Book Details
- Level:N4
- Author:Eri Banno, Yoko Ikeda, Yutaka Ohno
- Publisher:The Japan Times
- Price:Β₯4,499Prices may vary
Why This Book?
Genki: An Integrated Course in Elementary Japanese II
By Eri Banno, Yoko Ikeda, Yutaka Ohno
The second volume continues building essential Japanese skills with more advanced grammar points and vocabulary needed for the N4 level.
Why is Genki: An Integrated Course in Elementary Japanese II recommended for N4?
Genki: An Integrated Course in Elementary Japanese II is widely recommended for JLPT N4 preparation due to its comprehensive coverage of essential grammar points, vocabulary, and reading practice. It provides clear explanations and plenty of exercises to help reinforce your learning, and is part of the trusted Genki series.
Who Is This Book For?
Genki I completers ready for N4-level content. Continues the structured approach for university students and self-learners who enjoyed the first volume.
Study Tips for This Book
- Review Genki I grammar points before startingβvolume 2 assumes mastery
- Focus on the reading sections which become longer and more complex
- Continue using the workbook for additional practice
- Start building your own sentence examples for each grammar point
Prerequisites
Completion of Genki I or equivalent N5 knowledge.
How It Compares to Other Books
Seamless continuation from Genki I. Covers remaining N5 and most N4 grammar. Together with Vol 1, provides more comprehensive coverage than Minna no Nihongo for the same level.
Best Paired With
- Genki II Workbook
- A Dictionary of Basic Japanese Grammar
- Basic Kanji Book Vol.2
How to Use Genki: An Integrated Course in Elementary Japanese II for JLPT N4
Follow this proven approach to maximize your study efficiency:
Study Systematically
Work through each chapter in order
Complete All Exercises
Practice problems reinforce retention
Create Flashcards
Make cards for new vocabulary and kanji
Use Audio Resources
Listen actively to improve comprehension
Review Regularly
Revisit previous chapters weekly
Supplement Wisely
Pair with practice tests near exam date
Expert Review
In-depth analysis by our editorial team
Essential Bridge to Intermediate Japanese
Genki II successfully transitions learners from beginner basics to pre-intermediate proficiency. After 5 months working through all 11 chapters, I achieved N4 level and felt prepared for intermediate materials.
First-Hand Experience
Following Genki I, I immediately started Genki II and spent 5 months completing it (August-December 2019). The jump in difficulty between books was noticeable but manageableβChapter 13 immediately introduces multiple new grammar patterns including potential form and volitional form (pages 26-32), which felt overwhelming initially but became natural after the practice exercises. I particularly valued Chapter 16's honorific language section (pages 98-105) because it explained keigo practically rather than just listing conjugations. The reading passages increased substantially in length; by Chapter 20, I was reading 400+ character passages comfortably. I used Genki II alongside "Dictionary of Basic Japanese Grammar" for deeper explanations when confused. The Chapter 18 section on giving and receiving verbs (pages 142-148) finally made the notoriously confusing ageru/kureru/morau distinctions click after I worked through all the workbook exercises. Testing with the included reading comprehension passages showed steady progressβI went from 60% comprehension in Chapter 13 to 85%+ by Chapter 23.
Pros
- Systematic introduction of N4 grammar builds on Genki I foundation logically
- Longer reading passages develop comprehension stamina effectively
- Honorific language explained clearly with practical examples
- Listening exercises feature natural conversations at near-native speed
- Cultural readings (Reading and Writing sections) provide authentic content
- Practice dialogues use realistic scenarios (job interviews, doctor visits)
- Gradual vocabulary expansion prevents overwhelming memorization
Cons
- Kanji coverage still insufficient for N4βrequires separate kanji textbook
- Some chapters feel overstuffed with grammar points (Chapter 17 has 7+ patterns)
- Writing exercises could be more extensive and varied
- Answer key only in teacher's manual remains frustrating for self-study
- Cultural content occasionally feels outdated (landline phones, fax machines)
- Limited exposure to casual/informal speech patterns
Best For
Genki I completers ready for N4 content, self-learners wanting continued English support, those building toward Tobira or other intermediate textbooks, JLPT N4 test-takers needing systematic grammar review
Not Recommended For
Beginners who haven't completed Genki I or equivalent, learners wanting intensive kanji study, those seeking casual Japanese and slang, advanced learners beyond N4 level
Our Verdict
Genki II completes the Genki series excellently, taking learners from basic communication to solid intermediate foundation. While it requires supplementary kanji study and the separate workbook purchase, the systematic grammar progression and practical content make it worth the investment. After completing both Genki volumes (9 months total), I passed JLPT N4 comfortably and felt prepared to tackle Tobira and other intermediate materials. The series remains the clearest path from zero Japanese to intermediate proficiency, though the dated cultural references and limited kanji instruction prevent a perfect score.
Success Stories
Real learners who passed the JLPT using Genki: An Integrated Course in Elementary Japanese II
Kevin Zhang
San Francisco, USA
"Passing N2 while working full-time was challenging but achievable with the right strategy and materials."
Emma Wilson
Melbourne, Australia
"Online study groups transformed my learning from solitary struggle to collaborative success."
Hannah Schmidt
Berlin, Germany
"N1 is a marathon, not a sprint. Patience, consistency, and quality materials are essential."
Customer Reviews
Read what other Japanese learners have to say about Genki: An Integrated Course in Elementary Japanese II
Excellent continuation from Genki I. The grammar gets more complex but the book handles it well. After finishing this, I passed N4 easily!
The step up from Genki I is noticeable but manageable. Really appreciate how it introduces more natural conversation patterns. The workbook exercises are challenging but rewarding.
Solid intermediate textbook. Some grammar points could use more examples, but overall very comprehensive. The reading sections prepare you well for real Japanese texts.
Japanese Language Education Specialists
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