Tiger in Japanese
"tiger" in Japanese, with the kanji that carry the meaning.
寅
tora
3 Japanese kanji carry the meaning "tiger". The most common choice is shown first.
Which one to use
虎 is the tiger. 寅 is the tiger of the zodiac — use it for a birth year. 彪 is a tiger's markings, and it is used in names for the strength it suggests. Japan has no native tigers, which is why the tiger of its art comes from Chinese painting.
Top pick
tiger
Reading: ko
8 strokes · powerful, nature
Where it comes from
Pictograph depicting a tiger. Stripes and sharp claws.
What it carries
Ferocity, dignity, power. Revered as symbol of royalty in Asia.
Related kanji for "tiger"
tiger
in · nature, spiritual
Shape of drawing arrow. Tiger.
tiger
hyou · nature
Composed of tiger and hair. Tiger hair.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Japanese kanji for tiger?
The most common kanji for "tiger" is 虎, read as ko. It means tiger. Related kanji: 寅 (tiger), 彪 (tiger).
How many strokes does 虎 have?
虎 has 8 strokes.