Light in Japanese
"light" in Japanese, with the kanji that carry the meaning.
光
hikari
3 Japanese kanji carry the meaning "light". The most common choice is shown first.
Which one to use
光 is light as a thing — a ray, a glow, radiance. 明 is bright as a state, built from 日 sun beside 月 moon, and it carries clarity and understanding (明らか, clear). 灯 is a lamp, light that someone lit.
Top pick
light, ray, shine
Reading: kou
6 strokes · beautiful, peaceful
Where it comes from
Shape of person holding fire aloft. Emitting light.
What it carries
Light, hope, glory. '光' symbolizes divinity and guidance.
Related kanji for "light"
light
mei
Composed of sun and moon. Brightness of sun and moon.
light
tou
Composed of fire and nail. Fire nail.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Japanese kanji for light?
The most common kanji for "light" is 光, read as kou. It means light, ray, shine. Related kanji: 明 (light), 灯 (light).
How many strokes does 光 have?
光 has 6 strokes.