If you’re looking for Japanese language learning materials, I recommend “Irodori Marugoto”

The best materials for foreigners to learn Japanese will depend on their level and goals. However, we will introduce some generally popular materials. Among them, Irodori and Marugoto are recommended. We will explain the differences and advantages compared to other materials.  

For beginners

Genki

A beginner’s Japanese textbook that is widely used around the world. It covers all the elements necessary for learning Japanese, such as grammar, vocabulary, reading comprehension, listening comprehension, and speaking.  

Minna no Nihongo

Another classic beginner’s Japanese textbook. Like Genki, it covers all the elements necessary for learning Japanese, such as grammar, vocabulary, reading comprehension, listening comprehension, and speaking.  

Irodori and Marugoto: Overview and Comparison

Evaluation as Japanese language learning materials and comparison with other materials Irodori and Marugoto are both Japanese language learning materials developed by the Japan Foundation, and each has different characteristics and strengths. Which one is recommended depends on the learner’s level and goals. This is a textbook for foreigners to acquire basic Japanese communication skills necessary for living and working in Japan. It will increase what you can do in everyday life in Japan. While the JLPT is a test that measures the ability to perform receptive tasks such as reading and listening, Irodori Marugoto also aims to improve speaking and writing. While traditional Japanese textbooks emphasize systematic learning based on grammar, Irodori Marugoto focuses on cultivating communication skills using the CEFR syllabus. In short, you can acquire everyday conversation skills more efficiently and in a shorter time than before.  

Irodori

Target audience: Beginners in Japanese (A1 level)

Characteristics:

• Learn basic Japanese for everyday life
• Focus on improving communication skills
• Practical content useful for life and work
• Learn through a variety of activities and role-playing
• Free online courses also available

By studying Irodori from “Introduction” to “Beginner 2,” you will be able to acquire the ability to “understand basic Japanese,” which is equivalent to the JLPT N4 level.  

Marugoto

Target audience: Japanese language learners (A1-B1 levels)

Features:

Useful for preparing for the Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) Systematically learns Japanese grammar and vocabulary Focuses on improving Japanese language proficiency A wealth of content related to Japanese culture and society A wealth of teacher’s guidebooks and supplementary materials Comparison with other materials  

Comparison with Japanese language learning books

Genki Beginner A standard material widely used around the world Minna no Nihongo Beginner Covers a wide range of content, just like Genki Nihongo no Mori Beginner Enjoy learning using manga Japanese Reading Comprehension and Vocabulary Intermediate Strengthen intermediate-level Japanese reading comprehension and vocabulary Listening Comprehension Training Intermediate Intermediate Strengthen intermediate-level Japanese listening comprehension  

Advantages of Irodori and Marugoto

Developed by the Japan Foundation

Highly reliable material developed by an institution with extensive experience and proven track record

Free online course

Irodori offers free online courses, so it is recommended for learners who want to keep costs down

Practical content

You can learn practical content that is useful in daily life and work.

Contents related to Japanese culture and society

Marugoto has a wealth of content related to Japanese culture and society.  

Disadvantages of Irodori and Marugoto

Limited target audience

Irodori is for beginners, and Marugoto is for beginners to intermediate learners, so it is not suitable for learners at other levels.

Not suitable for systematic learning

Irodori and Marugoto are focused on improving practical communication skills rather than systematic learning.  

Conclusion

Both Irodori and Marugoto are excellent materials that are useful for learning Japanese. Which one to choose depends on the learner’s level and goals.

• Beginners who want to learn basic Japanese necessary for daily life: Irodori
• Those preparing for the Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) and wanting systemic learning: Marugoto

In addition to these, we recommend that you also consider standard materials such as Genki and Minna no Nihongo.

• Choose materials that suit your level: If you choose materials that are too difficult, you may give up.
• Choose study materials that interest you: If the study materials are of a topic that interests you, you will enjoy studying.
• Choosing well-reviewed materials: Consider materials with good reviews from others.

Be sure to choose study materials with a good reputation by referring to other people’s reviews. Nowadays, the methods of teaching and learning Japanese have changed significantly. Many Japanese language schools also mainly use a traditional grammar syllabus curriculum. However, JPLT Japanese Language School uses a learning method that allows you to speak rather than memorize. We use a learning method that allows you to quickly acquire communication skills at CEFR A1 and A2 levels. Choose the study materials that suit you and enjoy learning Japanese!