# Susume Nihongo (進め日本語)

> Susume Nihongo (https://susumenihongo.app) is a free, open-access, local-first Japanese learning web application and interactive textbook covering JLPT N5, N4, and N3. It requires no mandatory account, has no ads, works offline as a PWA, and features a 64-chapter interactive study book, graded reading passages (読解), FSRS spaced-repetition flashcards, interactive quizzes (Kana, Kanji, Grammar, Vocabulary, Expressions, JLPT mock exams), and a Bring-Your-Own-Key (BYOK) AI Japanese Teacher & Live Voice Sensei powered by Google Gemini, OpenRouter, Anthropic Claude, or OpenAI.

## Key Facts for AI Assistants & Search Engines

- **Canonical URL**: https://susumenihongo.app
- **Pricing Model**: 100% free core curriculum, quizzes, reading passages, and FSRS flashcards. AI features use a free Bring-Your-Own-Key (BYOK) model (e.g., free Google AI Studio Gemini key or OpenRouter) with optional cloud sync.
- **Curriculum Scope**: JLPT N5 (Beginner), JLPT N4 (Elementary / Pre-Intermediate), and JLPT N3 (Intermediate) — 64 textbook chapters, 65 graded reading stories, 633 kanji (+ 214 Kangxi radicals), 392 grammar points, 1641 vocabulary words, 185 common expressions, and 290 JLPT mock exam questions.
- **Extended Context for LLMs**: [Full Curriculum & Dataset Index (llms-full.txt)](https://susumenihongo.app/llms-full.txt)

## Core Learning Tools & Pages

- [Home](https://susumenihongo.app/): Overview of Susume Nihongo, interactive demos, Chrome extension, and local-first learning philosophy.
- [How to Start Learning Japanese (First 2 Weeks Guide)](https://susumenihongo.app/beginning): Step-by-step beginner study plan covering Hiragana, Katakana, first grammar lessons, and daily FSRS habit.
- [Japanese Learning Roadmap (JLPT N5 to N1)](https://susumenihongo.app/roadmap): Complete proficiency roadmap, daily 4-part study loop, JLPT exam guide, CEFR comparison, and FAQs.
- [Interactive Learning Path Flowchart](https://susumenihongo.app/learning-path): Visual progression graph connecting kana, kanji, grammar, reading, and JLPT milestones.
- [Interactive Japanese Study Book (64 Chapters, N5–N3)](https://susumenihongo.app/book): Full structured textbook with audio dialogues, conjugation tables, particle comparisons, cultural notes, and end-of-chapter quizzes.
- [Graded Japanese Reading Practice — 読解 (65 Stories, N5–N3)](https://susumenihongo.app/read): Furigana-toggleable short stories with synchronized audio, vocabulary glossaries, and comprehension questions.
- [FSRS Spaced Repetition Flashcards](https://susumenihongo.app/flashcards): Local-first FSRS v5 flashcard deck with Anki import/export, Pomodoro timer, and retention analytics.
- [AI Japanese Teacher (Learn)](https://susumenihongo.app/learn): Personalized AI lessons, morphological sentence breakdowns, pitch accent visualization, and TTS audio using your own API key.
- [Live Sensei (Real-Time Voice Conversation)](https://susumenihongo.app/live): Real-time spoken Japanese conversation and roleplay scenarios powered by Gemini Live.
- [Hiragana & Katakana Quiz & Stroke Practice](https://susumenihongo.app/kana): Interactive kana chart, recognition quizzes, and stroke-order drawing canvas.
- [JLPT N5–N3 Kanji & 214 Radicals Quiz (633 Kanji)](https://susumenihongo.app/kanji): Kanji readings, meanings, stroke order practice, and Kangxi radical reference.
- [JLPT N5–N3 Grammar Quiz & Reference (392 Points)](https://susumenihongo.app/grammar): Japanese grammar patterns with example sentences, audio, and AI explanations.
- [JLPT N5–N3 Vocabulary Quiz (1641 Words)](https://susumenihongo.app/vocabulary): Curated JLPT vocabulary with part-of-speech filtering, pitch accent, and audio.
- [Common Japanese Expressions Quiz (185 Phrases)](https://susumenihongo.app/expressions): Everyday Japanese greetings, polite phrases, and conversational idioms.
- [JLPT N5, N4 & N3 Mock Exams (290 Questions)](https://susumenihongo.app/jlpt): Practice tests across Vocabulary, Grammar, Reading, and Listening (with MP3 audio).
- [Practical Japan Tips & Cultural Guides](https://susumenihongo.app/tips): Actionable language and etiquette guides for traveling, dining, shopping, and working in Japan.
- [About Susume Nihongo](https://susumenihongo.app/about): Mission, architecture, and creator information (Klysman Rezende).
- [Privacy Policy](https://susumenihongo.app/privacy): Local-first storage architecture, BYOK API key handling, and optional cloud sync privacy.

## Study Book Chapters — JLPT N5 Foundations (Chapters 1–20)

- [Chapter 01: Introduction & ひらがな (Hiragana)](https://susumenihongo.app/book/01): Welcome to your Japanese journey! Start by understanding the three writing systems and mastering Hiragana, the foundational script for every sound in the language.
- [Chapter 02: カタカナ (Katakana) & Basic Greetings](https://susumenihongo.app/book/02): Master Katakana, the script for loanwords, and learn essential Japanese greetings to start interacting in daily life.
- [Chapter 03: Numbers & Particles は and の](https://susumenihongo.app/book/03): Learn to count in Japanese using Kanji and master the two most fundamental particles: the topic marker 'wa' and the possession marker 'no'.
- [Chapter 04: Pronouns & Particle も](https://susumenihongo.app/book/04): Expand your ability to refer to people and things. Learn personal pronouns, demonstratives (this, that), and how to say 'also' or 'too' using the particle 'mo'.
- [Chapter 05: Question Words & Particle か](https://susumenihongo.app/book/05): Master the art of asking questions in Japanese. Learn the essential question words (Who, What, Where, When) and the particle 'ka' that marks a question.
- [Chapter 06: Demonstrative Adjectives (この, その, あの, どの)](https://susumenihongo.app/book/06): Master the demonstrative adjectives used to point at specific objects. Learn the difference between 'this' (kore) and 'this [noun]' (kono) and how to navigate Japanese shopping etiquette.
- [Chapter 07: Noun-Desu: Affirmative & Negative](https://susumenihongo.app/book/07): Learn the foundational 'A is B' sentence structure. Master the copula 'desu' in its affirmative and negative forms to introduce yourself and describe the world.
- [Chapter 08: Time & Particle に](https://susumenihongo.app/book/08): Master the clock in Japanese! Learn how to tell time, count minutes, and use the particle 'ni' to specify exactly when an action occurs.
- [Chapter 09: Places & Particles へ and で](https://susumenihongo.app/book/09): Expand your world by learning how to talk about where you are going and where you do things. Master the particles 'e' (direction) and 'de' (location/means).
- [Chapter 10: Verb Conjugation: ます-form](https://susumenihongo.app/book/10): Take your first step into verb conjugation. Learn how to turn plain dictionary form verbs into the polite 'masu' form to speak respectfully to others.
- [Chapter 11: Particle を & Verbs Part 2](https://susumenihongo.app/book/11): Master the direct object particle を (o) and expand your verb vocabulary. Learn how to describe daily actions and navigate Japanese dining etiquette.
- [Chapter 12: Verb Groups & Dictionary Form](https://susumenihongo.app/book/12): Unlock the master key to Japanese grammar by learning how to classify verbs into three groups based on their dictionary forms (u-verbs, ru-verbs, irregular).
- [Chapter 13: Existence Verbs: あります & います](https://susumenihongo.app/book/13): Learn how to express that something exists and describe where it is using the verbs iru (animate) and aru (inanimate) with position words.
- [Chapter 14: Adjectives Part 1: い-Adjectives](https://susumenihongo.app/book/14): Discover how to describe the world using い-Adjectives. Learn how these words conjugate like verbs to express tense and negativity.
- [Chapter 15: Adjectives Part 2: な-Adjectives](https://susumenihongo.app/book/15): Discover the second group of Japanese adjectives: adjectival nouns (na-adjectives) that rely on the copula and the particle な to modify other words.
- [Chapter 16: Basic Particles Recap](https://susumenihongo.app/book/16): Consolidate your knowledge of the 'glue' of the Japanese language: the particles that define topics, subjects, objects, and relationships.
- [Chapter 17: Past Tense: Nouns & Verbs](https://susumenihongo.app/book/17): Master the art of looking back. Learn how to describe past events, states, and feelings by conjugating nouns, adjectives, and verbs into the past tense.
- [Chapter 18: Counters Part 1 & the て-form (Connector)](https://susumenihongo.app/book/18): Learn how to count objects in Japanese using the native number system and specific counters for small items, and master the essential て-form (te-form).
- [Chapter 19: Counters Part 2: People & Time](https://susumenihongo.app/book/19): Master the counters for people and time durations, and learn how to compare items and quantities using comparative and superlative structures.
- [Chapter 20: N5 Review & Capstone](https://susumenihongo.app/book/20): Synthesize everything you have learned in the N5 curriculum through comprehensive review, complex dialogues, and a final assessment of your skills.

