Curated Collection
JLPT N4
Study Materials
Carefully selected N4 textbooks and resources for Upper Beginners. Master Japanese proficiency with our curated collection.
17
Books
4.6
Avg Rating
$27.19
Avg Price
What are the best JLPT N4 books in 2025?
The top 3 JLPT N4 books are: (1) Genki II for continuing from N5 with comprehensive intermediate grammar and conversation skills, (2) TRY! N4 for comprehensive test prep with task-based learning and realistic JLPT practice, and (3) Nihongo So-Matome N4 for efficient 8-week review covering all exam sections.
- Genki II (~$30) - Best continuation from Genki I with 11 lessons covering intermediate grammar (causative, passive, conditionals, volitional forms), 500+ new vocabulary words, extended conversations, and authentic cultural readings. Builds to solid N4/early N3 level.
- TRY! N4 (~$30) - Comprehensive test-format practice with 15 situational lessons, JLPT-style questions for all sections, task-based approach connecting grammar to real scenarios, includes listening CD and answer key with explanations.
- Nihongo So-Matome N4 (~$25) - All-in-one 8-week study plan with daily lessons (6 days/week), covers vocabulary, grammar, reading comprehension, and listening, compact format perfect for focused exam review.
Books(17 books)
N4
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Book Series Comparison for N4
Compare popular JLPT book series to find the best fit for your learning style and goals.
Genki
Strengths
- β’Natural progression from Genki I
- β’Comprehensive coverage
- β’Cultural insights
- β’Well-structured lessons
Limitations
- β’Requires Genki I first
- β’Premium pricing
- β’Workbook separate
Best For:
Students continuing from Genki I who want thorough, classroom-quality instruction.
TRY!
Strengths
- β’Test-focused approach
- β’Situational lessons
- β’JLPT format practice
- β’Good explanations
Limitations
- β’Less cultural content
- β’Assumes N5 knowledge
- β’May feel repetitive
Best For:
Test-takers who want practice in actual JLPT format with realistic questions.
Nihongo So-Matome
Strengths
- β’Time-efficient 8-week plan
- β’Covers all test sections
- β’Budget-friendly
- β’Daily study structure
Limitations
- β’Brief explanations
- β’Better as supplement
- β’Limited depth
Best For:
Learners with N5 foundation who need structured, time-bound review before the test.
Frequently Asked Questions About JLPT Books
Yes, both Genki volumes are recommended for solid N4 preparation. Genki I covers N5 content (basic grammar, particles, verb basics), while Genki II brings you to solid N4 level and beyond (reaching early N3). Together, they provide comprehensive coverage of elementary Japanese grammar and vocabulary across 23 lessons. Most successful N4 candidates complete both books, then supplement with JLPT-specific practice tests. If you only study Genki II without Genki I foundation, you'll struggle with the assumed knowledge.
JLPT Level Progression
JLPT N4 - Upper Beginner Level
Build on N5 foundation with N4 materials. Study intermediate grammar, 300 kanji, and 1,500 vocabulary words.
Advance your skills with N3 intermediate books.