5 Listening apps
• YouTube Channels: Nihongo no Mori, Japanese Ammo with Misa

4. Practice With Mock Exams

• Take official JLPT practice tests under timed conditions
• Review your mistakes carefully

5. Get Used to JLPT Question Formats

• Many questions rely on choosing the correct word or phrase in context
• Understanding question wording in Japanese is critical

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JLPT N5 FAQ

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Ignoring Listening Practice

• Many learners focus too much on reading; don’t skip the audio drills

2. Over-Relying on Romaji

• Learn kana early; romaji slows your progress

Check out this helpful article “What is Kana?”

3. Studying Without Reviewing

• Use spaced repetition for vocab and kanji

4. Memorizing Without Context

• Always study grammar and vocab in full sentences, not in isolation

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Final Thoughts

The JLPT N5 is a solid entry point into structured Japanese learning. It might be the lowest level, but it still requires real effort and planning. With the right materials, smart strategies, and steady practice, you can pass N5 confidently—and set yourself up for success at higher levels.