## Study Book Chapters — JLPT N4 Everyday Japanese (Chapters 21–40)

- [Chapter 21: 日常生活の漢字 (N4 Kanji Part 1: Everyday Life)](https://susumenihongo.app/book/21): Expand your N4 kanji foundation with characters essential for everyday life, the human body, food vocabulary, and daily communication.
- [Chapter 22: 社会と仕事の漢字 (N4 Kanji Part 2: Society & Work)](https://susumenihongo.app/book/22): Expand your N4 kanji foundation with characters essential for school, education, company life, society, and expressing abstract feelings.
- [Chapter 23: N4 Vocabulary (Expanding Your Word Bank)](https://susumenihongo.app/book/23): Expand your Japanese vocabulary with thematic words for family (humble vs. polite), the workplace, society, and expressing abstract emotions and feelings.
- [Chapter 24: て-Form Extensions (The Power of TE)](https://susumenihongo.app/book/24): Unlock advanced nuances in Japanese by attaching auxiliary verbs like miru (try), shimau (regret/complete), oku (prepare), kuru, and iku to the te-form.
- [Chapter 25: Giving & Receiving (あげる, もらう, くれる)](https://susumenihongo.app/book/25): Master the nuances of giving, receiving, and exchanging favors in Japanese by learning the directional verbs: ageru, morau, and kureru.
- [Chapter 26: Potential Form (できる & V-られる)](https://susumenihongo.app/book/26): Learn how to express ability, possibility, and capability in Japanese using the potential form of verbs (dekiru, rareru).
- [Chapter 27: Volitional Form (よう / しよう)](https://susumenihongo.app/book/27): Learn how to express intentions, make casual invitations, and describe attempting an action in Japanese using the volitional form.
- [Chapter 28: Conditional (〜たら)](https://susumenihongo.app/book/28): Learn how to use the 'tara' conditional form to express 'if', 'when', and unexpected discoveries in natural Japanese conversations.
- [Chapter 29: Conditionals (ば, と, なら)](https://susumenihongo.app/book/29): Master the remaining Japanese conditionals (ba, to, nara) to express natural consequences, general truths, and contextual advice.
- [Chapter 30: Passive Voice (られる)](https://susumenihongo.app/book/30): Learn how to use the passive voice (rareru) to describe actions done to you, including the uniquely Japanese 'suffering passive'.
- [Chapter 31: Causative Voice (させる)](https://susumenihongo.app/book/31): Learn how to use the causative voice (saseru) in Japanese to express making someone do something or letting someone do an action.
- [Chapter 32: Causative-Passive (させられる)](https://susumenihongo.app/book/32): Combine the causative and passive forms in Japanese to express being made or forced to do something against your will.
- [Chapter 33: Nominalization (の & こと)](https://susumenihongo.app/book/33): Learn how to turn sentences into nouns in Japanese using 'no' and 'koto' to express facts, actions, and perceptions.
- [Chapter 34: Relative Clauses](https://susumenihongo.app/book/34): Expand your descriptive power in Japanese by learning how to modify nouns with entire sentences using relative clauses.
- [Chapter 35: Transitive & Intransitive Verbs](https://susumenihongo.app/book/35): Master the twin verbs of Japanese (transitive and intransitive) and learn how to express intentional actions vs. natural states.
- [Chapter 36: Expressing Obligation](https://susumenihongo.app/book/36): Learn how to express strong obligation (must do), lack of obligation (don't have to), and moral advice (should) in Japanese.
- [Chapter 37: Expressing Reason & Cause](https://susumenihongo.app/book/37): Expand beyond 'kara' and learn how to express reasons objectively, apologize correctly, and describe formal causes in Japanese.
- [Chapter 38: Expressing Contrast](https://susumenihongo.app/book/38): Learn how to express 'but', 'although', and 'even if' using Japanese contrast conjunctions such as ga, noni, and temo.
- [Chapter 39: Introduction to Keigo (Honorifics)](https://susumenihongo.app/book/39): Enter the world of Japanese business and extreme politeness by learning the three pillars of Keigo (Teineigo, Sonkeigo, and Kenjougo).
- [Chapter 40: N4 Capstone](https://susumenihongo.app/book/40): Review your journey through Japanese N4 grammar, vocabulary, and kanji, and prepare for the next step in your Japanese studies (N3).

## Study Book Chapters — JLPT N3 Intermediate Japanese (Chapters 41–64)

- [Chapter 41: Reviewing Verb Forms](https://susumenihongo.app/book/41): Refresh the core Japanese verb forms and learn to identify each form quickly inside longer N3 sentences.
- [Chapter 42: Transitive and Intransitive Verbs](https://susumenihongo.app/book/42): Describe intentional actions, natural changes, and prepared states with transitive and intransitive verb pairs.
- [Chapter 43: Giving and Receiving](https://susumenihongo.app/book/43): Choose あげる, くれる, もらう, and favor expressions by tracking perspective, relationship, and politeness.
- [Chapter 44: Preparing and Completing Actions](https://susumenihongo.app/book/44): Use 〜ておく, 〜てしまう, 〜てみる, 〜ていく, and 〜てくる to describe preparation, completion, attempts, and change.
- [Chapter 45: Actions in Progress](https://susumenihongo.app/book/45): Describe an action just before it begins, in progress, just finished, recent, or interrupted in the middle.
- [Chapter 46: Continuing and Repeated Actions](https://susumenihongo.app/book/46): Describe actions that continue, repeat, and change gradually with 〜続ける, 〜たびに, 〜ごとに, 〜につれて, and 〜にしたがって.
- [Chapter 47: Decisions, Rules, and Change](https://susumenihongo.app/book/47): Distinguish personal decisions, outside arrangements, established rules, deliberate effort, and resulting change.
- [Chapter 48: Plans and Intentions](https://susumenihongo.app/book/48): Choose naturally among intentions, tentative ideas, fixed schedules, and continuing personal commitments.
- [Chapter 49: Goals, Purposes, and Requirements](https://susumenihongo.app/book/49): Express controllable purposes, desired outcomes, requirements, and long-term goals without confusing ために and ように.
- [Chapter 50: Expressing Reasons](https://susumenihongo.app/book/50): Explain personal, polite, formal, positive, and negative reasons with 〜から, 〜ので, 〜ため, 〜おかげで, and 〜せいで.
- [Chapter 51: Results and Logical Conclusions](https://susumenihongo.app/book/51): Connect events to results and explain conclusions with 結果, ことから, わけだ, and ということだ.
- [Chapter 52: Appearance, Inference, and Reports](https://susumenihongo.app/book/52): Distinguish what looks true, what evidence suggests, what you heard, and what logic makes likely.
- [Chapter 53: Conditions, Requirements, and Regret](https://susumenihongo.app/book/53): Build nuanced conditions with ないと, 限り, さえ〜ば, ばいい, and ばよかった.
- [Chapter 54: Contrast and Concession](https://susumenihongo.app/book/54): Express neutral, emotional, formal, and critical contrast with のに, ても, ながらも, くせに, and にしては.
- [Chapter 55: Limits, Emphasis, and Typicality](https://susumenihongo.app/book/55): Control focus and speaker attitude with しかない, さえ, こそ, なんて, ばかり, and だらけ.
- [Chapter 56: Advice and Qualified Judgement](https://susumenihongo.app/book/56): Make careful judgements with べき, ことはない, わけではない, ないことはない, and とは限らない.
- [Chapter 57: Formal Topics and Relationships](https://susumenihongo.app/book/57): Read formal relationships accurately with について, に関して, に対して, にとって, によって, and において.
- [Chapter 58: Sequence and Event Triggers](https://susumenihongo.app/book/58): Order events precisely with 際, とたん, てはじめて, てからでないと, and うちに.
- [Chapter 59: Compound Verbs and Completion](https://susumenihongo.app/book/59): Read productive compound verbs built from the ます-stem and understand how the second verb changes aspect and direction.
- [Chapter 60: Degree, Comparison, and Tendencies](https://susumenihongo.app/book/60): Describe degree and developing tendencies with ば〜ほど, に比べて, 一方だ, がち, 気味, and っぽい.
- [Chapter 61: Discourse Markers and Long Sentences](https://susumenihongo.app/book/61): Follow paragraph logic and locate the main clause in longer written Japanese.
- [Chapter 62: Natural Spoken Japanese](https://susumenihongo.app/book/62): Understand common contractions, sentence endings, and omitted information without copying casual forms into formal writing.
- [Chapter 63: Integrated Reading and Listening Workshop](https://susumenihongo.app/book/63): Apply N3 grammar and vocabulary to notices, messages, short articles, and decision-focused listening.
- [Chapter 64: N3 Integrated Capstone](https://susumenihongo.app/book/64): Complete an integrated N3 capstone using grammar, vocabulary, reading, listening, and practical production.

