How This Kanji Test Works
This free test covers the kanji for every JLPT level — from the ~100 characters of N5 up to the full N1 inventory — using the same open-data character set as our kanji charts. Pick your level and one of three question types: Kanji → Meaning (the foundation skill), Kanji → Reading (on- and kun-readings in kana), or Meaning → Kanji, the reverse direction that exposes whether you truly know a character or merely recognise it when it's in front of you. Wrong answers in each question are drawn from the same JLPT level, so you're always discriminating between characters you're actually expected to know together.
Meanings, Readings, and Why Both Matter
Learners tend to develop lopsided kanji knowledge: strong on meanings but vague on readings, or able to read compounds aloud without knowing what the parts mean. The exam punishes both gaps — the JLPT's first section is largely kanji readings in context, while reading comprehension collapses if meanings aren't automatic. That's why this test separates the two into distinct question types. A practical rhythm: run a level's meanings to 90%+, then switch the same level to readings, and finish with the reverse direction as a final check. In practice mode, every answer also shows a real example word (like 一つ・ひとつ) so the character connects to vocabulary, not just flashcard trivia.
Modes and Progress
The four modes match our hiragana and katakana tests: Practice with instant feedback and example words, Exam with results only at the end, a 60-second Speed Challenge on your chosen level for automatic recognition, and a Daily Challenge of ten N5 questions that are identical for every visitor each day. Results include the full mistake list plus a "you confuse these" analysis, and you can bookmark stubborn characters for a bookmarks-only session later. Progress and badges are saved in your browser, separately from your kana progress — Kanji Master is its own mountain.
Where This Fits in Your Study
Testing works best after real learning, not instead of it. Learn new characters from the level charts — ideally writing each one in the writing sandbox with correct stroke order and attaching a real word or two — then use this test to confirm and to schedule review. Aim for small daily sets (my own routine is 3–5 characters a day) with a mixed test at the end of each week. When a level's meanings, readings and reverse direction all clear 90%, you're genuinely done with it — move up.