Ayatoki

Columns

Articles on Japanese word games, JLPT, hiragana, and vocabulary learning

Vol.1
How to Improve Your Japanese Vocabulary with Word Games
5 minutes a day — the science behind why word games are one of the most effective vocabulary tools for Japanese learners.
Vol.2
What is JLPT? A Beginner's Guide to Japanese Proficiency Levels
Everything you need to know about the world's most widely taken Japanese language test — N5 to N1 explained.
Vol.3
Hiragana Complete Guide: How to Read Japanese for Beginners
A complete beginner's guide to hiragana — history, all 46 characters, and tips for getting started.
Vol.4
Japanese Wordle: Meet Ayatoki, the Daily Hiragana Word Game
Is there a Japanese version of Wordle? Yes — here's how it works and how it compares to the original.
Vol.5
JLPT N5 Vocabulary: Essential Words for Beginners
Category-by-category guide to the core vocabulary at N5 — numbers, time, family, food, verbs, and adjectives with hiragana and romaji.
Vol.6
Katakana Complete Guide: All 46 Characters & How to Use Them
The complete katakana guide — history, all 46 characters, when to use katakana vs hiragana, and common examples.
Vol.7
Best Free Resources to Learn Japanese Online in 2026
Curated free tools for every stage of learning — Anki, NHK Web Easy, Tofugu, Jisho, Ayatoki, and more.
Vol.8
How to Win at Ayatoki: Tips & Strategies for Every Level
How the guess system works, when to use hints, and practical strategies to improve your score at N4 through N1.
Vol.9
How to Build a Daily Japanese Study Routine That Actually Works
A practical 20-minute daily schedule combining spaced repetition, active recall, and real Japanese input for any level.