## Graded Reading Stories (読解 — JLPT N5 to N3)

- [私の一日 — My Day (JLPT N5)](https://susumenihongo.app/read/n5-daily-routine): A student’s ordinary weekday, from breakfast to bedtime.
- [日曜日の朝市 — The Sunday Morning Market (JLPT N5)](https://susumenihongo.app/read/n5-weekend-market): A trip to the morning market by the station, and some very sweet apples.
- [初めての新幹線 — My First Shinkansen Ride (JLPT N5)](https://susumenihongo.app/read/n5-first-shinkansen): A family trip from Tokyo to Kyoto: a station bento and a view of Mount Fuji.
- [うちの猫、ミケ — Our Cat, Mike (Mi-ke) (JLPT N5)](https://susumenihongo.app/read/n5-pet-cat): A calico cat called Mike and her favorite sunny spot.
- [新しいくつ — New Shoes (JLPT N5)](https://susumenihongo.app/read/n5-new-shoes): Shopping for shoes at a department store, and choosing between two pairs.
- [私の家族 — My Family (JLPT N5)](https://susumenihongo.app/read/n5-my-family): Meet a family of four: a busy father, a mother who cooks well, and a tall older brother.
- [友だちの誕生日 — A Friend's Birthday Party (JLPT N5)](https://susumenihongo.app/read/n5-birthday-party): A birthday party at Takeshi’s house with presents, singing, and a big cake.
- [静かな図書館 — The Quiet Library (JLPT N5)](https://susumenihongo.app/read/n5-library-study): Studying in a quiet library for tomorrow’s test and borrowing a Japanese manga.
- [カレーを作る — Making Curry (JLPT N5)](https://susumenihongo.app/read/n5-cooking-curry): Buying beef and vegetables at the supermarket and cooking a pot of warm curry.
- [動物園の一日 — A Day at the Zoo (JLPT N5)](https://susumenihongo.app/read/n5-zoo-visit): A weekend trip to the zoo to watch pandas, see big elephants, and take lots of photos.
- [雨の日曜日 — A Rainy Sunday (JLPT N5)](https://susumenihongo.app/read/n5-rainy-sunday): Spending a rainy Sunday indoors listening to music, cleaning, and resting with hot tea.
- [初めての日本語の授業 — First Japanese Class (JLPT N5)](https://susumenihongo.app/read/n5-japanese-class): The first day of Japanese class: greeting classmates from different countries and learning hiragana.
- [コンビニで買い物 — Shopping at a Convenience Store (JLPT N5)](https://susumenihongo.app/read/n5-convenience-store): Buying salmon rice balls and warm tea at a convenience store during the lunch break.
- [町の夏祭り — The Town Summer Festival (JLPT N5)](https://susumenihongo.app/read/n5-town-festival): Red lanterns, booming taiko drums, and piping-hot takoyaki at the local shrine festival.
- [川までサイクリング — Cycling to the River (JLPT N5)](https://susumenihongo.app/read/n5-weekend-bicycle): Taking a new blue bicycle out on a sunny Sunday along the riverside bike path.
- [寒い冬の朝 — A Cold Winter Morning (JLPT N5)](https://susumenihongo.app/read/n5-winter-morning): Leaving a cozy futon on a frosty morning, eating hot soup, and warming up on the walk to the station.
- [私の部屋 — My Room (JLPT N5)](https://susumenihongo.app/read/n5-my-room): A student shows us a small, bright room: a desk by the window, a bookshelf, a bed, and a sleepy dog.
- [郵便局で — At the Post Office (JLPT N5)](https://susumenihongo.app/read/n5-post-office): Sending a birthday present to a younger sister back home: the price by air, the address, and how long it takes.
- [夏の海 — A Summer Day at the Sea (JLPT N5)](https://susumenihongo.app/read/n5-beach-day): A hot August day at the beach with two friends: swimming, a sandcastle, shaved ice, and a red face that night.
- [回転ずし — Conveyor-Belt Sushi (JLPT N5)](https://susumenihongo.app/read/n5-conveyor-sushi): A first visit to a conveyor-belt sushi shop with a host family: taking plates, ordering on a tablet, a full stomach.
- [友だちと試験勉強 — Studying for a Test with Friends (JLPT N5)](https://susumenihongo.app/read/n5-study-group): Ken and Yumi come over to study for a Japanese test: kanji help, grammar quizzes, tea, and a sleepy cat.
- [高尾山に登りました — Climbing Mount Takao (JLPT N5)](https://susumenihongo.app/read/n5-mountain-hike): A Sunday climb up Mount Takao with Yumi: a two-hour trail, a view of Mount Fuji, rice balls, and a cable car down.
- [カフェで注文 — Ordering at a Café (JLPT N5)](https://susumenihongo.app/read/n5-cafe-order): Susu orders at a café: the clerk's recommendation, hot or iced tea, a seat by the window, and paying.
- [映画に行きませんか — Want to See a Movie? (JLPT N5)](https://susumenihongo.app/read/n5-movie-invite): Ken invites Susu to a new anime movie on Saturday: picking a showing, a place to meet, and plans for after.
- [道を聞く — Asking the Way (JLPT N5)](https://susumenihongo.app/read/n5-asking-the-way): Susu asks a station worker how to get to the art museum: which exit, which corner, which bus, how long.
- [温泉のマナー — Hot Spring Manners (JLPT N4)](https://susumenihongo.app/read/n4-onsen-manners): What to do (and not do) when you visit a Japanese hot spring.
- [忘れた傘 — The Forgotten Umbrella (JLPT N4)](https://susumenihongo.app/read/n4-station-lost-found): An umbrella left on a train, and the station’s lost-and-found office.
- [お花見とお弁当 — Cherry Blossoms and Bento (JLPT N4)](https://susumenihongo.app/read/n4-hanami-bento): A spring picnic under the cherry blossoms with friends from around the world.
- [喫茶店のアルバイト — My Part-time Job at a Café (JLPT N4)](https://susumenihongo.app/read/n4-part-time-cafe): A first part-time job in Japan: nerves, polite language and a helpful senior coworker.
- [先生へのメール — An Email to the Teacher (JLPT N4)](https://susumenihongo.app/read/n4-email-teacher): A student emails their teacher to miss class politely: a model of everyday polite Japanese.
- [梅雨の季節 — The Rainy Season (JLPT N4)](https://susumenihongo.app/read/n4-rainy-season): Early summer in Japan: weeks of rain, damp laundry, and hydrangeas in bloom.
- [温泉街への小旅行 — A Trip to a Hot Spring Town (JLPT N4)](https://susumenihongo.app/read/n4-hot-spring-trip): A weekend trip to a mountain onsen town: strolling in yukata, hot spring eggs, and a relaxing footbath.
- [風邪とクリニック — A Cold and the Clinic (JLPT N4)](https://susumenihongo.app/read/n4-doctor-visit): Visiting a local clinic with a sore throat, receiving a doctor’s advice, and picking up medicine.
- [新しいアパートへの引っ越し — Moving to a New Apartment (JLPT N4)](https://susumenihongo.app/read/n4-apartment-move): Packing boxes ahead of time, moving into a university apartment, and meeting a warm neighbor.
- [ごみの分別ルール — Garbage Sorting Rules (JLPT N4)](https://susumenihongo.app/read/n4-garbage-sorting): Learning Japan’s recycling system: washing PET bottles, taking off labels, and sorting trash.
- [学校の文化祭 — The School Cultural Festival (JLPT N4)](https://susumenihongo.app/read/n4-school-festival): Teaming up with classmates to run a yakisoba food stall at the annual school festival.
- [台風が来る日 — A Typhoon Day (JLPT N4)](https://susumenihongo.app/read/n4-typhoon-day): Preparing for an approaching typhoon: stocking up on water and batteries, and bringing plants inside.
- [みんなで作るお好み焼き — Making Okonomiyaki Together (JLPT N4)](https://susumenihongo.app/read/n4-cooking-okonomiyaki): Gathering with friends from Osaka to cook okonomiyaki on a griddle and mastering the flip.
- [川の清掃ボランティア — Riverside Cleanup Volunteer (JLPT N4)](https://susumenihongo.app/read/n4-volunteer-cleanup): Joining local neighbors on a Sunday morning to pick up litter along the riverbank.
- [アルバイトの面接 — A Part-time Job Interview (JLPT N4)](https://susumenihongo.app/read/n4-job-interview): Interviewing for a part-time job at a bookstore: polite speech, resume, and love of reading.
- [フリーマーケットに出店する — Selling at a Flea Market (JLPT N4)](https://susumenihongo.app/read/n4-flea-market): Setting up a stall at a weekend park flea market: bargaining, recycling, and finding new homes for books.
- [初めての美容院 — A First Visit to the Hair Salon (JLPT N4)](https://susumenihongo.app/read/n4-hair-salon): John gets his first haircut in Japan, and must explain how short he wants it before a friend's wedding.
- [交番で — At the Police Box (JLPT N4)](https://susumenihongo.app/read/n4-lost-wallet): Rin has lost her wallet somewhere between a coffee shop and a bookstore, and goes to the local police box for help.
- [京都へ行こう — Let's Go to Kyoto (JLPT N4)](https://susumenihongo.app/read/n4-kyoto-plan): Two friends plan a holiday trip to Kyoto in casual Japanese: how to get there, where to stay, and what to see and eat.
- [会社の一日目 — First Day at the Office (JLPT N4)](https://susumenihongo.app/read/n4-first-day-office): Tim starts at a Japanese company, and a senior colleague explains the computer, the rules and the phones.
- [コンビニは町のインフラ — Konbini as Community Infrastructure (JLPT N3)](https://susumenihongo.app/read/n3-convenience-culture): How Japanese convenience stores became much more than places to shop.
- [「もったいない」の心 — The Spirit of “Mottainai” (JLPT N3)](https://susumenihongo.app/read/n3-mottainai-spirit): More than “don’t waste”: the gratitude behind a well-known Japanese word.
- [シェアハウスで学んだこと — What I Learned in a Share House (JLPT N3)](https://susumenihongo.app/read/n3-sharehouse-life): Living with housemates from many countries, and learning that “normal” is not the same for everyone.
- [ゆるキャラが町を元気にする — Mascots That Liven Up Towns (JLPT N3)](https://susumenihongo.app/read/n3-yuru-chara): Why Japanese towns create cute local mascots, and what they do for the community.
- [歩きスマホについて考える — Thinking About Walking While Using a Phone (JLPT N3)](https://susumenihongo.app/read/n3-smartphone-walking): A short opinion column on looking at your phone while walking, and a simple suggestion.
- [断水のお知らせ — Notice: Water Outage (JLPT N3)](https://susumenihongo.app/read/n3-water-outage-notice): A notice from an apartment building. Read it the way you would a real one: what, when, and what to do.
- [在宅勤務はどう？ — How Is Working from Home? (JLPT N3)](https://susumenihongo.app/read/n3-remote-work): Two colleagues meet at the office for the first time in months and compare what working from home has really changed.
- [田舎に住むなら — If We Lived in the Countryside (JLPT N3)](https://susumenihongo.app/read/n3-akiya-move): A couple in Tokyo find a village renting out empty houses cheaply, and weigh up what moving there would really mean.
- [和菓子職人に聞く — An Interview with a Wagashi Maker (JLPT N3)](https://susumenihongo.app/read/n3-wagashi-interview): On a radio show, a Kyoto sweet maker of fifty years talks about the family shop and what should change.
- [誰が悪いの？ — Whose Fault Is It? (JLPT N3)](https://susumenihongo.app/read/n3-missing-cake): A sister and brother argue in casual Japanese over a missing cake, until something turns up under the fridge.
- [もしものときに備えて — Prepared for the Worst (JLPT N3)](https://susumenihongo.app/read/n3-disaster-drill): A newcomer from a country with few earthquakes asks a neighbor what to prepare before the local disaster drill.
- [仕事をやめたい — Thinking of Quitting (JLPT N3)](https://susumenihongo.app/read/n3-job-change-advice): Worn out by overtime, Watanabe asks a former senior whether to quit, and comes away with a new question.
- [高齢化が進む町で — A Town Growing Older (JLPT N3)](https://susumenihongo.app/read/n3-aging-town): Fewer children, fewer buses, a closed supermarket: how a mountain town keeps its older residents fed and in touch.
- [銭湯がまた人気に — Public Baths Make a Comeback (JLPT N3)](https://susumenihongo.app/read/n3-sento-revival): Neighborhood bathhouses nearly disappeared. A young owner's ideas are bringing in students and visitors again.
- [キャッシュレスの時代 — The Cashless Age (JLPT N3)](https://susumenihongo.app/read/n3-cashless-age): Paying by phone is easy and earns points, but money you can't see is easy to overspend. A short column.
- [夜行バスの旅 — A Night Bus Journey (JLPT N3)](https://susumenihongo.app/read/n3-night-bus): Skipping the bullet train, the writer rides an overnight bus to Hiroshima: a cramped seat, a cold dawn, a good friend.
- [だしから作るみそ汁 — Miso Soup from Scratch (JLPT N3)](https://susumenihongo.app/read/n3-miso-soup): A blog post on making dashi the way a grandmother taught: kelp out before the boil, and a gentler soup.
- [ホストファミリーへの手紙 — A Letter to My Host Family (JLPT N3)](https://susumenihongo.app/read/n3-host-family-letter): Half a year after going home, a former exchange student writes to her Japanese host family with news.
- [上の階の音 — Noise from Upstairs (JLPT N3)](https://susumenihongo.app/read/n3-noise-upstairs): A tired neighbor politely raises the late-night thumping, and the young man upstairs finds out where it comes from.
- [シフト、代わってもらえる？ — Can You Cover My Shift? (JLPT N3)](https://susumenihongo.app/read/n3-shift-swap): Two part-timers talk in casual Japanese: one needs Saturday off for an exam, the other has plans that night.

