Anyone studying written Japanese will welcome this comprehensive guide to all 1,945 characters designated for "daily use" (Joyo Kanji) in newspapers, magazines, and other common reading materials. Each kanji is presented with clear stroke-by-stroke writing instructions as well as meanings, onyomi/kunyomi readings, usage examples, radical classifiers, cross-references, and tips to help you learn and remember. Also included are an introduction to the written language and multiple indexes to locate every character by stroke count, reading, or radical. An essential first text for beginners, as well as a durable reference for intermediate and advanced students.