JLPT Kanji N2: Full Kanji List, Number, and Learning Tips

JLPT Kanji N2 is one of the biggest challenges for intermediate to advanced Japanese learners. Many candidates wonder how many kanji in JLPT N2 and what’s the best way to master them for the exam. This guide shares the exact Kanji number, full N2 list, and downloadable PDFs. You’ll also find proven study methods to boost your Kanji score.

How many Kanji are in JLPT N2?

If you’re wondering how many kanji for JLPT N2, the answer is about 1,250 characters. This JLPT N2 kanji number is roughly double the amount needed for N3, marking a big jump from intermediate to upper-intermediate Japanese. Mastering this level requires consistent study and a well-structured learning plan.

While the JLPT N2 mainly tests reading comprehension rather than writing, practicing writing kanji can boost memory and help you recognize characters faster. It’s also smart to learn vocabulary alongside kanji, as the N2 exam includes around 6,000 words. Combining both skills will give you a stronger foundation for the test.

At N3, you only need about 600 - 650 kanji, so when asking JLPT N2 how many kanji, the answer shows a significant step up at around 1,250 characters. Moving from N2 to N1 means expanding your knowledge to roughly 2,000 kanji. Each level not only increases the number of characters but also the complexity of readings and vocabulary.

JLPT N2 requires about 1,250 Kanji, a big jump from N3

Structure of Kanji at N2 level

At the JLPT Kanji N2 level, you will encounter a wide range of kanji used in everyday situations, news articles and workplace communication. Many of these characters also appear in academic or formal contexts, making them essential for understanding written Japanese beyond casual conversation. The JLPT N2 Kanji set often contains words and expressions you will see in newspapers, official documents and novels.

In terms of difficulty, N2 kanji tend to have more strokes compared to lower levels in the Kanji per JLPT level system and may carry multiple meanings depending on the system and may carry multiple meanings depending on the context. You will also need to master both On-yomi (Chinese readings) and Kun-yomi (native Japanese readings) for many characters. This makes learning them slightly more complex, as the reading can change based on the word they are used in.

When it comes to frequency, some characters appear repeatedly in the exam, especially in the reading comprehension and vocabulary sections. Studying the JLPT N2 Kanji list and practicing common compounds can help you quickly recognize and understand them during the test. Prioritizing high-frequency kanji first will make your study more efficient. 

Stroke counts and readings vary by resource, focus on high-frequency characters first

JLPT N2 Kanji list

The N2 JLPT Kanji list includes characters that frequently appear in everyday Japanese, newspapers, and workplace communication. These kanji often have multiple readings and are used in many compound words, making them essential for the N2 exam. Below is a detailed JLPT 2 Kanji list with meanings, readings, and example vocabulary to help you study more effectively.

Download FULL list vocablulary PDF here:

 

Effective JLPT N2 Kanji study resources

If you want to master Kanji for the N2 exam, choosing the right study materials is essential. With the jlpt kanji list n2 as your guide, you can focus on learning the exact characters you need to pass. Below are some of the most effective resources to boost your kanji jlpt n2 skills:

Migii’s JLPT N2 Kanji study PDF

The jlpt n2 kanji list pdf from Migii is a handy document that compiles all essential N2 Kanji with readings, meanings, and example vocabulary. It’s perfect for learners who want a portable, easy-to-access reference for daily review and practice.

TRY! N2

TRY! N2 is a comprehensive book designed by the Asian Student Cultural Association with over 30 years of teaching experience. It features 14 chapters covering common themes, clear grammar explanations, and practice exercises that reinforce Kanji in realistic contexts.

Download PDF here:

 

TRY! N2 is available in both Japanese and Vietnamese editions

Speed Master N2

Speed Master N2 is ideal for focused practice, offering detailed explanations of vocabulary, grammar, and Kanji. The exercises are challenging and varied, making it perfect for learners aiming for in-depth preparation and faster problem-solving skills.

Download PDF here:

 

Shinkanzen Master N2

The Shinkanzen Master N2 series covers five core skills, including a dedicated Kanji book. Its structured approach, clear explanations, and exam-like exercises help learners build both recognition and comprehension for the N2 level.

Download PDF here:

 

Kanji learning apps for mobile 

Kanji learning apps make it easy to study anywhere, anytime. Popular apps like Migii, Anki, and WaniKani allow you to review N2 Kanji in bite-sized sessions, track your progress, and practice through interactive quizzes. 

Many apps also include spaced repetition systems (SRS) to help you remember Kanji longer, while combining readings, meanings, and example vocabulary. With mobile access, you can turn idle moments into productive study time.

Migii app offers an N2 Kanji list, quizzes, and mock tests

Online JLPT N2 Kanji practice websites

Web-based platforms offer a wide range of tools for jlpt kanji n2 learners, from flashcard decks to timed quizzes that simulate the actual test. Websites such as Jisho.org, Tanoshii Japanese, and Migii’s online practice let you search any Kanji from the N2 list, see stroke order, and learn vocabulary in context. Many sites also provide full kanji per jlpt level breakdowns, helping you focus on characters that match your target level and monitor your overall progress.

How to study Kanji effectively for N2

Mastering jlpt kanji n2 requires more than just memorizing characters, you need a strategy that improves both recognition and recall. By combining multiple study techniques, you can build a stronger foundation and retain Kanji knowledge longer. Here are some proven methods to help you prepare for the N2 exam.

Use mnemonics for better memory

Mnemonics are creative memory aids that help you associate Kanji shapes with stories or images. For example, the Kanji 林 (forest) looks like two trees 木 side by side, so you can imagine “two trees make a forest.” Whether you create your own or use examples from a jlpt n2 kanji book, mnemonics make learning more fun and memorable.

Practice writing daily

Writing Kanji by hand reinforces stroke order, shapes, and muscle memory. For example, practice writing the Kanji 覚 (to remember) ten times while saying its reading aloud. Even if the exam focuses on reading, writing practice helps you remember better. You can use worksheets, apps or print materials like a jlpt n2 kanji pdf to guide your daily practice.

Writing Kanji also improves recognition speed during reading tasks

Learn through context

Instead of memorizing Kanji in isolation, learn them through sentences, dialogues, and reading passages. For example, if you learn the Kanji 走 (run), also learn a sentence like 学校まで走る (“I run to school”). This helps you understand how each Kanji is used in real life, improving your comprehension and retention.

Apply spaced repetition

Spaced repetition is a study method where you review Kanji at gradually increasing intervals to boost long-term memory. For example, you might study the Kanji 今 (now) today, review it again in 2 days, then in a week, and finally in a month. Many flashcard apps and online tools use this technique to help you track which Kanji you’ve mastered.

Practice with JLPT N2 mock tests

Taking mock tests gives you a realistic exam experience and shows which areas need improvement. For example, try a practice reading section and underline every Kanji you don’t recognize. This not only improves speed but also helps answer common questions like jlpt n2 kanji how many and ensures you’ve learned enough characters for the test.

Mock tests help track Kanji mastery and boost exam confidence

Conclusion

JLPT Kanji N2 can be mastered with the right mix of study strategies, quality resources, and consistent review. Focus on understanding meanings, readings, and real-life usage, not just memorization. Practice daily, use mock tests, and apply spaced repetition for long-term retention. With steady effort, your N2 Kanji skills will grow and help you succeed on exam day.