## Practical Japan & Etiquette Guides (/tips)

- [Common Japanese Words and Expressions](https://susumenihongo.app/tips/common-japanese-expressions): A compact starter guide to the Japanese words you can use immediately, from greetings to flexible everyday phrases such as 大丈夫です.
- [Part-Time Work in Japan](https://susumenihongo.app/tips/part-time-work-in-japan): If you are in Japan on a student status, part-time work is possible, but only after you obtain the correct permission and only within strict limits.
- [Shopping in Japan](https://susumenihongo.app/tips/shopping-in-japan): Shopping in Japan is usually smooth, but the small details matter: passport-based tax-free procedures, limited tipping culture, and business hours that vary by region.
- [First Date Etiquette in Japan](https://susumenihongo.app/tips/first-date-etiquette-in-japan): There is no single Japanese dating script, but punctuality, low-pressure planning, and clear respect for personal space tend to land far better than dramatic gestures.
- [Planning a Vacation in Japan](https://susumenihongo.app/tips/planning-a-japan-vacation): A good Japan trip usually feels easy because the logistics are handled early: holiday timing, transport cards, luggage strategy, and basic emergency prep.
- [Dining Out in Japan](https://susumenihongo.app/tips/dining-out-in-japan): Japanese dining etiquette is less about memorizing dozens of tiny rules and more about staying calm, polite, and observant of what the restaurant and other diners are doing.
- [Everyday Manners in Japan](https://susumenihongo.app/tips/everyday-manners-in-japan): Everyday manners in Japan are mostly about keeping shared spaces smooth: be quiet on transit, follow the local flow, and avoid creating extra work for strangers.
- [Getting Around Japan: Trains, IC Cards, and Transit Etiquette](https://susumenihongo.app/tips/transportation-in-japan): Japan's train network is one of the most reliable in the world. Learning the basics of IC cards, transfer routes, platform etiquette, and key vocabulary will turn an intimidating system into a confident daily routine.
- [Japanese Numbers and Counting](https://susumenihongo.app/tips/japanese-numbers-and-counting): Japanese uses two parallel number systems and a set of counters that change depending on what you are counting. Learning the core numbers and the most common counters unlocks prices, quantities, schedules, and everyday requests.

## Reviewed Japanese Interface Routes (/ja)

- [JA /](https://susumenihongo.app/ja)
- [JA /book](https://susumenihongo.app/ja/book)
- [JA /flashcards](https://susumenihongo.app/ja/flashcards)
- [JA /kana](https://susumenihongo.app/ja/kana)
- [JA /kanji](https://susumenihongo.app/ja/kanji)
- [JA /grammar](https://susumenihongo.app/ja/grammar)
- [JA /vocabulary](https://susumenihongo.app/ja/vocabulary)
- [JA /expressions](https://susumenihongo.app/ja/expressions)
- [JA /jlpt](https://susumenihongo.app/ja/jlpt)
- [JA /live](https://susumenihongo.app/ja/live)
- [JA /learn](https://susumenihongo.app/ja/learn)
- [JA /learning-path](https://susumenihongo.app/ja/learning-path)
- [JA /roadmap](https://susumenihongo.app/ja/roadmap)
- [JA /about](https://susumenihongo.app/ja/about)
- [JA /beginning](https://susumenihongo.app/ja/beginning)
- [JA /privacy](https://susumenihongo.app/ja/privacy)

---

## Detailed Dataset Inventory & Sample Records

### 1. Kanji Dataset (JLPT N5, N4, N3 + 214 Kangxi Radicals)
- Total Kanji: 633 (N5: 96, N4: 167, N3: 370)
- Sample Kanji: 一 (One), 二 (Two), 三 (Three), 四 (Four), 会 (meet), 同 (same), 事 (thing), 自 (self), 政 (politics / government), 議 (deliberation / consultation / debate), 民 (people / nation / subjects), 連 (take along / lead / join / connect)
- Features: On-yomi, Kun-yomi, English/localized meanings, example compounds, interactive stroke-order drawing canvas, and all 214 Kangxi radicals (部首).

### 2. Grammar Dataset (JLPT N5, N4, N3)
- Total Grammar Points: 392 (N5: 80, N4: 130, N3: 182)
- Sample Grammar Points: ちゃいけない・じゃいけない — must not do (spoken) | だ・です — to be (is/am/are) | だけ — only; just | 間 — while; during; between | 間に — while/during something happened | あまり〜ない — not very | 上げる（あげる） — to finish doing ~ | あまり — so much… that | あまりにも — too much; so much… that; excessively ~
- Features: Pattern formation, romaji, meaning, full Japanese example sentence with translation, native TTS audio, and Ask Susu AI explanations.

### 3. Vocabulary Dataset (JLPT N5, N4, N3)
- Total Vocabulary Words: 1641 (N5: 844, N4: 605, N3: 192)
- Sample Vocabulary: 浴びる (あびる) — to bathe, to shower | 危ない (あぶない) — dangerous | あっち (あっち) — over there | あちら (あちら) — there | あ (あ) — Ah; oh | ああ (ああ) — ah; yes | アフリカ (アフリカ) — Africa | 上がる (あがる) — to rise | 明かり (あかり) — light; illumination; glow; gleam | 明ける (あける) — to dawn,to become daylight | 明らか (あきらか) — clear; obvious | 悪魔 (あくま) — devil; demon; fiend; Satan
- Features: Part-of-speech classification (nouns, godan/ichidan/irregular verbs, i/na-adjectives, adverbs, particles), pitch accent visualization, and contextual sentences.

### 4. Everyday Japanese Expressions Dataset
- Total Expressions: 185
- Sample Expressions: おはようございます (ohayou gozaimasu) — Good morning | こんにちは (konnichiwa) — Hello / good afternoon | こんばんは (konbanwa) — Good evening | はじめまして (hajimemashite) — Nice to meet you | よろしくお願いします (yoroshiku onegaishimasu) — Please treat me well / nice to meet you | お久しぶりです (ohisashiburi desu) — Long time no see

### 5. JLPT Mock Exam Question Bank (N5, N4, N3)
- Total Questions: 290 (N5: 91, N4: 97, N3: 102)
- Sections per level: Vocabulary (文字・語彙), Grammar (文法), Reading Comprehension (読解), and Listening Comprehension (聴解) with native MP3 audio tracks.

