Genki: An Integrated Course in Elementary Japanese I Workbook [third Edition]

The Genki Japanese learning system is one of the best structured and beginner-friendly resources out there for anyone serious about learning Japanese. I’ve used the three major brands, and Genki is the one I would recommend over others. The pace is a bit slower than Nakama, but it feels like the foundation it lays is much stronger. What I love: Clear Explanations: Grammar points are broken down in an approachable, logical way. Each lesson builds nicely on the last, and it doesn’t assume too much up front. Dialogues & Vocabulary: The situational conversations are practical and written with everyday usage in mind. You’re not just memorizing random phrases, you’re learning context. Audio & Workbook Integration: The CDs/audio files and workbooks add huge value. Listening to native pronunciation and practicing through written exercises really reinforces the material. Kana/Kanji Progression: You’ll be reading and writing hiragana, katakana, and basic kanji steadily. The pacing feels manageable and motivating. A few things to keep in mind: Somewhat Dated Scenarios: The textbook scenarios (college life, landlines, etc.) can feel a bit old-fashioned, though they still teach useful language structures. Best with a Teacher or Structure: While great for self-study, Genki shines most when paired with a class or tutor, since it follows a very academic layout. Workbook Sold Separately: To get the full experience (and practice), you’ll need to buy the accompanying workbook, which adds to the cost. This is fairly standard for across the three major Japanese textbooks, but is still something to keep in mind. Overall, Genki is a fantastic investment if you're serious about learning Japanese in a structured and well-supported way. It’s comprehensive, well-paced, and leaves you with a strong foundation in reading, writing, speaking, and listening

Muito bem embalado, chegou certinho Conteudo do livro é muito bom

This workbook is a fantastic way to start your journey to learning Japanese. It’s perfect for implementing the knowledge gained for the textbook and goes over all the key aspects of Japanese Hiragana, Katakana, grammar and vocabulary are all condensed inside. Highly recommend despite the Genki set being on the more expensive side

Loved how they allow you to self learn

GENKI is an excellent textbook for anyone starting to learn Japanese. The lessons are well-structured, balancing grammar, vocabulary, reading, and writing practice effectively. I especially appreciate the clear explanations and examples, which make difficult concepts easier to understand. The exercises are practical and reinforce the material in a way that prepares you for real conversations. I also like that it includes cultural notes, helping learners understand context and usage beyond just grammar. Overall, GENKI is a reliable, comprehensive resource for beginners who want to build a strong foundation in Japanese.