Japanese Vocabulary by Topic Explorer

The approximate vocabulary requirements for each JLPT level are: N5 requires about 800 words covering basic everyday topics like greetings, numbers, and family. N4 requires around 1,500 words, adding more daily life and travel vocabulary. N3 needs approximately 3,750 words spanning workplace, abstract concepts, and more nuanced expressions. N2 requires about 6,000 words including academic, business, and formal language. N1 demands roughly 10,000 or more words covering advanced topics like politics, science, literature, and specialized fields.

Learning vocabulary by topic (also called thematic learning) is one of the most effective strategies for Japanese learners. Instead of memorizing random word lists, grouping words by real-life categories like Food, Transportation, or Work creates natural associations that aid memory retention. Start with topics relevant to your daily life, master the N5 words in each category before moving to N4, and use the words in context by forming sentences. Combining topic-based learning with spaced repetition and active recall through flashcards produces the strongest long-term results.

For JLPT N5 and N4, the most essential topics are Time and Calendar, Numbers and Counting, Family and People, Food and Drink, and Home and Daily Life, as these form the foundation of everyday Japanese conversation. For N3, Communication, Work and Business, and School and Education become crucial. At the N2 and N1 levels, Abstract Concepts, Government and Society, and Technology and Science dominate the exam, alongside advanced vocabulary from all other categories. The Location and Direction topic is consistently important across all levels.

The most effective approach is to learn kanji through vocabulary rather than in isolation. When you encounter a new word in a topic, study its kanji components and their readings together with the word meaning. For example, when learning food vocabulary, memorize that the kanji in taberu (to eat) also appears in other food-related compound words. This contextual approach helps you recognize kanji patterns across topics and builds both your reading ability and vocabulary simultaneously. Focus on the most common readings first and expand to less common ones as you advance through JLPT levels.

Yes, this vocabulary explorer is designed specifically for JLPT preparation. All 25 topics are organized by JLPT level (N5 through N1), so you can focus on exactly the words you need for your target level. Use the level filter to view only the vocabulary required for your exam, search within topics to find specific words, and use the random word feature to test your knowledge. For a complete study plan, combine this tool with our JLPT vocabulary study pages which include flashcards, example sentences, and practice quizzes.