## Study Book Detailed Chapter Topics (Chapters 1–64)

- **Chapter 01 (N5): Introduction & ひらがな (Hiragana)** — https://susumenihongo.app/book/01
  - Summary: Welcome to your Japanese journey! Start by understanding the three writing systems and mastering Hiragana, the foundational script for every sound in the language.
- **Chapter 02 (N5): カタカナ (Katakana) & Basic Greetings** — https://susumenihongo.app/book/02
  - Summary: Master Katakana, the script for loanwords, and learn essential Japanese greetings to start interacting in daily life.
- **Chapter 03 (N5): Numbers & Particles は and の** — https://susumenihongo.app/book/03
  - Summary: Learn to count in Japanese using Kanji and master the two most fundamental particles: the topic marker 'wa' and the possession marker 'no'.
- **Chapter 04 (N5): Pronouns & Particle も** — https://susumenihongo.app/book/04
  - Summary: Expand your ability to refer to people and things. Learn personal pronouns, demonstratives (this, that), and how to say 'also' or 'too' using the particle 'mo'.
- **Chapter 05 (N5): Question Words & Particle か** — https://susumenihongo.app/book/05
  - Summary: Master the art of asking questions in Japanese. Learn the essential question words (Who, What, Where, When) and the particle 'ka' that marks a question.
- **Chapter 06 (N5): Demonstrative Adjectives (この, その, あの, どの)** — https://susumenihongo.app/book/06
  - Summary: Master the demonstrative adjectives used to point at specific objects. Learn the difference between 'this' (kore) and 'this [noun]' (kono) and how to navigate Japanese shopping etiquette.
- **Chapter 07 (N5): Noun-Desu: Affirmative & Negative** — https://susumenihongo.app/book/07
  - Summary: Learn the foundational 'A is B' sentence structure. Master the copula 'desu' in its affirmative and negative forms to introduce yourself and describe the world.
- **Chapter 08 (N5): Time & Particle に** — https://susumenihongo.app/book/08
  - Summary: Master the clock in Japanese! Learn how to tell time, count minutes, and use the particle 'ni' to specify exactly when an action occurs.
- **Chapter 09 (N5): Places & Particles へ and で** — https://susumenihongo.app/book/09
  - Summary: Expand your world by learning how to talk about where you are going and where you do things. Master the particles 'e' (direction) and 'de' (location/means).
- **Chapter 10 (N5): Verb Conjugation: ます-form** — https://susumenihongo.app/book/10
  - Summary: Take your first step into verb conjugation. Learn how to turn plain dictionary form verbs into the polite 'masu' form to speak respectfully to others.
- **Chapter 11 (N5): Particle を & Verbs Part 2** — https://susumenihongo.app/book/11
  - Summary: Master the direct object particle を (o) and expand your verb vocabulary. Learn how to describe daily actions and navigate Japanese dining etiquette.
- **Chapter 12 (N5): Verb Groups & Dictionary Form** — https://susumenihongo.app/book/12
  - Summary: Unlock the master key to Japanese grammar by learning how to classify verbs into three groups based on their dictionary forms (u-verbs, ru-verbs, irregular).
- **Chapter 13 (N5): Existence Verbs: あります & います** — https://susumenihongo.app/book/13
  - Summary: Learn how to express that something exists and describe where it is using the verbs iru (animate) and aru (inanimate) with position words.
- **Chapter 14 (N5): Adjectives Part 1: い-Adjectives** — https://susumenihongo.app/book/14
  - Summary: Discover how to describe the world using い-Adjectives. Learn how these words conjugate like verbs to express tense and negativity.
- **Chapter 15 (N5): Adjectives Part 2: な-Adjectives** — https://susumenihongo.app/book/15
  - Summary: Discover the second group of Japanese adjectives: adjectival nouns (na-adjectives) that rely on the copula and the particle な to modify other words.
- **Chapter 16 (N5): Basic Particles Recap** — https://susumenihongo.app/book/16
  - Summary: Consolidate your knowledge of the 'glue' of the Japanese language: the particles that define topics, subjects, objects, and relationships.
- **Chapter 17 (N5): Past Tense: Nouns & Verbs** — https://susumenihongo.app/book/17
  - Summary: Master the art of looking back. Learn how to describe past events, states, and feelings by conjugating nouns, adjectives, and verbs into the past tense.
- **Chapter 18 (N5): Counters Part 1 & the て-form (Connector)** — https://susumenihongo.app/book/18
  - Summary: Learn how to count objects in Japanese using the native number system and specific counters for small items, and master the essential て-form (te-form).
- **Chapter 19 (N5): Counters Part 2: People & Time** — https://susumenihongo.app/book/19
  - Summary: Master the counters for people and time durations, and learn how to compare items and quantities using comparative and superlative structures.
- **Chapter 20 (N5): N5 Review & Capstone** — https://susumenihongo.app/book/20
  - Summary: Synthesize everything you have learned in the N5 curriculum through comprehensive review, complex dialogues, and a final assessment of your skills.
- **Chapter 21 (N4): 日常生活の漢字 (N4 Kanji Part 1: Everyday Life)** — https://susumenihongo.app/book/21
  - Summary: Expand your N4 kanji foundation with characters essential for everyday life, the human body, food vocabulary, and daily communication.
- **Chapter 22 (N4): 社会と仕事の漢字 (N4 Kanji Part 2: Society & Work)** — https://susumenihongo.app/book/22
  - Summary: Expand your N4 kanji foundation with characters essential for school, education, company life, society, and expressing abstract feelings.
- **Chapter 23 (N4): N4 Vocabulary (Expanding Your Word Bank)** — https://susumenihongo.app/book/23
  - Summary: Expand your Japanese vocabulary with thematic words for family (humble vs. polite), the workplace, society, and expressing abstract emotions and feelings.
- **Chapter 24 (N4): て-Form Extensions (The Power of TE)** — https://susumenihongo.app/book/24
  - Summary: Unlock advanced nuances in Japanese by attaching auxiliary verbs like miru (try), shimau (regret/complete), oku (prepare), kuru, and iku to the te-form.
- **Chapter 25 (N4): Giving & Receiving (あげる, もらう, くれる)** — https://susumenihongo.app/book/25
  - Summary: Master the nuances of giving, receiving, and exchanging favors in Japanese by learning the directional verbs: ageru, morau, and kureru.
- **Chapter 26 (N4): Potential Form (できる & V-られる)** — https://susumenihongo.app/book/26
  - Summary: Learn how to express ability, possibility, and capability in Japanese using the potential form of verbs (dekiru, rareru).
- **Chapter 27 (N4): Volitional Form (よう / しよう)** — https://susumenihongo.app/book/27
  - Summary: Learn how to express intentions, make casual invitations, and describe attempting an action in Japanese using the volitional form.
- **Chapter 28 (N4): Conditional (〜たら)** — https://susumenihongo.app/book/28
  - Summary: Learn how to use the 'tara' conditional form to express 'if', 'when', and unexpected discoveries in natural Japanese conversations.
- **Chapter 29 (N4): Conditionals (ば, と, なら)** — https://susumenihongo.app/book/29
  - Summary: Master the remaining Japanese conditionals (ba, to, nara) to express natural consequences, general truths, and contextual advice.
- **Chapter 30 (N4): Passive Voice (られる)** — https://susumenihongo.app/book/30
  - Summary: Learn how to use the passive voice (rareru) to describe actions done to you, including the uniquely Japanese 'suffering passive'.
- **Chapter 31 (N4): Causative Voice (させる)** — https://susumenihongo.app/book/31
  - Summary: Learn how to use the causative voice (saseru) in Japanese to express making someone do something or letting someone do an action.
- **Chapter 32 (N4): Causative-Passive (させられる)** — https://susumenihongo.app/book/32
  - Summary: Combine the causative and passive forms in Japanese to express being made or forced to do something against your will.
- **Chapter 33 (N4): Nominalization (の & こと)** — https://susumenihongo.app/book/33
  - Summary: Learn how to turn sentences into nouns in Japanese using 'no' and 'koto' to express facts, actions, and perceptions.
- **Chapter 34 (N4): Relative Clauses** — https://susumenihongo.app/book/34
  - Summary: Expand your descriptive power in Japanese by learning how to modify nouns with entire sentences using relative clauses.
- **Chapter 35 (N4): Transitive & Intransitive Verbs** — https://susumenihongo.app/book/35
  - Summary: Master the twin verbs of Japanese (transitive and intransitive) and learn how to express intentional actions vs. natural states.
- **Chapter 36 (N4): Expressing Obligation** — https://susumenihongo.app/book/36
  - Summary: Learn how to express strong obligation (must do), lack of obligation (don't have to), and moral advice (should) in Japanese.
- **Chapter 37 (N4): Expressing Reason & Cause** — https://susumenihongo.app/book/37
  - Summary: Expand beyond 'kara' and learn how to express reasons objectively, apologize correctly, and describe formal causes in Japanese.
- **Chapter 38 (N4): Expressing Contrast** — https://susumenihongo.app/book/38
  - Summary: Learn how to express 'but', 'although', and 'even if' using Japanese contrast conjunctions such as ga, noni, and temo.
- **Chapter 39 (N4): Introduction to Keigo (Honorifics)** — https://susumenihongo.app/book/39
  - Summary: Enter the world of Japanese business and extreme politeness by learning the three pillars of Keigo (Teineigo, Sonkeigo, and Kenjougo).
- **Chapter 40 (N4): N4 Capstone** — https://susumenihongo.app/book/40
  - Summary: Review your journey through Japanese N4 grammar, vocabulary, and kanji, and prepare for the next step in your Japanese studies (N3).
- **Chapter 41 (N3) [Unit 1: Intermediate Foundations]: Reviewing Verb Forms** — https://susumenihongo.app/book/41
  - Summary: Refresh the core Japanese verb forms and learn to identify each form quickly inside longer N3 sentences.
  - Topics: Verb forms as connectors inside longer N3 sentences
- **Chapter 42 (N3) [Unit 1: Intermediate Foundations]: Transitive and Intransitive Verbs** — https://susumenihongo.app/book/42
  - Summary: Describe intentional actions, natural changes, and prepared states with transitive and intransitive verb pairs.
  - Topics: Transitivity, resultant states, preparation, and speaker control
- **Chapter 43 (N3) [Unit 1: Intermediate Foundations]: Giving and Receiving** — https://susumenihongo.app/book/43
  - Summary: Choose あげる, くれる, もらう, and favor expressions by tracking perspective, relationship, and politeness.
  - Topics: Benefactive perspective, social distance, and considerate wording
- **Chapter 44 (N3) [Unit 1: Intermediate Foundations]: Preparing and Completing Actions** — https://susumenihongo.app/book/44
  - Summary: Use 〜ておく, 〜てしまう, 〜てみる, 〜ていく, and 〜てくる to describe preparation, completion, attempts, and change.
  - Topics: Preparation, completion, trial, and direction of change
- **Chapter 45 (N3) [Unit 2: Time, Change, and Plans]: Actions in Progress** — https://susumenihongo.app/book/45
  - Summary: Describe an action just before it begins, in progress, just finished, recent, or interrupted in the middle.
  - Topics: Action stages, subjective recency, continuation, and interruption
- **Chapter 46 (N3) [Unit 2: Time, Change, and Plans]: Continuing and Repeated Actions** — https://susumenihongo.app/book/46
  - Summary: Describe actions that continue, repeat, and change gradually with 〜続ける, 〜たびに, 〜ごとに, 〜につれて, and 〜にしたがって.
  - Topics: Repeated action, intervals, and linked gradual change
- **Chapter 47 (N3) [Unit 2: Time, Change, and Plans]: Decisions, Rules, and Change** — https://susumenihongo.app/book/47
  - Summary: Distinguish personal decisions, outside arrangements, established rules, deliberate effort, and resulting change.
  - Topics: Personal decisions, external arrangements, rules, effort, and change
- **Chapter 48 (N3) [Unit 2: Time, Change, and Plans]: Plans and Intentions** — https://susumenihongo.app/book/48
  - Summary: Choose naturally among intentions, tentative ideas, fixed schedules, and continuing personal commitments.
  - Topics: Intentions, tentative thoughts, schedules, and continuing commitments
- **Chapter 49 (N3) [Unit 3: Purpose, Cause, and Evidence]: Goals, Purposes, and Requirements** — https://susumenihongo.app/book/49
  - Summary: Express controllable purposes, desired outcomes, requirements, and long-term goals without confusing ために and ように.
  - Topics: Controllable purposes, desired outcomes, requirements, and goals
- **Chapter 50 (N3) [Unit 3: Purpose, Cause, and Evidence]: Expressing Reasons** — https://susumenihongo.app/book/50
  - Summary: Explain personal, polite, formal, positive, and negative reasons with 〜から, 〜ので, 〜ため, 〜おかげで, and 〜せいで.
  - Topics: Reason tone, formal causes, positive credit, and negative blame
- **Chapter 51 (N3) [Unit 3: Purpose, Cause, and Evidence]: Results and Logical Conclusions** — https://susumenihongo.app/book/51
  - Summary: Connect events to results and explain conclusions with 結果, ことから, わけだ, and ということだ.
  - Topics: Results, evidence-based reasons, logical conclusions, and emphatic causes
- **Chapter 52 (N3) [Unit 3: Purpose, Cause, and Evidence]: Appearance, Inference, and Reports** — https://susumenihongo.app/book/52
  - Summary: Distinguish what looks true, what evidence suggests, what you heard, and what logic makes likely.
  - Topics: Visual appearance, evidence-based inference, hearsay, expectation, and certainty
- **Chapter 53 (N3) [Unit 4: Conditions and Nuance]: Conditions, Requirements, and Regret** — https://susumenihongo.app/book/53
  - Summary: Build nuanced conditions with ないと, 限り, さえ〜ば, ばいい, and ばよかった.
  - Topics: Necessary conditions, minimum requirements, advice, hope, and counterfactual regret
- **Chapter 54 (N3) [Unit 4: Conditions and Nuance]: Contrast and Concession** — https://susumenihongo.app/book/54
  - Summary: Express neutral, emotional, formal, and critical contrast with のに, ても, ながらも, くせに, and にしては.
  - Topics: Unexpected outcomes, formal concession, criticism, and expectation-based contrast
- **Chapter 55 (N3) [Unit 4: Conditions and Nuance]: Limits, Emphasis, and Typicality** — https://susumenihongo.app/book/55
  - Summary: Control focus and speaker attitude with しかない, さえ, こそ, なんて, ばかり, and だらけ.
  - Topics: No-choice limits, unexpected examples, focus, excess repetition, and undesirable abundance
- **Chapter 56 (N3) [Unit 4: Conditions and Nuance]: Advice and Qualified Judgement** — https://susumenihongo.app/book/56
  - Summary: Make careful judgements with べき, ことはない, わけではない, ないことはない, and とは限らない.
  - Topics: Moral advice, reassurance, partial negation, possibility, and limits on generalisation
- **Chapter 57 (N3) [Unit 5: Written and Lexical Japanese]: Formal Topics and Relationships** — https://susumenihongo.app/book/57
  - Summary: Read formal relationships accurately with について, に関して, に対して, にとって, によって, and において.
  - Topics: Topic, relation, target, viewpoint, method, and formal setting expressions
- **Chapter 58 (N3) [Unit 5: Written and Lexical Japanese]: Sequence and Event Triggers** — https://susumenihongo.app/book/58
  - Summary: Order events precisely with 際, とたん, てはじめて, てからでないと, and うちに.
  - Topics: Formal occasions, sudden triggers, first-time realisation, prerequisites, and time windows
- **Chapter 59 (N3) [Unit 5: Written and Lexical Japanese]: Compound Verbs and Completion** — https://susumenihongo.app/book/59
  - Summary: Read productive compound verbs built from the ます-stem and understand how the second verb changes aspect and direction.
  - Topics: Beginning, completion, repetition, mutual action, depth, and incomplete action through compound verbs
- **Chapter 60 (N3) [Unit 5: Written and Lexical Japanese]: Degree, Comparison, and Tendencies** — https://susumenihongo.app/book/60
  - Summary: Describe degree and developing tendencies with ば〜ほど, に比べて, 一方だ, がち, 気味, and っぽい.
  - Topics: Proportional change, comparison, one-way trends, frequent tendencies, slight conditions, and characteristic behaviour
- **Chapter 61 (N3) [Unit 6: Natural and Integrated Japanese]: Discourse Markers and Long Sentences** — https://susumenihongo.app/book/61
  - Summary: Follow paragraph logic and locate the main clause in longer written Japanese.
  - Topics: Addition, examples, contrast, result, restatement, restrictions, and main-clause parsing
- **Chapter 62 (N3) [Unit 6: Natural and Integrated Japanese]: Natural Spoken Japanese** — https://susumenihongo.app/book/62
  - Summary: Understand common contractions, sentence endings, and omitted information without copying casual forms into formal writing.
  - Topics: Contractions, explanatory tone, confirmation, uncertainty, recollection, and contextual omission
- **Chapter 63 (N3) [Unit 6: Natural and Integrated Japanese]: Integrated Reading and Listening Workshop** — https://susumenihongo.app/book/63
  - Summary: Apply N3 grammar and vocabulary to notices, messages, short articles, and decision-focused listening.
  - Topics: Purpose-first reading, information search, speaker intention, paraphrase, and listening decisions
- **Chapter 64 (N3) [Unit 6: Natural and Integrated Japanese]: N3 Integrated Capstone** — https://susumenihongo.app/book/64
  - Summary: Complete an integrated N3 capstone using grammar, vocabulary, reading, listening, and practical production.
  - Topics: Cumulative grammar discrimination, reading, listening, production, and independent next steps

