Tag: Japanese Language

List of Recommended JLPT Review Books for N5-N4 Levels

If you have already spent a few months or a year studying Japanese, you might be already thinking of taking your very first attempt at the Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT). The JLPT’s lowest level is N5 (Beginner), which is followed by N4 (Basic).

Taking the JLPT involves a lot of dedication, commitment, and hard work. While the N5 and N4 levels are far less demanding than the higher JLPT levels, some form of preparation will still be needed, especially if you care about the level of your performance.

Your likelihood of success at the JLPT will become higher if you (1) familiarize yourself with the form and content of the test, and (2) master Japanese language concepts.

The best way to do it? Use JLPT review books!

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Why The Kake Speech Contest 2018 Convinced Me to Study Japanese Seriously

Last February 19, 2022, I had the pleasure of watching the 49th Nihongo Speech Contest organized by the Japan Foundation Manila (JFM).

I watched the contest to get listening practice, and I was delighted to hear the interesting speeches of each of the contestants who impressed the audience and judges with their Japanese skills.

Watching them, I was once again reminded of my experience in joining a Japanese speech contest in 2018. This was a life-changing event for me, as it convinced me to study Japanese beyond the basic level.

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Japanese NAT-TEST: All You Need to Know About the Best Substitute for JLPT

After two years since the pandemic started, the Japan Foundation Manila (JFM) has finally decided to resume the Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT). But here’s the catch: Only the most difficult levels, N1 and N2, will be conducted for the July 2022 exam in Manila.

This is a huge problem for those who want to take lower levels of the JLPT especially N4, the level which always has the greatest number of Filipino examinees by a wide margin.

Fortunately, the Japanese NAT-TEST (or “NAT-TEST”) can be the perfect alternative. While not as famous as the JLPT, it serves the same purpose and is widely accepted in the Philippines.

Continue reading “Japanese NAT-TEST: All You Need to Know About the Best Substitute for JLPT”