Free Download: Kanji List First Grade — Perfect for Beginners!

Learning kanji is an important and exciting part of studying the Japanese language. To help beginners, I’ve created a kanji list first grade — featuring 80 essential kanji that Japanese children typically learn during their first year of school.

There are many ways to study kanji: using apps, flashcards, websites, or handwriting practice. Personally, I believe that writing by hand and visualizing the kanji helps you remember them much more deeply.
Here’s my current method:
When I study a new kanji, I usually write one line in my notebook to practice its stroke order and basic shape.
Sometimes, I also trace the kanji in the air with my finger or visualize the strokes in my mind. This small exercise helps me feel more connected to the kanji and memorize it more naturally.
If I see the same kanji again later, I practice it again without pressure — learning through small, natural repetitions.
I also repeat the two most common readings several times to strengthen my memory.

This slow, steady, and mindful method has made my kanji learning more enjoyable and effective. I hope it inspires you too!

Download the kanji list and start your learning journey with small, steady steps today!