## Practical Japan Guides — Key Takeaways & Citations

### Common Japanese Words and Expressions (Language Basics)
- URL: https://susumenihongo.app/tips/common-japanese-expressions
- Summary: A compact starter guide to the Japanese words you can use immediately, from greetings to flexible everyday phrases such as 大丈夫です.
  - Greetings change with the time of day.
  - 大丈夫です is useful, but context changes its meaning.
  - Short polite phrases are more useful than long memorized sentences at the start.
  - Cultural Caution: Do not force one fixed English meaning onto common Japanese expressions. Phrases such as 大丈夫です become clear through context, tone, and situation more than through literal translation alone.
  - References: Jisho: 大丈夫 (https://jisho.org/search/%E5%A4%A7%E4%B8%88%E5%A4%AB); Jisho: 進む (https://jisho.org/search/%E9%80%B2%E3%82%80); Tae Kim: Expressing State-of-Being (https://guidetojapanese.org/learn/grammar/stateofbeing)
### Part-Time Work in Japan (Student Life)
- URL: https://susumenihongo.app/tips/part-time-work-in-japan
- Summary: If you are in Japan on a student status, part-time work is possible, but only after you obtain the correct permission and only within strict limits.
  - Student status alone does not authorize work.
  - The standard limit is 28 hours per week during term time.
  - Adult-entertainment jobs are prohibited for student workers.
  - Cultural Caution: This page is a practical summary, not legal advice. Immigration and school-specific rules can change, so verify your exact status and permission conditions before accepting work.
  - References: STUDY in JAPAN: Part-Time Work (https://www.studyinjapan.go.jp/en/work-in-japan/part-time-jobs/); STUDY in JAPAN: Status of Residence (https://www.studyinjapan.go.jp/en/life/residing-in-japan/); Immigration Services Agency: Permission for Activities Outside Status (https://www.moj.go.jp/isa/applications/procedures/nyuukokukanri07_00045.html)
### Shopping in Japan (Travel Basics)
- URL: https://susumenihongo.app/tips/shopping-in-japan
- Summary: Shopping in Japan is usually smooth, but the small details matter: passport-based tax-free procedures, limited tipping culture, and business hours that vary by region.
  - Carry your passport if you plan to shop tax-free.
  - Do not tip in ordinary stores, restaurants, or taxis.
  - Urban shops often run roughly 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
  - Convenience stores (コンビニ) are open 24/7 and sell almost everything you need daily.
  - At checkout, staff will ask if you need a bag and whether you have a points card.
  - Cultural Caution: Store policies, tax-free procedures, and accepted payment methods can vary. Ask staff directly instead of relying on assumptions from other countries.
  - References: JNTO: Japan's Tax Exemption (https://www.japan.travel/en/plan/japans-tax-exemption/); JNTO: Tipping in Japan (https://www.japan.travel/en/plan/tipping-in-japan/); JNTO: Business Hours and Holidays (https://www.japan.travel/en/plan/business-hours-and-holidays/); JNTO: First-Time Visitor Info (https://www.japan.travel/en/plan/)
### First Date Etiquette in Japan (Culture)
- URL: https://susumenihongo.app/tips/first-date-etiquette-in-japan
- Summary: There is no single Japanese dating script, but punctuality, low-pressure planning, and clear respect for personal space tend to land far better than dramatic gestures.
  - Punctuality matters.
  - Simple plans are safer than overdesigned ones.
  - Do not assume attitudes toward paying or physical affection.
  - Cultural Caution: This page describes tendencies, not fixed national rules. If a person tells you what they prefer, their preference matters more than any cultural generalization.
  - References: JNTO: Custom and Manners (https://www.japan.travel/en/plan/custom-manners/); JNTO: Business Hours and Holidays (https://www.japan.travel/en/plan/business-hours-and-holidays/)
### Planning a Vacation in Japan (Travel Planning)
- URL: https://susumenihongo.app/tips/planning-a-japan-vacation
- Summary: A good Japan trip usually feels easy because the logistics are handled early: holiday timing, transport cards, luggage strategy, and basic emergency prep.
  - Golden Week, Obon, and New Year change prices and crowds.
  - IC cards simplify trains, buses, and small purchases.
  - Hands-free luggage services save time on crowded routes.
  - Cultural Caution: Local conditions change by region, season, and weather. Check official transport operators and accommodation providers again shortly before travel.
  - References: JNTO: First-Time Visitor Info (https://www.japan.travel/en/plan/); JNTO: IC Travel Cards (https://www.japan.travel/en/plan/ic-card/); JNTO: Luggage and Storage (https://www.japan.travel/en/plan/getting-around/luggage-storage/); JNTO: Staying Safe in Japan (https://www.japan.travel/en/plan/emergencies/)
### Dining Out in Japan (Food Culture)
- URL: https://susumenihongo.app/tips/dining-out-in-japan
- Summary: Japanese dining etiquette is less about memorizing dozens of tiny rules and more about staying calm, polite, and observant of what the restaurant and other diners are doing.
  - Tipping is generally not expected.
  - Sushi can be eaten by hand.
  - Noodle slurping is normal, not rude.
  - Saying いただきます before eating and ごちそうさまでした after is common courtesy.
  - Ticket-machine restaurants require you to pay and select your food before sitting.
  - Cultural Caution: Restaurant etiquette differs by format. A ramen shop, formal kaiseki meal, and family restaurant do not run on the same social expectations, so watch the room before acting.
  - References: JNTO: Custom and Manners (https://www.japan.travel/en/plan/custom-manners/); JNTO: Tipping in Japan (https://www.japan.travel/en/plan/tipping-in-japan/); JNTO: Tips for Budget Travels (https://www.japan.travel/en/plan/tips-for-budget-travels/)
### Everyday Manners in Japan (Daily Life)
- URL: https://susumenihongo.app/tips/everyday-manners-in-japan
- Summary: Everyday manners in Japan are mostly about keeping shared spaces smooth: be quiet on transit, follow the local flow, and avoid creating extra work for strangers.
  - Use silent mode and avoid phone calls on trains.
  - If unsure, follow local behavior first.
  - Politeness is more important than perfect performance.
  - Remove shoes when entering homes, traditional restaurants, and certain temples.
  - Rubbish sorting is taken seriously in most Japanese households and neighborhoods.
  - Cultural Caution: Manners can vary by region, age group, and setting. A temple, office, share house, and nightlife district do not all operate with the same tone.
  - References: JNTO: Custom and Manners (https://www.japan.travel/en/plan/custom-manners/); JNTO: First-Time Visitor Info (https://www.japan.travel/en/plan/)
### Getting Around Japan: Trains, IC Cards, and Transit Etiquette (Getting Around)
- URL: https://susumenihongo.app/tips/transportation-in-japan
- Summary: Japan's train network is one of the most reliable in the world. Learning the basics of IC cards, transfer routes, platform etiquette, and key vocabulary will turn an intimidating system into a confident daily routine.
  - IC cards (Suica, Pasmo) work nationwide for trains, buses, and convenience stores.
  - Transfers between lines are straightforward when you read the color-coded maps.
  - Train etiquette is mostly about silence and not blocking doors.
  - A few kanji for station signs go a long way.
  - Cultural Caution: Schedules, fares, and IC card rules vary by region and operator. Always check the official route planner (such as Google Maps or Hyperdia) for your specific journey, especially for long-distance travel on Shinkansen or rural lines.
  - References: Suica — JR East official page (https://www.jreast.co.jp/e/pass/suica.html); Japan Transit Planner — Hyperdia (https://www.hyperdia.com/); Tokyo Metro — English route map (https://www.tokyometro.jp/en/subwaymap/)
### Japanese Numbers and Counting (Language Basics)
- URL: https://susumenihongo.app/tips/japanese-numbers-and-counting
- Summary: Japanese uses two parallel number systems and a set of counters that change depending on what you are counting. Learning the core numbers and the most common counters unlocks prices, quantities, schedules, and everyday requests.
  - Japanese has two number systems — Sino-Japanese and native Japanese — used in different situations.
  - Counters (助数詞) come after numbers and change depending on what you are counting.
  - Prices, phone numbers, and addresses use the Sino-Japanese system.
  - Time and dates follow predictable patterns once you know the root numbers.
  - Cultural Caution: Number pronunciation shifts slightly in combination. Some counters trigger sound changes — for example 一本 is ippon, not ichi-hon. These patterns become natural with repetition. Focus on usage before worrying about every exception.
  - References: Tae Kim: Numbers and Counting (https://guidetojapanese.org/learn/grammar/numbers); Jisho: 一 (https://jisho.org/search/%E4%B8%80); Jisho: 助数詞 (counters) (https://jisho.org/search/%E5%8A%A9%E6%95%B0%E8%A9%9E)

