Learn Japanese - Recommended Text

LaTrobe University in Australia uses the Japanese textbook “Genki” for their beginner classes and despite searching and trying various other textbooks, this is my recommendation as a starting point.

Why?  Because it`s an easy-to-understand text, filled with essential

• vocabulary
• grammar
• speaking exercises

It includes the hiragana and katakana tables, showing you the stroke order and basic kanji.  The Genki workbook compliments the textbook, focusing on writing practice and there are slow-listening cds available, perfect for the beginner ear.

Let`s take an in depth look at “Genki 1″. Click the images to view in full size.

Genki Cover

Chapter 1: Dialogue

Vocabulary

Numbers

Grammar

Time

Kanji

The Genki series are a great source for studying Japanese as you can already see. The above text will lay down the foundations necessary to learn Japanese and to learn it well. The only draw-back to this text became evident when I first moved to Japan - it lacks basic role play situations. Walking into a local convenience for the first time was a bit daunting. I had no idea what the staff was saying when I handed her my pork and rice bento (lunchbox).

To compliment the Genki series and aid my learning, I bought a pocket Japanese book which covers pretty much any situation from eating out, travelling around the country and convinience stores.  Another text which I use from time to time is “Japanese for busy poeple”.  I still reguard the Genki series as the best, but don`t let your learning to be limited to only one book.

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