What is the best book to learn Japanese for beginners?

When foreign beginners are learning Japanese, here are the five most popular and recommended textbooks. Each of these textbooks has unique features, so it’s important to choose one that suits your learning style and goals. It’s also a good idea to check them out in bookstores to see which one fits you best.

Traditionally, both self-learners and many Japanese language schools use “Minna no Nihongo” and “Genki.” Or they use learning methods based on similar grammar syllabuses. However, even if you understand the grammar and increase your vocabulary, there is a reality where you cannot speak.

Recently, learning methods have significantly shifted towards more practical conversation skills, with basic grammar as a foundation.

For many Japanese learners, whether for tourism, employment in Japan, or enjoying anime, acquiring Japanese communication skills should be important.
You can learn expressions and vocabulary you don’t understand while talking, and your acquisition speed will increase faster if you add them while conversing.

There is no need to study long hours from thick books.

At JPLT, an online Japanese language school, we have created a curriculum that allows you to study with the latest conversation-focused syllabus.

For teaching materials, conversation-focused “Irodori” and “Marugoto” are recommended.

1. Minna no Nihongo

Features:

A standard textbook that is widely used in Japanese language education.
It is composed mainly of expressions that are commonly used in daily life, and is full of conversation practice and grammar explanations.
It consists of four books:

• Beginner I
• Beginner II
• Intermediate I
• Intermediate II

2. Genki

Features:

Many illustrations and photos are used, making it easy to learn visually.
It has a wide range of activities such as conversation practice and role-playing.
It consists of four books:

• Beginner I
• Beginner II
• Intermediate I
• Intermediate II

3. Marugoto [The Japan Foundation Japanese Language Institute]

Characteristics

A textbook that emphasizes Japanese language proficiency.
You can systematically learn expressions and grammar necessary for communication.
It consists of four books:

• Beginner I
• Beginner II
• Intermediate I
• Intermediate II

4. Irodori

Features

Enjoy learning with animations and comics.
Comes in two books:

• Beginner I
• Beginner II

5. Shinbunka Elementary Japanese

Features

With detailed explanations and a wide range of practice questions, you can learn grammar thoroughly.
Comes in four books:

• Beginner I
• Beginner II
• Intermediate I
• Intermediate II

Other useful materials for learning Japanese

NHK World: https://www.nhk.or.jp/lesson/
Japanese Pod 101: https://www.japanesepod101.com/
italki: [https://www.italki.com/]

Learning Japanese can be difficult, but if you don’t give up and keep trying, you’ll definitely improve. Find a method that suits you and keep learning happily.