If you’re beginning your journey into the Japanese language, the JLPT N5 is a great place to start. As the most basic level of the Japanese Language Proficiency Test, it evaluates your understanding of essential vocabulary, grammar, and basic sentence structures. One of the most common questions beginners have is: “How many words do I need to know for JLPT N5?” In this guide, we’ll break down the estimated word count, explore the types of vocabulary you’ll encounter, and provide effective study tips and tools to help you prepare with confidence and clarity. Let’s get started on mastering N5 vocabulary!

How Many Words in JLPT N5

The JLPT N5 covers the foundational level of Japanese vocabulary, making it ideal for beginners. On average, learners are expected to know around 800 to 1000 commonly used words. These include everyday nouns, basic verbs, adjectives, and essential particles that appear frequently in daily conversations and beginner-level texts.

 Learning these words helps you build a strong base for reading simple sentences, understanding basic instructions, and engaging in common interactions. Mastering this vocabulary is not only crucial for passing the exam but also sets the stage for advancing to higher JLPT levels like N4 and N3.

What Is the JLPT N5?

The Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) is a standardized exam that measures Japanese language ability for non-native speakers. The test has five levels: N1 (most advanced) to N5 (most basic).

JLPT N5 is the beginner level, designed to test fundamental Japanese reading and listening skills. It's ideal for those who have just started learning Japanese and want to build a solid foundation.

Want more motivation? Check out our article on the benefits of learning Japanese to see how mastering the language can open up exciting opportunities!

 How Many Vocabulary Words Are in JLPT N5?

If you're preparing for the JLPT N5, you’ll need to get comfortable with around 800 to 1,000 vocabulary words. These words are essential for basic communication and understanding simple Japanese texts. Here's what you can expect:

1. Common Nouns

These are everyday words you’ll frequently encounter:

学校 (gakkou) – school

先生 (sensei) – teacher

2. Basic Verbs

Essential for expressing actions and building sentences:

行く (iku) – to go

食べる (taberu) – to eat

3. Adjectives

Used to describe things, people, or situations:

大きい (ookii) – big

新しい (atarashii) – new

4. Everyday Particles and Expressions

You’ll also learn how to use simple sentence-ending particles and conversational phrases that form the backbone of spoken Japanese.

These words are carefully chosen to help beginners navigate daily life, engage in simple conversations, and understand beginner-level Japanese materials.

 Breakdown of JLPT N5 Vocabulary

To prepare effectively for the JLPT N5, it helps to know what kinds of words you'll be learning. Here's a quick breakdown of the main categories:

1. Nouns (名詞)

Used to name people, places, things, and ideas.
Examples:

日本 (Nihon) – Japan

本 (hon) – book

食べ物 (tabemono) – food

2. Verbs (動詞)

Essential for expressing actions and states.
Examples:

みる (miru) – to see

ある (aru) – to be (for inanimate objects)

のむ (nomu) – to drink

Need help with sentence structure? Don’t miss our guide on essential Japanese grammar rules to strengthen your foundation.

3. Adjectives (形容詞・形容動詞)

Used to describe qualities or conditions.
Examples:

おいしい (oishii) – delicious

やすい (yasui) – cheap

4. Adverbs (副詞)

Modify verbs, adjectives, or other adverbs to add nuance.
Examples:

よく (yoku) – well

もう (mou) – already

5. Particles (助詞)

Crucial for building correct grammar and sentence structure.
Examples:

は (wa) – topic marker

が (ga) – subject marker

を (wo) – object marker

で (de) – location or means

に (ni) – direction, time, or target

Getting ready for the test? Check out our tips on how to pass the JLPT for a smart, focused study approach.

 Where to Find the JLPT N5 Vocabulary List

Looking for reliable resources to study JLPT N5 vocabulary? Here are some top picks across books, websites, and apps to help you build your word bank with confidence.

???? Books

These beginner-friendly textbooks and study guides include vocabulary commonly tested on the N5 exam:

Minna no Nihongo I – A classroom staple with structured vocabulary and grammar.

Genki I – Great for self-learners, with vocabulary lists in every chapter.

Try! JLPT N5 – Specifically designed for JLPT prep, including vocab, grammar, and practice questions.

???? Websites

Free and easy-to-navigate online resources:

JLPT Sensei – Clear breakdowns of vocabulary, kanji, and grammar points.

Tanos JLPT Resources – Classic resource with downloadable vocab and kanji lists.

Nihongo-Pro – Offers JLPT practice tools and vocabulary lists.

Planning to stay longer in Japan? Read our guide on how to extend your Japan student visa for step-by-step help.

???? Apps

Study on the go with these popular language learning apps:

Anki – Search for “JLPT N5” decks to get flashcards with audio and example sentences.

Memrise – Gamified vocab learning with spaced repetition.

LingoDeer – Offers full N5-level lessons with structured vocabulary and grammar.

 How to Learn JLPT N5 Vocabulary Effectively

Mastering JLPT N5 vocabulary doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Use these proven strategies to build and retain your word knowledge more efficiently:

1. ???? Use Spaced Repetition Systems (SRS)

Apps like Anki or Quizlet use spaced repetition to help you memorize vocabulary over time—right before you're about to forget it. This technique boosts long-term retention and saves study time.

2. ???? Create Flashcards with Example Sentences

Don’t just memorize words—learn them in context.
Example:

食べる (taberu) – to eat
➡ 毎朝パンを食べます。 (Maiasa pan o tabemasu. – I eat bread every morning.)

This helps you understand how words are actually used in daily conversation.

