Level-Based Curriculum: Your Roadmap for our Japanese Language Course in Kyoto

At Nihongo Center, our programs are designed to provide a clear and progressive learning path. To accurately assess your abilities and place you in the most suitable class, all new students will take a placement test before the semester begins.

Our curriculum aligns closely with both the Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) levels and the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). This means you’re not only preparing for exams but also gaining a clear understanding of what you’ll actually be able to do in real-world situations at each stage of learning.

Beginner Level (JLPT N5 / CEFR A1)

Course Goal: Designed for complete beginners or those with no prior knowledge of Japanese. The aim is to master basic pronunciation, hiragana, katakana, and basic kanji. You will acquire essential sentence patterns and vocabulary for survival in everyday situations, building the confidence to communicate simply.

Upon Completion, You Will Be Able To:

  • Listening & Comprehension: Understand slow, clearly pronounced conversations about daily topics such as self-introduction, family, shopping, etc.
  • Speaking: Introduce yourself and answer simple personal questions (name, nationality, occupation). Use simple words to describe people, places, and things around you.
  • Reading: Recognize and read hiragana, katakana, and basic kanji. Understand basic signage (prices, time, maps) and short textbook sentences.
  • Writing: Fill out simple forms with personal information (e.g., name, address). Write a basic postcard or greeting card.

Elementary Level (JLPT N4 / CEFR A2)

Course Goal: This course elevates your Japanese from survival to social use. You’ll learn more complex sentence structures, expand your vocabulary, and be introduced to basic polite speech (keigo). Emphasis is placed on smoother handling of everyday matters and a deeper understanding of Japanese culture.

Upon Completion, You Will Be Able To:

  • Listening & Comprehension: Understand commonly used phrases related to personal life such as shopping, asking directions, making appointments.
  • Speaking: Exchange information in familiar everyday situations (e.g., ordering in a restaurant, asking about transportation). Describe your background, education, and surroundings.
  • Reading: Read restaurant menus, timetables, flyers, and locate specific information. Understand short articles about Japanese culture.
  • Writing: Write simple notes or messages. Write short personal letters describing experiences or feelings.

Intermediate Level (JLPT N3–N2 / CEFR B1–B2)

This is the key stage where you become an independent Japanese user. The level is divided into two parts to ensure solid progress.

Intermediate I (JLPT N3 / CEFR B1)

Course Goal: Understand familiar topics in work, school, and leisure. Handle most travel-related situations in Japan. Learn to express your experiences and plans in an organized manner.

You Will Be Able To:

  • Understand key points from TV or radio programs on familiar subjects.
  • Engage in conversations on daily topics without prior preparation.
  • Read letters or short texts using common vocabulary.
  • Write simple and coherent texts on topics of personal interest.

Intermediate II (JLPT N2 / CEFR B2)

Course Goal: Communicate fluently and naturally with native speakers. Understand concrete and abstract topics, and participate in technical discussions within your field. Significant improvements in reading and writing.

You Will Be Able To:

  • Comprehend most news, current affairs, and films.
  • Clearly express opinions on a wide range of issues, discussing pros and cons.
  • Read articles, reports, and modern literature on contemporary issues.
  • Write well-structured, detailed reports or letters, clearly expressing your point of view.

Advanced Level (JLPT N1 / CEFR C1)

Course Goal: Develop the ability to use Japanese flexibly and effectively in academic, professional, and social settings. Express complex thoughts fluently and precisely, and appreciate subtle nuances in language.

Upon Completion, You Will Be Able To:

  • Listening & Comprehension: Easily understand speeches, TV programs, and films—even when content is complex or implied.
  • Speaking: Speak fluently and naturally with minimal effort. Present and defend complex ideas clearly and logically.
  • Reading: Read and understand long, complex texts of various styles, including literature, academic papers, and editorials.
  • Writing: Produce logically structured, well-developed long-form writing (e.g., essays, reports), effectively conveying personal opinions on complex topics.