The Kanji Code

Memorizing kanji readings is one of the biggest hurdles when learning Japanese. The Kanji Code teaches a systematic method of learning the readings of kanji or Chinese characters, in particular the ON or Chinese readings. By studying phonetic components and other visual clues, students of Japanese can reduce their reliance on rote memorization and feel more in control of their learning.

The Kanji Code teaches 150 phonetic components - the key to the readings of 450+ kanji characters.

You will also learn the link between kanji, hiragana and katakana - and use it to remember the ON readings of 50+ common kanji characters.

In addition, you will learn how visual features like shape and patterns like stripes can give a clue to the ON reading of 170+ kanji characters.

The book contains an easy to read explanation of the keisei or form-sound kanji characters, to deepen your understanding of the components and their functions. Graphics show the visual connection between kana and kanji, and visual similarities between kanji with the same or similar readings that would otherwise be overlooked. The visual approach will especially appeal to visual learners and students interested in art and design.

Each kanji features ON and kun readings, English meanings and example words. Kanji readings are written in romaji so they can be read by students of all levels.

The Kanji Code also includes several detailed indexes for ease of searching and improved understanding of kanji composition. The innovative radical index includes the English names of radicals and is sorted not by stroke order but by subject, making it more intuitive to non-native Japanese speakers.

Memorizing kanji readings is one of the biggest hurdles when learning Japanese. The Kanji Code teaches a systematic method of learning the readings of kanji or Chinese characters, in particular the ON or Chinese readings. By studying phonetic components and other visual clues, students of Japanese can reduce their reliance on rote memorization and feel more in control of their learning.

The Kanji Code teaches 150 phonetic components - the key to the readings of 450+ kanji characters.

You will also learn the link between kanji, hiragana and katakana - and use it to remember the ON readings of 50+ common kanji characters.

In addition, you will learn how visual features like shape and patterns like stripes can give a clue to the ON reading of 170+ kanji characters.

The book contains an easy to read explanation of the keisei or form-sound kanji characters, to deepen your understanding of the components and their functions. Graphics show the visual connection between kana and kanji, and visual similarities between kanji with the same or similar readings that would otherwise be overlooked. The visual approach will especially appeal to visual learners and students interested in art and design.

Each kanji features ON and kun readings, English meanings and example words. Kanji readings are written in romaji so they can be read by students of all levels.

The Kanji Code also includes several detailed indexes for ease of searching and improved understanding of kanji composition. The innovative radical index includes the English names of radicals and is sorted not by stroke order but by subject, making it more intuitive to non-native Japanese speakers.