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Learn Japanese with Stories Volume 20 is a Japanese reader with full furigana and native audio, pitched at the upper-beginner level where graded readers usually leave off. The story is a classic Japanese folktale, bilingual on the page: the Japanese text with a full English translation, vocabulary and grammar notes. The code printed in the back unlocks the stories in the free Makoto Japanese Explorer app for iPhone, iPad and Android, where you can tap any word for its reading and meaning.
Also in: Learn Japanese with Stories — Volume 2 Bundle
🎧 Audio Sample — “Bunbuku Tea-Kettle” (Normal Speed)
Learn Japanese with Stories 20 — Bunbuku Tea-Kettle（ぶんぶく茶釜）
Physical paperback ships to you. Digital downloads available immediately after purchase.
About This Story
The classic folktale ぶんぶく茶釜（ちゃがま） features a shape-shifting tanuki who disguises itself as a tea kettle, performing delightful tricks and ultimately bringing fortune to a kind junk dealer. Morinji Temple in Tatebayashi, Gunma, preserves a version of this legend—celebrating a kettle said to pour endless tea.
What You Get
- Short, confidence-building segments with clear explanations
- Two audio recordings per story: slow and normal speed
- Furigana for kanji (Japanese-only section has no furigana for practice)
- Anki deck covering most vocabulary (many with audio & pitch-accent)
- QR codes for instant audio playback on phone
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Three ways to read:
- GLOSS: Line-by-line running gloss with grammar notes
- JAPANESE ONLY: Full story without interruptions
- ENGLISH SUMMARY: A simple, mostly literal translation to check understanding
