The second Japan Kanji Aptitude Test (Kanken) of the year was held on November 7 2025 at Kodomo Gakushu Kyoshitsu, a Japanese language school in Hawaii.
A total of 19 participants took the exam, including current students, outside students, and even parent-child participants. The test levels ranged widely, from Level 10 (1st grade level) to Pre-Level 2, making this a valuable opportunity for children in Hawaii to challenge themselves and measure their Japanese ability.
The official results have not yet arrived from the Kanken headquarters in Japan, but certificates will be awarded to those who pass.
According to official data, the total number of Kanken examinees was 1,536,399 in 2022 and 1,415,116 in 2023. Overseas, Hawaii is open to the public as an approved semi-official test site, and Kodomo Gakushu Kyoshitsu is currently the only place in Hawaii where anyone—from children to adults—can take the Kanken exam.
The Value of Kanken: Why Children Should Take It
How It Improves Ability and Builds Strong Study Habits
Kanken is an important and objective way to measure Japanese language proficiency, and preparing for it can directly improve a child’s overall academic abilities.
This is because studying for Kanken is not simply memorizing kanji. It is a process that strengthens:
- reading comprehension
- vocabulary
- concentration
- memory retention
For example, practicing how to write kanji while understanding their meanings activates the brain’s memory systems and helps children retain what they learn over the long term. Repetitive and meaningful kanji study can support cognitive development and improve working memory.
Another reason children should challenge themselves with Kanken is that it helps them maintain motivation and build successful learning experiences.
By starting at a level that matches their current ability and then gradually moving up, children can gain confidence through the sense of accomplishment that comes with passing. Even when they do not pass, the experience becomes a chance to reflect, improve, and learn how to face challenges without fear of failure.
At Kodomo Gakushu Kyoshitsu, we often see students make remarkable progress through Kanken preparation. Some children develop their skills dramatically just for one exam. At times, their memory and努力 truly amaze us.
For children learning Japanese in Hawaii’s multicultural environment, Kanken is especially meaningful. It fits naturally with what they study in Japanese school and can also strengthen their sense of cultural identity.
The repeated study involved in Kanken preparation helps children build efficient study habits and lays a foundation not only for future language ability, but also for broader problem-solving skills.
Kanken is not just a short-term academic challenge. It is also an investment in helping children discover the joy of learning for life.
About the Wednesday Kanken Preparation Class
Specialized Kanji Study Support at Our Japanese Language School
Our Wednesday Kanken preparation class is held every week from 3:30 PM to 5:30 PM.
In this class, students study:
- thorough instruction from basic to advanced levels
- practice exams and past test questions
- the origins and structure of kanji
- effective memorization methods
- support for levels from 10 through 2
This class is especially recommended for families who want their child to build strong Japanese language skills in Hawaii in a structured and supportive way.
Participation Information
For Current Students and Outside Students
Current Students
- Kanken class is free if added as an extra class
- Kanken exam fee is covered by the school at no cost
- Please contact your child’s homeroom teacher or email kodomo808@gmail.com
Outside Students
- You may register for the exam only
(exam fees vary by level) - Monthly tuition for the Kanken class: $185/month + material fee
- A reservation for a free trial lesson is required
(please apply through the inquiry form) - Participation for the Kanken exam only is also welcome
See the details here
Contact Information
Email: kodomo808@gmail.com
Exam Registration Form (Google Form):
Test Location:
Kodomo Gakushu Kyoshitsu
Makiki, Hawaii
Reference: Official data from the Japan Kanji Aptitude Testing Foundation (kanken.or.jp)