Introduction
If you’re preparing for the JLPT N3, you already know that kanji is one of the biggest hurdles. The N3 level bridges the gap between basic and intermediate Japanese, requiring knowledge of around 350-400 kanji. But don’t worry—this guide will break down everything you need to know, from must-learn characters to effective study strategies.
Whether you’re self-studying or taking classes, mastering these kanji will not only help you pass the test but also improve your real-life Japanese comprehension. Let’s dive in!
Why JLPT N3 Kanji Matters
The Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) N3 is designed for learners who can understand everyday Japanese in written and spoken forms. Kanji plays a crucial role because:
✅ Reading Comprehension – Many passages and questions rely on kanji recognition.
✅ Vocabulary Building – Kanji compounds (熟語 jukugo) expand your word knowledge.
✅ Grammar Context – Some grammar points are easier to grasp when you recognize kanji patterns.
If you neglect kanji, you might struggle with reading speed and comprehension—both vital for passing the test.
How Many Kanji Do You Need for JLPT N3?
While there’s no official JLPT kanji list, most experts agree that N3 requires around 350-400 kanji, building on the N5 (100 kanji) and N4 (300 kanji) levels.
Here’s a rough breakdown:
- N5: ~100 kanji (Basic characters like 日、月、人)
- N4: ~200 additional kanji (Common words like 勉強、先生)
- N3: ~100-150 more kanji (Intermediate terms like 連絡、準備)
You don’t need to memorize every single kanji, but focusing on high-frequency characters will maximize your efficiency.
Essential JLPT N3 Kanji Categories
To make learning easier, let’s group N3 kanji into common themes:
1. Everyday Verbs (動作動詞)
Many N3 kanji appear in verbs used daily:
- 開ける (あける – akeru) – To open
- 閉める (しめる – shimeru) – To close
- 伝える (つたえる – tsutaeru) – To convey
Pro Tip: Learn kanji with their onyomi (Chinese reading) and kunyomi (Japanese reading) to recognize them in different contexts.
2. Adjectives (形容詞)
Kanji-based adjectives are frequent in N3:
- 簡単 (かんたん – kantan) – Simple
- 複雑 (ふくざつ – fukuzatsu) – Complicated
- 危険 (きけん – kiken) – Dangerous
3. Nouns (名詞)
Common nouns with kanji appear in reading sections:
- 交通 (こうつう – kōtsū) – Traffic
- 経済 (けいざい – keizai) – Economy
- 環境 (かんきょう – kankyō) – Environment
4. Adverbs & Connectors (副詞・接続詞)
Some kanji modify sentences:
- 突然 (とつぜん – totsuzen) – Suddenly
- 確かに (たしかに – tashika ni) – Certainly
Best Ways to Study JLPT N3 Kanji
1. Flashcards (Anki/WaniKani)
Spaced repetition systems (SRS) like Anki or WaniKani help reinforce memory.
Try this: Create a deck with kanji on one side and meanings/readings on the other.
2. Kanji Writing Practice
Writing kanji by hand improves retention. Use grid notebooks and trace characters.
Example: Practice writing 漢字 (かんじ – kanji) 10 times while saying its readings aloud.
3. Reading Real Materials
Expose yourself to kanji in context:
- NHK Easy News (Simple Japanese articles)
- Manga (e.g., よつばと！ – Yotsuba&!)
- JLPT N3 Practice Books (e.g., Shin Kanzen Master)
4. Mnemonics & Radicals
Break kanji into parts (radicals) for easier memorization.
Example:
- 休 (やすむ – yasumu – “rest”) = 人 (person) + 木 (tree) → A person resting under a tree.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Ignoring Context – Kanji readings change based on words (e.g., 行く iku vs. 銀行 ginkō).
❌ Only Rote Memorization – Understanding usage is key.
❌ Skipping Writing Practice – Writing helps cement memory.
JLPT N3 Kanji Practice Questions
Test yourself with these sample questions:
- What’s the reading of 準備?
a) じゅんび (junbi)
b) しゅんび (shunbi)
c) じょんび (jonbi) - Which kanji means “danger”?
a) 安全
b) 危険
c) 簡単
*(Answers: 1-a, 2-b)*
Additional Resources
📚 Books:
- Kanji Master N3
- Shin Kanzen Master Kanji N3
🌐 Websites:
- Jisho.org (Online Japanese Dictionary)
- Tofugu’s Kanji Guide
📱 Apps:
- Anki (Flashcards)
- Kanji Study (Android/iOS)
Final Thoughts
Mastering JLPT N3 kanji takes time, but with consistent practice and smart strategies, you’ll see progress. Focus on high-frequency characters, use mnemonics, and read real Japanese materials to reinforce learning.
Want more JLPT tips? Check out our JLPT N3 Grammar Guide and Best Apps for Learning Japanese and Complete JLPT N3 Vocabulary List: Words You Must Know to Pass
Good luck with your studies—頑張ってください！(Ganbatte kudasai!)
