JLPT N5 Study Guide: Vocabulary, Kanji & Grammar
N5 is the most basic level of the Japanese-Language Proficiency Test. It covers hiragana, katakana, a small set of simple kanji and the everyday words and sentence patterns needed to handle short, simple situations.
This guide is for complete beginners and anyone who has just started learning Japanese. Pick a list below, then practise with the free A Star Japanese app.
JLPT N5 study lists
Vocabulary List
99 study entries
Words and phrases with their meanings, grouped around the situations this level focuses on.
いち · に · さん · よん / し · ご
Open the list →Kanji List
93 study entries
Kanji with their readings, meanings and the common words that use them.
一 · 二三四五 · 六七八九十 · 百千万 · 日
Open the list →Grammar Guide
93 study entries
Grammar patterns with short meanings and example sentences.
です (desu) · これ / それ / あれ · は (wa) · が (ga) · も (mo)
Open the list →Looking for one pattern? Browse all 48 JLPT N5 grammar points, each explained on its own page.
Practise like the real N5 test
The app includes a timed JLPT N5 mock exam with separate vocabulary, grammar & reading, and listening sections. The listening audio is played aloud with the text hidden, just like the real exam, and you get a pass/fail result with a full answer review. Mock-exam scores are a practice guide, not an official JLPT score.
Start JLPT N5 practice free
Lessons, flashcards with spaced repetition, quizzes, listening practice and a timed JLPT N5 mock exam — all free on iPhone and Android.
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Frequently asked questions
What is JLPT N5?
N5 is the most basic level of the Japanese-Language Proficiency Test. It covers hiragana, katakana, a small set of simple kanji and the everyday words and sentence patterns needed to handle short, simple situations. It is one of five levels of the Japanese-Language Proficiency Test (JLPT), from N5 (the most basic) to N1 (the most advanced).
What does the JLPT N5 test measure?
Every JLPT level tests language knowledge (vocabulary, kanji and grammar), reading and listening. Speaking and writing are not tested.
How often is the JLPT held?
The JLPT is normally held in July and December. Some test sites overseas hold it only once a year, so check the official JLPT website for the dates in your country.
Can I practise for JLPT N5 for free?
Yes. A Star Japanese is a free app for iPhone and Android with JLPT N5 lessons, flashcards, quizzes, listening practice with real Japanese voices and a timed JLPT N5 mock exam, with no ads.