Genki JLPT Book Series - Complete Guide
The most popular Japanese textbook series for beginners and intermediate learners
What are the best Genki books for JLPT preparation?
- Genki I: Covers basic grammar, 300+ kanji, 1,100+ vocabulary words (N5 level)
- Genki II: Advances to intermediate grammar, additional 300+ kanji (N4 level)
- Each book includes 23 lessons with dialogues, grammar explanations, and cultural notes
- Workbooks provide additional practice exercises and writing drills
- Best suited for classroom use but also excellent for self-study with answer keys
About
Genki is widely regarded as one of the best textbook series for learning Japanese, particularly for beginners (N5-N4 levels). Published by The Japan Times, it provides an integrated approach to learning Japanese through clear explanations, practical dialogues, and comprehensive exercises. The series includes textbooks, workbooks, and audio materials.
Pros and Cons of
Advantages
- •Clear English explanations make self-study accessible
- •Well-structured progression from beginner to intermediate
- •Includes cultural notes and practical dialogues
- •Widely used in classrooms with extensive supplementary materials
- •Answer keys available for self-study learners
- •Modern dialogues reflect contemporary Japanese usage
- •Comprehensive coverage of N5-N4 grammar and vocabulary
Disadvantages
- •Requires hiragana and katakana knowledge before starting
- •Originally designed for classroom use, some activities need partners
- •Workbook sold separately adds to total cost
- •May progress too quickly for some casual learners
- •Limited kanji writing practice compared to specialized kanji books
- •Does not cover N3 or higher levels
Is Right for You?
Best For:
- ✓Self-study learners who want clear English explanations
- ✓Students preparing for JLPT N5 and N4 exams
- ✓Learners who prefer structured, textbook-style progression
- ✓Those seeking widely-adopted materials with community support
- ✓Classroom environments with teacher guidance
Not Ideal For:
- ✗Complete beginners who haven't learned hiragana/katakana yet
- ✗Learners targeting N3 or higher levels (need to switch to Tobira or similar)
- ✗Those preferring immersive Japanese-only instruction
- ✗Casual learners wanting a very gentle pace
- ✗Budget-conscious students (textbook + workbook costs add up)
All Books ()
Showing books across JLPT levels
Genki: An Integrated Course in Elementary Japanese I
By Eri Banno, Yoko Ikeda, Yutaka Ohno
The most widely-used beginner Japanese textbook in universities worldwide. Covers grammar, vocabulary, reading, and conversation in 12 well-structured lessons. Includes dialogues, grammar explanations with English, and abundant practice exercises.
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.
Genki II: An Integrated Course in Elementary Japanese
By Eri Banno, Yoko Ikeda, Yutaka Ohno
Continuation of the best-selling Genki I. Covers remaining N5 and N4 grammar with comprehensive exercises.