Kanji is often seen as the most challenging part of the NAT Japanese Language Test, but building a strong foundation in it is key to performing well. Whether you’re preparing for NAT N5 or N4, having a clear and structured approach to learning kanji can make a noticeable difference in your results. Understanding kanji not only improves your vocabulary but also helps with reading comprehension and overall confidence during the test.
This guide will help you understand why Kanji is important for the NAT-TEST, provide you with essential Kanji lists for N5 and N4 levels, introduce practical and effective study techniques, suggest trusted practice resources and mock tests, and share exam strategies that can help improve your overall NAT-TEST score. Let’s begin your kanji learning journey with clarity and confidence. Visit in official website.
Master Kanji for the NAT Japanese Language Test
Mastering kanji for the NAT Japanese Language Test may feel challenging at first, but with steady effort and the right approach, it becomes manageable and rewarding. A clear study plan, consistent daily practice, and learning kanji in real-life context can greatly improve your reading skills and vocabulary. Over time, you’ll feel more confident and prepared to handle the Kanji sections in the NAT-TEST with ease and accuracy. Read more.
1. Understanding the Importance of Kanji in the NAT-TEST
Kanji plays a crucial role in the NAT-TEST, especially in the following sections: Click now.
- Vocabulary Section—A large portion of vocabulary is written in Kanji.
- Reading Comprehension—You must be able to read and recognize Kanji quickly to understand the passage.
Without strong Kanji knowledge, it becomes difficult to:
- Identify frequently used words
- Understand written instructions and questions
- Score well in vocabulary and reading-heavy sections
Key Takeaways:
- Kanji is an essential part of each NAT level.
- Vocabulary and reading sections rely heavily on Kanji recognition.
- Learning Kanji enhances overall test comprehension and performance.
Study Tip: Focus on learning Kanji radicals—the smaller components that make up each character. This can help break down complex characters and make them easier to remember.
2. Essential Kanji List for NAT N5 & N4
Each NAT-TEST level includes a specific kanji syllabus. Here’s a breakdown of important Kanji for the N5 and N4 levels.
NAT N5 Kanji List (Basic Level)
NAT N5 includes about 100 basic kanji frequently used in daily communication. These include numbers, days of the week, and everyday objects.
| Kanji | Meaning | Example Usage |
| 日 | Day, Sun | 日本 (Japan), 日曜日 (Sunday) |
| 月 | Month, Moon | 月曜日 (Monday), 一月 (January) |
| 火 | Fire | 火曜日 (Tuesday) |
| 水 | Water | 水曜日 (Wednesday) |
| 木 | Tree | 木曜日 (Thursday) |
| 金 | Gold, Money | 金曜日 (Friday) |
| 土 | Earth | 土曜日 (Saturday) |
| 人 | Person | 日本人 (Japanese person) |
| 本 | Book, Origin | 本 (book), 日本 (Japan) |
NAT N4 Kanji List (Intermediate Level)
N4 level introduces around 300 Kanji, focusing on common verbs, adjectives, and more complex vocabulary.
| Kanji | Meaning | Example Usage |
| 勉 | Study | 勉強 (Study) |
| 強 | Strong | 強い (Strong) |
| 学 | Learning | 学校 (School) |
| 校 | School | 小学校 (Elementary School) |
| 友 | Friend | 友達 (Friend) |
| 語 | Language | 日本語 (Japanese Language) |
| 時 | Time | 時間 (Time) |
| 見 | See | 見る (To See) |
| 使 | Use | 使う (To Use) |
| 事 | Thing | 仕事 (Work) |
Study Tip: Learn Kanji as part of a vocabulary word or sentence, not in isolation. This improves retention and helps in actual test scenarios.
3. Best Kanji Study Tips & Techniques
Kanji may seem difficult at first, but with consistent practice and smart strategies, it becomes manageable.
Effective Study Methods:
1. Mnemonics
Create simple stories or images to remember how Kanji is formed.
- Example: 森 (Forest) is made up of three 木 (tree) characters.
Mnemonic: A forest is a place with many trees.
2. Spaced Repetition (SRS)
Use apps like Anki or Wanikani that repeat Kanji at optimal intervals to improve long-term memory.
3. Writing Practice
Physically writing Kanji helps you remember the stroke order and structure better.
4. Flashcards
Use cards (digital or physical) that include:
- Front: Kanji character
- Back: Meaning, readings, and an example sentence
5. Read Japanese Material
Reading beginner-level Japanese blogs, manga, or children’s books helps reinforce Kanji in context.
Study Tip: Say the Kanji aloud while practicing to reinforce pronunciation and recognition.
4. NAT N5 & N4 Mock Tests and Practice Resources
Practicing with real-style questions can help improve both speed and accuracy.
Benefits of Mock Tests:
- Simulate actual exam conditions
- Improve time management
- Highlight weak areas in Kanji knowledge
Recommended Resources:
- Official NAT-TEST past papers – Best way to understand real question types
- Kanji practice apps – Try Wanikani, Anki, Kanji Study
- Online quizzes – Websites like JLPT Sensei and Nihongo Shark offer Kanji-level tests
Study Tip: Try to complete one full-length mock test per week during your preparation.
5. NAT-TEST Pass Score & Exam Strategy
To pass the NAT-TEST and receive your certificate, you must meet both section-wise and overall score criteria. Click here.
| NAT Level | Minimum per Section | Overall Passing Score |
| NAT N5 | 25% | 60% |
| NAT N4 | 30% | 60% |
Tips to Improve Your NAT-TEST Score:
- Practice Kanji daily – Consistency matters
- Allocate time wisely during the test
- Focus more on vocabulary and reading sections if they’re your strengths
- Review mistakes from mock tests and revise those Kanji
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. How many kanji should I learn for NAT N5?
You should learn around 100 basic kanji that cover numbers, common nouns, and essential words.
Q2. What is the most effective way to memorize kanji for the NAT-TEST?
Use mnemonic techniques, spaced repetition apps, writing practice, and reading simple Japanese texts to reinforce learning.
Q3. Is the NAT-TEST harder than the JLPT?
The difficulty level is similar, but the NAT-TEST is conducted more frequently, giving you flexible opportunities to take the exam.
Q4. Where can I find NAT N5 mock tests?
You can find practice papers on the official NAT-TEST website, Japanese language learning platforms, and through language institutes.
Q5. How long does it take to prepare for the Kanji section of NAT N5?
For most learners, consistent daily practice over 2 to 3 months is enough to build a solid foundation in kanji for NAT N5.
Final Thoughts
Mastering kanji is a gradual process, but each step brings real progress. By following a structured study plan, practicing daily, and learning kanji through real-life context, you’ll slowly improve your vocabulary and reading skills. Even small, steady efforts can lead to noticeable results and boost your confidence for the NAT-TEST. Consistency truly makes all the difference.
By setting aside even just 15 minutes a day for focused kanji review, you build a strong foundation that supports every section of the exam. Remember, steady and mindful learning is more effective than rushing through large volumes all at once.