The JLPT 2026 Kanji Challenge has begun
The JLPT is coming up on December 6, and Nihongo’s JLPT 2026 Kanji Challenge has begun!
All of Nihongo’s JLPT kanji flashcard decks, from N5 through N1, are free until test day. Choose the level you’re working toward and get started.
There’s a little extra motivation, too: complete 10 different JLPT decks before December 6 to unlock all the decks in your selected level forever, plus a special Nihongo app icon.
Learn kanji through the words that use them
Kanji usually appear inside words, so Nihongo’s decks start there. You’ll learn common vocabulary using each character and its readings, then practice writing the character yourself. Spaced repetition review brings what you’ve learned back over time.
The goal is to build a feel for a character through familiar words, so the next time you encounter it in something you’re reading, you have a little more to go on.
You can read more about the approach here.
How the challenge works
- Update to the latest version of Nihongo and open the JLPT 2026 Kanji Challenge from Search or Flashcards.
- Choose your JLPT level, from N5 through N1.
- Finish learning a JLPT deck to earn a stamp. Each different deck you newly complete during the challenge counts once.
- Collect 10 stamps before December 6 to earn the special app icon and permanent access to every deck in your selected level.
Whether you’re preparing for the test or just want a reason to spend a little more time with kanji, you’re welcome to take part!
Open the challenge in Nihongo, choose your level, and start with your first deck. Good luck with your studies!