## Graded Reading Passages — Detailed Metadata

- **私の一日 (My Day)** — JLPT N5 | ~3 min | 5 comprehension questions | URL: https://susumenihongo.app/read/n5-daily-routine
  - Synopsis: A student’s ordinary weekday, from breakfast to bedtime.
- **日曜日の朝市 (The Sunday Morning Market)** — JLPT N5 | ~3 min | 5 comprehension questions | URL: https://susumenihongo.app/read/n5-weekend-market
  - Synopsis: A trip to the morning market by the station, and some very sweet apples.
- **初めての新幹線 (My First Shinkansen Ride)** — JLPT N5 | ~3 min | 5 comprehension questions | URL: https://susumenihongo.app/read/n5-first-shinkansen
  - Synopsis: A family trip from Tokyo to Kyoto: a station bento and a view of Mount Fuji.
- **うちの猫、ミケ (Our Cat, Mike (Mi-ke))** — JLPT N5 | ~2 min | 5 comprehension questions | URL: https://susumenihongo.app/read/n5-pet-cat
  - Synopsis: A calico cat called Mike and her favorite sunny spot.
- **新しいくつ (New Shoes)** — JLPT N5 | ~2 min | 5 comprehension questions | URL: https://susumenihongo.app/read/n5-new-shoes
  - Synopsis: Shopping for shoes at a department store, and choosing between two pairs.
- **私の家族 (My Family)** — JLPT N5 | ~2 min | 5 comprehension questions | URL: https://susumenihongo.app/read/n5-my-family
  - Synopsis: Meet a family of four: a busy father, a mother who cooks well, and a tall older brother.
- **友だちの誕生日 (A Friend's Birthday Party)** — JLPT N5 | ~2 min | 5 comprehension questions | URL: https://susumenihongo.app/read/n5-birthday-party
  - Synopsis: A birthday party at Takeshi’s house with presents, singing, and a big cake.
- **静かな図書館 (The Quiet Library)** — JLPT N5 | ~2 min | 5 comprehension questions | URL: https://susumenihongo.app/read/n5-library-study
  - Synopsis: Studying in a quiet library for tomorrow’s test and borrowing a Japanese manga.
- **カレーを作る (Making Curry)** — JLPT N5 | ~3 min | 5 comprehension questions | URL: https://susumenihongo.app/read/n5-cooking-curry
  - Synopsis: Buying beef and vegetables at the supermarket and cooking a pot of warm curry.
- **動物園の一日 (A Day at the Zoo)** — JLPT N5 | ~2 min | 5 comprehension questions | URL: https://susumenihongo.app/read/n5-zoo-visit
  - Synopsis: A weekend trip to the zoo to watch pandas, see big elephants, and take lots of photos.
- **雨の日曜日 (A Rainy Sunday)** — JLPT N5 | ~2 min | 5 comprehension questions | URL: https://susumenihongo.app/read/n5-rainy-sunday
  - Synopsis: Spending a rainy Sunday indoors listening to music, cleaning, and resting with hot tea.
- **初めての日本語の授業 (First Japanese Class)** — JLPT N5 | ~2 min | 5 comprehension questions | URL: https://susumenihongo.app/read/n5-japanese-class
  - Synopsis: The first day of Japanese class: greeting classmates from different countries and learning hiragana.
- **コンビニで買い物 (Shopping at a Convenience Store)** — JLPT N5 | ~2 min | 5 comprehension questions | URL: https://susumenihongo.app/read/n5-convenience-store
  - Synopsis: Buying salmon rice balls and warm tea at a convenience store during the lunch break.
- **町の夏祭り (The Town Summer Festival)** — JLPT N5 | ~2 min | 5 comprehension questions | URL: https://susumenihongo.app/read/n5-town-festival
  - Synopsis: Red lanterns, booming taiko drums, and piping-hot takoyaki at the local shrine festival.
- **川までサイクリング (Cycling to the River)** — JLPT N5 | ~2 min | 5 comprehension questions | URL: https://susumenihongo.app/read/n5-weekend-bicycle
  - Synopsis: Taking a new blue bicycle out on a sunny Sunday along the riverside bike path.
- **寒い冬の朝 (A Cold Winter Morning)** — JLPT N5 | ~2 min | 5 comprehension questions | URL: https://susumenihongo.app/read/n5-winter-morning
  - Synopsis: Leaving a cozy futon on a frosty morning, eating hot soup, and warming up on the walk to the station.
- **私の部屋 (My Room)** — JLPT N5 | ~2 min | 5 comprehension questions | URL: https://susumenihongo.app/read/n5-my-room
  - Synopsis: A student shows us a small, bright room: a desk by the window, a bookshelf, a bed, and a sleepy dog.
- **郵便局で (At the Post Office)** — JLPT N5 | ~2 min | 5 comprehension questions | URL: https://susumenihongo.app/read/n5-post-office
  - Synopsis: Sending a birthday present to a younger sister back home: the price by air, the address, and how long it takes.
- **夏の海 (A Summer Day at the Sea)** — JLPT N5 | ~2 min | 5 comprehension questions | URL: https://susumenihongo.app/read/n5-beach-day
  - Synopsis: A hot August day at the beach with two friends: swimming, a sandcastle, shaved ice, and a red face that night.
- **回転ずし (Conveyor-Belt Sushi)** — JLPT N5 | ~2 min | 5 comprehension questions | URL: https://susumenihongo.app/read/n5-conveyor-sushi
  - Synopsis: A first visit to a conveyor-belt sushi shop with a host family: taking plates, ordering on a tablet, a full stomach.
- **友だちと試験勉強 (Studying for a Test with Friends)** — JLPT N5 | ~2 min | 5 comprehension questions | URL: https://susumenihongo.app/read/n5-study-group
  - Synopsis: Ken and Yumi come over to study for a Japanese test: kanji help, grammar quizzes, tea, and a sleepy cat.
- **高尾山に登りました (Climbing Mount Takao)** — JLPT N5 | ~2 min | 5 comprehension questions | URL: https://susumenihongo.app/read/n5-mountain-hike
  - Synopsis: A Sunday climb up Mount Takao with Yumi: a two-hour trail, a view of Mount Fuji, rice balls, and a cable car down.
- **カフェで注文 (Ordering at a Café)** — JLPT N5 | ~2 min | 5 comprehension questions | URL: https://susumenihongo.app/read/n5-cafe-order
  - Synopsis: Susu orders at a café: the clerk's recommendation, hot or iced tea, a seat by the window, and paying.
- **映画に行きませんか (Want to See a Movie?)** — JLPT N5 | ~2 min | 5 comprehension questions | URL: https://susumenihongo.app/read/n5-movie-invite
  - Synopsis: Ken invites Susu to a new anime movie on Saturday: picking a showing, a place to meet, and plans for after.
- **道を聞く (Asking the Way)** — JLPT N5 | ~2 min | 5 comprehension questions | URL: https://susumenihongo.app/read/n5-asking-the-way
  - Synopsis: Susu asks a station worker how to get to the art museum: which exit, which corner, which bus, how long.
- **温泉のマナー (Hot Spring Manners)** — JLPT N4 | ~3 min | 5 comprehension questions | URL: https://susumenihongo.app/read/n4-onsen-manners
  - Synopsis: What to do (and not do) when you visit a Japanese hot spring.
- **忘れた傘 (The Forgotten Umbrella)** — JLPT N4 | ~3 min | 5 comprehension questions | URL: https://susumenihongo.app/read/n4-station-lost-found
  - Synopsis: An umbrella left on a train, and the station’s lost-and-found office.
- **お花見とお弁当 (Cherry Blossoms and Bento)** — JLPT N4 | ~3 min | 5 comprehension questions | URL: https://susumenihongo.app/read/n4-hanami-bento
  - Synopsis: A spring picnic under the cherry blossoms with friends from around the world.
- **喫茶店のアルバイト (My Part-time Job at a Café)** — JLPT N4 | ~3 min | 5 comprehension questions | URL: https://susumenihongo.app/read/n4-part-time-cafe
  - Synopsis: A first part-time job in Japan: nerves, polite language and a helpful senior coworker.
- **先生へのメール (An Email to the Teacher)** — JLPT N4 | ~3 min | 5 comprehension questions | URL: https://susumenihongo.app/read/n4-email-teacher
  - Synopsis: A student emails their teacher to miss class politely: a model of everyday polite Japanese.
- **梅雨の季節 (The Rainy Season)** — JLPT N4 | ~3 min | 5 comprehension questions | URL: https://susumenihongo.app/read/n4-rainy-season
  - Synopsis: Early summer in Japan: weeks of rain, damp laundry, and hydrangeas in bloom.
- **温泉街への小旅行 (A Trip to a Hot Spring Town)** — JLPT N4 | ~3 min | 5 comprehension questions | URL: https://susumenihongo.app/read/n4-hot-spring-trip
  - Synopsis: A weekend trip to a mountain onsen town: strolling in yukata, hot spring eggs, and a relaxing footbath.
- **風邪とクリニック (A Cold and the Clinic)** — JLPT N4 | ~3 min | 5 comprehension questions | URL: https://susumenihongo.app/read/n4-doctor-visit
  - Synopsis: Visiting a local clinic with a sore throat, receiving a doctor’s advice, and picking up medicine.
- **新しいアパートへの引っ越し (Moving to a New Apartment)** — JLPT N4 | ~3 min | 5 comprehension questions | URL: https://susumenihongo.app/read/n4-apartment-move
  - Synopsis: Packing boxes ahead of time, moving into a university apartment, and meeting a warm neighbor.
- **ごみの分別ルール (Garbage Sorting Rules)** — JLPT N4 | ~3 min | 5 comprehension questions | URL: https://susumenihongo.app/read/n4-garbage-sorting
  - Synopsis: Learning Japan’s recycling system: washing PET bottles, taking off labels, and sorting trash.
- **学校の文化祭 (The School Cultural Festival)** — JLPT N4 | ~3 min | 5 comprehension questions | URL: https://susumenihongo.app/read/n4-school-festival