3. ???? Listen to Beginner-Friendly Japanese Audio

Reinforce what you’ve learned by listening to vocabulary in real conversations or stories. Try:

JLPT N5 listening practice tracks

Beginner podcasts like JapanesePod101

Anime or YouTube channels with slow, clear speech

Curious about expenses? Learn more about the cost of studying in Japan to plan your budget wisely.

Build a Study Routine Around N5 Words

Consistency is key when mastering vocabulary for the JLPT N5. Here's a simple routine to keep your learning focused and effective:

????️ 1. Learn 10–15 New Words Daily

Keep your daily load manageable. Focus on new words each day using:

Flashcards (Anki, Quizlet)

Vocabulary lists from textbooks or apps
Tip: Group words by theme (e.g., food, travel, school) for better recall.

???? 2. Review Previously Learned Words

Spend 10–15 minutes daily reviewing past vocabulary.
Use spaced repetition tools or test yourself with mini-quizzes.

????️ 3. Practice with Short Dialogues

Reinforce vocabulary by using it in context.
Try reading or listening to simple dialogues, then shadow (repeat aloud) to practice pronunciation and comprehension.

???? 4. Set Weekly Goals

Having structure keeps you accountable. Example goals:

✅ Learn 70 new words this week

✅ Complete 3 listening practice sessions

✅ Write 5 simple sentences using new vocab

Still deciding? Here are some compelling reasons to learn Japanese in 2025 that might inspire you to start today!

 Practice in Real Contexts

Memorizing words is just the first step—using them is what really makes them stick. Here are some easy and enjoyable ways to put your vocabulary into action:

???? 1. Read Kids’ Books or Manga with Furigana

Children’s stories and beginner manga often include furigana (small hiragana above kanji), making it easier to read.

Look for titles like 「しろくまちゃんのほっとけーき」or 「ドラえもん」

Try reading aloud to practice pronunciation too!

???? 2. Watch Beginner-Level Anime or Japanese Shows

Shows aimed at younger audiences use simple language and clear pronunciation.
Great picks include:

Shirokuma Cafe

Chi’s Sweet Home

NHK Easy Japanese videos

Use subtitles in Japanese to match spoken words with written ones.

????️ 3. Label Objects in Your Room with Japanese Names

Turn your room into a learning zone!

Label your desk as つくえ (tsukue)

Chair: いす (isu)

Mirror: かがみ (kagami)

Seeing the words every day helps reinforce your memory effortlessly.

Want a complete strategy? Check out our detailed guide on how to prepare for the JLPT exam to boost your confidence and results.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Studying Vocabulary

Avoiding these common pitfalls can make your vocabulary study much more effective—and a lot less frustrating:

❌ 1. Memorizing Without Context

Learning words in isolation makes them harder to remember and use.
✅ Do this instead: Always study with example sentences to see how words function in real life.
Example:

飲む (nomu) – to drink
➡ 水を飲みます。 (Mizu o nomimasu. – I drink water.)

???? 2. Skipping Pronunciation Practice

Just recognizing a word isn’t enough—you need to say it, too!
✅ Do this instead: Listen to native audio and repeat out loud. Apps like Forvo, Anki with audio, or JapanesePod101 help.

???? 3. Trying to Cram Everything at Once

Cramming may help short-term, but it doesn’t stick.
✅ Do this instead: Use spaced repetition to review at intervals. It's scientifically proven to improve retention.

???? 4. Ignoring Regular Review

If you don’t review, you forget. It’s that simple.
✅ Do this instead: Schedule daily or weekly review sessions. Even just 10 minutes a day can make a big difference.

 Online Resources for JLPT N5 Word Practice

Level up your vocabulary with these go-to online resources. Whether you prefer videos, articles, or podcasts, there’s something here for every learner:

Looking for more tools? Explore our review of the best websites for learning Japanese online to find the right platforms for your study style.

???? YouTube Channels

Visual learners, these are for you!

JapanesePod101 – Tons of vocabulary, phrases, and cultural tips for beginners.

Learn Japanese with Miku – Friendly, clear lessons with real-life examples and subtitles.

???? Websites

Great for reading, grammar, and vocab breakdowns.

Tofugu – Deep dives into Japanese language and culture, including beginner-friendly vocab tips.

JLPT Sensei – Organized JLPT N5 word lists, kanji, and grammar points.

Tae Kim’s Guide – A solid grammar guide that pairs well with vocabulary learning.

???? Podcasts

Listen and learn on the go—perfect for ear training and vocab in context.

Let’s Learn Japanese from Small Talk – Natural conversations with transcripts to follow along and learn vocabulary in context.

 When Are You Ready for JLPT N5?

Not sure if you’re ready to take the JLPT N5? Here are some signs that you’re on the right track:

✅ 1. You Know Around 800–1000 Vocabulary Words

You can recognize and use common words related to everyday topics like family, school, food, and directions.

✅ 2. You Understand Basic Grammar Structures

You’re comfortable with:

Basic sentence patterns (e.g., AはBです)

Verb conjugations (present/past, affirmative/negative)

Simple particles like は, が, を, に, で

✅ 3. You Can Follow Slow, Clear Conversations

You can understand simple spoken Japanese when it's spoken slowly and clearly—like in beginner-level podcasts, anime, or JLPT N5 listening tracks.

✅ 4. You’ve Taken Mock Exams and Checked Your Progress

Use:

Mock tests to simulate exam conditions

Vocabulary and grammar checklists to spot any weak areas
These help you identify what’s solid and what needs more review.

New to Japanese? Start with the basics by reading our guide on how to learn Hiragana and Katakana—the essential first step in your language journey.

???? Summary

The JLPT N5 requires knowledge of approximately 800 to 1000 essential vocabulary words. By using the right resources, staying consistent, and immersing yourself in real Japanese, you’ll be well on your way to passing the test and building a strong foundation in the language.