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Comic-style illustration of a Japanese language student returning to studying after a long break, with old Genki textbooks and kana notes contrasted against a fresh study plan, progress bar, and checklist for rebuilding Japanese skills.

How to Start Learning Japanese Again After a Long Break

Haven't studied Japanese in months or even years? Before you dust off your old textbooks, discover how to assess your current skills, identify what you've forgotten, and decide whether to restart or pick up where you left off. Simple Gaijin also provides a practical four-week plan to help returning students rebuild their confidence and study habits.

Mike Viscusi

Feb 9, 202514 min read

Comic-style illustration of the Simple Gaijin Weekly Japanese Study Plan, featuring a seven-day study calendar, Genki textbooks, Japanese writing materials, and a checklist of vocabulary, grammar, listening, speaking, reading, and writing activities. Bold lettering highlights the 75-minute daily study routine.

The Simple Gaijin Weekly Japanese Study Plan: Just 75 Minutes a Day

Struggling to organize your Japanese studies? The Simple Gaijin Weekly Japanese Study Plan helps you improve vocabulary, grammar, listening, speaking, reading, and writing in just 75 minutes a day. Discover a practical seven-day schedule, beginner-friendly JLPT N5 activities, and flexible study routines that fit your lifestyle.

Mike Viscusi

Dec 15, 202213 min read

Comic-style illustration explaining JLPT results, featuring an N3 score report showing 126 out of 180 points, section scores of 40, 43, and 43, passing status, reference grades, and a checklist of scoring topics.

JLPT Scores Explained: What Your Japanese Test Results Actually Mean

Got your JLPT results but aren't sure what the numbers mean? Learn how passing scores, sectional minimums, percentile ranks, and CEFR reference levels work, with real examples.

Mike Viscusi

Mar 16, 201910 min read