This video is designed for intermediate Japanese learners aiming to pass the JLPT N3 exam. It offers a comprehensive practice session focused on reading and listening comprehension, using the well-known Japanese folktale ‘Hanasaka Jiisan’ (花咲か爺さん) as study material. The video is structured to help learners engage with real Japanese text and audio at the N3 level, featuring a reading segment in MASU form, a dedicated vocabulary review, and a retelling in casual form for deeper understanding.

The lesson begins with a slow and clear reading of ‘Hanasaka Jiisan,’ presented in polite (MASU) form to aid listening skills and sentence pattern recognition. This is especially beneficial for learners who want exposure to formal Japanese, as commonly required on the JLPT. The next section highlights important vocabulary words found within the story, giving students the tools they need to expand their lexicon and understand the narrative in greater depth. Finally, the folktale is revisited in casual form, allowing learners to observe the contrast in language register and become comfortable with more natural spoken Japanese.

For additional support, viewers are encouraged to download full scripts of the lesson via Patreon, making it easier to study along and review at their own pace. ‘Hanasaka Jiisan’ is a classic Japanese tale about kindness, magic, and perseverance, often taught to children and language students. It is an ideal choice for intermediate language practice, as it balances accessible storytelling with cultural context.

Learners preparing for the JLPT N3 will find this content valuable for improving reading speed, listening accuracy, and overall comprehension. Since the folktale provides cultural and linguistic insights, it’s also suitable for anyone interested in Japanese literature or those looking to reinforce their language skills using authentic materials.