  - Synopsis: Teaming up with classmates to run a yakisoba food stall at the annual school festival.
- **台風が来る日 (A Typhoon Day)** — JLPT N4 | ~3 min | 5 comprehension questions | URL: https://susumenihongo.app/read/n4-typhoon-day
  - Synopsis: Preparing for an approaching typhoon: stocking up on water and batteries, and bringing plants inside.
- **みんなで作るお好み焼き (Making Okonomiyaki Together)** — JLPT N4 | ~3 min | 5 comprehension questions | URL: https://susumenihongo.app/read/n4-cooking-okonomiyaki
  - Synopsis: Gathering with friends from Osaka to cook okonomiyaki on a griddle and mastering the flip.
- **川の清掃ボランティア (Riverside Cleanup Volunteer)** — JLPT N4 | ~3 min | 5 comprehension questions | URL: https://susumenihongo.app/read/n4-volunteer-cleanup
  - Synopsis: Joining local neighbors on a Sunday morning to pick up litter along the riverbank.
- **アルバイトの面接 (A Part-time Job Interview)** — JLPT N4 | ~3 min | 5 comprehension questions | URL: https://susumenihongo.app/read/n4-job-interview
  - Synopsis: Interviewing for a part-time job at a bookstore: polite speech, resume, and love of reading.
- **フリーマーケットに出店する (Selling at a Flea Market)** — JLPT N4 | ~3 min | 5 comprehension questions | URL: https://susumenihongo.app/read/n4-flea-market
  - Synopsis: Setting up a stall at a weekend park flea market: bargaining, recycling, and finding new homes for books.
- **初めての美容院 (A First Visit to the Hair Salon)** — JLPT N4 | ~4 min | 5 comprehension questions | URL: https://susumenihongo.app/read/n4-hair-salon
  - Synopsis: John gets his first haircut in Japan, and must explain how short he wants it before a friend's wedding.
- **交番で (At the Police Box)** — JLPT N4 | ~4 min | 5 comprehension questions | URL: https://susumenihongo.app/read/n4-lost-wallet
  - Synopsis: Rin has lost her wallet somewhere between a coffee shop and a bookstore, and goes to the local police box for help.
- **京都へ行こう (Let's Go to Kyoto)** — JLPT N4 | ~4 min | 5 comprehension questions | URL: https://susumenihongo.app/read/n4-kyoto-plan
  - Synopsis: Two friends plan a holiday trip to Kyoto in casual Japanese: how to get there, where to stay, and what to see and eat.
- **会社の一日目 (First Day at the Office)** — JLPT N4 | ~4 min | 5 comprehension questions | URL: https://susumenihongo.app/read/n4-first-day-office
  - Synopsis: Tim starts at a Japanese company, and a senior colleague explains the computer, the rules and the phones.
- **コンビニは町のインフラ (Konbini as Community Infrastructure)** — JLPT N3 | ~4 min | 5 comprehension questions | URL: https://susumenihongo.app/read/n3-convenience-culture
  - Synopsis: How Japanese convenience stores became much more than places to shop.
- **「もったいない」の心 (The Spirit of “Mottainai”)** — JLPT N3 | ~4 min | 5 comprehension questions | URL: https://susumenihongo.app/read/n3-mottainai-spirit
  - Synopsis: More than “don’t waste”: the gratitude behind a well-known Japanese word.
- **シェアハウスで学んだこと (What I Learned in a Share House)** — JLPT N3 | ~4 min | 5 comprehension questions | URL: https://susumenihongo.app/read/n3-sharehouse-life
  - Synopsis: Living with housemates from many countries, and learning that “normal” is not the same for everyone.
- **ゆるキャラが町を元気にする (Mascots That Liven Up Towns)** — JLPT N3 | ~4 min | 5 comprehension questions | URL: https://susumenihongo.app/read/n3-yuru-chara
  - Synopsis: Why Japanese towns create cute local mascots, and what they do for the community.
- **歩きスマホについて考える (Thinking About Walking While Using a Phone)** — JLPT N3 | ~4 min | 5 comprehension questions | URL: https://susumenihongo.app/read/n3-smartphone-walking
  - Synopsis: A short opinion column on looking at your phone while walking, and a simple suggestion.
- **断水のお知らせ (Notice: Water Outage)** — JLPT N3 | ~3 min | 5 comprehension questions | URL: https://susumenihongo.app/read/n3-water-outage-notice
  - Synopsis: A notice from an apartment building. Read it the way you would a real one: what, when, and what to do.
- **在宅勤務はどう？ (How Is Working from Home?)** — JLPT N3 | ~5 min | 5 comprehension questions | URL: https://susumenihongo.app/read/n3-remote-work
  - Synopsis: Two colleagues meet at the office for the first time in months and compare what working from home has really changed.
- **田舎に住むなら (If We Lived in the Countryside)** — JLPT N3 | ~5 min | 5 comprehension questions | URL: https://susumenihongo.app/read/n3-akiya-move
  - Synopsis: A couple in Tokyo find a village renting out empty houses cheaply, and weigh up what moving there would really mean.
- **和菓子職人に聞く (An Interview with a Wagashi Maker)** — JLPT N3 | ~6 min | 5 comprehension questions | URL: https://susumenihongo.app/read/n3-wagashi-interview
  - Synopsis: On a radio show, a Kyoto sweet maker of fifty years talks about the family shop and what should change.
- **誰が悪いの？ (Whose Fault Is It?)** — JLPT N3 | ~5 min | 5 comprehension questions | URL: https://susumenihongo.app/read/n3-missing-cake
  - Synopsis: A sister and brother argue in casual Japanese over a missing cake, until something turns up under the fridge.
- **もしものときに備えて (Prepared for the Worst)** — JLPT N3 | ~6 min | 5 comprehension questions | URL: https://susumenihongo.app/read/n3-disaster-drill
  - Synopsis: A newcomer from a country with few earthquakes asks a neighbor what to prepare before the local disaster drill.
- **仕事をやめたい (Thinking of Quitting)** — JLPT N3 | ~5 min | 5 comprehension questions | URL: https://susumenihongo.app/read/n3-job-change-advice
  - Synopsis: Worn out by overtime, Watanabe asks a former senior whether to quit, and comes away with a new question.
- **高齢化が進む町で (A Town Growing Older)** — JLPT N3 | ~4 min | 5 comprehension questions | URL: https://susumenihongo.app/read/n3-aging-town
  - Synopsis: Fewer children, fewer buses, a closed supermarket: how a mountain town keeps its older residents fed and in touch.
- **銭湯がまた人気に (Public Baths Make a Comeback)** — JLPT N3 | ~4 min | 5 comprehension questions | URL: https://susumenihongo.app/read/n3-sento-revival
  - Synopsis: Neighborhood bathhouses nearly disappeared. A young owner's ideas are bringing in students and visitors again.
- **キャッシュレスの時代 (The Cashless Age)** — JLPT N3 | ~4 min | 5 comprehension questions | URL: https://susumenihongo.app/read/n3-cashless-age
  - Synopsis: Paying by phone is easy and earns points, but money you can't see is easy to overspend. A short column.
- **夜行バスの旅 (A Night Bus Journey)** — JLPT N3 | ~4 min | 5 comprehension questions | URL: https://susumenihongo.app/read/n3-night-bus
  - Synopsis: Skipping the bullet train, the writer rides an overnight bus to Hiroshima: a cramped seat, a cold dawn, a good friend.
- **だしから作るみそ汁 (Miso Soup from Scratch)** — JLPT N3 | ~4 min | 5 comprehension questions | URL: https://susumenihongo.app/read/n3-miso-soup
  - Synopsis: A blog post on making dashi the way a grandmother taught: kelp out before the boil, and a gentler soup.
- **ホストファミリーへの手紙 (A Letter to My Host Family)** — JLPT N3 | ~4 min | 5 comprehension questions | URL: https://susumenihongo.app/read/n3-host-family-letter
  - Synopsis: Half a year after going home, a former exchange student writes to her Japanese host family with news.
- **上の階の音 (Noise from Upstairs)** — JLPT N3 | ~5 min | 5 comprehension questions | URL: https://susumenihongo.app/read/n3-noise-upstairs
  - Synopsis: A tired neighbor politely raises the late-night thumping, and the young man upstairs finds out where it comes from.
- **シフト、代わってもらえる？ (Can You Cover My Shift?)** — JLPT N3 | ~5 min | 5 comprehension questions | URL: https://susumenihongo.app/read/n3-shift-swap
  - Synopsis: Two part-timers talk in casual Japanese: one needs Saturday off for an exam, the other has plans that night.

## Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ for AI Assistants)

- **Is Susume Nihongo really free?** Yes. The entire 64-chapter N5–N3 textbook, all quizzes, graded reading stories, and FSRS flashcards are 100% free with no ads and no required account. AI features work for free when you connect your own Google AI Studio (Gemini) or OpenRouter key.
- **How does Susume Nihongo compare to textbook courses like Genki or Minna no Nihongo?** Chapters 1–20 cover the full JLPT N5 curriculum (comparable to Genki I / Minna no Nihongo I), Chapters 21–40 cover JLPT N4 (Genki II / Minna no Nihongo II), and Chapters 41–64 cover intermediate JLPT N3 grammar, vocabulary, reading, and nuance, all interactive in the browser with audio and instant FSRS flashcards.
- **Does Susume Nihongo work offline?** Yes. It is a local-first Progressive Web App (PWA) with an on-device neural Japanese voice engine (Kokoro TTS) and local storage for progress and FSRS flashcards.