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These are learning resources I trust and use in teaching. This page is a study guide, not a shop: you buy from Amazon, not from NihongoTech. The books below are the ones I recommend for steady, understandable Japanese learning.
Amazon.es paperback prices checked on 6 October 2026. Prices may change before purchase.
Labels such as “Good for N5” are our own study suggestions, not official JLPT ratings. NihongoTech is not affiliated with the JLPT organisers.
Textbook
Good for N5
Genki I: An Integrated Course in Elementary Japanese
A structured beginner textbook that introduces practical grammar, vocabulary, reading, listening, and everyday Japanese through connected lessons.
Suitable for
Beginners studying approximately JLPT N5 / CEFR A1.
Why it is recommended
This is the book I personally use in my online Japanese classes, and it was recommended by my teacher. Its lesson sequence makes it especially useful when you want clear explanations alongside regular practice.
Companion exercises for the Genki I lessons, with additional written, listening, and vocabulary practice to help turn new material into recallable skills.
Suitable for
Genki I learners who benefit from guided homework, review between classes, or a more consistent independent study routine.
Why it is recommended
I recommend using it alongside the textbook because the extra practice reinforces the same lesson sequence used in my online Japanese classes. It was part of the Genki approach my teacher recommended to me.
GENKI: An Integrated Course in Elementary Japanese - Answer Key
The official answer key for the Genki I textbook and workbook exercises, so you can check your own work without waiting for a class to confirm it.
Suitable for
Genki I learners studying independently, or wanting to self-check homework between classes.
Why it is recommended
A straightforward way to confirm you're on the right track with the same textbook and workbook used in my online Japanese classes, especially useful for self-study between lessons.
Kanji From Zero! 1: Proven Techniques to Learn Kanji with Integrated Workbook (Second Edition): Proven Techniques to Master Kanji Used by Students All Over the World.
Learn the first 240 kyouiku kanji and over 1,500 kanji words, with readings, stroke order and an integrated workbook.
Suitable for
Learners who want to practice kanji with explanations in English.
Why it is recommended
Combines kanji readings, writing and compound words with workbook practice in one volume.
Edition
Second Edition
Volume
Volume 1
Language
English
Authors
George Trombley, Kanako Hatanaka, Yukari Takenaka, Justin McGowan
