Play in Japanese
"play" in Japanese, with the kanji that carry the meaning.
9 Japanese kanji carry the meaning "play". The most common choice is shown first.
Top pick
play
Reading: yuu
12 strokes
Where it comes from
Combines 'movement' (辶) with 'flowing banner' (斿), depicting free movement. Represents unrestrained enjoyment and play.
What it carries
Symbolizes free play, recreation, and spiritual liberation. Represents time and space for enjoyment apart from daily routine.
Related kanji for "play"
play
gan
Composed of jade and origin. Playing with jade.
play
geki
Composed of phonetic and sword. Acting intensely with sword.
play
gi
Composed of empty and weapon. Playing with empty weapon.
play
en
Composed of water and phonetic. Performing like spreading water.
play music(also: speak to a ruler, complete)
sou · beautiful, wisdom
Composed of phonetics. Playing music.
play with(also: tamper, trifle with)
rou
Combines 'jade' (王) with 'hands' (廾), depicting playing with jade in both hands.
act of play(also: curtain, bunting)
maku
play with(also: twirl, twist)
nen
Frequently asked questions
What is the Japanese kanji for play?
The most common kanji for "play" is 遊, read as yuu. It means play. Related kanji: 玩 (play), 劇 (play), 戯 (play), 演 (play), 奏 (play music), 弄 (play with) and more.
How many strokes does 遊 have?
遊 has 12 strokes.